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The Regular Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was convened at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2014 in the Vernon Municipal Center, 21 Church Street, Vernon, New Jersey with Acting Council President Patrick Rizzuto presiding.

Statement of Compliance

Adequate notice of this meeting had been provided to the public and the press on January 8, 2014, and was posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A. 10:4-7.

Roll Call of Members

Present were Council Members Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto and Dick Wetzel. Council President Brian Lynch was absent. Also present were Mayor Victor Marotta, Township Business Administrator William Zuckerman, CFO Elke Yetter, Township Planner, Jessica Caldwell and Township Attorney Kevin Kelly. There was no Executive Session.

Salute to the Flag

Township Attorney Kevin Kelly led the assemblage in the salute to the flag.

Acting Council President

Township Attorney Kevin Kelly asked for a motion to appoint the Acting Council President in Mr. Lynch’s absence.

Motion was made to appoint Council Member Patrick Rizzuto.

Motion: Dan Kadish
Second: Dick Wetzel

All members present were in favor.

Presentation

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked that Mayor Marotta, DPW Director, Dave Pullis and Ms. Angie Metzler of BEAR come to the podium.

BEAR Director Angie Metzler extended her appreciation to the Mayor, Council, Police Chief Mills, Officer Kenneth Kuzicki and to the DPW staff for moving the bear statute of Samantha to its present location. Ms. Metzler presented to DPW Director Dave Pullis a photo of the bear statute being moved into place in front of town hall.

Public Comment

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to open the meeting for public comments.
Motion: Dan Kadish
Second: Dick Wetzel
All members present were in favor.

Bob Gerry, Vernon stated that the Township has spent years to get positive public relations saying come here, and in one stroke its gone because of the public relations that went out on Camp Sussex and only one person tried to stop it.

Krista Gerry, thanked the people for signing her petition. Ms. Gerry indicated that some people were afraid to sign. Ms. Gerry claimed that another resident had been threatened with legal action by the Police for going on the camp’s property. Ms. Gerry stated that when she was setting up at the A&P someone called her a liar. Ms. Gerry stated she was not liar and there are people in town that want to shut down anyone who disagrees with them. Ms. Gerry stated she believes government must work for the people. Ms. Gerry stated people are saying our motivation is hate. Ms. Gerry stated we are seeking justice. Ms. Gerry stated it is easier to cast blame and that people should think about love more. Ms. Gerry stated we are all contributor’s to life’s verses.

Beverly Budz, Vernon stated she had come before the Council to set the record straight regarding the Environmental Commission. Ms. Budz stated that when she had done the presentation that photos had been taken of the camp, however some of them were dark and blurred. Ms. Budz stated that she used some stock photos in her presentation as a representation of what was there. Ms. Budz stated that the photos included the stock logos so people could see the difference. Ms. Budz stated at no time was it the intention to deceive or misstate about the property. Ms. Budz indicated she had photos indicating the condition of the property which includes needles on the property. Ms. Budz stated that the camp does not have oil tanks, no current liens. Ms. Budz stated it was untrue that the Camp staff had left behind needles in the infirmary. Ms. Budz indicated that the camp infirmary had been cleaned by a company contracted for the same. Ms. Budz indicated that open space funds would not be depleted with the purchase of the Camp. Ms. Budz stated that in the past the public has not voted on what properties to purchase via open space. Ms. Budz stated that she had gotten permission to enter the property and to set up a meeting for local residents to come. Ms. Budz indicated that anyone else randomly going was an illegal trespass. Ms. Budz indicated that she had invited the local papers to come, including the Herald and the Advertiser but only a reporter from the Advertiser had attended. Ms. Budz stated that when asking people to sign a petition regarding Camp Sussex the people needed to be given the truth before their names were put on it.

Jessi Paladini, Vernon expressed dissatisfaction that another resident had made a webcast with what she felt were false and slanderous statements about the Mayor, Council, Environmental Commission and Police Chiefs. Ms. Paladini also expressed dissatisfaction that another resident had put out an email encouraging other people to watch it. Ms. Paladini stated it was unknown how far and wide this email had reached. Ms. Paladini expressed concern over the misinformation that was being posted. Ms. Paladini stated she had been invited to the camp 5 years ago; there were no medical supplies at that time and she had taken photos. Ms. Paladini stated they had been in contact with the company who cleaned the Camp and there were no needles left behind. Ms. Paladini indicated that the owners claim they have cleaned out the site only for more things to be put back. Ms. Paladini indicated she had photos from then as well as now. Ms. Paladini stated there are needles all over the Camp not just in the infirmary. Ms. Paladini stated that the vandalism there seems to have gotten worse since the webcast. Ms. Paladini stated she felt the resident who made the webcast owed an apology.

Gary Martinsen, Vernon, stated that the Police had not said anything to him about trespassing. Mr. Martinsen said it was the attorney for the owners of the property who made comments about him going on the property. Mr. Martinsen said he did not cover the whole grounds, but where he did go the only place he saw evidence of heroin use and the syringes he saw were in the infirmary. Mr. Martinsen indicated there was a claim that the medical building had been cleaned out. Mr. Martinsen claims that photos from 2011 show lots of medical equipment along with files in the infirmary. Mr. Martinsen said it appeared to be a war of the photos. Mr. Martinsen suggested that the Township take down the photos in the hallway of the needles or put up the actual photos of the needles found or a disclaimer on the photos. Mr. Martinsen stated he felt the skull and crossbones photo was over the top. Mr. Martinsen stated he did not recall anyone dying at Camp Sussex or drug convictions stemming from there, other than marijuana.

Diane Wexler, Vernon, stated that the Township Environmental Commission has been accused of not doing due diligence on Camp Sussex. Ms. Wexler stated that in June 2012 she had visited the property and they had created a list of questionable items. Ms. Wexler stated that with the 1st Amendment comes responsibility that what you are saying is truthful. Ms. Wexler indicated she had never seen any of the members of the Committee of Petitioners at an Environmental Commission meeting.

Bill Donald, Vernon, stated he lived in Lake Panorama and for 27 years had witnessed the deterioration of Camp Sussex from vandals. Mr. Donald stated that kids go to the property which is unguarded and whatever could be done that would make the property occupied by people with positive motives would make it better. Mr. Donald indicated the kids will not go away with the petition and the petition only blocks the community from doing something positive. Mr. Donald indicated he was a teacher and that theater could be taught at the Camp. Mr. Donald stated he recalled when the Township tried to make the town center and the road is still vacant. Mr. Donald stated that a camp that includes arts activities would be a benefit. Mr. Donald stated he felt an awful lot of people would support that, and he hoped people kept an open mind.

Heather Byrnes, Vernon, stated she was here again about the Arts in Vernon. Ms. Byrnes stated it was the same cast of characters on both sides. Ms. Byrnes stated she felt the camp would benefit the entire community and that numerous people have approached her about doing good things on the property. Ms. Byrnes indicated in 2005 there was a proposal for a theater on Main Street. In 1998 there was a Council for the Arts in town that had plans. Ms. Byrnes indicated that without an actual stage so far there could be only one show a year in town at the high school because they could only use the stage at the high school for 4 weeks. Ms. Byrnes asked that the Township not wait until something bad happens at the Camp. Ms. Byrnes indicated the Girls and Boy Scouts could get badges at the property and there could be concerts in the park. Ms. Byrnes said her group as a 501c3 can help and make the town better for everyone. Ms. Byrnes indicated that the NJ State Council for the Arts stated that theater goes spend twice their ticket price in town. Ms. Byrnes stated this should not be a matter of if we should do this, it should be a matter of how.

Sally Rinker, Vernon, stated the problem is not connecting the dots. Ms. Rinker stated there is a range of no information to misinformation and many people are not believing that purchasing the camp will end the drug problem. Ms. Rinker indicated the cost of construction of the park is not included. Ms. Rinker stated the whole issue had been handled like a total mess and no one trusts the issue. Ms. Rinker indicated that Dan Kadish and Jean Murphy had asked questions but they were not answered. Ms. Rinker stated that it appeared to be a blighted property for the owners to clean, not an open space piece. Ms. Rinker stated she felt it was going to cost bonding to the Township. Ms. Rinker indicated that they had submitted today an initiative ordinance via petition regarding the property.

Lynn Van Gorder, Barry Lakes, stated that the public needs a plan and more information. Ms. Van Gorder questioned why not one re-inspection had been done of the property since 2011. Ms. Van Gorder questioned why the township was bailing out the new owners. Ms. Van Gorder claimed there were 2 million dollars owed in fire inspection fines and that money should go to the town.

Len Coloccia, Great Gorge Village, stated he had been back and forth on the issue and that he took a while to sign the petition. Mr. Coloccia speculated that it risks the Mayor’s credibility with comments in the paper particularly in relation to the comment that the photos taken were of the Camp. Mr. Coloccia questioned why the Environmental Commissioners did not correct the Mayor. Ms. Coloccia stated he loved the idea of the arts being at the camp but stated he questioned some of the pictures that had been posted and that made him distrustful.

Robert Oliver, Vernon, stated he could not make up his mind about the Camp, and that he didn’t think that the Township had made any decision either but were simply on a fact finding mission. Mr. Oliver commented about a newspaper article that indicated it would be best if rational people made the decision based on the merits. Mr. Oliver stated he was glad it was the Council members making the decision.

Closed to Public Comments

Seeing no other members of the public wishing to speak, Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to close the public portion of the meeting.
Motion: Dan Kadish
Second: Dick Wetzel
All members present were in favor.

Township Mayor’s Report

Mayor Marotta noted that no decision had been rendered regarding Camp Sussex and that the Township was doing its due diligence.

Mayor Marotta indicated that on Friday, the Township swore in 2 additional police officers. Mayor Marotta stated the original plan was to hire 2 officers this year and 2 officers in 2015 but due to timing they were able to hire the officers this year. Mayor Marotta noted that from the time of hire to patrolling on their own is approximately 7-9 months. Mayor Marotta stated there were several retirements slated for 2015 so the Township needed to move forward.

Mayor Marotta indicated that this evening the Township would be hiring a new Fire Marshal. Mayor Marotta stated the Township had received a directive by the State to have someone in place by the end of the month. Mayor Marotta indicated the new Fire Marshal was Louis Tosto and expressed his hope that the Council would look favorably upon his appointment.

Approval of Minutes

It was moved and seconded as noted below to approve the following minutes:

June 9, 2014 Regular Meeting Minutes

Moved: Jean Murphy
Seconded: Dan Kadish

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to approve minutes for June 9, 2014.

It was moved and seconded as noted below to approve the following minutes:

June 16, 2014 Regular Meeting Minutes

Council Member Kadish stated he had made an error in his comments when he had quoted the number of the section of the Township Code and requested that the minutes be amended to remove the error so as not to cause confusion.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Jean Murphy

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to approve minutes for June 16, 2014 with correction noted.

It was moved and seconded as noted below to approve the following minutes:

June 23, 2014 Regular Meeting Minutes

Moved: Jean Murphy
Seconded: Dan Kadish

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to approve minutes for June 23, 2014.

Consent Agenda

Acting Council President Rizzuto gave a brief explanation of Resolutions #14-98 - #14-108.

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to adopt Resolutions #14-98 - #14-108.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Resolutions #14-98 - #14-108 were adopted.

Resolution #14-98: Resolution Authorizing the Application to the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs

“Bullet Proof Vest Partnership/Body Armor Safety Initiative”

WHEREAS, the Vernon Township Police Department wishes to apply for funding to the U.S. Department of Justice for the Bullet Proof Vest Partnership/Body Armor Safety Initiative, and

WHEREAS, the grant project consists of reimbursement for up to 50% of the expenses incurred to purchase new issue or replacement bullet proof vests for police officers. “BVP is a critical resource for state and local jurisdictions that saves lives. Based on data collected and recorded by the U.S. Department of Justice, in FY 2012, protective vests were directly attributable to saving the lives of at least 33 law enforcement and corrections officers, in 20 different states, an increase 13.7% over FY 2011. At least 14 of those life-saving vests had been purchased, in part, with BVP funds.” (OJP website, U.S. Department of Justice 2013) This grant is committed to officer safety; and

WHEREAS, Vernon Township will incur the cost of the program, not to exceed $5,000.00 and then submit the necessary documentation to the U.S. Department of Justice for a fifty percent (50%) reimbursement.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Vernon Township declares its support for the “2014 Bullet Proof Vest Partnership/Body Armor Safety Initiative” Grant from July 14th, 2014 - December 31st, 2014 to outfit bullet proof vests for our newly hired police officers or replacement vests for our current police officers; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that the Mayor, Chief Finance Officer and Township Clerk are hereby authorized to execute and sign any and all documents in order to effectuate the receipt of the Grant monies between the Township of Vernon and the U.S. Department of Justice for the “2014 Bullet Proof Vest Partnership/Body Armor Safety Initiative” Grant.

Resolution #14-99: Authorizing the Use of the New Jersey State Contract Program for the Development of a Digital Tax Map

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon has a need to create a Digital Tax Map for use by the Assessor, Building, Land Use and Tax Collector Departments; and

WHEREAS, the Ordinance #14-11 approved the funding of $200,000 for the preparation of a Development Phase of a new Digital Tax Map for the Township; and

WHEREAS, Vernon Township is a member of the New Jersey State Contract Program; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer recommends that the Township Council pass this resolution authorizing the State Contract program for the Development Phase of the Digital Tax Map; and

WHEREAS, the vendor for the development of a Digital Tax Map is SHI International, State Contract #77560; and

WHERAS, the Chief Financial Officer of the Township of Vernon, has determined and certified the funds of this agreement; and

NOW THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that the New Jersey State Contract Program be utilized to development in amount not to exceed $182,000.00; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Township Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute such documents as necessary to effectuate the purpose of this Resolution; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption according to law.

Resolution #14-100: Authorizing the Application for New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Recreational Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities Grant

WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon desires to apply for and obtain a grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, for approximately $14,400.00 State share with $3,600.00 local share for a total contract of $18,000.00 for 2015 to provide therapeutic horse back riding recreational opportunities for people with disabilities.

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the Township of Vernon does hereby authorize the application for such a grant; and upon receipt of the grant agreement from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, does further authorize the execution of the agreement; and also, upon receipt of the fully executed agreement from the Department, does further authorize the expenditure of such funds pursuant to the terms of said Agreement between the Township of Vernon 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, the agreement and any other documents necessary in connection therewith:

Resolution #14-101: Resolution Authorizing Fireworks to Be Displayed on August 3, 2014, within the Township of Vernon

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A.21:3-1et seq. Explosive and Fireworks, provides that a Municipal Governing Body must authorize the display of fireworks within its boundaries as a pre-condition to such display in accordance with the New Jersey Fire Prevention Code; and

WHEREAS, Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Association has submitted an application to Vernon Township to conduct a fireworks display on August 3, 2014; and

WHEREAS, the proposed fireworks display will take place at Lakeside Drive East at 8:45 p.m. (dusk); and

WHEREAS, the Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Association has engaged in a contract with Garden State Fireworks, Inc., to perform the private fireworks and special effects display and has provided the required certificate of liability insurance.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, hereby authorizes the fireworks display, performed by Garden State Fireworks, Inc. and sponsored by the Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Association on August 3, 2014, upon satisfaction of all statutory and departmental requirements.

Resolution #14-102: Extension of 2014 Third Quarter Tax Grace Period Due Date Only

WHEREAS, the 2014 TAX RATE has been certified to the Collector of Taxes late; and

WHEREAS, the Collector of Taxes recommends the extension of the 2014 third quarter grace period due date to be extended to August 22, 2014; and

WHEREAS, after August 22, 2014, interest will revert back to August 1st ,2014 and will be charged at the rate of 8% on the first $1,500.00 and 18% on any remaining balance above the $1,500.00.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, hereby authorized and directed the Township Collector of Taxes to extend the grace period of 2014 third quarter ONLY to August 22, 2014.

Resolution #14-103: Authorizing the Award of Contract for the Municipal Building Elevator Maintenance

WHEREAS, there exists a need for a service contract for maintenance of the elevator in the Municipal Building in accordance with the applicable requirements of N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et. seq., “Local Public Contracts Law” for Elevator Maintenance of Municipally-Owned Buildings; and

WHEREAS, formal quotes were solicited and received by the Department of Public Works for a two-year contract; and

WHEREAS, after the review of quotes, The Department of Public Works hereby recommends that the contract be awarded to Otis Elevator Company, 105 Fairfield Road, Fairfield, NJ 07004; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to NJAC 5:30-5.5(b), shall certify amounts chargeable to this contract at the time when such services are ordered or otherwise called for; and

WHEREAS, the term of the contract will be from August 1, 2014 through July 31, 2016 with a total contract price not to exceed $4,800.00; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex and State of New Jersey, the Mayor, Clerk and CFO are authorized to execute a maintenance contract with Otis Elevator for maintenance of the elevator located in the Municipal Building for an amount not to exceed $4,800.00.

Resolution #14-104: Awarding a Contract to CDW Group for Computers, Related Hardware and Software-DPW

WHEREAS, there exists a need for hardware upgrades within the Department of Public Works in the form of six (6) Hewlett-Packard desktop computers, software and six (6) APC battery backups for each, and;

WHEREAS, formal quotes were solicited and received by the Department of Public Works; and

WHEREAS, after the review of quotes, consulting with software providers and IT personnel and clearly defining the needs were for this department, The Department of Public Works hereby recommends that the contract be awarded to CDW Government, 230 North Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills, IL 60061, under New Jersey State Contract HP WSCA NASPO B27164-70262 ; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to NJAC 5:30-5.5(b), has certified these funds are available per Ordinance #14-07; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex and State of New Jersey, the Mayor, Clerk and CFO are authorized to execute a contract with CDW Government, 230 North Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills, IL 60061, not to exceed $6425.34.

Resolution #14-105: Awarding a Contract to Information Professionals, Inc. for Software Upgrades-DPW

WHEREAS, there exists a need for software upgrades within the Department of Public Works to better provide services to the residents of Vernon Township in the form of public service requests and to manage the department as it related to assets, labor, materials and reporting and;

WHEREAS, formal quotes were solicited and received and web-based demonstrations were attended by the Department of Public Works; and

WHEREAS, after the review of quotes, and participating in demonstrations from two software companies, The Department of Public Works hereby recommends that the contract be awarded to Information Professionals, Inc., 25 Oakland Drive West, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889 based on price and other factors; and

WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to NJAC 5:30-5.5(b), has certified these funds are available per Ordinance #14-07; and

WHEREAS, the term of the contract will be from August 1, 2014 through July 31, 2015 with a total contract price not to exceed $4499.00; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex and State of New Jersey, the Mayor, Clerk and CFO are authorized to execute a contract with Information Professionals, Inc., 25 Oakland Drive West, Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889 not to exceed $4499.00.

Resolution #14-106: Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of Not Exceeding $2,066,000 Bond Anticipation Notes of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWNSHIP COUNCIL OF THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, AS FOLLOWS:

Pursuant to a bond ordinance of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex (herein called “local unit”) entitled: “Bond ordinance appropriating $2,350,000, and authorizing the issuance of $2,066,000 bonds or notes of the Township, for various improvements or purposes authorized to be undertaken by the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey,” finally adopted on June 23, 2014 (#14-12), Bond Anticipation Notes of the local unit in a principal amount not exceeding $2,066,000 shall be issued for the purpose of temporarily financing the improvement or purpose described in Section 3 of said bond ordinance, including (to any extent necessary) the renewal of any Bond Anticipation Notes heretofore issued therefor.

The following matters in connection with said Bond Anticipation Notes are hereby determined:

All notes issued hereunder shall mature at such times as may be determined by the chief financial officer or the interim chief financial officer (the “chief financial officer”) of the local unit, provided that no note issued pursuant to Section 1 hereof shall mature later than (i) one year from the date of the first such note issued pursuant to the respective ordinances referred to in said Section, and (ii) three years from the date of the first note issued pursuant to each such respective ordinance unless the local unit shall have paid and retired amounts of such notes sufficient to allow it, in accordance with provisions of Section 40A:2-8 of the Local Bond Law, to renew a portion thereof beyond the third anniversary date of the first of such notes;

All notes issued hereunder shall bear interest at such rate or rates as may be determined by the chief financial officer of the local unit; and

The notes shall be in the form prescribed by resolution heretofore adopted by the governing body of this local unit determining the form of Bond Anticipation Notes issued pursuant to the Local Bond Law, and any such notes may be signed or sealed by officers of the local unit in any manner permitted by Section 40A:2-25 of said Local Bond Law notwithstanding that said form or resolution may otherwise provide.

The chief financial officer of the local unit is hereby authorized and directed to determine all matters in connection with said notes not determined by this or a subsequent resolution, and the chief financial officer’s signature upon said notes shall be conclusive as to such determinations.

The chief financial officer of the local unit is hereby authorized to sell said Bond Anticipation Notes from time to time at public or private sale in such amounts as the chief financial officer may determine at not less than par and to deliver the same from time to time to the purchasers thereof upon receipt of payment of the purchase price plus accrued interest from their dates to the date of delivery thereof and payment therefor.

Any instrument issued pursuant to this resolution shall be a general obligation of the local unit, and the local unit’s faith and credit are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on said obligations and, unless otherwise paid or payment provided for, an amount sufficient for such payment shall be inserted in the budget and a tax sufficient to provide for the payment thereof shall be levied and collected.

The chief financial officer of the local unit is authorized and directed to report in writing to the governing body at the meeting next succeeding the date when any sale or delivery of notes pursuant to this resolution is made, such report to include the amount, description, interest rate and maturity of the notes sold, the price obtained and the name of the purchaser.

The chief financial officer of the local unit is hereby authorized and directed to do all other matters necessary, useful, convenient or desirable to accomplish the delivery of said notes to the purchasers thereof as promptly as possible, including (i) the preparation, execution and dissemination of a Preliminary Official Statement and Final Official Statement with respect to said notes, (ii) preparation, distribution and publication, if necessary, of a Notice of Sale with respect to said notes, (iii) execution of a Continuing Disclosure Undertaking, with respect to said notes in accordance with Rule 15c2-12 promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission and (iv) execution of an arbitrage and use of proceeds certificate certifying that, among other things, the local unit, to the extent it is empowered and allowed under applicable law, will do and perform all acts and things necessary or desirable to assure that interest paid on said notes is not included in gross income under Section 103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

This resolution shall take effect immediately.

Resolution #14-107: Appointing Registrar of Vital Statistics

WHEREAS, Vernon Township is required by law, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 26:8-11, to appoint a Registrar of Vital Statistics; and

WHEREAS, New Jersey statutes require and authorize the municipality to appoint such officials; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Code of Township of Vernon, Chapter 5, Article VIII, Section 5-45 (G), the Clerk shall perform the duties of Registrar; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 26:8-13, the term of office for a Municipal Clerk serving as Registrar shall be concurrent with the term of office of the Municipal Clerk.

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

Lauren Kirkman shall be appointed as Registrar of Vital Statistics, effective immediately, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 26:8-13 for the term as prescribed therein, and provided Lauren Kirkman otherwise complies with the applicable educational requirements and license requirements applicable to such position; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this Resolution be filed with the State Registrar’s office.

Resolution # 14-108: Appointment of Vernon Township Fire Marshal

WHEREAS, per the Vernon Township Administrative Code, the Fire Marshal shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council and serve for the term of the Mayor.

WHEREAS, the Fire Marshal, per the Township Code must be certified with all licenses and requirements per the State of New Jersey, Division of Fire Safety; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Business Administrator interviewed applicants and recommends appointing Louis G. Tosto as Vernon Township Fire Marshal beginning July 28, 2014; and

WHEREAS, applicant Louis G. Tosto holds all mandated certifications and licenses needed by law to perform the duties of Fire Marshal.

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

  1. Louis G. Tosto is hereby appointed as the Fire Marshal for the Township of Vernon, New Jersey, commencing July 28, 2014, at such compensation of $55,000.00 annually within the current salary ordinance.
  2. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption according to law.

Introduction/1st Reading of Ordinances

Ordinance #14-14: An Ordinance to Amend Township Ordinance 14-05

Acting Council President Rizzuto read Ordinance #14-14 by title only.

Mayor Marotta noted that the amendment should actually read SUV-4 Wheel Type Automobile.

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to introduce Ordinance #14-14 changing the type of vehicle to be purchased to read “SUV - 4 Wheel Type Automobile” with a public hearing to held on July 28, 2014.

Moved: Jean Murphy
Seconded: Dan Kadish

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to introduce Ordinance 14-14 with the change noted and a public hearing on July 28, 2014.

Amendment Ordinance

Ordinance #14-09: An ordinance Amending Chapter 330 Land Development Ordinance, to repeal Ordinance 13-10 which Established Article XIX Highlands Preservation Area Requirements and Replace It with Article XIX Highlands Preservation Area Land Use Ordinance to Regulate Development in the Highlands Preservation Area of the Township of Vernon

Acting Council President Rizzuto read Ordinance #14-09 by title only.

Acting Council President Rizzuto noted that the Land Use Board upon review had requested a change in Ordinance 14-09 to include that the Board Engineer and/or Zoning Officer may also make an exception to the Highlands Act not just the Township Planner.

Moved: Dick Wetzel
Seconded: Dan Kadish

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to amend Ordinance 14-09.

Public Hearing/2nd Reading of Ordinances

Ordinance #14-09: An ordinance Amending Chapter 330 Land Development Ordinance, to repeal Ordinance 13-10 which Established Article XIX Highlands Preservation Area Requirements and Replace It with Article XIX Highlands Preservation Area Land Use Ordinance to Regulate Development in the Highlands Preservation Area of the Township of Vernon

Acting Council President Rizzuto read Ordinance #14-09 by title only.

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to open the public hearing on Ordinance #14-09 as amended. Acting Council President Rizzuto acknowledged Township Planner Jessica Caldwell was present for any questions.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Dick Wetzel
All members present were in favor.

Seeing no members of the public come forward regarding Ordinance #14-09, Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Dick Wetzel
All members present were in favor.

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to adopt Ordinance #14-09 as amended.

Moved: Dick Wetzel
Seconded: Dan Kadish

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to adopt Ordinance 14-09 as amended.

Ordinance #14-10: An Ordinance Amending Chapter 330 Land Development Ordinance, Article XI, Zoning, Section 330-158, Zoning Map to Add Two Pages to the Existing Zoning Map Depicting the Highlands Preservation Area Overlay Zone and Resource Areas Governed by Chapter 330, Article XIX, the Highlands Preservation Area Land Use Ordinance

Acting Council President Rizzuto read Ordinance #14-10 by title only.

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to open the public hearing on Ordinance #14-10.

Moved: Jean Murphy
Seconded: Dan Kadish
All members present were in favor.

Township Planner, Jessica Caldwell noted that this Ordinance implements the Highlands Maps, so the Township would be adding two overlay zones to the current zoning map.

Seeing no members of the public come forward regarding Ordinance #14-10, Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Dick Wetzel
All members present were in favor.

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to adopt Ordinance #14-10.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to adopt Ordinance 14-10.

Ordinance #14-13: Refunding Bond Ordinance Authorizing the Issuance of $5,600,000 Refunding Bonds of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey

Acting Council President Rizzuto read Ordinance #14-13 by title only.

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to open the public hearing on Ordinance #14-13.

Moved: Jean Murphy
Seconded: Dan Kadish
All members present were in favor.

Council Member Kadish questioned the rate. Administrator Zuckerman indicated the Township wanted to move forward quickly to lock it in as the number is a floating number.

Seeing no members of the public come forward regarding Ordinance #14-13, Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Dick Wetzel
All members present were in favor.

Acting Council President Rizzuto asked for a motion to adopt Ordinance #14-13.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to adopt Ordinance 14-13.

Acting Council President Rizzuto questioned how much the Township would save. Administrator Zuckerman stated it would be approximately $280,000-$290,000 with no expenses but the Clerk’s and CFO’s time.

Resolutions Requiring Separate Action

Acting Council President Rizzuto noted that this Resolution could not be adopted until after the Bond Ordinance was approved.

Acting Council President Rizzuto requested a motion to adopt Resolution 14-109.

Moved: Dan Kadish
Seconded: Dick Wetzel

A roll call vote was taken:
Ayes: Dan Kadish, Jean Murphy, Patrick Rizzuto, Dick Wetzel
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Brian Lynch

Motion carried to adopt Resolution 14-109.

Resolution #14-109: Resolution Determining the Form of General Refunding Bonds of 2014 of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, and Determining Certain Details in Connection Therewith

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWNSHIP COUNCIL OF THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY (not less than two-thirds of all the members thereof affirmatively concurring), AS FOLLOWS:

Maximum Amount and Title of the Bonds. The Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey (the “Township”) is hereby authorized to issue refunding bonds pursuant to a refunding bond ordinance, entitled: “Refunding bond ordinance authorizing the issuance of $5,600,000 Refunding Bonds of the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey,” finally adopted on July 14, 2014, in a principal amount not in excess of $5,600,000 (the “Bonds”). The Chief Financial Officer of the Township (the “Chief Financial Officer”), pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:2-53 and other applicable law, is hereby delegated the power to determine the final principal amount of the Bonds; provided, however, that the maximum principal amount of the Bonds shall not exceed $5,600,000.

Maturities and Interest Rates. The Bonds shall mature annually on such dates and in such principal amounts and shall bear interest at such rates, all as shall be determined by the Chief Financial Officer; provided, however, that (i) the final maturity of the Bonds shall be no later than January 1, 2021 and (ii) the effective rate of interest on the Bonds will allow the Township to realize a net (i.e., after payment of the costs of issuance of the Bonds) present value debt service savings of at least 3% of the aggregate principal amount of the Refunded Bonds (as defined in Section 16 of this resolution).

Denominations, Dates, Interest Payment Dates and Manner of Payment. The Bonds are issuable in fully registered form, without coupons, and payable to a named person or registered assigns, and each in the denomination of $5,000 or any whole multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof. On original issuance the Bonds shall be dated as of, and shall bear interest from, such date as shall be determined by the Chief Financial Officer. Interest on the Bonds shall be payable semi-annually in each year until maturity or earlier redemption, on such dates as shall be determined by the Chief Financial Officer, by check or bank draft mailed (unless other arrangements have been made with any securities depository) to the registered owners thereof whose names appear on the registration books of the Township held by the Chief Financial Officer in the capacity as paying agent (the “Paying Agent”) as of the record dates, such record dates to be determined by the Chief Financial Officer. Principal or redemption price, if any, of the Bonds shall be payable upon presentation and surrender (unless other arrangements have been made with any securities depository) of the Bonds at the office of the Chief Financial Officer. Principal or redemption price, if any, of and interest on the Bonds shall be payable in lawful money of the United States of America.

Book-Entry-Only Bonds. The Bonds shall be issued by means of a book entry system with no physical distribution of bond certificates made to the public. The Bonds shall be issued in registered form and bond certificates for each maturity will be issued to The Depository Trust Company, New York, New York (“DTC”), registered in the name of its nominee Cede & Co., and immobilized in its custody. A book entry system will be employed, evidencing ownership of the Bonds in principal amounts of $5,000 or any $1,000 increment in excess thereof, with transfers of ownership affected on the records of DTC and its participants pursuant to rules and procedures adopted by DTC and its participants. The Purchaser (as defined in Section 7 of this resolution), as a condition to the delivery of the Bonds, will be required to deposit the bond certificates with DTC, registered in the name of Cede & Co. So long as Cede & Co. is the registered owner of the Bonds, principal or redemption price, if any, of and interest on the Bonds will be payable by the Township or its agent to DTC or its nominee as registered owner of the Bonds.

Form of the Bonds. The Bonds shall be in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A and by this reference incorporated as if set forth in full herein, with such changes, insertions and omissions as may be approved by the Chief Financial Officer. The Bonds shall be executed in the name of the Township by the manual or facsimile signatures of the Mayor of the Township (the “Mayor”) and the Chief Financial Officer, under the seal of the Township affixed, imprinted or otherwise reproduced thereon and attested by the manual signature of the Township Clerk (the “Clerk”). The execution of the Bonds by the Chief Financial Officer shall be conclusive evidence of any approval required by this Section.

Redemption. (A) Optional and Mandatory Redemption. The Bonds shall be subject to redemption at the option of the Township and mandatory sinking fund redemption at such times, on such dates and in such amounts as may be determined by the Chief Financial Officer; provided, however, that there shall be no premium associated with any such redemption.

(B) Notice of Redemption. Notice of redemption shall be given by first-class mail, postage prepaid, to the registered owners of the Bonds or portions thereof to be redeemed, not less than thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the redemption date, but such mailing shall not be a condition precedent to such redemption and failure so to mail any such notice shall not affect the validity of any proceedings for the redemption of Bonds. If notice of redemption shall have been given as aforesaid, the Bonds or portions thereof specified in said notice shall become due and payable at the redemption price on the redemption date therein designated and if, on the redemption date, moneys for payment of the redemption price of all the Bonds to be redeemed, together with interest to the redemption date, shall be available for such payment on said date, then from and after the redemption date interest on such Bonds shall cease to accrue and become payable. Less than all of a Bond in a denomination in excess of $5,000 may be so redeemed, and in such case, upon the surrender of such Bond (unless other arrangements have been made with any securities depository), there shall be issued to the registered owner thereof, without charge therefor, for the unredeemed balance of the principal amount of such Bond, Bonds of like series, designation, maturity and interest rate in any of the authorized denominations.

Sale of the Bonds. Subject to the terms of and the limitations set forth in this resolution, the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to award and sell the Bonds to RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Florham Park, New Jersey (the “Purchaser”); provided, however, that the underwriter’s discount does not exceed $6.00 per $1,000 of Bonds sold.

Purchase Contract. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed to execute and deliver a contract for the sale of the Bonds with the Purchaser, in a form approved by bond counsel to the Township.

Delivery of the Bonds. The Bonds, in registered form, shall be numbered and lettered for identification purposes, in such manner as shall be determined by the Chief Financial Officer, and shall, as soon as practicable, be prepared, executed and delivered in definitive form to or upon the order of the Purchaser at the expense of the Township upon payment in full of the purchase price for the Bonds.

Additional Matters Contained in the Bonds. The Township Clerk is hereby authorized and, if necessary or advisable in the opinion of Hawkins Delafield & Wood LLP, directed to cause the applicable CUSIP numbers (if any) assigned for each of the Bonds by the CUSIP Service Bureau of Standard & Poor’s Corporation of New York, New York, to be printed on the Bonds.

Delivery of Related Documents. Upon the date of issue of the Bonds, being the date of delivery of the Bonds to the Purchaser and the payment of the purchase price thereof in accordance with the contract of sale, the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed, as of the date of issue, to deliver to the Purchaser (a) an arbitrage and use of proceeds certificate with respect to the Bonds in such form as shall be satisfactory to Hawkins Delafield & Wood LLP under and for the purposes of Section 148 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended to said date of issue (the “Code”), (b) an undertaking to provide continuing disclosure in order to assist the Purchaser in complying with Rule 15c2-12 of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“Rule 15c2-12”) in a form satisfactory to Hawkins Delafield & Wood LLP and (c) such other documents as may be useful, necessary, convenient or desirable in connection with the issuance of the Bonds.

Delegation of Power to Award the Bonds. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:2-53 and other applicable law, the Township Council of the Township does by this resolution delegate to the Chief Financial Officer the power to sell and award the Bonds to the Purchaser in accordance with the terms of and the limitations set forth in this resolution. The Chief Financial Officer shall report in writing to this governing body at its next meeting thereafter as to the details of the Bonds, including the principal amounts, interest rates, maturities, interest payment dates, record dates, redemption features and purchase price.

Preliminary Official Statement. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to deliver a Preliminary Official Statement with respect to the Bonds to the Purchaser for use in connection with the sale, resale and distribution of the Bonds. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed to deem said Preliminary Official Statement final as of its date for purposes and within the meaning of Rule 15c2-12.

Final Official Statement. The execution, delivery and dissemination of a final Official Statement in substantially the same form as said Preliminary Official Statement with such changes, insertions and omissions as may be approved by the Chief Financial Officer with respect to the issuance of the Bonds by and on behalf of the Township is hereby authorized, and the Chief Financial Officer and the Mayor are hereby authorized to execute the same in the name and on behalf of the Township and to deliver said final Official Statement in executed form for its use in connection with the sale, resale and distribution of the Bonds. The execution of said final Official Statement by the Chief Financial Officer or the Mayor shall be conclusive evidence of any approval required by this Section.

Appointment of Escrow Agent. The Township does hereby appoint The Bank of New York Mellon, Woodland Park, New Jersey, or such other bank or trust company as may be determined by the Chief Financial Officer, as Escrow Agent (the “Escrow Agent”) with respect to a portion of the proceeds of the Bonds that will be held for payment of the Refunded Bonds.

Election to Redeem. The Township hereby irrevocably elects to redeem on January 1, 2015, $5,356,000 aggregate principal amount of General Improvement Bonds of the Township, dated January 1, 2006, being those bonds maturing on and after January 1, 2016 (the “Refunded Bonds”). The Refunded Bonds shall be redeemed at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus interest accrued to the date fixed for redemption. The election set forth in this Section shall be effective upon the issuance of the Bonds. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to refund less than all the Refunded Bonds or additional bonds of said General Improvement Bonds as may be desirable to accomplish the savings referred to in Section 2 of this resolution.

Notice of Redemption. The Escrow Agent is hereby authorized and directed to give notice of redemption of the Refunded Bonds in substantially the form attached to the Escrow Deposit Agreement (as defined in Section 20 of this resolution) with such changes, insertions and omissions as are acceptable to the Township and the Escrow Agent. Unless some other method of delivery and time is acceptable to the recipient, such notice of redemption shall be given not less than thirty (30) days prior to the date fixed for redemption by first class mail, postage prepaid, to (a) the registered owners of the Refunded Bonds (i.e., The Depository Trust Company) and (b) the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board. Any failure to mail, to publish or to receive such notice, or any defect therein, shall not affect the validity of the proceedings for redemption.

Notice of Refunding. The Escrow Agent or the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed to give notice of refunding of the Refunded Bonds in substantially the form attached to the Escrow Deposit Agreement with such changes, insertions and omissions as are acceptable to the Township and the Escrow Agent. Such notice shall be given as soon as practicable after the date of delivery of the Bonds to the registered owners of the Refunded Bonds and to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board.

Application of Proceeds of the Bonds. The proceeds of sale of the Bonds shall be applied by the Township to the payment of the principal or redemption price, if any, of and interest on the Refunded Bonds through and including the date of redemption thereof and to the costs of issuance of the Bonds. The proceeds of the Bonds to be applied to the principal or redemption price, if any, of and interest on the Refunded Bonds, together with any other moneys of the Township to be used therefor, shall be held by the Township pending application thereof to the payment of the principal or redemption price, if any, of and interest on the Refunded Bonds. Simultaneously with the issuance of the Bonds, the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed, after consultation with and upon the advice of bond counsel to the Township and the Township Auditor, to hold for and apply to the payment of the Refunded Bonds all or a portion of the moneys budgeted or anticipated to be budgeted by the Township in the fiscal year in which the Bonds are issued to pay principal and interest due on the Refunded Bonds.

Escrow Deposit Agreement. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed to execute and deliver an escrow deposit agreement (the “Escrow Deposit Agreement”) with the Escrow Agent in a form approved by bond counsel to the Township.

Purchase of Escrow Securities. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed, if necessary, to execute an initial and final Subscription for Purchase and Issue of United States Treasury Securities - State and Local Government Series - Time Deposit Securities (“SLGS”), and any related certification, each in form and substance satisfactory to bond counsel to the Township. The Purchaser or the Escrow Agent each is hereby authorized to execute said initial SLGS subscription on behalf of the Township. The Purchaser or the Escrow Agent each is hereby authorized to execute said final SLGS subscription on behalf of the Township. In addition, the Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized and directed, if necessary, to execute and deliver any agreement, document or instrument relating to the purchase of securities for deposit in the escrow account established by the Escrow Deposit Agreement.

Appointment of Verification Agent. The Township does hereby appoint Nisivoccia LLP, Mt. Arlington, New Jersey, as verification agent with respect to the Bonds. The verification agent shall, among other things, deliver a report verifying (a) the yield on the Bonds for arbitrage purposes and (b) the sufficiency of the escrow deposit to accomplish the refunding of the Refunded Bonds.

Bank-Qualified Designation. The Bonds are hereby designated as “qualified tax-exempt obligations” pursuant to and for the purposes of Section 265(b)(3) of the Code, or to the extent the Bonds currently refund other obligations of the Township, the Bonds are “qualified tax-exempt obligations” pursuant to Section 265(b)(3)(D)(iii) of the Code. Not more than $10,000,000 of obligations, including the Bonds, of the Township and all subordinate entities thereof issued from January 1, 2014 to and including the date hereof have been designated by the Township for purposes of Section 265(b)(3) of the Code. As of the date hereof, the reasonably anticipated amount of tax-exempt obligations (other than private activity bonds, as referred to and defined in Section 141 of the Code and current refundings of other obligations of the Township), which will be issued by the Township and all subordinate entities thereof during the calendar year commencing January 1, 2014 does not exceed $10,000,000.

Actions to be Taken on Behalf of the Township. The Mayor, Chief Financial Officer and Township Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute the Bonds on behalf of the Township and to do all matters necessary, useful, convenient or desirable to accomplish the sale, issuance and delivery of the Bonds and the refunding and redemption of the Refunded Bonds all in accordance with the provisions of this resolution, including without limitation (a) the submission of materials to one or more rating agencies for purposes of receiving a credit rating on the Bonds, (b) the selection of a financial printer and website for purposes of disseminating the Preliminary Official Statement and the final Official Statement and (c) the appointment of a redemption agent for purposes of administering any mandatory sinking fund redemptions.

Prior Action. All action taken to date by Township officials, employees and professionals with respect to the authorization, sale and issuance of the Bonds, including the preparation of a Preliminary Official Statement with respect thereto, be and the same hereby are ratified, approved, confirmed and adopted in all respects.

Effective Date. This resolution shall take effect immediately and, if necessary, when there is endorsed upon a certified copy hereof the consent referred to in N.J.S.A. 40A:2-55.

Council Comments

Council President Lynch was absent.

Council Member Murphy indicated she had been doing her due diligence on Camp Sussex and who owns the property. Council Member Murphy indicated that the deed had not been recorded in June. Council Member Murphy indicated the property had gone through a tax foreclosure on February 19, and March 19 the Sherriff’s Office had prepared the deed yet on June 12 when she had requested copies it was not recorded. Council Member Murphy stated the deed was finally recorded on June 17 and the owner is now the owner of record. Council Member Murphy indicated that the owners of the property should secure and clean it up. Council Member Murphy indicated that it appeared that in some places items were dumped and there was a lot of graffiti and what appeared to be paint from paint ball pellets. Council Member Murphy indicated that since all the comments a lot of people now know that the Camp is there. Council Member Murphy indicated that it appeared that a lot of the copper pipes had been taken and it was believed there may be an underground oil tank in the shower room. Council Member Murphy questioned the liens from the fire official. Council Member Murphy indicated Vernon Township was not listed as a defendant in the foreclosure and the liens run with the property. Council Member Murphy indicated she would also like to find out about getting Council Meetings on the web-site. Mayor Marotta questioned when ownership takes place in a Sherriff’s sale. Township Attorney Kelly indicated that it occurs when the judgment is recorded by the Judge. Mayor Marotta indicated that the township did not have the software to rip the meetings from the proprietary software of the CD that the meetings are recorded on. Mayor Marotta indicated this issue had been visited 4 or 5 times before. Council Member Murphy stated that she would like to see the cost of the software so this could be done. Council Member Murphy stated she would also like to see the Council revisit Resolution 14-02. Council Member Murphy indicated that the version of Resolution 14-02 that was given to the Council did not match what was in the minutes. Council Member Murphy indicated she had called the former Clerk, Sue Nelson and she could not recall how it got changed. Council Member Murphy indicated the words “formal action may be taken” at a work session was not in the original version. Acting Council President Rizzuto indicated Council Member Murphy should make a request to the Council President regarding the issue. Council Member Murphy stated she did not think the document should be altered from what was voted on and that she had called the DCA regarding the former clerk’s actions.

Council Member Kadish indicated that 15-17 years ago Bill Donald and Heather Byrnes had requested a coalition for the arts. Council Member Kadish stated he was a panelist on the NJ Arts Council. Council Member Kadish indicated that that leadership was needed and it takes a few people to mold these ideas into a positive thing but the cost should not fall on the taxpayers. Council Member Kadish stated that using drug needles as an impetus for purchasing a property was not a good idea.

Council Member Wetzel stated a list of the pros and cons needed to be compiled before making a decision. Council Member Wetzel stated he felt as if the cart was being placed before the horse. Council Member Wetzel stated that the only thing they were asking was for the Mayor to find out the price. Council Member Wetzel indicated that the Arts are bursting at the seams; you cannot get into the Newton Theater. Council Member Wetzel noted that Sussex County College is in Sparta, Highpoint State Parks has productions, everything is around us but nothing is in town. Council Member Wetzel, who was a coach of sports stated there is a lot of money spent on sports and it would be nice to see things for the arts.

Council Member Rizzuto stated that the only direction the Mayor was give was to negotiate not to execute, just like anyone else would do when they are deciding whether or not to move forward. Council Member Rizzuto stated he could not help but shake his head when he heard that people have to get on board. Council Member Rizzuto stated the Township has gone a long way to support athletics, they have requested a price for a band shell for seniors and it would certainly be nice if the Township had a stage. Council Member Rizzuto indicated that while Camp Sussex had a stage it could also be used for passive recreation. Council Member Rizzuto stated at this time the Township does not know the costs or what is available and is waiting to hear. Council Member Rizzuto expressed concern over the recent divisive action to prevent the elected officials from doing what they are authorized to do under the code. Council Member Rizzuto questioned what is better for the community. Council Member Rizzuto noted that the action taken by the council affects the community 10-20 years later. Council Member Rizzuto asked people to join him with an open mind about what is available for outside support and what can be done. Council Member Rizzuto indicated the State has regulated a lot of farms with the Highlands Act. Council Member Rizzuto indicated stated there is nothing wrong with asking people to do good. Council Member Rizzuto stated that he felt that it was as important for Vernon to have a theater as do other people regarding a football field.

Council Member Murphy commented that on Wednesday Mountain Creek was having a presentation at the water park. Council Member Murphy commented that the Township Council had not received anything. Council Member Murphy stated she had a photo of one of the Township owned buildings in the center of town that had broken windows which should be addressed.

Adjournment

There being no further items of business to be conducted on the Regular Meeting agenda, a motion for Adjournment was made by Council Member Murphy, seconded by Council Member Kadish; with all members present voting in favor.

The Regular Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was adjourned at 9:20 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Lauren Kirkman, RMC
Municipal Clerk

Minutes approved: August 11, 2014