February 2, 2026

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP
RECREATION COMMISSION
February 2, 2026 @ 7:00pm

MEMBERS PRESENT: Mr. Carovillano, Mrs. Falotico (via Zoom), Mrs. Trotter, Ms. Klamerus, Mrs. Staudt, Mrs. Benning, Mrs. Richardson, and Mrs. Tosti
LIASION: Mrs. Delaney was in attendance
MEMBERS ABSENT: None

Mrs. Tosti called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with the statement that this meeting follows the Open Public Meetings Act. Regular meetings are held on the first Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m., at the Stillwater Township Municipal Building located in Middleville, New Jersey. This meeting was held at the Stillwater Township Municipal Building.

The flag was saluted and roll call taken.

Approval of Meeting Minutes:
Mrs. Tosti made a motion to approve the minutes of January 5, 2026, reorganization meeting, seconded by Mrs. Richardson.

Roll Call: Mr. Carovillano; yes, Mrs. Falotico; yes, Mrs. trotter; yes, Ms. Klamerus; yes, Mrs. Staudt; yes, Mrs. Benning; yes, Mrs. Richardson; yes, Mrs. Tosti; yes.

Payment of Bills:
Mr. Carovillano made a motion to approve the payment of the following bills totaling $533.20, seconded by Mrs. Staudt.

Septicare (January 2026 Porta John Rentals) – $430.00
ShopRite (Senior Game Night Supplies) – $103.20

Roll Call: Mr. Carovillano; yes, Mrs. Falotico; yes, Mrs. trotter; yes, Ms. Klamerus; yes, Mrs. Staudt; yes, Mrs. Benning; yes, Mrs. Richardson; yes, Mrs. Tosti; yes.

Amendments to the Agenda: None

New Business – Consent Agenda:
Mrs. Tosti went into detail discussing out newly revamp agenda layout. The new layout places any events that are recurring but not priority at the time of the particular meeting, such as the tree lighting for example, on the Consent Agenda. Any events that are of priority will be on Subcommittee Reports. Any member is welcome to discuss any item/event at any meeting, however the amendment will be noted under the Amendments to Agenda section and the item/event in discussion will be moved from the Consent Agenda to the bottom of the Subcommittee Reports. This will hopefully allow our meetings to stay focused, more productive, and move along more quickly.

Old Business:
There are no updates.

Correspondence:
None

Open Public Session – Agenda Items Only:
The meeting was opened to the public at 7:10 p.m. No one from the public wished to speak during this time. The meeting was closed to the public at 7:10 p.m.

Sub-Committee Reports:
Clean Up Day – 4/25/2026 – Mrs. Tosti:
Clean Up Day will begin around 9am and usually ends by 12pm. The shredder has been confirmed and will be at Town Hall from 1pm to 4pm. Mrs. Bennings, speaking for the Girl Scout Troop, inquired about where and how to sign up. Mrs. Tosti will forward Mrs. Benning the information.

Senior Events – Mrs. Richardson:
Game Night 1/30/2026 @ 6p-8p @ Community Center
Mrs. Richardson noted that it was a smaller crowd, approximately 25-30 guests. Mrs. King was also in attendance to share future events the county will be hosting for seniors, as discussed in our January meeting. Mrs. Richardson is considering a summer picnic for her next larger event but is also considering hosting a dinner night in between which will be open to all families. If it occurs, attendees will need to RSVP so that the event doesn’t get too large. Theme ideas were discussed, specifically a potluck featuring food from all around the world.

Field Maintenance and Capital Report – Mr. Carovillano:
Mr. Carovillano reported that the fields are good, mentioning that the mound cover came just in time for our winter weather. He is currently organizing and coordinating dates for our field maintenance programs (overseeding, aeration, weed control, and clay). The two soccer nets that need to be replaced at Volunteer Field are a work in progress. We need to obtain the proper sizing dimensions. Basketball Court pricing will be obtained and presented to the Township Committee. With Veterans Park being newly paved, there is an area that could be used as something more valuable than just parking. this has been discussed in previous years, but the Recreation Commission would like to move forward with planning a basketball court for the space, if possible. Three companies have responded to Mr. Carovillano and Mrs. Tosti. They are working on getting the correct dimensions on the area to receive the most accurate quotes. The park equipment that needs to be replaced at Swartswood Park playground was presented at the most recent budget meeting, however, the meeting was cut short due to an emergency. This gives the Recreation Commission a bit more time to gather ideas and obtain quotes. As a reminder, since this purchase will be coming from Capital, it will need to exceed $5,000.00.

Field/Pavilion Application Approvals, Scheduling – Mrs. Tosti & Mr. Carovillano:
Field Use Applications from Hampton Softball and North Jersey Co-Ed Baseball were received.

Hampton Softball:
Veteran’s Field
4/1/2026 – 6/20/2026
Monday – Friday, 5pm-8:30pm but there is possible Saturday games
Insurance pending

North Jersey Co-Ed Baseball:
No field preference included
4/1/2026 – 6/12/2026, 6pm, Tuesdays
6/15/2026 – 8/31/2026, 6pm, Monday – Thursday but there is possible Saturday games in August
Insurance confirmed

Mrs. Tosti made a motion to approve the above Field Use Applications, pending receiving Hampton Softball’s updated insurance, seconded by Mr. Carovillano.

Roll Call: Mr. Carovillano; yes, Mrs. Falotico; yes, Mrs. trotter; yes, Ms. Klamerus; yes, Mrs. Staudt; yes, Mrs. Benning; yes, Mrs. Richardson; yes, Mrs. Tosti; yes.

Mr. Carovillano noted that he will be speaking with north Jersey Co-Ed Baseball to see if they would consider using Veterans Park more since we just completed work on the mound at Swartswood. We want to preserve our investment and limit its use when possible.

Ms. Klamerus asked if there’s one location where schedules for field use are posted since we are voting to approve the field use. Mrs. Tosti and Mr. Carovillano responded that currently there is no public posting of the schedule since it can change daily/weekly due to weather and field maintenance closures. Mr. Carovillano verified that we, as the Commission, are approving ‘field access’ at our meeting. The leagues can request days/times they would prefer to use the field, but they won’t necessarily be granted their preferences if it conflicts with other field use applicants.

Stillwater Day – 6/6/2026:
We will begin using our Workshop Meetings to plan and discuss Stillwater Day beginning 2/16/2026 at 7pm. Since that meeting falls on a holiday, it was questioned whether or not we would be able to hold the meeting at Town Hall. Mrs. Tosti will check with our Clerk. Mrs. Tosti asked Mrs. Falotico if she would be interested in securing vendors again this year. Mrs. Falotico declined interest. Mrs. Staudt inquired about what the process involves. Mrs. Falotico would be more than happy to pass along information regarding what is required and the to-do list.

Mrs. Richardson will be securing our entertainment and planning games again this year. Since we used the same entertainer two years in a row, Mrs. Richardson will be seeking new entertainment.

Fireworks will cost at least $8,000.00 if not more. Although it’s money we could spend elsewhere, it may not totally be out of the question. Our CFO mentioned the Clean Communities Grant will pay for a movie night so a movie night following Stillwater Day is being considered.

Band entertainment is also being considered. Mrs. Delaney reminded the Commission that if we choose to move forward with this, the entertainer is required to bring all their own power sources/generators.

The start time of Stillwater Day is still being determined. However, the Commission agreed that 2:00pm or later is preferred as the morning is crucial for set up.

Mrs. Tosti recommended each member come prepared for the Workshop Meeting with ideas and suggestions since June will be here before we know it.

Community Safety Programs – CERT:
Mrs. Tsadilas was in attendance to discuss the upcoming events hosted by Stillwater CERT. The following events are being hosted at the Stillwater Community Center from 1pm to 2:30pm.

March Madness – 3/10/2026
Presented by Lisa Chammings

Caring for Our Caregivers – 4/7/2026
Presented by Rae Ann Gowan from Division of Senior Services

Tick Awareness and Sun Safety – 5/5/2026
Presented by Juliette Bannister, MRC Health Educator, from Sussex County Division of Health

Unfortunately, due to an emergency, Mrs. Tsadilas was not able to plunge into the water at the Polar Plunge held at Fairview Lake Campe. This event was held as a fundraiser for CERT to purchase practice mannequins for training. The plunge will hopefully be rescheduled.

Miss Stillwater, Little Miss and Mr. Stillwater – 5/31/2026 – Mrs. Staudt:
Mrs. Staudt will be chairing this event with Mrs. Beshada assisting as a volunteer. The contest will be held one-week prior to Stillwater Day. Mrs. Delaney suggested securing the date with our Clerk immediately. The contest will be held earlier this year, with the preference being at 1pm. Mrs. Staudt received the informational binder from Mrs. Tosti and is working on familiarizing herself with the information to better prepare for planning. The flyer will be ready for approval at our next meeting and ready for distribution.

Egg Hunt – 3/21/2026 – Mrs. Falotico, Ms. Klamerus, & Mrs. Staudt:
This event is Rain or Shine unless there is extreme weather. The parking lot will be utilized if the grass is still snow covered. This event will take place at Veterans Park field.

The date has been changed from 3/28/2026 to 3/21/2026 due to conflict with the Stillwater Tricky Tray. Links were found for items/supplies needed. The estimated cost of the event is $425.66. The budget is verified to be $600.00 from last year and it was questioned whether the budget should be increased, Based off their estimated cost above, $600.00 should be fine. There will be 1,000 eggs designated for each age group, so 3,000 eggs in total. We have an estimated 1,500 eggs so far from previous egg hunts, but those eggs will be counted just to confirm. We also have an additional 1,500 eggs already purchased from last year. There will be no prizes this year, but we will be supplying sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and coloring books. There will be an Easter Bunny in attendance, as well as the Fire Department. A flyer will be sent to Mrs. Tosti and Mr. Carovillano for approval so it can be posted ASAP. Eggs will need to be stuffed. As always, a group effort is encouraged to move the process along quickly. Eggs will be stuffed on 3/8/2026, or 3/15/2026 if that works better, at 2pm at the OEM office. A sign-up sheet will be available. Mrs. Tsadilas mentioned that CERT may be available on that date to assist. Field paint will be needed to help direct parents and children. Mr. Carovillano said this can be purchased right at Home Depot. Mrs. Tosti noted that the DPW may be able to pick up supplies for us since they have an account there. Mrs. Tosti will speak to our CFO regarding this. Mrs. Falotico inquired about purchasing a secondary retractable fence to help in separating age groups sections. Mrs. Tosti will also speak to our CFO regarding this as it may be able to be purchased from our Community Events Line since it can be used for many of our events.

Mrs. Tosti made a motion to purchase a secondary retractable fence, up to $300.00, seconded by Mrs. Staudt.

Roll Call: Mr. Carovillano; yes, Mrs. Falotico; yes, Mrs. trotter; yes, Ms. Klamerus; yes, Mrs. Staudt; yes, Mrs. Benning; yes, Mrs. Richardson; yes, Mrs. Tosti; yes.

Consent Agenda Items:
All items with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine and can be passed as one item on the agenda. All items will be handled by one (1) motion, one (1) second, and a vote. There will be no separate discussion of any of these items unless a Commission member requests the item(s) to be moved to discussion amending the Agenda. The item(s) will be moved from the Consent Agenda and discussed as the next Subcommittee item on the Agenda.

* Sussex County Fair – Mrs. Richardson
* Sussex County Day Expo – Mrs. Richardson
* Trunk or Treat – Mrs. Trotter
* Holiday Decorating Contest – Ms. Klamerus
* Garage Sale Weekend (5/16 thru 5/17/2026) – Mrs. Wunder
* Tree Lighting (December 2026) – Recreation Board
* Pop Up Vendor Fair
* Plant Exchange

Mrs. Tosti made a motion to approve the consent agenda with no discussion needed on the listed items at this time, seconded by Ms. Klamerus.

Roll Call: Mr. Carovillano; yes, Mrs. Falotico; yes, Mrs. trotter; yes, Ms. Klamerus; yes, Mrs. Staudt; yes, Mrs. Benning; yes, Mrs. Richardson; yes, Mrs. Tosti; yes.

Open Public Session:
The meeting was opened to the public at 8:30 p.m.

Mrs. Tsadilas reminded the Commission of a few events:
February 10, 2026 at 7pm is the JCP&L presentation of ‘Restoration Program.’ This will focus on JCP&Ls role and also have a Q&A session. This will be held at the Community Center and is open to all.

February 18, 2026 at 7pm is the CERT First Aid Training at the Stillwater Collective on Main Street. There is a $50 fee per person, with 4 openings left. Please register with Mrs. Tsadilas if interested.

February 21, 2026 at 2pm there will be a Veterans event hosted by Jennifer Minervino at the Stillwater Collective on Main Street.

April 12, 2026 from 12pm to about 3/3:30pm will be the ‘Wheels in Motion’ presentation at the Community Center. There will be 80 free adult and child bike helmets available for fitting. You must be present to be fitted and learn safety measures.

The open public session was closed at 8:39 p.m.

Liaison Report (Mrs. Delaney):
– The Township Committee meeting was held on 1/20/2026. Executive Session took place at 6pm and the Regular meeting began at 7pm. A group came to express concerns regarding the Cell Tower to be placed on Fredon Township property. The same group also attended the Environmental Commission meeting to express the same concerns as they are trying to spread the word. A meeting will be held on 2/23/2026 at 7pm at the Fredon Municipal Building. Please attend if you share the same concerns and are interested. All resolutions were approved and posted on our website. Also discussed was the grant for the Community Center, Possum Hill Road concerns, flags/banners, and power outages. The DPW also recently hired a new member, Matthew Lambert.
– Mrs. Delaney thanked Mrs. Richardson for hosting the Senior Game Night. It was amazing as always.
– The Planning Board meeting was held on 1/21/2026 at 7pm where Bob Pierce and Amanda Kavanagh were appointed Chairperson and Vice Chairperson.

Committee Member Comments:
Mrs. Wunder read an email from our CFO regarding any questions about the 2026 funding. She noted that at the beginning of the year, we operate on a temporary budget which is based off 35% of the prior year’s budget. Real spending doesn’t begin until the annual budget is passed, typically sometime in April or early May.

The CFO balance sheet was copied and handed out to each member for review. Mrs. Tosti recommended we purchase as many blankets as we can with the funds allocated in that particular section since we are running low.

Mrs. Tosti made a motion to purchase blankets not to exceed $2,000.00, seconded by Mrs. Richardson.

Roll Call: Mr. Carovillano; yes, Mrs. Falotico; yes, Mrs. trotter; yes, Ms. Klamerus; yes, Mrs. Staudt; yes, Mrs. Benning; yes, Mrs. Richardson; yes, Mrs. Tosti; yes.

Mrs. Tosti sadly mentioned her resignation from being the Director of Summer Camp. The Township Committee will decide what they will do next with the program.

Mrs. Richardson shared a concern regarding a resident who had reached out to her to express her disappointment that Mrs. Richardson had quit the Recreation Commission. The resident heard this news from a community member. In case any other members heard the same, Mrs. Richardson wanted to take the time to clarify that she is not resigning from the Recreation Commission.

Adjournment:
Mrs. Tosti made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:05 p.m., seconded by Mr. Carovillano. A vote was taken, and all were in favor.

Respectfully Submitted,
Danielle Wunder, Secretary