Minutes: January 7, 2013 (R)

The Reorganization Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was convened at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, January 7, 2013, in the Vernon Township Municipal Building, 21 Church Street, Vernon, New Jersey, with Council President Brian Lynch presiding.

Statement of Compliance

Adequate notice of this meeting had been provided to the public and the press on December 16, 2012, and was posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A. 10:4-6.

Salute to the Flag

Council President Lynch led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Roll Call of Members

Present were Council Members Eddie Dunn, Dan Kadish, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel, and Brian Lynch. Also present were Mayor Vic Marotta, Business Administrator Jerry Giaimis, and Township Attorney Kevin Kelly.

Mr. Lynch advised that he had been the Council President since July of 2011. He expressed pleasure in how well the Township had fared since then, with the budget, tax structure, etc. in such great shape.

He noted that despite the chaos and destruction brought by storms/hurricanes Sandy, Irene, and Lee, Vernon moved forward without skipping a beat.

He thanked the Council for their efforts and for selecting him as Council President.

New Council President

Mr. Lynch proudly stated that he would like to nominate for Council President a man who had served 15 years on the Board of Education, with 8 of those years as Board President. During this man’s term, the Board of Education brought down the tax rate for Vernon. He was honored to nominate Patrick Rizzuto for Council President.

Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Patrick Rizzuto was approved as Council President.

Council President Rizzuto thanked Past-President Lynch for his comments. He recalled that when the Council started their tenure on July 1, 2011, he didn’t know Mr. Lynch or Mr. Dunn at all. He noted that the new Council was made up of separate egos that learned to work together. He thanked Mr. Lynch for leading the Council so well, and felt he should receive a plaque.

Mayor Marotta presented Mr. Lynch with a plaque for the wonderful job he had done for the people of Vernon. Mr. Lynch noted that he was speechless! But then went on to thank the Council very much, noting that their cooperation was immeasurable. He also thanked the residents for their well wishes.

Council President Rizzuto noted that there were notable people in attendance, pointing out Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose, newly-elected Freeholder Parker Space, newest-elected Freeholder Dennis Mudrick, Councilman George Graham of Stanhope, and John McGowan (the senior member of the Board of Education). The Assemblywoman thanked him and wished him well on behalf of Senator Steven Oroho, Assemblyman Gary Chiusano, and herself, noting that they looked forward to the coming year and doing great things together with Vernon. Freeholder Space spoke on behalf of Sussex County, noting that looked forward to a good 2013 and offered his assistance if needed. Freeholder Mudrick acknowledged the Mayor, Council, and Business Administrator, wishing them good luck, and noting he would be glad to assist the largest municipality in the County. Mr. McGowan advised that in his 28 years on the Board of Education, this Council had done more than any other group in Vernon government.

Mayor Marotta pointed out that the former Mayor, Sally Rinker, was in attendance and should be recognized as well.

Public Comments

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to open the meeting for public comment.
Moved: Daniel Kadish
Second: Brian Lynch
All were in favor.

Gary Martinsen—congratulated the new Council President. He wished everyone a Happy New Year. Mr. Martinsen asked if Resolution #13-11 for the Temporary Budget included raises for employees included in the referendum from the November election. He asked about Resolution #13-18 for budget transfers that also included those salaries.

Mayor Marotta noted that the state requirement for the temporary budget is a set percentage of the actual budget of the prior year.

Elaine Badgely—noted she had missed the public hearing on the cable television franchise renewal, and that she was disappointed in their service.

Mayor Marotta explained the process for renewal: 1st step is public hearing; 2nd step is discussion for contract negotiations.

Ms. Badgely noted that there were 60 complaints registered with the BPU by residents. She asked if Council could consider the issue of remuneration for outages during the storms.

Beverly Budz—spoke as the Acting Chair of the Environmental Commission, and read correspondence on spills in the Vernon area by the pipeline during construction. She advised that the Commission would send a request for specific dates of spills, as well as testing dates.

Sally Rinker—spoke for the Vernon Taxpayers Association, noting the purpose of their organization.

Mary Ellen Vichiconti—wished everyone a Happy New Year, and asked about a Beautification Committee, as had been done in prior years. She noted the Town Center was not as enhanced as it could have been over the holidays.

Council President Rizzuto suggested she contact the office of Community Development.

Closed to Public Comments

Seeing no one else from the public wishing to speak, Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to close the public portion of the meeting.

Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel
All members were in favor.

Consent Agenda

Council President Rizzuto explained Resolutions #13-01 through #13-10, and #13-14 through #13-17. He noted that he would like to have all Mondays be designated for meetings or work sessions.

Motion to adopt Resolutions #13-01 through #13-10, and #13-14 through #13-17 from the Consent Agenda:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn

Council Member Kadish asked to separate out #13-03 and #13-10. No one else agreed.
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: Daniel Kadish
Resolutions #13-01 through #13-10, and #13-14 through #13-17 were adopted.

Resolution #13-01: Designation of Official Newspaper for 2013

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40:53-1 et al. of the Open Public Meetings Act requires that the governing body of every municipality designate an official newspaper or newspapers for the publication of all advertisements and notices required by law to the published by the municipality; and

WHEREAS, the second newspaper designated by this body must be one which has the greatest likelihood of informing the public within the jurisdictional boundaries of this body of such meetings; and

WHEREAS, The New Jersey Herald/Sunday Herald is hereby designated to receive all notices of meetings as required under the Open Public Meetings Act and The Advertiser News and the Vernon Aim will be designated as the alternate newspapers; and

WHEREAS, It is the opinion of this public body that The New Jersey Herald/Sunday Herald, have the greatest likelihood of informing the public within the jurisdictional area of this public body of such meetings.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey that The New Jersey Herald/ Sunday Herald is hereby designated as the official newspaper for the 2013 Calendar Year and will receive all Notices of meetings of the Township Council as required by the Open Public Meetings Act, and The Advertiser News and the Vernon Aim will be designated as alternate newspapers of the Township of Vernon.

This resolution shall take effect immediately.

Resolution #13-02: Designating Meeting Dates of the Township Council for the 2013 Calendar Year

BE IT RESOLVED, in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A. 10:4-1 et. seq., the Regular Meetings of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon shall convene on the Second and Fourth Mondays of each Month (except as noted with * in schedule below) at 6:30 p.m. (if there is an Executive Session), or at 7:30 p.m. (if there is no Executive Session) at the Vernon Municipal Center, 21 Church Street, Vernon, New Jersey for the following meeting dates:

January 7* and 28
February 11 and 25
March 11 and 25
April 8 and 22
May 13 and 30*
June 10 and 24
July 8 and 22
August 12 and 26
September 9 and 23
October 17* and 28
November 14* and 25
December 9 and 23

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if there is to be an Executive Session, the Township Council shall immediately convene into Executive Session after opening their Regular Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in order to discuss those matters in executive session from which the public shall be excluded and at 7:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter, the public portion of the meeting will recommence. Formal action may be taken at any Regular Council Meeting.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all meetings shall be opened to the public and public participation will be entertained at all meetings but limited to five (5) minutes for each speaker to provide the Governing Body sufficient time to complete its work.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all Notices required by the Open Public Meetings Act shall be published in The New Jersey Herald/Sunday Herald and if needed as alternate newspapers, The Advertiser News and The Vernon Aim, and shall be posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building.

Resolution #13-03: Resolution to Adopt a Cash Management Plan

BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, that for the year 2013, the following shall serve as the cash management plan of the Township of Vernon.

1. Cash Management and Investment Objectives

The Township of Vernon has the following objectives.

1. Preservation of capital.
2. Adequate safekeeping of assets.
3. Maintenance of liquidity to meet operating needs.
4. Investment of assets in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations.
5. Maximize yield.

2. Designation of Official Depositories

The following Government Unit Protection Act approved banks are authorized depositories for deposit of funds:

• Sussex Bank
• Valley National Bank
• Highlands State Bank
• Lakeland Bank
• PNC Bank

3. Cash Management

1. All funds shall be deposited within 48 hours of receipt in accordance with N.J.S.A.40A:5-15
2. The Chief Financial Officer shall minimize the possibility of idle cash accumulating in accounts by assuring that any excess amounts not needed to cover expenses or in excess of negotiated compensating balances are kept in interest bearing accounts or promptly swept into the investment portfolio.
3. Investment decisions shall be guided by the cash flow projections prepared by the Chief Financial Officer.

4. Permissible Investments

1. Certificates of Deposits
2. Savings and Loan Associations and Saving Bank Accounts
3. New Jersey Cash Management Plan
4. MBIA Municipal Investors Service Corporation CLASS

5. Authority for Investment Management

The Chief Financial Officer is authorized and directed to make investments on behalf of the Township. All investment decisions shall be consistent with this plan and all appropriate regulatory constraints.

6. Reporting

The Chief Financial Officer shall report to the Township Council investments in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:5-15.2.

7. Audit

The Cash Management Plan shall be subject to annual audit conducted pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:5-14.

8. Disposition of Abandoned Property

The Chief Financial Officer shall escheat to the State of New Jersey checks which remain outstanding for more than twelve months after the date of issuance.

Resolution #13-04: Reauthorizing Petty Cash Funds for Calendar Year 2013

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:5-21 authorizes the establishment of a Petty Cash Fund in municipalities by application and resolution; and

WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Township of Vernon to establish the following Petty Cash Funds for calendar year 2013 as follows:

NOW, THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the Township of Vernon hereby authorizes such action and that the Township Clerk file two copies of this resolution with the Division of Local Government Services, State of New Jersey.

Resolution #13-05: Establishing Interest Rates for Delinquent Property Taxes and Assessments

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 54:4-67 permits the governing body of each municipality to fix the rate of interest to be charged for nonpayment of taxes or assessments subject to any abatement or discount for the late payment of taxes as provided by law; and

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 54:4-67 has been amended to provide an additional penalty of up to six percent (6%) on delinquent taxes and all municipal charges in excess of $10,000.00 that are not paid prior to the end of the fiscal year; and

WHEREAS, this resolution is necessary for efficient and uninterrupted operations of the business of the Tax Collector.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that:

1. The Tax Collector of Vernon Township is authorized to cancel all payments of taxes of $10.00 or less.
2. That no interest shall be charged if payment of any installment is made within ten (10) days after date upon which the same became payable.
3. That the rate of interest to be charged for nonpayment of taxes on or before they would become delinquent shall be 8% per annum on the first $1,500.00 of the delinquency and 18% per annum, on any amount in excess of $1,500.00, and;
4. Interest at the rate of 8% per annum on the unpaid balance of assessment is charged with each installment on due date. Any installment not paid on or before due date is subject to 8% interest, 18% interest over $1,500.00.
5. That the Chief Financial Officer of the Township of Vernon is hereby authorized to make investments for the Township of Vernon.

Resolution #13-06: Authorizing the Municipal Tax Assessor and the Special Municipal Attorney to Defend the Township Before the Sussex County Board of Taxation for Tax Appeals

WHEREAS, the County Tax Board requires the governing body of each municipality to pass a resolution authorizing the Assessor and special municipal attorney of the municipality to file and prosecute any and all tax appeals, farmland rollback complaints, and any added and omitted assessment complaints before the Sussex County Tax Board.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the governing body of the Township of Vernon that the Assessor and special municipal attorney are hereby authorized to file, prosecute, defend, stipulate, and/or agree upon all contested appeals before the Sussex County Board of Taxation and Tax Court of the State of New Jersey, and to initiate municipal appeals to correct the Township of Vernon tax list, including but not limited to, rollback complaints, added and omitted assessment complaints, and such other appeals as are necessary to correct property assessments for the Township of Vernon; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Assessor and the municipal attorney are hereby designated as the agents of the Township of Vernon for the purpose of signing settlements of the foregoing matters by stipulation.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Municipal Clerk is directed to forward a certified copy of this Resolution to the Sussex County Tax Board.

Resolution #13-07: Appointment of Public Agency Compliance Officer

WHEREAS pursuant to the provisions of N.J.A.C. 17:27-1 the Township of Vernon is required to designate a Public Agency Compliance Officer on an annual basis; and

WHEREAS said Public Agency Compliance Officer shall act as the official liaison for all equal opportunity employment matters in the administration of public contracts; and

WHEREAS the Township designates the Township Business Administrator as the Public Agency Compliance Officer for calendar year 2013;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon that it hereby designates the Township Business Administrator as the Township’s Public Agency Compliance Officer for calendar year 2013; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Municipal Clerk shall forward a certified copy of this Resolution to the New Jersey Department of the Treasury Affirmative Action Office as required.

Resolution #13-08: Appointing Township Business Administrator as ADA Coordinator

WHEREAS, every municipality is required to designate an ADA Coordinator; and

WHEREAS, the ADA Coordinator’s role is to ensure the Township’s compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon that the Township Business Administrator is hereby appointed as the ADA Coordinator for Vernon Township.

Resolution #13-09: A Resolution Appointing Health Insurance Broker

WHEREAS, there exists a need for the services of a Health Insurance Broker for the Township of Vernon; and

WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1, et seq., particularly N.J.S.A. 40A11-5(1)(m) specifically provides that insurance, including insurance consulting services, is not subject to the requirements of public bidding; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon wishes to appoint RHM Benefits as the Township’s Broker of Record for all health insurance coverages; and

WHEREAS, the Health Insurance Broker of Record will be the sole representative for the Township of Vernon.

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

1. The Township of Vernon hereby appoints RHM Benefits as its Health Insurance Broker of Record.
2. The Mayor of the Township of Vernon and Health Insurance Broker are hereby authorized to execute Broker of Record Designation Letters to each of the Health Insurance Carriers, (Horizon, Delta Dental, Vision Service Plan and The Standard).
3. This appointment shall remain in effect until a successor is hereby appointed.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution be forwarded to RHM Benefits.

Resolution #13-10: Authorizing Signatures on Township Checks Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:5-16

BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon that the following Township Officials are hereby authorized to sign checks, withdrawal slips or other bank related items with two out of the four below listed principal signatures being required:

Mayor
Business Administrator
Chief Financial Officer
Municipal Clerk

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that signature cards with the signatures of the persons authorized to sign be on file at all banks that presently have Township accounts.

This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption according to law.

Motion to adopt Resolution #13-11:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel

Council President Rizzuto noted that no deviation of the percentage is allowed.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolution #13-11 was adopted.

Resolution #13-11: Adoption of 2013 Temporary Municipal Budget

WHEREAS, The Local Budget Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-1 et seq., provides that until the official Annual Budget for the budget year is adopted, a temporary budget not exceeding 26.25% of the total of all appropriations including appropriations for debt service, capital improvement fund, and public assistance must be adopted covering the first quarter of the fiscal year; and

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-1 et seq. further provides that the governing body of a municipality must adopt by resolution within the first thirty (30) days of the budget, by affirmative vote of the full membership of the governing body, a temporary budget; and

WHEREAS, the Township Council desires to establish temporary appropriations pursuant to the Local Budget Law; and

WHEREAS, total appropriations for the 2012 Annual Budget, exclusive of any appropriations for debt service, capital improvements, public assistance, and pension benefits was $18,841,899.00; and

WHEREAS, 26.25% of total appropriations for the 2012 Annual Budget, exclusive of any appropriations for debt service, capital improvements, public assistance, and pension benefits is $4,135,528.00 for a total of $7,294,265.00.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon that the attached Schedule ’A’ entitled “2013 Temporary Appropriations” is hereby approved.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Introduced Official Budget shall serve as the Temporary Budget pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:4-19.1 if the Director of the Division of Local Government Services extends the budget dates pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:4-5.1.

Motion to adopt Resolution #13-12:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolution #13-12 was adopted.

Resolution #13-12: Temporary Budget—Debt Service

WHEREAS, N.J.S.40A:4-19 provides authority for appropriating in a temporary resolution the permanent debt service requirements for the coming fiscal year providing that such resolution is not made earlier than the last ten days of the preceding fiscal year; and

WHEREAS, the date of this resolution is subsequent to that date; and

WHEREAS, principal and interest will be due on various dates from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013, inclusive, on bonds and notes issued and outstanding.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, that the following appropriations be made to cover the period from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013 inclusive:

Motion to adopt Resolution #13-13:
Moved: Daniel Kadish
Second: Brian Lynch

Council Member Kadish asked if the Public Defender changed. The Mayor advised it was the same person as in 2012.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel, Brian Lynch
Nays: None
Resolution #13-13 was adopted.

Resolution #13-13: Authorizing the Award of Contract for Professional Services

WHEREAS, there is a need for Professional Services to the Township of Vernon for Attorney, Auditor, Bond Counsel, Prosecutor, Public Defender, Engineer, Planner, Water Operator, and Computer Technician; and

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5 specifically exempts professional services from provisions of public bidding as provided in the Local Public Contracts Law; and

WHEREAS, said specified professional services are to be rendered or performed by a person or persons authorized by law to practice a recognized profession, and whose practice is regulated by law within the meaning of N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq., as amended; and

WHEREAS, the performance of said professional services requires knowledge of an advanced field of learning acquired by a prolonged formal course of specialized training and study as distinguished from general academic instruction or apprenticeship and training; and

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon is desirous to enter into an agreement with these professionals as a fair and open contract pursuant to the provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq., as amended; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Finance Officer has certified in writing that the value of the contracts are available for these purposes subject to the adoption of the 2013 Municipal Budget; and

WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq., as amended, requires that this Resolution be publicly advertised.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon that they hereby authorize and approve the award of contracts of a Professional Service Contract pursuant to the provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:20-1 et seq. to provide Services in accordance with the attached Contracts for Professional Services pursuant to a non-fair and open contract to the following:

1. Township Attorney—Kevin D. Kelly, Esq. of Kelly & Ward, LLC
2. Township Auditor—Francis “Bud” Jones of the firm Nisivoccia & Company, LLP
3. Township Bond Counsel—Robert Beinfield, Esq. of the firm Hawkins Delafield & Wood, LLP
4. Municipal Prosecutor—Michael J. Hanifan, Sr., Esq.
5. Public Defender—Eric A. Wood, Esq.
6. Township Engineer—Cory Stoner of Harold E. Pellow & Associates
7. Township Planner—Jessica C. Caldwell of J. Caldwell & Associates LLC
8. Township Water Operator—Agra Environmental and Laboratory Services
9. Township Computer Technician—Kevin Blumenthal of Wired Up, LLC

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the award of contract shall be contingent upon the completion and receipt of the following:

1. A fully-executed professional services contract detailing the scope of services, established fees for said professional services, mandatory Equal Opportunity Language and Affirmative Action Certificate; and
2. Receipt of all statutorily mandated “pay to play” political contribution forms pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4 et seq.; and
3. New Jersey Business Registration Certificate; and
4. Upon the aforementioned professional being a member in good standing in his respective profession.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Municipal Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute, seal and deliver the attached Contracts for Professional Services on behalf of and in the name of the Township of Vernon and that the Municipal Clerk shall publish the award of contract as required by law with ten (10) days of passage of this Resolution.

Motion to adopt Resolution #13-18:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel

Council Member Kadish asked about centralized dispatching services with the County instead of having our own. The Mayor noted it would be considered.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolution #13-18 was adopted.

Resolution #13-18: Transfer Resolution—Fund Balance Transfer

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon Municipal Budget requires certain modifications to cover potential expenses that may occur in excess of the original budget.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that the following Transfer of Appropriations (2012 Municipal Budget) in accordance with N.J.S.A 40A-58/59 are hereby approved.

Motion to adopt Resolution #13-19:
Moved: Eddie Dunn
Second: Daniel Kadish

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolution #13-19 was adopted.

Resolution #13-19: Amending the Interlocal Service Agreement between the Township of Vernon and the Borough of Sussex to Provide the Services of a Qualified Purchasing Agent for 2013

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon and the Borough of Sussex entered into an Interlocal agreement to provide the services of a Qualified Purchasing Agent for the year 2013 in Resolution #12-231; and

WHEREAS, the Borough of Sussex wishes to amend that agreement relative to Article II; and

WHEREAS, the Business Administrator of the Township of Vernon has reviewed the proposed amendment and recommends approval of said amendment.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon of the County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the Mayor is authorized to execute the amended Interlocal Service Agreement between the Township of Vernon and the Borough of Sussex to provide the services of a Qualified Purchasing Agent for the year 2013 as per the attached Interlocal Service Agreement; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution shall be forwarded to the Mayor and Clerk of the Borough of Sussex, as well as the Vernon Township Purchasing and Finance Departments.

Motion to adopt Resolution #13-20:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Resolution #13-20 was adopted.

Council Member Wetzel noted that Sussex Borough is very happy with our services.

Resolution #13-20: Amending the Interlocal Service Agreement between the Township of Vernon and the Borough of Sussex for Municipal Finance Services for 2013

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon and the Borough of Sussex entered into an Interlocal agreement for Municipal Finance Services for the year 2013 in Resolution #12-232; and

WHEREAS, the Borough of Sussex wishes to amend that agreement relative to Article II; and

WHEREAS, the Business Administrator of the Township of Vernon has reviewed the proposed amendment and recommends approval of said amendment.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon of the County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the Mayor is authorized to execute the amended Interlocal Service Agreement between the Township of Vernon and the Borough of Sussex for Municipal Finance Services for the year 2013 as per the attached Interlocal Service Agreement; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution shall be forwarded to the Mayor and Clerk of the Borough of Sussex and to the Vernon Township Finance Department.

Ordinance—2nd Reading—Public Hearing

Ordinance #12-18: An ordinance of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, authorizing the acquisition from Main Street Associates, Inc., of a portion of land commonly known as Block 144, Lot 28 for road right-of-way and public purposes

Motion to adopt Ordinance #12-18 on 2nd reading:
Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn

Public Comments on Ordinance #12-18 Only

Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to open the meeting for public comment on Ordinance #12-18 only:
Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel
All were in favor.

Gary Martinsen—asked about for clarification on the lot number, as the County tax map shows the property as 28.01. Mayor Marotta noted that he did not have maps in front of him, but that the property had been surveyed.

Closed to Public Comments on Ordinance #12-18

Seeing no one else from the public wishing to speak on this ordinance, Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to close the public portion of the meeting.

Moved: Brian Lynch
Second: Dick Wetzel
All members were in favor.

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Ordinance #12-18 was adopted.

Appointments to Boards, Commissions, and Committees

Land Use Board

Mayor Marotta offered the following names for consideration:

Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Appointments to Land Use Board were approved.

Municipal Utility Authority

Mayor Marotta offered the following names for consideration:

Motion: Eddie Dunn
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Appointments to Municipal Utility Authority were approved.

Mayor’s Appointments

Fire Police

Council Member Lynch and Council President Rizzuto thanked the officials for their service:

John Auberger
John Barcelona
Layton Bergman
Bud Braitsch
Ed Buruchian
Chris Christensen
Ken Clark
Kelly Courtright
Herb Courtright
Charlie Dalrymple
Chris Jensen
Kyle Kapusta
Richard Milewski
David Mulder
Alan Nagle
Kenny Petrenko
John Rockwell
Bryan Rivers
Tina Sanchez
Trent Schamble
Jim Sheridan
Art Sinfeld
Fred VanLenten
Lance Westling

Motion: Daniel Kadish
Second: Eddie Dunn

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Abstain: Brian Lynch
Appointments for Fire Police were approved.

Mayor Marotta offered to administer the oath of office to those present.

Fire Departments

1. Vernon Fire Department
   • Chief Greg Carter
   • Deputy Chief Joe Byra
2. McAfee Fire Department
   • Chief Dan Gros
   • Deputy Chief Ken Clark
3. Highland Lakes Fire Department
   • Chief Scott Semchesyn
   • Deputy Chief Ken Kiefer
4. Pochuck Valley Fire Department
   • Chief Marc Cosh
   • Deputy Chief Tom VanLeuven

Motion to accept names of Deputy Chiefs

It was noted that Vernon’s Deputy Chief Joe Byra was absent, as he lost his mom the day before. There was a moment of silence to respect the memory of Joe Byra’s Mom.

Motion: Eddie Dunn
Second: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Abstain: Brian Lynch
Appointments for Deputy Fire Chiefs were approved.

Council Member Lynch noted his appreciation for these gentlemen, and that he had seen some of them grow up from when they were 17 years old. He advised that Deputy Chief Ken Kiefer was a professional firefighter in Paterson; he had known McAfee Chief Dan Gros since he was 5-feet tall and he was now six foot seven inches; Vernon Deputy Chief Joe Byra is also a police officer.

Mayor Marotta offered to administer the oath of office to those present.

Motion to accept names of Fire Chiefs

Mayor Marotta noted their professionalism and volunteer efforts to succeed in saving lives and property.
Motion: Eddie Dunn
Second: Daniel Kadish

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Abstain: Brian Lynch
Appointments for Fire Chiefs were approved.

Council Member Lynch remembered Greg Carter when he joined; Scott Semchesyn and Kenny Kiefer when they joined together; and Marc Cosh, who he had known since before he was a fireman. Council President Rizzuto applauded their efforts and dedication.

Mayor Marotta offered to administer the oath of office to those present.

Special Police Officers

Michael Burns
Larry Kacmarcik
Larry Pettigano
Kurt Reinhardt
Michael Sauer
Roger Titus
James Vette
Douglas Vince

Motion: Brian Lynch
Second: Eddie Dunn

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Appointments for Special Police Officers were approved.

Mayor Marotta offered to administer the oath of office to those present.

Emergency Management

Chief Roy Wherry, Coordinator
Brian Lynch, Deputy Coordinator

Motion: Daniel Kadish
Second: Eddie Dunn

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Eddie Dunn, Daniel Kadish, Brian Lynch, Dick Wetzel, Patrick Rizzuto
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Appointments for Emergency Management Coordinator and Deputy Coordinator were approved.

Mayor Marotta offered to administer the oath of office to those present.

Council President Rizzuto advised that he had handed out suggested dates for work sessions.

Council Business

Council Member Dunn spoke as a military veteran, and recognized Past-President Lynch’s leadership. He appreciated the level of cooperation with the Council and Mayor, and amongst the Council itself. He noted that the process has worked so well and so smooth that it may appear as if no effort was taken. He complimented the Mayor on his hard work. He finished by stating that he would “go to war” with each of them.

Council Member Kadish exclaimed “go Irish.”

Council Member Lynch thanked all for the plaque he received as the out-going Council President. He also thanked Kevin Kelly for his counsel over the past 18 months, as well as that of Gerald Giaimis for his assistance. Mr. Lynch noted that the Municipal Clerk had made his job easier, was always available, does her job well, and that Vernon is better for it. He wished Mr. Rizzuto good luck, noting that he was sure he would do well as the new Council President. Mr. Lynch finished with “go Irish.”

Council Member Wetzel wished everyone a happy and healthy New Year. He noted that it had been a pleasure working together. He felt Council was prepared for any challenges ahead, and that they had made great strides. Mr. Wetzel felt the Council had avoided the Monday night problems from previous governing bodies. He noted that “you can please some of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all the people all of the time.”

Council President

Council President reflected on all his years in this community. He was pleased to have been a part of the Board of Education, and active in the community. He looked forward to being Council President, and hoped that Council could build on the financial stability from the past year. He offered the following:

• Public comments have been considered, but it is not the time for discussions during meetings, noting that he is available at any time.
• Looking forward to working with the Mayor, who is also a good friend.
• Looks forward to work sessions going forward, with the first one on the Town Center ordinance. He wants input from the community.
• Asked Council to think about goals going forward in 2013, noting that the budget is the fuel that drives the community.
• Asked the Clerk to contact the Board of Education to ask for a liaison committee for planning purposes, and asked Brian Lynch to attend the meeting with the Board of Education (and advised that he would also attend).
• He was looking forward to the budget preparations, the Mayor’s State of the Township report, and the MUA’s written report.
• He wished all a Happy New Year, and looked forward to working together in 2013.

Adjournment

There being no further items of business to be conducted, a motion for Adjournment was made by Council Member Lynch. Motion seconded by Council Member Dunn, with all members voting in favor.

The Reorganization Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan S. Nelson, RMC
Municipal Clerk

Minutes approved: April 22, 2013