STILLWATER TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING

May 4, 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 (8:15 p.m.), Committeeman Fisher, Mayor Chammings, Municipal Clerk Lynda Knott and Attorney Angelo Bolcato ABSENT: None

EXECUTIVE SESSION: 6:01 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. Fisher and carried by roll call vote to adopt the resolution permitting the Committee to go into Executive Session at 6:01 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

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. Fisher, seconded by Mayor Chammings to suspend the Executive Session at 7:05p.m., unanimously carried by voice vote.

Roll Call was taken and the flag was saluted.

RESOLUTION 2021-062 RESCINDING DEDICATED BY RIDER TRUST FUNDS

WHEREAS, the following funds were established for revenues received by the Township when the revenue is not subject to reasonably accurate estimates in advance, and;

WHEREAS, there is no longer receipt of any such revenues,

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

1. The Township Committee hereby requests permission of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to rescind the following Dedicated by Rider Trust Funds:

Public Defender N.J.S.A. 2B: 12-28

DNA Lifeprint

1. The Municipal Clerk of the Township of Stillwater is hereby directed to forward two certified copies of this resolution to the Director of the Division of Local Government Services.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrison to adopt Resolution 2021-062, seconded by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

RESOLUTION 2021-063 Authorizing Reading of the Municipal Budget by Title and providing for Public Hearing on the Budget Adoption

WHEREAS, N.J.S.40A:4-8 provides that the budget may be read by title only at the time of the public hearing if a resolution is passed by not less than a majority of the full Governing Body, provided that at least one (1) week prior to the date of public hearing a complete copy of the approved budget, as advertised, has been posted in the Municipal Building, the Official Municipal web-site and copies have been made available by the Clerk to persons requesting them; and

WHEREAS, these conditions have been met;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the 2021 Municipal Budget shall be read by title at this public hearing for same.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrison to adopt Resolution 2021-063, seconded by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

PUBLIC HEARING OF THE 2021 MUNCIPAL BUDGET – VALERIE DOLAN, CPA AND TAMMY LEONARD, CFO

Mrs. Dolan reported the budget introduced in April has a tax increase of $36.00 per year (on average home value of $205,000). Mrs. Dolan noted it has been a difficult year with losses of revenue, planned revenues and state aid which was promised but not received. The township also had a large increase in pension costs. Mrs. Dolan said this year was Stillwater Township’s turn for its proposed budget to be reviewed by the State (a once every three-year occurrence). The State not only reviews content but revenue sources and appropriations. The State has given Stillwater Township the green light to adopt the budget after tonight’s public hearing. Mrs. Dolan added one issue the State uncovered was two trust by rider accounts with no balance and no longer used by the township must be cancelled and that request was completed by the resolution just adopted. Mrs. Dolan asked if anyone had questions.

Mr. Fisher asked what the township has in surplus. Mrs. Dolan said there is 3.5 million dollars in surplus with a $53,000 increase in 2020 because the tax collection rate increased from 96.63% to 96.97%. The proposed 2021 budget utilized $20,000 of the $53,000 increase in surplus. Mrs. Dolan said if the township committee wanted to use more surplus in the budget the budget would have to be amended and sent back to Trenton to be reviewed with the additional surplus. Mayor Chammings said the township committee had three scenarios to choose the amount of surplus to be used and they all agreed to choose option two which is $20,000.00.

Mr. Sylvester, 945 Old School House Road, asked if the surplus could be used for capital improvements. Mrs. Dolan said in order to use surplus in the budget it must be started during budget preparation and a line must be created for a specific purpose and a specific amount. Mrs. Dolan added there is $238,000 in the capital improvement fund. Some for specific items like oil and stone, emergency vehicles and dpw equipment but there is still remaining funds for other capital improvement items in the budget.

Mrs. Draghi, 1016 County Road 619, asked if the $800,000 fire truck was in the 2021 budget? The CFO answered a capital ordinance has been adopted to allow the township to purchase the vehicle but the funds are not set aside in this budget. Mrs. Draghi asked if the contract has been signed. Mayor Chammings answered no. Mrs. Draghi asked if the vehicle would be added as an amendment to the budget. Mrs. Leonard said it will be part of the 2022 budget.

Ms. Gullette, 1014 County Road 619, asked what would be the approximate increase in tax for the fire truck. Mrs. Leonard answered it would be $35 per average home valued at $205,000.00 per year for 10 years.

Mr. Morrison asked if the fire truck is purchased in 2022 when will the township begin to pay for it. Mrs. Dolan said if using Bond Anticipation notes the township will begin paying the debt in the third year following the purchase. The first two years are interest only payments and the third year a minimum pay down of the note is due. The debt in the anticipation note market is paid within ten (10) years.

Mrs. Fisher, 1059 Mt. Benevolence Road, expressed her concerns regarding raising taxes now when so many are still out of work and schools and county are going to be raising their share to combat the loss of school aid from the state.

Mayor Chammings noted taxes are going up all around and the township collects everyone’s portion. Mayor Chammings said Kittatinny Regional High School is going up $50 per $100,000 home value, Stillwater School is going up $83.54 per $205,000 average home value and she is not sure of what the County’s increase will be adding all entities are doing what they can to keep the increases as low as possible.

Ms. Gullette, 1014 County Road 619, asked if the fire truck the new truck will replace is out of date because of age or is it inoperable? Is the new truck really necessary? If so she is for it but if it is not needed right now believes the township should wait to make the purchase.

Mayor Chammings said the truck it will replaced for age also has major issues. During the last fire call at Camp Henry Hoover the vehicle would only go 8 mph. The truck was taken to the mechanic who said the vehicle is rusted very badly among other issues and Mayor Chammings feels it is really not operable as a primary responder. Mayor Chammings added a vehicle that is just adequate for now but near the end of its life will become not adequate if it breaks down and there is no replacement. Mayor Chammings noted the new truck will replace two trucks near the end of their service lives. Mayor Chammings said she hoped that answered Ms. Gullette’s question and if not, she defers to the liaison or the chief to further clarity.

Chief Sugar responded Ms. Gullette had asked whether the fire department was adequate and could it fight fires with the equipment it had and he answered he said the fire department was adequate and could fight fires because he would never say they were inadequate but he is relying on older equipment. Chief Sugar said the fire department does not follow the NFPA guidelines to the letter and that is fine until something goes wrong or someone gets killed and they wind up in court. In court the NFPA regulations are the industry standard.

Ms. Gullette said this is the first time the public heard some background as to why the fire truck needed to be replaced and she appreciated it.

Mr. Morrison said this new truck came up at the budget hearing because he wanted to replace two trucks with one and bring the equipment count in the township from five trucks to four (2 for each station). He feels the township will be well served with four pieces of equipment. Mr. Morrison added two trucks will be sold when the new truck is received and the proceeds of those sales will go toward paying for the new truck.

Mrs. Fisher, 1059 Mount Benevolence Road, asked why the fire department still has the 1990 tanker in service when it is clearly over 20 years old and the Chief said they could not defend using it in court since it is outside of the industry standards for truck use. Chief Sugar said the tanker is not a first line apparatus and having water on scene is essential for a good outcome and since Swartswood closed and gave away the second township tanker the 1990 tanker must be used.

Mrs. Draghi, 1016 County Road 619, asked when the township will be reassessed and questioned if the $205,000 average home value is still current enough to base taxes. Mayor Chammings noted the tax assessor usually gives the township committee notice a few years before the revaluation occurs and she has not heard anything but will ask the tax assessor so she can answer Mrs. Draghi.

Mayor Chammings asked if there were anymore questions on the budget and seeing no one else who wished to speak closed the public hearing on the budget and asked for a motion to adopt the 2021 budget.

A motion was made by Mrs. Rumsey to adopt the 2021 Budget, seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

PRESENTATION: 2020 Audit – Valerie Dolan, CPA and Tammy Leonard CFO

RESOLUTION 2021-064 Certification of the Annual Audit

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A .40a:5-4 requires the governing body of every unit to have made an annual audit of its books, accounts and financial transactions; and

WHEREAS, the Annual Report of Audit for the year 2020 has been filed by a Registered Municipal Accountant and with the Municipal Clerk pursuant to N.J.S.A .40A:5-6, and a copy has been received by each member of the governing body; and

WHEREAS, R.S. 52:27BB-34 authorizes the Local Finance Board of the State of New Jersey to prescribe reports pertaining to the local fiscal affairs; and

WHEREAS, the Local Finance Board has promulgated N.J.A.C. 5:30-6-5, a regulation requiring that the governing body of each municipality shall, by resolution, certify to the Local Finance Board of the State of New Jersey that all members of the governing body have reviewed, as a minimum, the sections of the annual audit entitled “Comments and Recommendations”; and

WHEREAS, the members of the governing body have personally reviewed, as a minimum, the Annual Report of Audit, and specifically the sections of the annual Audit entitled “Comments and Recommendations”, as evidenced by the group affidavit form of the governing body attached hereto; and

WHEREAS, such resolution of certification shall be adopted by the Governing Body no later than forty-five days after the receipt of the annual audit, pursuant to N.J.A.C .5:30-6-5; and

WHEREAS, all members of the governing body have received and have familiarized themselves with, at least, the minimum requirements of the Local Finance Board of the State of New Jersey, as stated aforesaid and have subscribed to the affidavit, as provided by the Local Finance Board; and

WHEREAS, failure to comply with the regulations of the Local Finance Board of the State of New Jersey may subject the members of the local governing body to the penalty provision of the R.S. 52:27BB-52 to wit:

R.S. 52:27BB-52: A local officer or member of the local governing body who, after a date fixed for compliance, fails or refuses to obey an order of the Director (Director of Local Government Services), under provisions of this Article, shall be guilty of a

misdemeanor and upon conviction, may be fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or imprisoned for not more than one year or both, in addition shall forfeit his office.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED , that the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, hereby states that it has complies with N.J.A.C. 5:30-6-5 and does hereby submit a certified copy of the resolution and the required affidavit to said Board to show evidence of said compliance.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrison to adopt Resolution 2021-063, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

Mrs. Dolan gave an overview of the 2020 audit by stating the fund balance at the end of 2020 was 3.5 million dollars which was an increase of $53,000 primarily related to an increase in the rate of tax collection. The township’s debt was $1,744,136 which is a decrease from 2019 because the township paid down more than it borrowed. The audit has its two standard comments: (both comments are shown here with the CFO’s Corrective Action Plan)

Corrective Action Plan for the Township of Stillwater

2020 Annual Audit

Recommendation #1 – An adequate segregation of duties be maintained with respect to the recording and treasury functions.
Corrective Action – Due to the staffing issues that exist and the use of part time workers in various positions, it is difficult to properly divide the duties of each office. Many staff workers must cover more than just their own positions each day, and it is not always practical to divide and segregate duties. The Township Committee, Clerk and Chief Finance Officer continue to examine ways to help mitigate issues to do with the segregation of duties.
Implementation Date – Ongoing

Recommendation #2 – The records for the Township liens be reviewed and measures be taken to collect or foreclose on the liens held by the Township.
Corrective Action – An initial round of In Rem foreclosures were completed in 2018. Plans were in place to work on foreclosures of the remaining township liens during 2019 and 2020, however COVID-19 delayed progression of the work. The Township will continue with the foreclosures moving forward.
Implementation Date – Ongoing

Mrs. Dolan said 2020 was a transition year for Stillwater Township transitioning from CFO Mooney to CFO Leonard and it had no impact on the audit process. Mrs. Dolan commended Mrs. Leonard for her preparedness and how well she worked with the audit team. Mrs. Dolan thanked all employees at the town hall for their helpfulness in the audit process. Mrs. Dolan also thanked the Township Committee for the opportunity to work for Stillwater Township.

Mayor Chammings thanked Mrs. Dolan and Mrs. Leonard for their hard work and presentations. Mayor Chammings noted the township will be working diligently this year reviewing the property liens and getting those properties back on the tax roll.

PRESENTATION: Cross River Fiber, LLC – Fred Brody

Mr. Brody said Cross River Fiber, LLC is a specialized utility company authorized by the BPU (Board of Public Utilities) to provide “dark fiber networks” to corporate customers such as hospital systems, back room of stock exchanges, data centers etc. Lit fiber is what most of us use for internet, telephone etc. where it is usage based (the more you use the more you pay). The corporate customers who use the dark fiber networks light the fiber themselves. Cross River Fiber LLC is looking to build a redundant loop around the State of New Jersey which will be used for these commercial clients as a highway through the state. The highway will consist of one line of fiber on existing telephone poll infrastructure. The BPU grants Cross River Fiber LLC permission to use the municipal right of ways with a non-excusive agreement. The owners of the polls require Cross River Fiber LLC to get permission from municipalities to enter their right-of-way to install the fiber on the existing polls. Cross River Fiber LLC will reimburse the township for their legal and engineering costs associated with their project and also for police safety detail during installation. Mr. Brody asked for any questions.

Mr. Morrison asked if it will be installed on one route or throughout the township. Mr. Brody answered it will be designed as one route through the township using the shortest distance possible.

Mayor Chammings asked if any other equipment will be installed like 5G. Mr. Brody said no it will only be a one-line roadway – just a pipe of fiber connecting its corporate customers in a redundant loop. The fiber is for data only.

Mayor Chammings asked if the township would receive any tax revenue. Mr. Brody said no tax revenue or franchise agreement is associated with this project.

Seeing no one with any more questions Mayor Chammings thanked Mr. Brody for answering their questions and will the township committee will discuss and consider the permission Mr. Brody is requesting. Mr. Brody thanked the Township Committee for their time.

BILLS LIST #7: $989,987.08

RESOLUTION 2021-065 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 May 4, 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. Fisher to adopt Resolution 2021-065, seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Fisher yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Mayor Chammings noted Mr. Scott had not yet arrived but the Recreation Commission has been working on a grant for recreation improvements and the agenda would be amended to add a resolution in support of the grant application. Since Mr. Scott had not yet arrived Mrs. Rumsey began with her committee reports.

Mrs. Rumsey reported the enrollment at Stillwater School for the 2021-2022 school year is 289 students including the pre-school students. Mrs. Rumsey said Stillwater School has adopted their budget for the 21-22 school year and all the information is available on their website. Mrs. Rumsey noted the graduation this year will be held outdoor and the sixth graders will be attending camp for 2 or 3 days but no overnights.

Mrs. Rumsey commended the fire department and tripod for the great job they did at the fire at Camp Hoover and the tractor trailer fire by the KFC in Hampton. Mrs. Rumsey said the original quote for repairs for the 42-62 pumper was $6500 but they decided to only do the necessary repairs at a cost of $1,600.

Chief Sugar reported the fire department responded to 56 calls year-to-date and the ems responded to 123 calls year-to-date.

Mrs. Rumsey said the bathrooms at the Community Center are complete and look great. Mrs. Rumsey noted there are some upcoming events scheduled: The Plant Exchange on May 15, 2021 and Miss Stillwater Pageant on May 21, 2021. Mrs. Rumsey said the DPW will be patching the roof at the community center but are looking at a roof replacement project for 2022. Mayor Chammings noted that infrastructure projects like the community center roof are exactly what the American Rescue Plan will pay for.

Mr. Fisher had no report.

Mr. Morrison had no report.

Mr. Scott arrived at 8:15 p.m.

Mr. Scott reported he and Mr. Fisher will meet with the DPW and Local 125 representatives to begin negotiating the 2022-2024 DPW Collective Bargaining Agreement on Friday, May 21, 2021 at 10:00 a.m.

Mr. Scott said the Recreation Commission met on May 3, 2021 and the County will be hosting the Fair in August 2021. Mr. Scott also noted Mrs. Beshada has been working on the recreation commission grant.

Mayor Chammings reported Sussex County COVID positivity rate has dropped from high to moderate and unfortunately the positivity is increasing for school age. Mayor Chammings noted 47% of the county residents are vaccinated and if anyone in town hall or the DPW is still in need of a vaccine can get them from the County. Mayor Chammings said Sussex County is encouraging everyone to still quarantine for 14 days if the are positive and not 10 days as they have seen positivity after 12 days.

Mayor Chammings reported the OEM Mitigation Plan-Stillwater Township section is almost complete.

Mayor Chammings said the Zoning Board of Adjustment approved two applications at their April 26, 2021 meeting.

Mayor Chammings also reported the Township Committee interviewed three candidates for the zoning/code enforcement official position earlier in executive session and would be resuming executive session after the public portion to discuss.

Mayor Chammings thanked Arlene Fisher (who was present at the meeting) for her years of service to Stillwater Township.

Mayor Chammings also reminded the attendees of the Memorial Service scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Memorial Day at Veterans Memorial Park. Mayor Chammings thanked Mr. Sylvester for his 17 years of organizing the event.

 

AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA Resolution 2021-074 In Support of Recreation Grant

OPEN PUBLIC SESSION:

Mr. Sylvester, 945 Old School House Road, said he believed the planning board was going to recommend hemp to be added to the ordinance. Mayor Chammings said the planning board decided to recommend the ordinance as written to make sure it was adopted in a timely manner noting the ordinance could be amended at any time.

Seeing no one from the public who wished to speak this portion of the meeting was closed.

OLD BUSINESS:

ORDINANCE 2021-06 AN ORDINANCE ADDING A NEW SECTION 240-134, ENTITLED “MARIJUANA” TO CHAPTER 240, “LAND DEVELOPMENT”, PROHIBITING THE OPERATION OF ANY CLASS OF CANNABIS BUSINESSES WITHIN THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER- Introduction [Public Hearing and Adoption May 4, 2021]

WHEREAS, in 2020 New Jersey voters approved Public Question No. 1, which amended the New Jersey Constitution to allow for the legalization of a controlled form of marijuana called “cannabis” for adults at least 21 years of age; and

WHEREAS, on February 22, 2021, Governor Murphy signed into law P.L. 2021, c. 16, known as the “New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act” (the “Act”), which legalizes the recreational use of marijuana by adults 21 years of age or older, and establishes a comprehensive regulatory and licensing scheme for commercial recreational (adult use) cannabis operations, use and possession; and

WHEREAS, the Act establishes six marketplace classes of licensed businesses, including:

• Class 1 Cannabis Cultivator license, for facilities involved in growing and cultivating cannabis;
• Class 2 Cannabis Manufacturer license, for facilities involved in the manufacturing, preparation, and packaging of cannabis items;
• Class 3 Cannabis Wholesaler license, for facilities involved in obtaining and selling cannabis items for later resale by other licensees;
• Class 4 Cannabis Distributer license, for businesses involved in transporting cannabis plants in bulk from on licensed cultivator to another licensed cultivator, or cannabis items in bulk from any type of licensed cannabis business to another;
• Class 5 Cannabis Retailer license for locations at which cannabis items and related supplies are sold to consumers; and
• Class 6 Cannabis Delivery license, for businesses providing courier services for consumer purchases that are fulfilled by a licensed cannabis retailer in order to make deliveries of the purchases items to a consumer, and which service would include the ability of a consumer to make a purchase directly through the cannabis delivery service which would be presented by the delivery service for fulfillment by a retailer and then delivered to a consumer.

WHEREAS, the Act authorizes municipalities by ordinance to adopt regulations governing the number of cannabis establishments (defined in Section 3 of the Act as “a cannabis cultivator, a cannabis manufacturer, a cannabis wholesaler, or a cannabis retailer”), cannabis distributors or cannabis delivery services allowed to operate within their boundaries, as well as the location manner and times operation of such establishments, distributors or delivery services, and establishing civil penalties for the violation of any such regulations; and

WHEREAS, the Act authorizes municipalities by ordinance to prohibit the operation of any one or more classes of cannabis establishments, distributors, or delivery services anywhere in the municipality; and
WHEREAS, the Act also stipulates that any municipal regulation or prohibition must be adopted within 180 days of the effective date of the Act (i.e., by August 22, 2021); and

WHEREAS, the failure to do so shall mean that for a period of five years thereafter, the growing, cultivating, manufacturing, selling and reselling of cannabis and cannabis items shall be permitted uses in all industrial zones, and the retail selling of cannabis items to consumers shall be a conditional use in all commercial and retail zones; and

WHEREAS, at the conclusion of the initial and any subsequent five-year period following a failure to enact local regulations or prohibitions, the municipality shall again have 180 days to adopt an ordinance regulating or prohibiting cannabis businesses, but any such ordinance would be prospective only and would not apply to any cannabis business already operating within the municipality; and

 

WHEREAS, the Township Committee has determined that, due to present uncertainties regarding the potential future impacts that allowing one or more classes of cannabis business might have on New Jersey municipalities in general, and in the Township of Stillwater, in particular, it is at this time necessary and appropriate, and in the best interest of the health, safety and welfare of the Township’s residents and members of the public who visit, travel, or conduct business in the Township of Stillwater, to amend the Township’s zoning regulations to prohibit all manner of marijuana-related land use and development within the geographic boundaries of the Township; and

WHEREAS, officials from two prominent non-profit organizations that have been established for the purpose of advising New Jersey municipalities on legal matters such as have been presented by the Act (those organizations being the New Jersey State League of Municipalities and the New Jersey Institute of Local Government Attorneys) have strongly urged that, due to the complexity and novelty of the Act; the many areas of municipal law that are or may be implicated in decisions as to whether or to what extent cannabis or medical cannabis should be permitted for land use purposes or otherwise regulated in any particular municipality; and the relatively short duration in which the Act would allow such decisions to be made before imposing an automatic authorization of such uses in specified zoning districts subject to unspecified conditions, the most prudent course of action for all municipalities, whether or not generally in favor of cannabis or medical cannabis land development and uses, would be to prohibit all such uses within the Act’s 180-day period in order to ensure sufficient time to carefully review all aspects of the Act and its impacts; and

WHEREAS, the Township Committee desires to add a new Section 240-134 to Chapter 240, Land Development, prohibiting all cannabis establishments, cannabis distributors or cannabis delivery services, except for the delivery of cannabis items and related supplied by a delivery service.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Township Committee of Stillwater Township, Sussex County, New Jersey, that this Ordinance shall be adopted as part of the Stillwater Township Code as follows:

SECTION 1

A new Section 240-134, “Cannabis”, is adopted as follows:

Pursuant to the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act (P.L. 2021, c. 16), all classes of cannabis licenses, including but not limited to, all cannabis establishments, cannabis distributors and/or cannabis delivery services are hereby prohibited from operating anywhere in the Township of Stillwater, except for the delivery of cannabis items and related supplies by a delivery service.

SECTION 2 – SEVERABILITY

If any provision of this Ordinance or the application of this Ordinance to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of this Ordinance shall not be affected and shall remain in full force and effect.

SECTION 3 – REPEALER

All ordinances or parts of ordinances or resolutions that are inconsistent or in opposition to the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed in their entirety.

SECTION 4 – NOTICE

The Township Clerk is directed to give notice at least ten days prior to the hearing on the adoption of this Ordinance to the County Planning Board and to all others entitled pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40:55D-15. The Township Clerk is further directed to refer this Ordinance to the Township Land Use Board, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-64. Upon the adoption of this Ordinance, after public hearing, the Township Clerk is further directed to publish notice of the passage and to file a copy of this Ordinance, as finally adopted, with the Sussex County Planning Board, as required by N.J.S.A. 40:55D-16.

SECTION 5 – EFFECTIVE DATE

This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication and filing with the Sussex County Planning Board, and as otherwise provided for by law.

A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Ordinance 2021-06 seconded by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

ORDINANCE 2021-07 AN ORDINANCE FIXING SALARIES AND WAGES OF OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE TOWNSHIP OF STILLWATER, COUNTY OF SUSSEX AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY, FOR THE YEAR 2021 – Introduction [Public Hearing and Adoption 05/04/2021]

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

Section 1. The Township of Stillwater shall pay its municipal officers and employees for services rendered as shown below. Figures shown represent annual salary, unless otherwise noted.

POSITION

Township Committee Member $ 4,669.00
Township Clerk 71,573.00
Municipal Registrar 6,151.00 Principal Clerk Typist 54,007.00
Deputy Municipal Registrar 3,015.00
Receptionist $15 – $25 per hour range
File Clerk – Effective 1/1/2020 $12.00 per hour
Chief Financial Officer 77,250.00
Clean Communities Coordinator – Stipend 1,000.00
Qualified Purchasing Agent – Stipend 3,000.00
Tax Assessor 33,428.00
Tax Collector 36.476.00
Tax Collector – Extra Hours $58.46 per hour
DPW Supervisor As per contract

Recycling Coordinator 1,852.00
DPW Laborers As per contract
Solid Waste Worker #1 $13.31 per hour
Solid Waste Worker #2 $12.00 per hour
Solid Waste Cashier $12.00 per hour
Recycling Worker #1 $13.31 per hour
Recycling Worker #2 $12.00 per hour
Zoning Officer $25 – $45 per hour range
Construction Code Official 15,600.00
Plumbing Sub-code Official 8,320.00
Electric Sub-code Official 9,368.00
Fire Sub-code Official 2,500.00
Fire Inspector 2,500.00
Smoke Detector Certifications $25.00 per Cert
Smoke Detector Re-Certifications $20.00 per Cert
Electrical Inspector/Subcode Official – Vacation Coverage $35.00 per hour
Emergency Mgmt Coordinator 1,433.00
Deputy Emergency Mgmt Coordinator 586.00
Animal Control Officer 9,401.00

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS:
Zoning Board Secretary 7,180.00
Planning Board Secretary 7,180.00
Environmental Commission Secretary 2,881.00
Recreation Commission Secretary 2,150.00

Crossing Guard $14.19 per hour

Section 2. Specific salaries or wages established by this Ordinance shall be made retroactive to January 1, 2020 unless otherwise noted.

Section 3. Nothing in this ordinance shall be construed as making mandatory the payment of annual salary increments to any officer or employees of the Township of Stillwater. Salary or wage increases shall be contingent upon availability of the funds.

Section 4. All former ordinances or parts therof conflicting or inconsistent with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.

Section 5. This ordinance shall take effect after publication and passage according to law.

A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Ordinance 2021-06 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

NEW BUSINESS:

RESOLUTION 2021-066 Setting the salaries for full-time and part-time Township Employees for 2021

WHEREAS, the Township Committee adopted Ordinance # 2021-07 on May 4, 2021; and

WHEREAS, the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater desires to set the specific salaries for full-time and part-time non-contract Township employees for the year 2021,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following salaries are retroactive to January 1, 2021 unless otherwise noted:

Lisa Chammings Mayor $ 4,669.00

George Scott Deputy Mayor 4,669.00

Vera Rumsey Committeeman 4,669.00

William Morrison Committeeman 4,669.00

Timmy Lee Fisher Committeeman 4,669.00

Lynda Knott Township Clerk 71,573.00

Lynda Knott Municipal Registrar 6,151.00

Lynda Knott Q.P.A. Stipend 3,000.00

Kathy Wunder Principal Clerk Typist 54,007.00

Dawn Tighe Deputy Municipal Registrar 3,015.00

Dawn Tighe Receptionist $20.60 per hour

Tammy Leonard CFO 77,250.00

Tammy Leonard Clean Communities Coordinator 1,000.00

Gisela Rutnik Tax Collector 36,476.00

Gisela Rutnik Tax Collector – Extra Hours $58.46 per hour

Penny Holenstein Tax Assessor 33,428.00

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

Jeffrey Gardner Recycling Coordinator 1,852.00

Louis Zack Solid Waste Cashier #2 $12.00 per hour

Frank Rooney Recycling Worker #2 $12.00 per hour

Gregory Holcomb Solid Waste Worker #2 $12.00 per hour

CONSTRUCTION DEPARTMENT

Vacant Zoning/Code Enforcement Official $ TBD

Richard Bizik Construction Code Official 15,600.00

Anthony Citarella Plumbing Sub-code Official 8,320.00

Patrick Murphy Electrical Sub-code Official 9,368.00

Richard Bizik Fire Inspector 2,500.00

Patrick Murphy Fire Sub-code Official 2,500.00

Richard Bizik Smoke Detector Certifications $25.00 per Cert

Richard Bizik Smoke Detector Re-Certifications $20.00 per Cert

PUBLIC SAFETY

Elizabeth Diorio Crossing Guard $14.19 per hour

Alan DeCarolis Animal Control Officer 9,401.00

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS:
Alfia Schemm Zoning Board Secretary 7,180.00

Alfia Schemm Planning Board Secretary 7,180.00

Kathy Wunder Environmental Comm Secretary 2,881.00

Alicia Gardner Recreation Commission Secretary 2,150.00

A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-066 seconded by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

RESOLUTION 2021-067 Authorizing the refund of zoning and building fees Block 1051 Lot 9

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that Fees for Permit Number 20200247 in the amount of $123.00 were collected for a generator project at 904 Owassa Rd, Block 1501 Lot 9, and;

WHEREAS, the permit fee included $7.00 in DCA fees which cannot be refunded, bringing the refundable total to $116.00 for the Building Permit; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that Fees for a Zoning Permit in the amount of $30.00 were collected for the same generator project at 904 Owassa Rd, Block 1051 Lot 9, and;

WHEREAS, the project is no longer moving forward;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of Stillwater Township, that a refund be issued in the amount of the refundable fees.

Name & Address Funding Amount

Patricia Klimek Building Permit Fee $116.00

904 Owassa Road Zoning Permit Fee $30.00

Newton, NJ 07860 $146.00

A motion was made by Mr. Fisher to adopt Resolution 2021-067 seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, abstain, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

RESOLUTION 2021-068 Authorizing the redemption of tax lien Block 1401 Lot 11.01

WHEREAS, on DECEMBER 15 2020 Gisela Rutnik, Collector Of Taxes sold at public sale Tax Lien for delinquent municipal lien on premises known as Block 1401 Lot 11.01. to US BANK PRO CAP 8 LLC 50 SOUTH 16^TH STREET STE 2050 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102

WHEREAS, the Collector has received redemption of said lien on APRIL 6,2021

And has deposited said sum in the current account of the Township of STILLWATER

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Committee of the Township of

STILLWATER

1. As soon thereafter as the redemption funds have cleared the current account, payment shall Be made to the holder of the Certificate of Sale in the sum of 770.41

There was also a Premium paid in the amount of $0.00 to be added to the certificate holder,

Provided the holder shall surrender the Certificate of Sale and comply with all laws relating thereto.

A motion was made by Mr. Morrison to adopt Resolution 2021-068 seconded by Mrs. Rumsey. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

RESOLUTION 2021-069 Authorizing the redemption of tax lien Block 3501 Lot 7.06

WHEREAS, on DECEMBER 15,2020 Gisela Rutnik, Collector

Of Taxes sold at public sale Tax Lien for delinquent municipal lien on premises known as Block 3501 Lot 7.06 to M and V Liens 23 Irving Place, Newton NJ 07860

WHEREAS, the Collector has received redemption of said lien on April 22, 2021 and has deposited said sum in the current account of the Township of STILLWATER

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Committee of the Township of STILLWATER

1. As soon thereafter as the redemption funds have cleared the current account, payment shall

Be made to the holder of the Certificate of Sale in the sum of 1,313.51

There was also a Premium paid in the amount of $0.00 to be added to the certificate holder,

Provided the holder shall surrender the Certificate of Sale and comply with all laws relating thereto.

A motion was made by Mrs. Rumsey to adopt Resolution 2021-069 seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

RESOLUTION 2021-070 Authorizing the redemption of tax lien Block 3501 Lot 7.09

WHEREAS, on December 15 ,2020 Gisela Rutnik, Collector of Taxes sold at public sale Tax Lien for delinquent municipal lien on premises known as Block 3501 Lot 7.09 to C & E Tax Lien Fund 1 PO Box 5021 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19111

WHEREAS, the Collector has received redemption of said lien on April 22, 2021 and has deposited said sum in the current account of the Township of Stillwater.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Committee of the Township of STILLWATER

1. As soon thereafter as the redemption funds have cleared the current account, payment shall be made to the holder of the Certificate of Sale in the sum of 11,451.78

There was also a Premium paid in the amount of $ .00 to be added to the certificate holder, provided the holder shall surrender the Certificate of Sale and comply with all laws relating thereto.

A motion was made by Mrs. Rumsey to adopt Resolution 2021-070 seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

RESOLUTION 2021-071 Authorizing the execution of an Agreement with the Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council to Renew Membership therein for the period of October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2026

WHEREAS, the Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council (“MCCPC”) was created in

1974 to conduct a voluntary cooperative pricing system with municipalities, boards of educations, and other public bodies located in the County of Morris and adjoining counties; and

WHEREAS, the purpose of the MCCPC is to provide substantial savings on various goods and services to its members through the cooperative public bidding process; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Stillwater desires to enter into an Agreement with the MCCPC, which is administered by Randolph Township as Lead Agency, to renew its membership in the MCCPC for the period of October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2026.

BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater, County of Sussex

The Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater hereby authorize

the execution of an Agreement with the Morris County Cooperative Pricing Council by the

Township of Randolph as Lead Agency dated October 1, 2016, pursuant to

N.J.S.A. 40A:11-11(5). Said Agreement is for renewal of membership in the MCCPC for a five

(5) year period from October 1, 2021, through September 30, 2026.

The Township of Stillwater Clerk is hereby directed to submit a copy of this adopted Resolution, along with an executed Agreement, to Randolph Township as Lead Agency of the MCCPC.

This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon final passage according to law.

1. All appropriate Township of Stillwater officials are authorized and directed to perform all required acts to affect the purpose of this Resolution.

A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-071 seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, yes.

DISCUSSION ITEMS:

Update on 992 Fairview Lake road (block 2401 Lot 37) Mayor Chammings reported she, Committeewoman Rumsey and Committeeman Scott met with Congressman Josh Gottheimer last Wednesday to tour the site. Congressman Gottheimer has already spoken with the DEP to see what can be done to get the township the records it needs without having to go to Trenton and look through ten boxes of correspondence. Mayor Chammings felt Congressman Gottheimer was very helpful and forthright.

Mr. Scott said it was a very good meeting and not at all political. Mrs. Rumsey agreed noting there were several neighbors there and felt it was very productive.

Sustainable Jersey 2021 EDF Climate corps Program. Mayor Chammings said the EDR Climate Corps program is similar to the Direct Energy Program where the township will be assigned an intern who will work the township to identify areas in the municipal buildings where upgrades in lighting, windows/doors, etc. would be beneficial and then offer low cost ways to complete the project using contractors who have contracted with this program. Mayor Chammings noted KRHS and Stillwater School have utilized programs like this and have saved money.

RESOLUTION 2021-072 Authorizing the Sustainable Jersey 2021 EDF Climate Corps Program Application

WHEREAS, a sustainable community seeks to optimize quality of life for its residents by ensuring that its environmental, economic, and social objectives are balanced and mutually supportive; and

WHEREAS, Stillwater Township strives to save tax dollars, assure clean land, air and water, improve working and living environments; and

WHEREAS, Stillwater Township is participating in the Sustainable Jersey Program; and

WHEREAS, one of the purposes of the Sustainable Jersey Program is to provide resources to municipalities to make progress on sustainability issues, and they have created the 2021 EDF Climate Corps Program;

THEREFORE, the Township Committee of Stillwater Township has determined that Stillwater Township should apply for the aforementioned 2021 EDF Climate Corps Program. The assistance will allow Stillwater Township to upgrade energy efficiency of municipal buildings while improving air quality; and

THEREFORE, Stillwater Township will commit to providing staff support for the duration of the 2021 EDF Climate Corps Program, including access to data for energy projects such as utility billing data.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Township Committee of the Stillwater Township, State of New Jersey, authorize the submission of the aforementioned application to the 2021 EDF Climate Corps Program.

A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-074 seconded by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, Yes.

Mrs. Rumsey discussed her desire to have Town Hall reopen fully. Mrs. Rumsey feels all the employees should be in the building and work from home should now be eliminated. Mrs. Rumsey said there is no reason town hall should not be open adding all employees shop, get haircuts, etc. and it would be no different at town hall. Keep the reception door closed and there is a barrier between residents and employees. Mr. Morrison and Mr. Fisher agreed. Mayor Chammings said she had thought summer/June would be a good time to reopen and on the Mayor’s conference call today it was reported there will be a survey sent out to all municipalities to see what their plans are for re-opening. Mr. Morrison agrees with re-opening shortly but felt the employees should be given a little time if they need to plan. Mayor Chammings said there is a return to work policy the employees signed when they returned to town hall in the spring of 2020 adopted by resolution that must be considered and the township committee could have discussion at the May 18, 2020 meeting. The committee members agreed and the matter will put on the May 18, 2020 agenda.

Mayor Chammings said the Recreation Commission has been working on a grant for recreation improvement through the State of New Jersey and the following resolution must be submitted as part of the application process.

RESOLUTION 2021-074 RESOLUTION 2021-074

Whereas, the Stillwater Township Recreation Commission

desires to apply for and obtain a grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs

for approximately $34,000.00 to update the Community Center and recreational spaces to ensure the community has healthy outlets which will improve lives, help build a strong, safe and inclusive community; promote social interaction, volunteerism, and civic pride.

Be it therefore RESOLVED,

1. that the Township Committee of the Township of Stillwater

does hereby authorize the application for such a grant; and,

1. recognizes and accepts that the Department may offer a lesser or greater amount and therefore, upon receipt of the grant agreement from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, does further authorize the execution of any such grant agreement; and also, upon receipt of the fully executed agreement from the Department, does further authorize the expenditure of funds pursuant to the terms of the agreement between

The Township of Stillwater

and the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.

Be it further RESOLVED, that the persons whose names, titles, and signatures appear below are authorized to sign the application, and that they or their successors in said titles are authorized to sign the agreement, and any other documents necessary in connection therewith

A motion was made by Mr. Scott to adopt Resolution 2021-074 seconded by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, Yes.

OPEN PUBLIC SESSION

Mrs. Arlene Fisher, 1059 Mt. Benevolence Road, said the reason she was in attendance at the meeting was because of certain comments made during the previous meeting where another employee gave their letter of resignation and it was said that employee did the right thing by giving adequate notice to the Township that she felt she needed to read her resignation letter into the record so all would know why she felt there was no need to give more than two weeks’ notice. Mrs. Fisher said the date of her resignation letter is March 16, 2021. Mrs. Fisher read the following letter into the record:

Date: March 16, 2021

To: Stillwater Township Committee

From: Arlene Fisher, Zoning and Code Enforcement Official, Municipal Housing Liaison

RE: Retirement from my position

Please be advised that I will be retiring as of March 31, 2021. I did not feel that more notice was necessary as certain members of the Committee attempted to terminate my employment at the reorganization meeting on January 8, 2020, so it was apparent no additional time was necessary.

On the night of that January meeting, accusations and comments were put on the record as reasons to terminate me by two members of the Committee. I stated in the recorded minutes of the meeting that I had a right to know what I was being accused of and by whom, since I did not receive a rice notice as required in our employee handbook.

  On several occasions since then I have contacted Mr. Bolcato and informed him that I wanted to know what I was accused of and was frustrated that I was denied due process. I complained to him that the accusations recorded in the minutes are a permanent record, and have been ignored. The statements made by the newest Committee member were unsubstantiated boldfaced lies meant to humiliate and embarrass both me and members of my family present at the reorganization meeting in front of residents and co-workers who were present. Sadly, the Mayor felt after eight years on the Committee that on that night she needed to figure out what I do, and when I do it before she could reappoint me to my position. It must not have been that much of a concern as she still has not come in to meet with me to discuss my job duties.

The Committee has denied me my rights and apparently some members feel that bullying an employee of 27 years at a Township meeting is acceptable, it is not. It has been extremely difficult and stressful to work in such a hostile environment. I have been ignored so I will have to clear my name, on the record.

I will miss the wonderful people I work with in town hall some of my fellow employees are like family, and the residents whom I have worked with over the many years. 

Mr. Scott said since Mrs. Fisher is here in attendance he wanted to publicly thank Mrs. Fisher for her years of service and for everything you did for this town. Mr. Scott said Mrs. Fisher was an asset, very knowledgeable and should be recognized for all her efforts over the years.

Mr. Louis Sylvester, 945 Old School House Road, voiced his concerns about the lack of response to his complaint regarding 947A Old School House Road. Soil Conservation told him there was nothing they could do and he should go back to the township. Mr. Sylvester stated three neighbors filed complaints and he is baffled to hear the township needs more time to investigate. A visual inspection will identity all their concerns. Mr. Sylvester said the property maintenance ordinance should be followed. Mr. Sylvester is asking for help from the governing body to rectify this problem. Please have the temporary zoning officer look at the debris on the properties. The owner from 947 has already given permission for the town to enter his property to be able to investigate this issue.

Mr. Sylvester also discussed that the Planning Board has not required a tree removal plan and feels removing three acres of trees should have required such a plan. A minor and/or major subdivision requires a tree removal plan. Mr. Sylvester sent an ORPA to the building department for all permits filed for the property. There are no permits ever filed. Mr. Sylvester finds it offensive the owner did not file a building permit but still did all this work. Mr. Sylvester is looking for the town officials to act. Mr. Sylvester gave the governing body aerial before and after photos of the clear-cut lot.

Mayor Chammings said there may be a potential conflict of interest since the temporary zoning officer is the engineer who represents the Planning and Zoning Boards and that particular matter. Mr. Morrison suggested getting a conflict zoning officer but it may also further delay the investigation because it takes time to identify and hire a conflict zoning officer.

Mr. Stanley Z, said he understands there are so many trees allowed to be cut to build a home and asked if the environmental commission was involved. Mrs. Fisher said the Planning Board would have given the owners permission to take a certain number of trees to build a house, for their well and septic, for any outbuildings and for the yard. Without the tree removal no building could happen. And before a building permit could be issued a zoning permit for the building must be obtained and that permit would require all the debris and stumps be removed prior to the issuance of a building permit.

Mayor Chammings said the Township Committee is looking to bring this situation to a good solution for all but it will take some more time.

Mr. Morrison took this opportunity to let everyone know he has purchased a home in another community and tonight would be his final Stillwater Township Committee meeting. Mr. Morrison wished everyone the best of luck in the future. Mayor Chammings thanked Mr. Morrison for all his years of service to Stillwater Township.

Seeing no one from the public wishing to speak this portion of the meeting was closed.

ATTORNEY’S REPORT: Mr. Bolcato noted he sent Mayor Chammings an ordinance to consider regarding 5G installation and he hoped it would be added to a meeting for discussion in the near future. Mr. Bolcato said the municipal engineer should be sent the proposed ordinance to review as well.

A Motion was made by Mrs. Rumsey to resume executive session, second by Mr. Scott. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, Yes.

By a motion was made by Mr. Scott, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey to conclude executive session and resume public session at 9:58 p.m., unanimously carried by voice vote.

A Motion was made by Mayor Chammings for the Municipal Engineer, Michael Vreeland, to investigate the issues of concern at 947 Old School House Road, second by Mr. Morrison. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, Yes.

RESOLUTION 2021-073 RESOLUTION RENEWING THE APPOINTMENT OF 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 and temporarily appointed him by Resolution 2021-053; and

WHEREAS, the Township has not yet hired a permanent Zoning/Code Enforcement Officer and is still in need of Mr. Golden’s professional services; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Mayor and Committee of Stillwater Township in the County of Sussex and State of New Jersey confirms the renewal of the provisional appointment of Joseph Golden to the Township Zoning Officer Position, subject to the following terms and conditions:

1. The provisional appointment is to be renewed effective May 7, 2021 through June 7, 2021.
2. Mr. Golden will be paid a stipend of $75 per hour for his services.

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 2021-073, second by Mr. Fisher. Roll Call Vote: Mrs. Rumsey, yes, Mr. Morrison, yes, Mr. Scott, yes, Mr. Fisher, Yes, Mayor Chammings, Yes.

There being no further business to attend to, a motion was made by Mr. Scott, seconded by Mrs. Rumsey to conclude the meeting at 10:00 p.m., unanimously carried by roll call vote.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynda Knott, Township Clerk