February 6, 2024 Regular Meeting

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

FEBRUARY 6, 2024

A REGULAR MEETING of the Stillwater Township Committee was called to order by Mayor L. Chammings at 7:02 p.m. Mayor L. Chammings stated that this meeting is being held in compliance with the provisions of P.L. 1975, Ch. 231, Secs. 4 & 13 the Sunshine Law and that adequate notice of the meeting has been published in the New Jersey Herald as to the time, place, and date of meetings, and is posted in the usual location of posted notices in the municipal building as well as electronically on the township website and Facebook page.

ROLL CALL: Committeeman D. Manser, Committeewoman D. Delaney, Committeewoman V. Rumsey, Mayor L. Chammings, Committeeman G. Scott

Also Present: Township Attorney E. Bernstein

 

FLAG SALUTE: Mayor L. Chammings led the Flag Salute.

 

MINUTES: January 16, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott to adopt the meeting minutes as presented.

 

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

MINUTES: January 27, 2024 Special Budget Meeting Minutes

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman D. Delaney and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser to adopt the meeting minutes as presented.

 

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

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Committeeman David Manser

Board of Education

Committeeman D. Manser stated that he attended the Board of Education meetings in December and on January 22^nd. He stated that at the December meeting they discussed the 20mph zone in front of the school. They want the flashing light working not only in the mornings but also in the afternoon when the children are outside during recess. The County agreed with their request and will be resetting the timer on the flashing light. They brought up concerns with the traffic light on Route 521 and Committeeman D. Manser explained that the township has no control over that as it’s a County Road. They discussed the Christmas Senior Lunch and the Holiday Concerts, both of which had high attendance. January’s meeting was mostly their budget discussion and contract negotiations. They have a few PTA sponsored events coming up such as a Valentine’s event and a Tricky Tray in March.

Recreation Commission

Committeeman D. Manser stated that January was his first meeting at the Recreation Commission since he’s become the liaison. He said there is a lot going on with Rec; they have about 20 different subcommittees that had reports that were discussed. The Miss Stillwater competition will be brought back to Stillwater Day instead of at the Community Center this year. The anticipated date for Stillwater Day is June 1^st at Veteran’s Field. Miss Stillwater will be held under the pavilion and they will conclude the evening with a movie. March 23^rd will be the Easter Egg Hunt which is a joint effort with the Stillwater Fire Department. They also have a bus trip to Wind Creek Casino coming up on February 17^th, there are still seats available. They are discussing having a bus trip to see a Yankee’s baseball game.

Committeewoman D. Delaney noted to keep watching the calendar on the website for event dates. They are looking to have the fields prepared by April 1^st. They will be putting new clay down on the fields. She stated that there are lots of people participating on Rec and that they all have great ideas. She feels that this will be a great year.

Recycling Center

Committeeman D. Manser stated that he visited the Recycling Center over the weekend. He stated the new hires were there and they were all working hard and diligently. He said they worked well together and as a team.

Committeewoman Dawn Delaney

Planning Board

Committeewoman D. Delaney stated that the Planning Board had their Reorganization meeting. George Lockburner and Dawn Delaney were sworn in. Penny Bair was appointed as the Planning Board Secretary, Karen Puccio the Chairwoman and Bob Pierce the Vice Chair. They discussed the official newspaper and decided to stick with the NJ Herald. They approved the 2024 meeting dates and bills.

 

Zoning Board of Adjustment

Committeewoman D. Delaney stated that she was not able to attend the Zoning Board meeting however V. Rumsey did attend. V. Rumsey stated that she was very pleased to attend, it was her first Zoning Board meeting. Penny Bair was appointed as the Zoning Board Secretary, George Lippencott is the Chairman and Kathy Draghi the Vice Chair. They had one resolution on Block 203 Lot 30 which is vacant property. The variance was approved. The annual report was the same as previous years. They were informed of the Township budget meeting on January 27^th. They approved their 2024 meeting dates except the May 27^th meeting was changed to May 20^th.

 

Finance

Committeewoman D. Delaney stated that she didn’t have anything to report on finance this month, that she needs to speak with the CFO.

Committeeman George Scott

DPW

Committeeman G. Scott stated that the weather has held out so far this winter. He stated that the DPW has spend a significant amount of time working on their trucks. They have a request on the agenda for a new bucket truck which will be very beneficial to them. He thanked Mr. Moss who wasn’t in attendance at the meeting, for putting the names on the trucks.

Committeeman D. Manser stated that he was impressed on the number of in-house repairs that they do instead of having someone else do the work.

Sheriff’s Report

Committeeman G. Scott stated that everyone received a copy of the Sheriff’s report. He read that they responded to 136 hours on the roads, a little over 2,000 miles, 35 summonses issued, 224 total public contacts. He informed them that the town is planning on increasing their funding for patrols and they responded that they’re happy to boost their patrolling in Stillwater Township.

Engineering

Nothing to report.

Committeewoman Vera Rumsey

CERT

Committeewoman V. Rumsey stated that CERT is working on doing their new mission statement on the website. They had helped with the Thanksgiving dinners along with the Stillwater Fire Department and they were very impressed with the Fire Department. They are going to be known as Stillwater CERT, not CERT MRC. Marcia Bradley is stepping back a bit from running CERT, Maureen Tsadilas will be stepping up to help assist her. The OEM building is all set up, they have their gear there as well as other supplies needed to help assist the Fire Department with their calls. At the last meeting they watched a webinar from FEMA on ‘Winter Ready’. They are working on continuing their training.

Emergency Services

Committeewoman V. Rumsey stated that January was very busy for the Fire Department. They answered 57 EMS calls and 24 Fire calls; 81 total calls. During the bad snow storm, they responded to 10 calls in one day, 2 being structure fires. Every member had conducted themselves with the upmost professionalism at all times. The department had two new members start firefighter training at the academy. They are also finishing up their EMT School in the next month. They have been moving forward with getting all their apparatus in the best shape possible along with organizing the compartments to make grabbing crucial equipment more effective. They conducted their yearly SCBA refresher, and the officers have met to discuss the updating and improvement of their standard operation guidelines. They assisted with the Polar Plunge event that recently occurred. They have a policy letter 24-0001 which includes the policy and form. Committeewoman V. Rumsey suggested updating their SOG’s and to include that policy due to how expensive the equipment is.

Community Center

Committeewoman D. Delaney gave the update on the Community Center. She stated that events are happening there on a regular basis. She stated that she has her business card there with her phone number for people that are renting the center and she frequently gets calls that they can’t find the dumpster key. She stated that she will try and think of something that will make it easier for people to find the key. She is happy with the number of rentals that the facility gets.

Committeewoman V. Rumsey stated that they are looking into getting prices for reding the wiring in the bays.

Personnel

Nothing to report.

 

Mayor Lisa Chammings

 

Environmental Commission

Mayor L. Chammings stated that Mandy Coriston is the Chairperson and Dr. David Mattes the Vice Chair. They completed a site survey for a zoning resolution. They asked to receive a copy of the resolution after it’s adopted, they had listed some concerns with the site when doing the survey. They assist the school with the TREX program and have collected about 250lbs of plastic so far.

Legal

Mayor L. Chammings stated that they new Township Council is in attendance. She stated she’s happy to have him aboard and looking forward to working with him this year.

CERT

Mayor L. Chammings stated that Committeewoman V. Rumsey had discussed a lot of what happened at the last CERT meeting already. She stated that they are doing an Autism Shield Training at SCCC on Marc 12^th if anyone is interested in attending.

Personnel

Mayor L. Chammings stated that Municipal Clerk V. Ingles had a 30-day review with herself and CFO T. Leonard. She is happy with how things are going.

Mayor L. Chammings stated that the Construction Official recently gave a letter to his department reminding them of their duties that are expected. She stated that everyone works very well together at town hall.

 

AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:

There were no amendments to the agenda.

PUBLIC SESSION (Agenda Items Only – 3 Minute Time Limit)

Public Session Open 7:37pm.

Township Resident K. Draghi asked for more information on the Sheriff’s Report. She asked how long of a period of time the report was for. Committeeman G. Scott responded that the report was from 6/23 through 12/6/23. She also asked if the hours could be anytime of day or if they were set hours. The number of hours that they patrol in Stillwater Township is set however they can come patrol at any time of day.

Township Resident Scott Gorisack expressed his concern hearing of immigrants being bussed into Newton and dropped off. He said that he has seen evidence of it on images on Facebook. He asked if the Township could write a Resolution stating that Stillwater Township isn’t a refugee town. Mayor Chammings responded that this public session was for agenda items only but she would allow it this time. She stated that she hasn’t heard of busses being brought into our area however none of the camps around here would house the immigrants. She stated that she wasn’t sure about writing a Resolution stating that fact, that she would speak with council for a recommendation if needed. Township Attorney E. Bernstein stated that he will ask around but he hasn’t heard anything either about immigrants being bussed into the area. Mayor L. Chammings stated that if anyone sees strangers in their back yards or on the ring doorbell that they should be calling the State Police.

No further public comment.

Public Session Closed 7:42pm.

OLD BUSINESS

ORDINANCE PUBLIC HEARING AND FINAL ADOPTION

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE 2024-01

CALENDAR YEAR 2024 ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NJ TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK

(N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14)

WHEREAS, the Local Government Cap Law, N.J.S. 40A: 4-45.1 et seq., provides that in the preparation of its annual budget, a municipality shall limit any increase in said budget up to 2.5% unless authorized by ordinance to increase it to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, subject to certain exceptions; and,

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.15a provides that a municipality may, when authorized by ordinance, appropriate the difference between the amount of its actual final appropriation and the 3.5% percentage rate as an exception to its final appropriations in either of the next two succeeding years; and,

WHEREAS, the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater in the County of Sussex finds it advisable and necessary to increase its CY 2024 budget by up to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, in the interest of promoting the health, safety and welfare of the citizens; and,

WHEREAS, the Township Committee hereby determines that a 1.0% increase in the budget for said year, amounting to $27,089.29 in excess of the increase in final appropriations otherwise permitted by the Local Government Cap Law, is advisable and necessary; and,

WHEREAS the Township Committee hereby determines that any amount authorized hereinabove that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED, by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, in the County of Sussex, a majority of the full authorized membership of this governing body affirmatively concurring, that, in the CY 2024 budget year, the final appropriations of the Township of Stillwater shall, in accordance with this ordinance and N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14, be increased by 3.5%, amounting to $94,812.52, and that the CY 2024 municipal budget for the Township of Stillwater be approved and adopted in accordance with this ordinance; and,

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that any that any amount authorized hereinabove that is not appropriated as part of the final budget shall be retained as an exception to final appropriation in either of the next two succeeding years; and,

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that a certified copy of this ordinance as introduced be filed with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services within 5 days of introduction; and,

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that a certified copy of this ordinance upon adoption, with the recorded vote included thereon, be filed with said Director within 5 days after such adoption.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeewoman D. Delaney to Adopt Ordinance 2024-01.

PUBLIC HEARING

No further public comments.

PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED

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

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE 2024-02

VACATION OF STORM WATER MANAGEMENT LOT

Block 3306, Lot 2.99

WHEREAS, the Township Committee in the Township of Stillwater in the County of Sussex is of the opinion that the public interest will best be served by abandoning, vacating, releasing and extinguishing any and all public rights which said Township may have in and to the Storm Water Management Lot in Block 3306, Lot 2.99, located as depicted on an amended subdivision plan prepared by Kenneth Dykstra of Dykstra Walker Design Group, bearing most recent revision date January 4, 2024.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, as follows:

1. Vacation of Storm Water Management Lot.
2. The public rights and interests in and to Storm Water Management Lot Block 3306, Lot 2.99 depicted on Schedule A annexed hereto and as shown on an Amended Subdivision plan prepared by Kenneth Dykstra of Dykstra Walker Design Group, bearing most recent revision date January 4, 2024.
3. There is reserved and excepted from this vacation all rights and privileges then possessed by public utilities as defined in R.S. 48:2-13, and by any cable television company as defined in the “Cable Television Act.” P.L.1972, c. 186 (C.48:5-1 et seq.) to maintain, repair and replace their existing facilities in, adjacent to, over or under the street, highway, lane, alley, square, place or any part thereof to be vacated.
4. This ordinance shall become effective after final passage and publication according to law and filing with the County of Sussex as may be applicable.

Il. Severability. If any section, paragraph, subdivision, clause or provision of this Ordinance shall be adjudged invalid, such adjudication shall apply only to the section, paragraph, subdivision, clause of provision so adjudged and the remainder of the Ordinance shall be deemed valid and effective.

Ill. Repealer. All Ordinances or pans of Ordinances inconsistent with or in conflict with the Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency.

IV. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect after final passage, adoption and publication according to law.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser, to Adopt Ordinance 2024-02.

PUBLIC HEARING

No public comment.

PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED

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

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE 2024-03

VACATION OF TWIN RIVER DRIVE

WHEREAS, the Township Committee in the Township of Stillwater in the County of Sussex is of the opinion that the public interest will best be served by abandoning, vacating, releasing and extinguishing any and all public rights which said Township may have in and to Twin River Drive, located as depicted on an amended subdivision plan prepared by Kenneth Dykstra of Dykstra Walker Design Group, bearing most recent revision date January 4, 2024.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, as follows:

1. Vacation of Twin River Drive.

1. The public rights and interests in and to Twin River Drive, depicted on Schedule A annexed hereto, located to the Southwest of Saddleback Road between Potters Road and the Paulinskill River as shown on an Amended Subdivision plan prepared by Kenneth Dykstra of Dykstra Walker Design Group, bearing most recent revision date January 4, 2024.
2. There is reserved and excepted from this vacation all rights and privileges then possessed by public utilities as defined in R.S. 48:2-13, and by any cable television company as defined in the “Cable Television Act.” P.L.1972, c. 186 (C.48:5-1 et seq.) to maintain, repair and replace their existing facilities in, adjacent to, over or under the street, highway, lane, alley, square, place or any part thereof to be vacated.
3. This ordinance shall become effective after final passage and publication according to law and filing with the County of Sussex as may be applicable.

Il. Severability. If any section, paragraph, subdivision, clause or provision of this Ordinance shall be adjudged invalid, such adjudication shall apply only to the section, paragraph, subdivision, clause of provision so adjudged and the remainder of the Ordinance shall be deemed valid and effective.

Ill. Repealer. All Ordinances or pans of Ordinances inconsistent with or in conflict with the Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency.

IV. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect after final passage, adoption and publication according to law.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeewoman D. Delaney, to Adopt Ordinance 2024-03.

Mayor L. Chammings stated that she also had the amended resolution from the planning board meeting to attach to Ordinance 2024-02 and 2024-03.

PUBLIC HEARING

No public comment.

PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED

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

NEW BUSINESS

ORDINNCE INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING

 

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE 2024-04

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE PUBLIC SALE
OF REAL PROPERTY TO CONTIGUOUS PROPERTY OWNERS
PURSUANT TO N.J.S.A. 40A:12-13(b)(5)

WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater is the owner of certain real property set forth in Schedule “A”, which properties are not needed or required for municipal use; and

WHEREAS, the lots are less than the minimum size required for development under the municipal ordinance and is without capital improvements; and

WHEREAS, the Township Committee deems it in the best interest of the Township of Stillwater to sell the properties to owners of each contiguous property in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:12-13(b)(5) and N.J.S.A. 40A:12-13.2; and

WHEREAS, the sale shall be conducted as an auction limited to contiguous property owners to be held at the Township of Stillwater Municipal Building, 964 Stillwater Road, Newton, New Jersey 07860 on June 20, 2023, at 7:00pm or such adjourned date as may be determined by the Stillwater Township Committee; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Stillwater Township Committee as follows:

1. The Township of Stillwater shall offer for sale by auction, pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:12‑13(b)(5) and N.J.S.A. 40A:12-13.2, the properties listed on Schedule “A” to the contiguous property owners. Schedule “A” also contains the minimum sale price for each property. The sale is limited to contiguous property owners, and the sale is conditioned upon the property being sold merging with the contiguous property owner’s existing property. The properties being sold are less than the minimum size required for development under the municipal zoning ordinance and are without any capital improvement and shall be merged with the purchaser’s contiguous lot. The Township Committee reserves the right, in its discretion to reject all bids for each property for any reason, including but not limited to, in the event that the minimum sale price for such property is not met.
2. Upon final passage of this Ordinance, the sale shall take place on June 20, 2023 at 7:00pm at the Stillwater Township Municipal Building, 964 Stillwater Road, Newton, New Jersey, subject to receiving no higher bid for said parcels, after offering same to the highest bidder, at said time and place.
3. A copy of this Ordinance shall be posted on the bulletin board or other conspicuous place in the Stillwater Township Municipal Building. Notice of adoption of this Ordinance shall be made in the official Township newspaper within five (5) days following the enactment of the Ordinance. Notice of the public sale shall be published in the official Township of Stillwater newspaper by two (2) insertions at least once a week during two (2) consecutive weeks, the last publication shall be within seven (7) days prior to the sale date.
4. The property shall be sold subject to the following terms and conditions:
5. The property is sold “as is”. No representations of any kind are made by the Township as to the conditions of the property, and the descriptions of the property are intended as a general guide only and may not be accurate. The properties are being sold in the present “as is”, “where is”, with all faults.
6. The sale shall be made after legal advertisement of this Ordinance to the highest bidder who is the owner of a contiguous property, which property shall merge with the property being sold, and become part of the contiguous property owned by the successful bidder.
7. The Township does not warrant or certify title to the property and in no event shall the Township of Stillwater be liable for any damages to the purchaser-successful bidder if title is found unmarketable for any reason and the purchaser-successful bidder waives any and all right in damages or by way of liens against the Township. The sole remedy being the right to receive a refund prior to closing of the deposit paid in the event title is found unmarketable. It shall be the obligation of the successful purchaser to examine title to said premises prior to the closing. In the event of closing and a later finding of defect of title, the Township shall not be responsible for same, shall not be required to refund money or correct any defect in title or be held liable for damages.
8. Acceptance of the highest bid shall constitute a binding agreement of sale and the purchaser shall be deemed to agree to comply with the terms and conditions of the sale herein contained.
9. The highest bidder shall deposit with the Township cash, check or money order in the amount of not less than 10% of the bid price at the time of sale. In the event the successful bidder fails to deposit 10% of the bid price at the time of the sale, the Township of Stillwater will re-auction the property at the same public sale. If the successful bidder fails to pay the deposit, the bidder shall be responsible for any difference between their bid and the final sale bid in the event such bid is lower than the bid of the original bidder.
10. The highest bidder must pay the balance of the purchase price, plus (1) the sum of $275 for the legal services incurred by the Township; (2) the Township of Stillwater’s advertising and the actual recording fees within thirty (30) days after the date the Council adopts a resolution confirming the winning bid(s); and (3) realty transfer fees, if any. The balance shall be paid by certified funds. In addition, for all properties that are subject to Section 5 (r) of this Resolution, the Purchaser shall provide the Township Attorney with a copy of the deed for their existing property and their title insurance policy within seven (7) days of their being notified that they are the successful bidder of the sale. Once the purchase price has been paid, a Quitclaim Deed without covenants will be prepared by the Township Attorney and, after execution by the Township Officials, shall be recorded with the Sussex County Clerk’s Office by the Township Attorney. Additional work performed by the Township Attorneys beyond the standard preparation of the sale resolutions, notice of sale, letters to property owners and adjoining property owners, Deed and closing statement shall be billed at the rate charged by the Township Attorney and shall be the responsibility of the purchaser, which fees must be paid prior to the Deed being recorded.
11. The Deed will be subject to all matters of record, which may affect title herein, what an accurate survey may reveal, the Ordinances of the Township of Stillwater and reserving an easement for all natural or constructed drainage systems, waterways, water and sewer easements, if any, on the premises and the continued right of maintenance and flow thereof.
12. The property will be sold subject to the current year taxes, prorated from the date of sale.
13. The Township Committee reserves the right to withdraw this offer to sell, or upon completion of the bidding to accept or reject any or all bids for said properties or to waive any informality in relation thereto.
14. All bidders currently owing property within the Township must have their taxes, as well as all municipal utility charges, if applicable, paid to date in order to be a qualified bidder. In the event the bidder’s taxes or municipal utility charges are delinquent, the bidder shall be deemed unqualified and such bid shall be rejected.
15. This same is made subject to all applicable laws, statutes, regulations, resolutions and ordinances of the United States, State of New Jersey and Township of Stillwater.
16. No employee, agent or officer of the Township of Stillwater has any authority to waive, modify or amend any of the conditions of sale.
17. The purchaser must abide by appropriate zoning, subdivision, health and building regulations and code, and agrees that this sale will not be used as ground to support any variance from or realization of the regulations.
18. The failure of the purchaser to close on title within the time provided for in Subsection 5(f) of this Ordinance shall constitute a breach of this Ordinance unless the Township agrees in writing prior to that date to extend the time of the closing. In the event the purchaser fails to close within the dates provided for in Subsection 5(1) or such date as may be extended by the Township, the deposit paid by the purchaser shall be retained by the Township as liquidated damages. The municipality is entitled to retain the purchaser’s deposit to the extent of any expenses and/or losses it incurs including but not limited to advertising costs, attorney’s fees, lost tax revenues from the date of the required closing as well as additional cost of resale and the difference in the sales price, to the extent the property is sold for a lower price and any subsequent sale. The only exception to this section is in the event that the purchaser fails to close as a result of the title being unmarketable, in which case the Purchaser shall be entitled to a refund of their deposit as provided for in Subsection 5(c) of this Ordinance.
19. The purchase shall not be used for any County, Board of Taxation, Tax
    Court of New Jersey, or in any Courts of the State as grounds to support a challenge of the existing assessments with regard to other properties.
20. The sale shall be subject to final approval by the Township Committee.

Potential Bidders are advised:

(1) To conduct all necessary title searches prior to the date of sale.

 

(2) No representations of any kind are made by the Township of Stillwater as to the conditions of the Property, including habitability or usability; the Property is being sold in its present conditions ”as is”.

(3) The Property will be conveyed by a Quit Claim Deed and such conveyance shall be subject to all covenants, restrictions, reservations and easements established of record or by prescription and without representation as to character of title of the Property to be conveyed.

(4) The highest bidder for the Property shall have the right, at its sole cost and expense, to obtain a new survey of the Property. Provided such survey depicts the Property and is certified to be correct to the Township of Stillwater, the Township of Stillwater shall utilize the legal description drawn in accordance with such survey in the Deed of conveyance, provided the highest bidder provides such legal description and a copy of the certified survey to the Township of Stillwater not less than one week prior to the date set for closing of title.

Additional Terms the Successful Bidder must comply with:

(1) To abide by appropriate zoning, subdivision, health and building regulations and codes and stipulate that this sale will not be used as grounds to support any variance from the regulations.

(2) That the failure to close title as agreed shall forfeit to the Township of Stillwater any and all money deposited with the Township.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance with law.

This Ordinance shall take effect upon final adoption of publication as may be required by law.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeewoman V. Rumsey, to Introduce Ordinance 2024-04.

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

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE 2024-05

CAPITAL ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $17,500.00 FOR REPAIRS TO THE CRANDON LAKE DAM

BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, AS FOLLOWS;

Section 1. The improvement(s) or purpose(s) described in Section 3 of this capital ordinance are hereby respectively authorized as general improvements to be made or acquired by the Township of Stillwater, New Jersey. For the said improvement(s) or purpose(s) stated in said Section 3, there are hereby appropriated the respective sums of money therein stated as the appropriations made for said improvement(s) or purpose(s), said sums being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefore not to exceed $17,500.00.

Section 2. For the financing of said improvement(s) or purpose(s) and to meet the part of said $20,000.00 appropriations, the Township will use up to $17,500.00 from the Capital Improvement Fund, as described in Section 3.

Section 3. The purpose hereby authorized for the allocation of which said obligations are to be spent, the appropriation made for an estimated cost of each such purpose, and the estimated maximum amount of funds to be spent for such purpose, is respectively as follows:

Repairs to Crandon Lake Dam $17,500.00 Capital Improvement Fund

The aforementioned improvement(s) or purpose(s) where applicable, are in accordance with specifications on file in the office of the Township Clerk, which specifications are hereby approved.

Section 4. The following additional matters are hereby determined, declared, recited and stated:

1. The said purpose(s) described in Section 3 of this capital ordinance are capital expenses and are each 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 specifically assessed on property specially benefited thereby.
2. 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 by this capital ordinance, is a minimum of five (5) years.

Section 5. This capital ordinance shall take effect ten (10) days after the first publication thereof after final adoption, as provided by said Local Bond Law.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeewoman D. Delaney, to Introduce Ordinance 2024-05.

Mayor L. Chammings noted that the quote came in under the $17,500 limit so the town does not have to go by prevailing wage.

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

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE 2024-06

CAPITAL ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $31,000.00 FOR THE PURCHASE OF

2002 GMC 3500 HD BUCKET TRUCK

BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, AS FOLLOWS;

Section 1. The improvement(s) or purpose(s) described in Section 3 of this capital ordinance are hereby respectively authorized as general improvements to be made or acquired by the Township of Stillwater, New Jersey. For the said improvement(s) or purpose(s) stated in said Section 3, there are hereby appropriated the respective sums of money therein stated as the appropriations made for said improvement(s) or purpose(s), said sums being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefore and amounting in the aggregate to $31,000.00.

Section 2. For the financing of said improvement(s) or purpose(s) and to meet the part of said $31,000.00 appropriations, the Township will use $31,000.00 from the Storm Emergency Trust Fund, as described in Section 3.

Section 3. The purpose hereby authorized for the allocation of which said obligations are to be spent, the appropriation made for an estimated cost of each such purpose, and the estimated maximum amount of funds to be spent for such purpose, is respectively as follows:

2002 GMC 3500 HD Bucket Truck $31,000.00 Storm Emergency Trust

The aforementioned improvement(s) or purpose(s) where applicable, are in accordance with specifications on file in the office of the Township Clerk, which specifications are hereby approved.

Section 4. The following additional matters are hereby determined, declared, recited and stated:

The said purpose(s) described in Section 3 of this capital ordinance are capital expenses and are each 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 specifically 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 by this capital ordinance, is a minimum of five (5) years.

Section 5. This capital ordinance shall take effect ten (10) days after the first publication thereof after final adoption, as provided by said Local Bond Law.

Mayor L. Chammings noted a change on the agenda that it’s no longer a Chevrolet truck, it’s a GMC.

Township Attorney E. Bernstein advised to amend the title and highlighted section in the Ordinance to say “2002 GMC 3500 HD Bucket Truck $31,000.00 or Equivalent”.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeewoman V. Rumsey, to Introduce Ordinance 2024-06 with the amendment.

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

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE 2024-07

AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER

COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY AMENDING ORDINANCE 2021-15

ENTITLED “ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER ESTABLISHING FEES FOR THE USE OF THE COMMUNITY CENTER”

Mayor L. Chammings stated that she would like to hold Ordinance 2024-07 until Discussion.

RESOLUTIONS

RESOLUTION 2024-028 MAYOR’S APPOINTMENT OF DOUGLAS VAUGHAN AS A MEMBER OF THE STILLWATER AREA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT WITH COMMITTEE CONCURRENCE

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

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this appointment was made at a meeting of the Township Committee on Tuesday, February 6, 2024.

Mayor L. Chammings stated that Mr. Vaughan is currently apart of the Branchville Volunteer Fire Department and is on the Stillwater Township DPW.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeewoman D. Delaney to adopt Resolution 2024-028.

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

RESOLUTION 2024-029 RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF LUKE CONIGLIONE AS A PART-TIME RECYCLING/SOLID WASTE ATTENDANT

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater appoint of Luke Coniglione as a Part-Time Recycling/Solid Waste effective January 27, 2024 on a “as needed basis” at a rate of $15.49 per hour.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this appointment was made at a meeting of the Township Committee on Tuesday, February 6, 2024.

Mayor L. Chammings stated that this Resolution would be retroactive to January 27^th as Mr. Coniglione had all of his working papers prepared by that date. He will be used on an “as-needed” basis.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman D. Delaney and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott to adopt Resolution 2024-029.

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

RESOLUTION 2024-030 A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS TO REDEEM TAXES ON MILLBROOK ROAD, BLOCK 2703 LOT 1.01

WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater holds Tax Sale Certificate # 2010-024 and the amount to redeem is $ Fifty-Eight Thousand Four Hundred Forty Dollars and Eight Cents (58,440.08) including interest to January 31, 2027, on property owned by John & Kari LaForge & Keith Trotter at Millbrook Road Block 2703 and Lot 1.01, and

WHEREAS, the owner has requested installment payments to redeem said property, and

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 54-5-65, et seq. authorizes such installment payments,

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Tax Collector, is hereby authorized and directed to accept installment payments in redemption of said arrears and accrued interest in accordance with the following schedule:

A) Payment to be made by February 29, 2024 of One Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Three Dollars and Thirty-Three Cents ($ 1,623.33) for payment plan

B) Thirty-Six (36) equal monthly installments sufficient to pay the balance in full within (3) years of the date of this agreement, said amount being One Thousand Six Hundred Twenty-Three Dollars and Thirty-Three Cents ($ 1,623.33) monthly commencing on February 29, 2024, with an adjustment on the last payment, if necessary, for interest due to date of actual receipt of payments.

C) Default in any installment payment terminates this Agreement and subjects the property to foreclose action;

D) All taxes not yet due shall be regularly and promptly made in addition to the payments set forth above.

Mayor L. Chammings stated that the Township agreed to let these property owners make payments on the taxes owed over 36 months. It’s vacant land that is attached to another property that has a house on it. When the deed was being drawn up, a mistake was made and this property somehow didn’t make it on when it should have. The taxes have not been paid on it all this time. The owners would like the change to pay back the taxes and keep the property. If they miss a payment however, the property will be foreclosed on.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeewoman D. Delaney to adopt Resolution 2024-030.

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

RESOLUTION 2024-031 RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE REFUND OF TAXES FOR A 100% PERMANENT AND TOTALLY DISABLED VETERAN AT 928 OLD TANNERY ROAD, BLOCK 1605 LOT 2.07

WHEREAS, Block 1605 Lot 2.07 for 928 Old Tannery Road, Stillwater Township, and

WHEREAS, Mr. Dennis Shilanski has been approved for a 100% Permanent and Totally Disabled Veteran as of November 30, 2023 by the Tax assessor, and

WHEREAS, a refund for taxes paid in the amount of $ 689.59 for December portion of taxes.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Township Committee that at their regular meeting held February 6, 2024, at the Stillwater Township Municipal Building, 964 Stillwater Road, Stillwater, New Jersey.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman D. Delaney and seconded by Committeewoman V. Rumsey, to adopt Resolution 2024-031.

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

RESOLUTION 2024-032 A RESOLUTION APPOINTING RON TAPPAN AS TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER QUALIFIED PURCHASING AGENT

WHEREAS, Stillwater Township contends that it would be beneficial to appoint Ron Tappan as qualified purchasing agent to perform purchasing related services on an as needed

basis; and

WHEREAS, Ron Tappan does possess a Qualified Purchasing Agent Certification; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED that the Township of Stillwater is

authorized to appoint Ron Tappan as Purchasing Agent to perform the services

described above. Said appointment is for a period of one (1) year commencing January 1, 2024 and expiring December 31, 2024.

Mayor L. Chammings noted that the fee would be $100 per project that Mr. Tappan completes.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeewoman D. Delaney to adopt Resolution 2024-032.

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

DISCUSSION ITEMS:

Community Center Cleaning Company

Mayor L. Chammings stated that the Township has a company that is currently cleaning the Community Center and has a quote from a new company. The new company is local and will come in for an emergency cleaning if needed. The company that the town is currently using needs a 30-day notice to end their contract. The new company is able to start as soon as possible.

The Committee discussed the options and decided to go through with the new company and ask them to provide their insurance, pay to play documents and discuss their fee with the CFO.

Stormwater Management

Mayor L. Chammings stated that there was a brief stormwater management meeting. They are working on getting the free GIS mapping software from the DEP. DPW Supervisor G. Leatham will be in charge of doing the mapping with the tablet that he was provided.

Personnel Handbook Update

Township Attorney E. Bernstein stated that his office was in the process of reviewing the personnel handbook.

200^th Anniversary

Committeeman D. Manser stated that the 200^th Anniversary was discussed at the Recreation Commission meeting. The 200^th Anniversary will take place during Stillwater Day next year. They have not had a formal meeting yet just to discuss the 200^th Anniversary, they may do so at one of the Recreation Workshop meetings, possibly on February 19^th. Committeeman D. Manser and Committeewoman D. Delaney will be the first to attend the 200^th Anniversary discussion meetings. They bring up the 200^th Anniversary at the Environmental Commission and Planning Board meetings as well to see if they would like to contribute towards the event.

992 Fairview Lake Road Update

Mayor L. Chammings stated that Township Attorney E. Bernstein is in the process of reviewing the files on 992 Fairview Lake Road. She stated that there will be a zoom meeting at the end of the week with herself, Township Attorney E. Bernstein, Municipal Clerk V. Ingles and Mr. David Lott. She also has the Grant info to help aid in some of the remediation for this site.

Local Area Improvement Grant Project Ideas- Submission Due Feb 27^th

Mayor L. Chammings stated that the LRIG grant is due February 27^th so the Committee needs to get their requests ready to be able to submit before the deadline. A list has been started and will also include 1 pickleball court.

Makerspace Grant Request

Mayor L. Chammings stated that Ms. Rene Metzgar, Dr. William Kochis and Ms. Laura Ciccolella were on Zoom to discuss the Makerspace Grant for with the Township Committee.

L. Ciccolella stated that the grand request is for the Department of Education to partner with a public agency with something related to climate change. She stated that the students wanted to research something in town and they thought of the Community Center. They would like to check the energy proficiency and have the students study it and decide if they can save the township money by going green, lower the carbon footprints, etc., by doing something like installing a smart thermostat or some other recommendation. The students will study the electric, come up with recommendations and present their findings to the Township Committee. This will be teaching the students in the areas of science, math, preservation and social studies.

They will need a commitment form from the Township to submit with the grant application which is due February 29^th. They also requested that the students get to tour the community center and meet at least one of the Township Officials there.

The Township Committee were all in favor of the student’s study and will have a resolution approving it on the agenda for the February 20^th meeting.

April 10, 2024 Municipal Office Closed to public for In Service Purge Day

Mayor L. Chammings stated that the township staff requested to have the municipal office closed to the public on April 10^th, 2024 for an in-service purge day to go through the files and purge documents that no longer need to be retained. This will occur prior to the paper shredding event so that the documents may be destroyed while the Shred It truck is here. All were in favor of approving the April 10^th in-service day.

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE 2024-07

AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER

COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY AMENDING ORDINANCE 2021-15

ENTITLED “ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER ESTABLISHING FEES FOR THE USE OF THE COMMUNITY CENTER”

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, Sussex County, New Jersey that Ordinance 2021-15 and Township Code Chapter 182-1 Use of Community Center is amended as follows:

SECTION 1.

The Community Center deposit and fees are set as follows:

Refundable Deposit Fee

Not-For-Profit Organization $50 $100

(1 Time Event Use)

 

Resident Users $250 $300

Civil Organization Annual User Fee None $100

This Ordinance shall take effect upon passage and publication as required by law.

Committeewoman V. Rumsey read the fees that are listed for the various types of users.

Mayor L. Chammings stated that it needed to be clarified if the refundable deposit needed to be deposited within 48 hours or if it could be held until after the event. There was a discussion on the refundable deposit and was decided that Municipal Clerk V. Ingles seek clarification from the Municipal Auditor. Township Attorney E. Bernstein also noted that a resolution does not need to be done to issue a refund, that it just needed to be put on the bills list. He also noted that all cash payments must be given receipts and kept on file for auditing purposes, which the Township does currently maintain.

Committeewoman V. Rumsey stated that once they’ve decided on the fee amounts and the new agreement was prepared, that the groups need to be notified in writing of the fees and their required documents needed to continue to use the Community Center. She clarified that the Ordinance would also include that it’s retroactive to its adoption date of February 20, 2024.

Mayor L. Chammings stated that she feels that $250 for an emergency cleaning is too high. The quote received from the new cleaning company for an emergency cleaning is $150. The Committee agreed that it would be more reasonable to amend the resident user refundable deposit amount from $250 to $150.

A MOTION was made by Committeewoman V. Rumsey and seconded by Committeewoman D. Delaney, to Introduce Ordinance 2024-07 with the noted amendments.

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

PUBLIC SESSION (any subject – 3-minute limit)

Township Resident Joseph Doherty read the following:

“I AM HERE THIS EVENING TO OFFER A SUGGESTION TO COUNCIL THAT IT ENTERTAIN THE IDEA OF ADOPTING A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE BASIC PRINCIPLES THAT ARE ESSENTIAL TO ENSURE THAT A FREE AND LAW-ABIDING COMMUNITY LIKE STILLWATER WILL BE RESPECTED, REMAIN UNENCUMBERED AND NOT BE DICTATED TO, INTERFERED WITH OR COERCED BY REPRESENTATIVES FROM MUNICIPAL, COUNTY, STATE OR FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS. I BELIEVE IT IS ESSENTIAL FOR STILLWATER TOWNSHIP TO PROTECT ITS INTEREST AND GO ON RECORD AND DECLARE ITS RIGHT TO SELF-DETERMINATION AND SPECIFIC INTENT, ESPECIALLY IN LIGHT OF WHAT IS HAPPENING AROUND THE NATION WHERE GOVERNMENTS ARE PRESSURING THE AMERICAN PEOPLE TO ACCEPT MASSIVE NUMBERS OF INVADING FOREIGN NATIONALS INTO THEIR COMMUNITIES WHO HAVE NOT BEEN CRITICALLY REVIEWED AND EVALUATED. CONGRESS HAS BEEN SLOW TO REACT TO THIS NATIONAL NIGHTMARE. IT OCCURS TO ME THAT THE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE SAFETY OF ITS CITIZENS HAVE BEEN ABANDONED. MANY OF OUR SO-CALLED REPRESENTATIVES ARE EVEN PUSHING FOR ACCEPTANCE OF THE IDEA FOR POLITICAL REASONS AND SELF-SERVING GAINS, WHICH IS AN OBVIOUS VIOLATION OF THEIR OATH OF OFFICE. STILLWATER TOWNSHIP CAN STRIKE THE FIRST BLOW BY DECLARING ITS INTENTION AND DETERMINATION TO STAND FAST AGAINST THE TYRANNY THAT CONFRONTS US, JUST LIKE THOSE PATRIOTS WHO STOOD THEIR GROUND AT CONCORD AND LEXINGTON. LET US DECLARE OUR OWN MODERN-DAY DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE FROM THE CONTENTIOUS ISSUE BY CONSIDERING THIS CITIZEN’S SUGGESTION, DISCUSSING IT, SUPPORTING IT, ADOPTING IT AND DEFENDING IT!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!”

Mayor L. Chammings thanked Mr. Doherty and stated that his concerns are noted.

Township Resident Dimitris Gatanas noted concerns and complaints regarding the traffic light in front of his property. He stated that he’s told that it’s temporary to permanent for 3-4 years possibly. He stated that the County had received a complaint as of October 31, 2023 and November 9^th, 2023 they were installing a temporary traffic light which uses solar power and a generator. They applied for permits for the electric for the traffic light but have still been using the generators until that evening they were finally adding a dropdown to connect to the electric.

Committeewoman V. Rumsey stated that she would like information from County Engineer B. Koppenal as to what their plan is and timeframe.

County Commissioner Jack DeGroot stated that the next County Commissioner’s meeting is February 14^th. He will bring up the concerns at the meeting regarding Route 521 and reach out to the County Administrator, Clerk, and Engineer as well to see if something else can be done. He knows that this is an issue that affects everyone in the township so he understands that it is important that everyone is informed and up to date as soon as possible.

Township Resident Bert Bodenseik asked if there was a tax foreclosure list update. Mayor L. Chammings stated that Tax In Rem Attorney Robert McBriar is looking into the latest updates on the In Rem Foreclosures. Township Attorney E. Bernstein added that the tax foreclosures are in limbo still. There is only so far that the township can go with them due to the pending legislature.

County Commissioner Jack DeGroot introduced himself to the Township Committee and those in attendance for the meeting. He stated that he’s Stillwater Township liaison and is more than happy to relay information for the township to the county. He would like to have an open communication with the town. He stated that he is working on educating the public and farmers on farmland preservation. He noted that there are three legislations that were recently passed and a new formula that is now used so farmers will be receiving more then they were. He will send the literature to the township officials and attend an Environmental Commission meeting as well. He also offered to host a meeting to educate the local farmers on the new farmland preservation guidelines.

Township Resident Scott Goriscak stated that he noticed the posts on Facebook regarding the traffic light and people not abiding by it. D. Gatanas stated that he forwarded the Facebook posts to the County to try and show the issues that were coming up due to the traffic light and the County deferred it to the Sheriff’s Department.

Township Resident Stacy Michelman suggested D. Gatanas attend the County meetings and he responded that he already has. She also suggested having the Sheriff’s department patrol that area more frequently and have the County Commissioner drive by to see the area. County Commissioner J. DeGroot replied that he has driven past the traffic light and is aware of what the area looks like.

Township Resident K. Draghi stated that the County engineer working on the issue lives down the road, so he’s most likely impacted by the traffic light as well.

No further public comment.

PUBLIC SESSION CLOSED

ATTORNEY’S REPORT

Township Attorney E. Bernstein stated that he did not have a formal report for the meeting. He’s happy to be working for Stillwater Township and continuing to move forward.

BILLS LIST #02 $1,125,317.14

RESOLUTION 2024-033 AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF BILLS

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds are available in the proper account; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has approved payment upon certification from

the Township Department Heads that the goods and/or services have been rendered to the

Township;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Committee of the Township of Stillwater that the current bill lists, dated February 6, 2024, are on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the Chief Financial Officer and approved by the Chief Financial Officer for payment, be paid.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman G. Scott and seconded by Committeeman D. Manser to adopt Resolution 2024-033.

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

EXECUTIVE SESSION: held in the Stillwater Township Municipal Building.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman D. Manser, seconded by Committeeman G. Scott, with all members in favor, to adopt the Resolution permitting the Committee to go into Executive Session at 9:20 p.m.

STILLWATER TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE

RESOLUTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION

WHEREAS, Section 8 of the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231, P.L. 1975 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting under certain circumstances; and

WHEREAS, this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, in the County of Sussex and State of New Jersey as follows:

1. The public shall be excluded from that portion of this meeting.

2. The general nature of the subject matter to be discussed is as follows: Attorney Client

3. As nearly as can now be ascertained, the matter or matters to be discussed at this time will be disclosed to the public when such matters are resolved.

A MOTION was made by Committeeman D. Manser and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott to go back into Regular Session at 9:44 P.M.

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

ADJOURNMENT

A MOTION was made by Committeeman D. Manser and seconded by Committeeman G. Scott, with all members in favor, to adjourn the meeting at 9:44 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Valerie Ingles

Municipal Clerk