Vernon Township
21 Church Street, Vernon, NJ 07462
Phone: 973.764.4055
Minutes: June 26, 2023
YouTube of the June 26, 2023 council meeting
This Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was convened at 7:00 p.m. on June 26, 2023 via Zoom Webinar and in the Vernon Municipal Center, 21 Church Street, Vernon, New Jersey with Council President Buccieri presiding.
STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE
Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided to the public and the press on January 6, 2023 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.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG
Council President Buccieri led the assemblage in the salute to the flag.
ROLL CALL
Present were Council Members Peg Distasi, Patrick Rizzuto, Bradley Sparta, Joe Tadrick and
Council President Natalie Buccieri. Also present were Mayor Howard Burrell, Administrator Tina Kraus, CFO Donelle Bright, Municipal Clerk Marcy Gianattasio and Township Attorney Joshua Zielinski.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (For Current Agenda Items Only, Limited to 3 Minutes Per Person)
President Buccieri asked for a motion to open the meeting to Public Comments.
MOVED: Tadrick
SECOND: Distasi
All members were in favor.
Jessica Paladini – expressed concern about resolution #23-180 that creates a pump tract committee.
Steve Dunlop - expressed concern about resolution #23-180 that creates a pump tract committee.
Ann Larsen - expressed concern about resolution #23-180 that creates a pump tract committee.
Seeing no one else from the public wishing to come forward, President Buccieri asked for a motion to close the meeting to Public Comments.
MOVED: Distasi
SECOND: Tadrick
All members were in favor.
Council Member Rizzuto made a motion from the floor to bring forward Resolution #23-186 for discussion: A Resolution of Support for the Passage of a $350,000.00 Bond Ordinance to Finance a Vietnam War Veteran’s Memorial Band Shell (siting to be determined)
MOVED: Rizzuto
SECOND: Tadrick
All members were in favor of discussing resolution #23-186.
The Council discussed this resolution. They discussed financing and bonding for the band shell.
Council Member Tadrick made a motion to approve Resolution #23-186. Seconded by Council Member Sparta.
MOVED: Tadrick
SECOND: Sparta
A roll call vote was taken:
AYES: Rizzuto, Sparta, Tadrick,
NAYES: Distasi, Buccieri
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Motion carries to approve the Resolution #23-186.
REVIEW OF BILLS LIST
There were no comments or questions regarding the bills list.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
June 12, 2023 – Executive Session
June 12, 2023 – Regular Meeting
President Buccieri asked for a motion to approve the June 12, 2023 executive session minutes and the regular meeting minutes.
MOVED: Tadrick
SECOND: Sparta
A roll call vote was taken:
AYES: Distasi, Rizzuto, Sparta, Tadrick, Buccieri
NAYES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Motion carries to approve the approve the June 12, 2023 executive session minutes and the regular meeting minutes.
CONSENT AGENDA
Resolution #23-157: Resolution of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, Authorizing the Disposition or Salvage of Vehicles and Equipment in the Possession of the Township Auction on Municibid.com
Resolution #23-174: Resolution Rescinding Resolution #23-162 and Confirming Peter Laemers as Second Judge of the Vernon Township Municipal Court
Resolution #23-175: Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of a Vac-Con Sewer Cleaner Used 2014 Model V311HE/1300 and Accessories Through Sourcewell National Cooperative #101221-VAC through Vac-Con
Resolution #23-176: Resolution Authorizing Purchase of Freightliner 108SD and Accessories Through Sourcewell National Cooperative 080818-HPI Through Henderson Products Inc.
Resolution #23-177: Authorizing Contracts with Certain Approved Educational Services Commission of New Jersey Cooperative Contract Vendor Modern Group LTD. Through ESCNJ Contract 18/19-25
Resolution #23-178: Authorizing Contracts with Certain Approved Educational Services Commission of New Jersey Cooperative Contract Vendor Falcon Road Maintenance Equipment, ESCNJ Contract18/19-25
Resolution #23-179: Authorizing Contracts with Certain Approved Educational Services Commission Of New Jersey Cooperative Contract Vendor Deere and Company Through Distributor Central Jersey Equipment LLC for Tractor and Backhoe Through ESCNJ Contract 18/19-25
Resolution #23-181: Renewal of Inactive Liquor License (JD Vernon Lodge and Inn LLC) Requiring Special Ruling in the Township of Vernon for the 2020-2021 Licensing Term
Resolution #23-182: Renewal of Inactive Liquor License (JD Vernon Lodge and Inn LLC) Requiring Special Ruling in the Township of Vernon for the 2021-2022 Licensing Term
Resolution #23-183: Renewal of Inactive Liquor License (JD Vernon Lodge and Inn LLC) Requiring Special Ruling in the Township of Vernon for the 2022-2023 Licensing Term
Resolution #23-184: Approval to Submit a Grant Application and Execute a Grant Contract with the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the Glenwood Mountain Road– Section II Improvement Project.
Resolution #23-185: Resolution of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, Authorizing the Award of Department of Public Works Proprietary Software Iamgis Group LLC Through the Competitive Contracting Process
President Buccieri asked for a motion to approve the consent agenda.
MOVED: Sparta
SECOND: Tadrick
A roll call vote was taken:
AYES: Distasi, Rizzuto, Sparta, Tadrick, Buccieri
NAYES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Motion carries to approve the consent agenda.
RESOLUTION #23-157
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, AUTHORIZING THE DISPOSITION OR SALVAGE OF VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT IN THE POSSESSION OF THE TOWNSHIP AT AUCTION ON MUNICIBID.COM
WHEREAS, the Township Public Works Department has requested that the Township Council authorize the disposition of Vehicles and Equipment currently in the possession of Vernon Township and also request to salvage the equipment should the asking price and second offer be rejected; and,
WHEREAS, such surplus items may be sold at public auction to the highest bidder in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:11-36; and
WHEREAS, the Township Council has reviewed a request which describes the items aforesaid to be sold at the auction per attached Schedule A.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, as follows:
1. That the Division of Purchasing, or its designee, be and hereby is authorized to sell at auction to the highest bidder, any and all surplus items as described.
2. The sale of the surplus property shall be conducted through MuniciBid in accordance with the terms and conditions: and
3. The sale will be conducted online, and the address of the auction site is municibid.com
4. The sale is being conducted pursuant to Local Finance Notice 2019-15.
5. The surplus property as identified shall be sold in an “as-is” condition without express or implied warranties with the successful bidder required to execute a Hold Harmless and Indemnification Agreement concerning use of said surplus property.
6. The Township reserves the right to accept or reject any bid submitted. That the Division of Purchasing, or its designee, be and hereby is authorized to sell at auction to the highest bidder, any and all surplus items as described.
7. That a certified copy of this Resolution shall be forwarded to the following:
A. Purchasing Agent
B. Chief Financial Officer
C. Township Auditor
D. Public Works Department
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-36 that formal public notification will be provided by the publication of a Legal Notice in the official newspaper, the New Jersey Herald, not less than seven (7) or more than fourteen (14) days prior to the scheduled auction.
RESOLUTION #23-174
RESOLUTION RESCINDING RESOLUTION #23-162 AND CONFIRMING PETER LAEMERS AS SECOND JUDGE OF THE VERNON TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL COURT
WHEREAS, on June 12, 2023, the Township Council of the Township of Vernon passed Resolution No. 23-162 to confirm the appointment of Peter Laemers to serve in the capacity of Judge of the Vernon Township Municipal Court; and
WHEREAS, upon further review, there is no vacancy in the position of Judge of the Vernon Township Municipal Court; and
WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon has a need for a second temporary Judge for the Vernon Township Municipal Court; and
WHEREAS, under N.J.S.A. 2B:12-5, the Assignment Judge of the Morris/Sussex Vicinage of the Superior Court has authorized the Township of Vernon to have a temporary second Judge for the Vernon Township Municipal Court; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor has appointed Peter Laemers to fill this position.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, that Resolution No. 23-162 is hereby rescinded and that the Mayor’s appointment of Peter Laemers to serve as the temporary second Municipal Court Judge from May 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023 is hereby confirmed.
RESOLUTION #23-175
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF A VAC-CON SEWER CLEANER USED 2014 MODEL V311HE/1300 AND ACCESSORIES THROUGH SOURCEWELL NATIONAL COOPERATIVE #101221-VAC THROUGH VAC-CON
BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Township of Vernon, Sussex County, State of New Jersey as follows:
WHEREAS, in accordance with the requirements of the Local Public Contract Law P.L. 2011, C.139 (the “Law” or “Chapter 139” and N.J.S.A.52:34-6.2 the regulations promulgated there under in Local Finance Notice LFN 2012-10, the following purchase without competitive bids from vendor with a National Cooperative Contract is hereby approved for municipalities, and;
WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon has the need to procure certain sewer cleaning equipment and accessories in accord with the Local Publics Contract Law N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et. Seq., and;
WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon has previously acted in accord with New Jersey public procurement statutes and regulations as promulgated by formally joining a recognized and compliant national cooperative, being the Sourcewell National Cooperative, and;
WHEREAS, the regulations as set forth within Local Finance Notice LFN 2012-10 have been fully complied with, and;
WHEREAS, the equipment and corresponding Sourcewell National Cooperative contract is #101221-VAC, for Vac-Con Inc.; and
WHEREAS, the quoted cost under the Sourcewell National Cooperative contract is $279,937.00; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has determined, and certified available funds are available in the amount of $279,937.00 in line-item C-04-23-015 as of July 5, 2023.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Business Administrator is hereby directed to effectuate the purchase of herein approved equipment through Sourcewell National Cooperative through Vac-Con Inc. 969 Hall Park Drive, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 for a Vac-Con sewer cleaner Used 2014 Model V311HE/1300 and accessories through Sourcewell Contract #101221-VAC in the amount of $279,937.00.
RESOLUTION #23-176
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PURCHASE OF FREIGHTLINER 108SD AND ACCESSORIES THROUGH SOURCEWELL NATIONAL COOPERATIVE 080818-HPI THROUGH HENDERSON PRODUCTS INC.
BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the Township of Vernon, Sussex County, State of New Jersey as follows:
WHEREAS, in accordance with the requirements of the Local Public Contract Law P.L. 2011, C.139 (the “Law” or “Chapter 139” and N.J.S.A.52:34-6.2 the regulations promulgated there under in Local Finance Notice LFN 2012-10, the following purchase without competitive bids from vendor with a Sourcewell National Cooperative is hereby approved for municipalities, and;
WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon has the need to procure certain Freightliner Single Axles 108sd and accessories in accord with the Local Publics Contract Law N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et. Seq., and;
WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon has previously acted in accord with New Jersey public procurement statutes and regulations as promulgated by formally joining a recognized and compliant national cooperative, being the Sourcewell National Cooperative, and;
WHEREAS, the regulations as set forth within Local Finance Notice LFN 2012-10 have been fully complied with, and;
WHEREAS the equipment and corresponding Sourcewell National Cooperative contract is 080818-HPI for Henderson Products Inc 94 North Dell Avenue
Kenvil, NJ 07847; and
WHEREAS the quoted cost under the Sourcewell National Cooperative is contract $223,266.00; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has determined, and certified available funds are available in the amount of $223,266.00 from line items: C-04-21-012 and C-04-23-015 as of July 5, 2023.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Mayor is hereby authorized to effectuate the purchase of herein approved equipment through Henderson Products Inc 94 North Dell Avenue Kenvil, NJ 07847 for the approved cost of $223,266.00 from Sourcewell contract 080818-HPI.
RESOLUTION #23-177
AUTHORIZING CONTRACTS
WITH CERTAIN APPROVED EDUCATIONAL SERVICES COMMISSION OF NEW JERSEY COOPERATIVE CONTRACT VENDOR MODERN GROUP LTD. THROUGH ESCNJ CONTRACT 18/19-25
WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon may by resolution, and without advertising for bids or obtaining quotations, purchase any goods or services as per N.J.S.A. 40A:11-11, under the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey Cooperative Pricing System; and
WHEREAS, the Township has the need on a timely basis to purchase goods and services utilizing Educational Service Commission of New Jersey Contracts, duly authorized under law to extend contract pricing to local units, per N.J.A.C. 5:34-7 et. Seq.; and
WHEREAS, the Township intends to enter into contract for procurement of an Intimidator 12XP (12" Drum Style) Brush Bandit Woodchipper with accessories, through Modern Group, LTD. 630 Freedom Business Center Dr. 3rd Floor, King of Prussia, PA 19406 through ESCNJ Contract 18/19-25; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds in the amount of $50,149.00 are available in line item C-04-23-015 as of July 5, 2023.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract to purchase a Intimidator 12XP (12" Drum Style) Brush Bandit Woodchipper with accessories, through Modern Group, LTD. 630 Freedom Business Center Dr. 3rd Floor, King of Prussia, PA 19406 through ESCNJ Contract 18/19-25 in the amount of $50,149.00.
RESOLUTION #23-178
AUTHORIZING CONTRACTS
WITH CERTAIN APPROVED EDUCATIONAL SERVICES COMMISSION OF NEW JERSEY COOPERATIVE CONTRACT VENDOR FALCON ROAD MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT, ESCNJ CONTRACT 18/19-25
WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon may by resolution, and without advertising for bids or obtaining quotations, purchase any goods or services as per N.J.S.A. 40A:11-11, under the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey Cooperative Pricing System; and
WHEREAS, the Township has the need on a timely basis to purchase goods and services utilizing Educational Service Commission of New Jersey Contracts, duly authorized under law to extend contract pricing to local units, per N.J.A.C. 5:34-7 et. Seq.; and
WHEREAS, the Township intends to enter into contract for procurement of a 4-Ton Falcon RME Asphalt Hot Patcher Dump Trailer with accessories through Falcon Road Maintenance Equipment Authorized Distributor for McGrath Municipal Equipment through ESCNJ Contract 18/19-25 in the amount of $45,642.00; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds in the amount of $45,642.00 are available in: line item C-04-23-015 as of July 5, 2023.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract to purchase a 4 – Ton Falcon RMR Asphalt Hot Patcher Dump Trailer with accessories through Falcon Road Maintenance Equipment Authorized Distributor for McGrath Municipal Equipment through ESCNJ Contract 18/19-25 in the amount of $45,642.00.
RESOLUTION #23-179
AUTHORIZING CONTRACTS
WITH CERTAIN APPROVED EDUCATIONAL SERVICES COMMISSION OF NEW JERSEY COOPERATIVE CONTRACT VENDOR DEERE AND COMPANY THROUGH DISTRIBUTOR CENTRAL JERSEY EQUIPMENT LLC FOR TRACTOR AND BACKHOE THROUGH ESCNJ CONTRACT 18/19-25
WHEREAS, the Township of Vernon may by resolution, and without advertising for bids or obtaining quotations, purchase any goods or services as per N.J.S.A. 40A:11-11, under the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey Cooperative Pricing System; and
WHEREAS, the Township has the need on a timely basis to purchase goods and services utilizing Educational Service Commission of New Jersey Contracts, duly authorized under law to extend contract pricing to local units, per N.J.A.C. 5:34-7 et. Seq.; and
WHEREAS, the Township intends to enter into contract for procurement of a John Deere 3046R Compact Utility Tractor with Backhoe and accessories from Deere and Company, through authorized distributor Central Jersey Equipment, under authority of ESCNJ Contract 18/19-25 in the amount of $45,915.35; and
WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds in the amount of $45,915.35 are available in line-item C-04-23-015 as of July 5, 2023.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Township Council of the Township of Vernon, authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract to purchase a John Deere 3046R Compact Utility Tractor with Backhoe and accessories from Deere and Company, through authorized distributor Central Jersey Equipment, under authority of ESCNJ Contract 18/19-25 in the amount of $45,915.35.
RESOLUTION #23-181
RENEWAL OF INACTIVE LIQUOR LICENSE (JD VERNON LODGE AND INN LLC) REQUIRING SPECIAL RULING IN THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON FOR THE 2020-2021 LICENSING TERM
WHEREAS, all licenses to disperse alcoholic beverages must be renewed and reissued annually; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 33:1-12.18 the following license required a Special Ruling by the State Division of Alcoholic Beverages as the license’s failure to timely renew its license; and
WHEREAS, the State Division of Alcoholic Beverages in August, 2021 issued said special ruling for the 2020-2021 license term; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 33:1-1 et. seq., the Vernon Township Police Department has made the necessary review of the license and reported same to the Township Clerk; and
WHEREAS, the licensee has complied with all of the regulations as set forth by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission of the State of New Jersey
WHEREAS, in accordance N.J.A.C. 13:2-2.5, the special ruling required JD Vernon Lodge and Inn LLC to advertise its application for the License; and
WHEREAS, upon further review, it has been determined that the advertisement requirement was fulfilled.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that the following license shall be renewed as a pocket license for the 2020-2021 licensing period effective as of July 1, 2020.
PLENARY RETAIL CONSUMPTION
JD Vernon Lodge and Inn LLC (POCKET LICENSE) 1922-33-009-004
RESOLUTION #23-182
RENEWAL OF INACTIVE LIQUOR LICENSE (JD VERNON LODGE AND INN LLC) REQUIRING SPECIAL RULING IN THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON FOR THE 2021-2022 LICENSING TERM
WHEREAS, all licenses to dispense alcoholic beverages must be renewed and reissued annually; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 33:1-12.39 the following license required a Special Ruling by the State Division of Alcoholic Beverages, as the license is currently inactive, prior to its renewal; and
WHEREAS, the State Division of Alcoholic Beverages, on August 20, 2021 had issued said special ruling for the 2021-2022 license term; and
WHEREAS, the licensee has complied with all of the regulations as set forth by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission of the State of New Jersey;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that the following inactive license shall be reissued for the 2021-2022 licensing period expiring June 30, 2022.
PLENARY RETAIL CONSUMPTION
JD Vernon Lodge and Inn LLC 1922-33-009-004
RESOLUTION #23-183
RENEWAL OF INACTIVE LIQUOR LICENSE (JD VERNON LODGE AND INN LLC) REQUIRING SPECIAL RULING IN THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON FOR THE 2022-2023 LICENSING TERM
WHEREAS, all licenses to dispense alcoholic beverages must be renewed and reissued annually; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 33:1-12.39 the following license required a Special Ruling by the State Division of Alcoholic Beverages, as the license is currently inactive, prior to its renewal; and
WHEREAS, the State Division of Alcoholic Beverages, on July 20, 2022 had issued said special ruling for the 2022-2023 license term; and
WHEREAS, the licensee has complied with all of the regulations as set forth by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission of the State of New Jersey;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of Vernon that the following inactive license shall be reissued for the 2022-2023 licensing period expiring June 30, 2023.
PLENARY RETAIL CONSUMPTION
JD Vernon Lodge and Inn LLC 1922-33-009-004
RESOLUTION #23-184
APPROVAL TO SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION AND EXECUTE A GRANT CONTRACT WITH THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE GLENWOOD MOUNTAIN ROAD- SECTION II IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Vernon Township Council of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey formally approves the grant application for the above stated project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Municipal Clerk are hereby authorized to submit an electronic grant application identified as MA-2024-Glenwood Mountain Road-Sec. II Imp-00334 to the New Jersey Department of Transportation on behalf of Vernon Township.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Municipal Clerk are hereby authorized to sign the grant agreement on behalf of Vernon Township and that their signatures constitute acceptance of the terms and conditions of the grant agreement and approve the execution of the grant agreement.
RESOLUTION #23-185
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON, COUNTY OF SUSSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, AUTHORIZING THE AWARD OF DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS PROPRIETARY SOFTWARE IAMGIS GROUP LLC THROUGH THE COMPETITIVE CONTRACTING PROCESS
WHEREAS, the Township has authorized the competitive contract procurement for DPW Proprietary Software Services through Resolution #23-127 on April 24, 2023; and
WHEREAS the Township received and opened in a public manner competitive contract responses on May 31, 2023 at 11:00 A, M.; and
WHEREAS, the Township established a rating committee, rating the proposals upon the standards of Price and Other Factors, those factors being Technical, Managerial and Cost, in accord with N.J.A.C.5:34-4; and
WHEREAS the Township received four (4) proposals to wit:
|
NAME OF BIDDER |
Information Professionals Inc. |
IWorqs Systems |
Software Staffers |
iamGIS Group LLC |
|
ADDRESS |
25 Oakland Dr W |
1125 West 400 North, Suite 102 |
960 foothill Drive |
2028 E. Ben White Blvd. Ste. 240 PMB 1536 |
|
CITY, STATE, ZIP |
Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, 08889 |
Logan, Utah, 84321 |
San Jose, California, 95123 |
Austin, Texas, 78741 |
; and
WHEREAS, the report produced by the committee, recommended iamGIS Group LLC,
2028 E. Ben White Blvd. Ste. 240, Austin, Texas, 78741, and was made available to the public and governing body at least 48 hours prior to the meeting of the governing body in accord with N.J.S.A 40A:11-4.1 and N.J.A.C 5:34-4; and
WHEREAS iamGIS Group LLC, 2028 E. Ben White Blvd. Ste. 240, Austin, Texas, 78741, has provided a proposal deemed responsive and responsible under the New Jersey Local Publics Contract Law (N.J.S.A.40A:11-1 et. Seq.,) as well as most advantageous based upon Price and Other Factors (N.J.A.C. 5:34-4); and
WHEREAS it is the recommendation that the Township enter into an agreement for services under competitive contract with iamGIS Group LLC, 2028 E. Ben White Blvd. Ste. 240, Austin, Texas, 78741, for a period of five (5) years, as per the term of contracts for competitive contracting at N.J.S.A 40A:11-4.1 et. Seq. under the terms and tenets as set forth in the competitive contract procurement; and
WHEREAS subject to the approval of future budgets by the governing body of the Township of Vernon, the Chief Financial Officer certifies funding is available as follows:
2023 Account 3-01-26-290-20 $33,000 (one time implementation fee $15,000)
2024 $18,000.00 (subject to 2024 Budget)
2025 $18,000.00 (subject to 2025 Budget)
2026 $18,000.00 (subject to 2026 Budget)
2027 $18,000.00 (subject to 2027 Budget)
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Vernon, County of Sussex, State of New Jersey, as follows:
1. That the Mayor is authorized to execute a five (5) year contract for services with iamGIS Group LLC, 2028 E. Ben White Blvd. Ste. 240, Austin, Texas, 78741, under the precepts of competitive contract 2-2023 DPW Proprietary Software services.
RESOLUTIONS
Resolution #23-180: Resolution Creating the Town Center Pump Track Committee
Council Member Tadrick made a motion to table resolution #23-180. Seconded by Council Member Rizzuto.
MOVED: Tadrick
SECOND: Rizzuto
A roll call vote was taken:
AYES: Rizzuto, Sparta, Tadrick
NAYES: Distasi, Buccieri
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Motion carries to table resolution #23-180.
PUBLIC HEARING/2ND READING OF ORDINANCES
Ordinance #23-16: Bond Ordinance Providing for the Improvement of the Sanitary Sewerage System In and by the Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, Appropriating $4,316,500 Therefor and Authorizing the Issuance of $822,000 Bonds or Notes of the Township for Financing Such Appropriation
President Buccieri asked for a motion to open the floor for public hearing on ordinance #23-16.
MOVED: Sparta
SECOND: Tadrick
All members were in favor.
Seeing no one from the public wishing to come forward, President Buccieri asked for a motion to close the public hearing on ordinance #23-16.
MOVED: Sparta
SECOND: Tadrick
All members were in favor.
President Buccieri asked for a motion to approve ordinance #23-16.
MOVED: Sparta
SECOND: Tadrick
A roll call vote was taken:
AYES: Distasi, Rizzuto, Sparta, Tadrick, Buccieri
NAYES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Motion carries to approve ordinance #23-16.
ORDINANCE #23-16
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE SANITARY SEWERAGE SYSTEM IN AND BY THE TOWNSHIP OF VERNON, IN THE COUNTY OF SUSSEX, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,316,500 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $822,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP FOR FINANCING SUCH APPROPRIATION.
BE IT ORDAINED 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:
The improvement described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance is hereby authorized as a general improvement to be made or acquired by The Township of Vernon, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey. For the said improvement or purpose stated in said Section 3, there is hereby appropriated the sum of $4,316,500, said sum being inclusive of all appropriations heretofore made therefor and including the sum of $41,528 as the down payment for said improvement or purpose required by law and now available therefor in the Reserve for Sewer Repairs of the Township and including also the sum of $3,452,972 received or expected to be received by the Township from the United States Congressional Community Funding Project as a grant-in-aid of financing said improvement or purpose.
For the financing of said improvement or purpose, including for the purpose of applicable United States Treasury regulations the reimbursement of expenditures heretofore or hereafter made therefor, and to meet the part of said $4,316,500 appropriation not provided for by application hereunder of said down payment and grant, negotiable bonds of the Township are hereby authorized to be issued in the principal amount of $822,000 pursuant to the Local Bond Law of New Jersey. In anticipation of the issuance of said bonds and to temporarily finance said improvement or purpose, negotiable notes of the Township in a principal amount not exceeding $822,000 are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to and within the limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
a. The improvement hereby authorized and purpose for the financing of which said obligations are to be issued is the improvement of the sanitary sewerage system in and by the Township by the extension and expansion thereof into the approved sewer service area, including all pumps, pipes, structures, facilities, site work, equipment, work and materials necessary therefor or incidental thereto, all as shown on and in accordance with the plans and specifications therefor on file or to be filed in the office of the Township Clerk and hereby approved.
The estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued for said purpose is $822,000.
The estimated cost of said purpose is $4,316,500, the excess thereof over the said estimated maximum amount of bonds or notes to be issued therefor being the amount of the said $41,528 down payment for said purpose and the said $3,452,972 grant from the United States Congressional Community Funding Project.
The following additional matters are hereby determined, declared, recited and stated:
The said purpose described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance is not a current expense and is a property or improvement which the Township may lawfully acquire or make as a general improvement, and no part of the cost thereof has been or shall be specially assessed on property specially benefitted thereby.
The period of usefulness of said purpose within the limitations of said Local Bond Law, according to the reasonable life thereof computed from the date of the said bonds authorized by this bond ordinance, is forty (40) years.
The supplemental debt statement required by said Local Bond Law has been duly made and filed in the office of the Township Clerk and a complete executed duplicate thereof has been filed in the office of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs of the State of New Jersey, and such statement shows that the gross debt of the Township as defined in said Local Bond Law is increased by the authorization of the bonds and notes provided for in this bond ordinance by $822,000, and the said obligations authorized by this bond ordinance will be within all debt limitations prescribed by said Local Bond Law.
An aggregate amount not exceeding $800,000 for interest on said obligations, costs of issuing said obligations and other items of expense listed in and permitted under section 40A:2-20 of said Local Bond Law may be included as part of the cost of said improvement and is included in the foregoing estimate thereof.
The funds from time to time received by the Township on account of the grant referred to in Section 1 of this bond ordinance shall be used for financing the improvement or purpose described in Section 3 of this bond ordinance by application thereof either to direct payment of the costs of said improvement or purpose, or to payment or reduction of the authorization of the obligations of the Township authorized by this bond ordinance. Any such funds so received may, and all such funds so received which are not required for direct payment of such costs shall, be held and applied by the Township as funds applicable only to the payment of obligations of the Township authorized by this bond ordinance.
All bond anticipation notes issued hereunder shall mature at such times as may be determined by the chief financial officer, the acting chief financial officer or the treasurer of the Township (the “Chief Financial Officer”) provided that no note shall mature later than one year from its date. The notes shall bear interest at such rate or rates and be in such form as may be determined by the Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial Officer shall determine all matters in connection with the notes issued pursuant to this bond ordinance, and the Chief Financial Officer’s signature upon the notes shall be conclusive evidence as to all such determinations. All notes issued hereunder may be renewed from time to time subject to the provisions of N.J.S.A. §40A:2-8. The Chief Financial Officer is hereby authorized to sell part or all of the notes from time to time at public or private sale at not less than par and to deliver them to the purchasers thereof upon receipt of payment of the purchase price plus accrued interest from their dates to the dates of delivery thereof. The Chief Financial Officer is directed to report in writing to the governing body of the Township at the meeting next succeeding the date when any sale or delivery of the notes pursuant to this bond ordinance is made. Such report must include the principal amount, interest rate and maturities of the notes sold, the price obtained and the name of the purchaser.
The full faith and credit of the Township are hereby pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on the said obligations authorized by this bond ordinance. Said obligations shall be direct, unlimited obligations of the Township, and the Township shall be obligated to levy ad valorem taxes upon all the taxable property within the Township for the payment of said obligations and interest thereon without limitation of rate or amount.
The capital budget or temporary capital budget of the Township is hereby amended to conform with the provisions of this ordinance to the extent of any inconsistency herewith and the resolutions promulgated by the Local Finance Board showing all detail of the amended capital budget or temporary capital budget and capital program as approved by the Director, Division of Local Government Services, are on file with the Township Clerk and are available for public inspection.
This bond ordinance shall take effect twenty (20) days after the first publication thereof after final adoption, as provided by said Local Bond Law.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (Limited to 5 Minutes Per Person)
President Buccieri asked for a motion to open the meeting for public comment.
MOVED: Sparta
SECOND: Tadrick
All members were in favor.
Peter Knipe – supports the band shell as well as all recreation.
Jessica Paladini – expressed concern about Daniel’s Law and redactions that are being made.
Steve Dunlop – expressed frustration because he asked questions of Township employees and he did not receive an answer.
Stephanie DiBrienza – questioned the amount of interest charged if tax bills are paid late.
CFO Bright explained that the interest is statutorily.
Seeing no other members of the public wishing to speak, President Buccieri asked for a motion to close the meeting for Public Comments.
MOVED: Sparta
SECOND: Tadrick
All members were in favor.
MAYOR COMMENTS
The Vernon Township Senior Olympic Team, led by Vernon’s reigning Senior of the Year, Ms. DEBBIE SMITKO, represented Vernon Township with pride and enthusiasm at the Sussex County Senior Olympics Games held on June 22 at Hardyston Township’s Wheatsworth Park.
I was honored to be there with them as another representative of our town, and as one of their key cheerleaders.
This event was hosted by the Sussex County Division of Senior Services, and grew out of a formal Sussex County Senior Services’ Assessment of Senior Citizen’s Needs for Socialization and Recreation.
These Olympic Games allow Sussex County residents who are 60 and older the opportunity to meet new friends, connect to their community, and to simply have a great time.
Research has found that social support can play a significant role in overall health as people age.
Life doesn’t always make it easy to socialize as we get older, so this is just one of the events that the Sussex County Division of Senior Services hosts as part of their effort to create a connection to social supports and community involvement for our seniors.
Last year, Vernon Township hosted this outstanding event at our beautiful Maple Grange Park.
In the total medal count, our Olympic Team won the Silver Medal, missing out on the Gold Medal by just 21 points.
I had the pleasure and pride of seeing six members of our Olympic Team awarded seven individual medals - - i.e.:
- Mr. BARRY DORSEY and Ms. ROBYN MATISYIN won individual Gold Medals;
- Ms. NANCY KELLER won an individual Silver Medal;
- Ms. JUDY FORTENBACH won an individual Bronze Medal, and Mr. JOHN PUSTAY won two individual Bronze Medals; and …
- Ms. NANCY KELLER also won the Team Spirit Medal.
It was a good, positive day for our Seniors; a good, positive day for our Town; and a good, positive day for the County of Sussex!
As soon as two members of the Municipal Environmental Commission chose to give up their positions, I was immediately contacted by other Vernon residents who expressed their strong interest in filling these two seats.
On tonight, I am pleased to make the following two appointments, which will bring the Municipal Environmental Commission up to full strength.
Ms. BARBARA E. JAGGI – Ms. JAGGI brings to the Commission her very valuable experiences gained as a member and the Chairperson of the Highland Lakes Ecology Committee. During her service on this important committee, she worked with environmental consultants on water quality and other important environmental issues.
In addition, Ms. JAGGI brings her experiences gained while working with the Facilities Manager at Chilton Medical Center, during which she interacted with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection. These experiences will also be assets to this Commission and to the residents of Vernon Township.
I am appointing Ms. JAGGI to an unexpired term that ends on December 31, 2024.
Ms. JoANN FLORIDIA – Ms. FLORIDIA’s BS Degree in Healthcare, plus her experiences as a Laboratory Scientist and a Certified Organic Farmer, will make her an outstanding and valuable member of this important Commission.
I am appointing Ms. FLORIDIA to an unexpired term that ends on December 31, 2023.
On behalf of the municipality, I thank both of these good citizens for volunteering their time and efforts to serve our town.
A large and growing number of individuals have enthusiastically embraced and supported the Town Center Pump Track since its opening in October of last year.
While the enthusiasm has been great, the support has been even greater; and is measurable in terms of the support services that have been provided the users of the Town Center Pump Track, as well as the taxpayer provided dollars that they have saved our municipality.
For example, except for the Pump Track itself, and the Porta-John on the site, all of the other amenities on the Pump Track site have been donated to our town through the self-initiated efforts of this group of enthusiastic volunteers and supporters.
These donations have ranged:
1. From all of the informational signage around the Pump Track, to all of the safety related signage both in and around the Pump Track.
2. From the memorial sitting and resting park benches, to the top-quality picnic tables with benches;
3. From the galvanized steel Bike Storage Racks, to the state-of-the-art weatherable Outdoor Public Tire Bike Pump with a Gauge;
4. From the state-of-the-art Park Tool Trail Head Quick Repair Bike Station, to the host of other key items that enhance the useability, the user experience, and the overall enjoyment of the Pump Track.
These donations and efforts on the part of this group of enthusiastic volunteers and supporters have enabled our town to offer our residents a third Municipal Park with a highly used amenity, while at the same time, greatly limiting the use of taxpayer-provided dollars.
The core group of these volunteers and supporters, who have been the leaders and organizers of these efforts in support of the Town Center Pump Track, have requested that they be granted a role - - similar to the role played by the volunteers and supporters on the Board of Recreation - - which will allow them to formalize their Town Center Pump Track support efforts, and coordinate those efforts with the town through the Municipal Director of Recreation and Community Affairs - - just as does the volunteers and supporters who serve our town on the Board of Recreation.
On tonight, I use the State of New Jersey authority vested in the Mayor of Vernon Township to grant this group of new volunteers and supporters the formal role that they have requested, by creating the MUNICIPAL TOWN CENTER PUMP TRACK COMMITTEE.
To fill the seven seats on this COMMITTEE, I hereby appoint the following individuals to serve the initial terms on the MUNICIPAL TOWN CENTER PUMP TRACK COMMITTEE:
1. Mr. BRIAN SCOTT, Mr. GENE ARNOLD, and Mr. JON HANSON to serve three-year terms;
2. Mr. DAN KRAUS and Mr. HOWIE CAWLEY to serve two-year terms; and …
3. Ms. JOANN PLEVA and Mr. ROGER FOCO to one-year terms.
I thank these volunteers not only for the contributions that they have already made to our town, but also for the many contributions that they will make in the future.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Council Member Distasi asked the Township Attorney if the municipality can create a 501C3?
Attorney Zielinski replied that he does not believe that a municipality can create a tax-exempt organization under Section 501C3.
Council Member Distasi supports the band shell but she does not support the funding process. She believes that if people want the band shell they should come together as individuals, form a 501C3 and gather the funding to pay for it. Council Member Distasi feels that the band shell may bring revenue into the town but it is an amenity. At this point and time, the township should be bonding only for necessities for the safety and function of the town. Council Member Distasi would like to see some reports of engineering, study of location and building costs other than a generalized concept. She feels that the project is going to cost more than $350,000.
Council Member Distasi does support the concept of having a specialized pump track committee. People who are dedicated to the sport and make the track safe as well as get volunteers and get money donated. The committee will have no authority or money to do anything except report back to the Mayor and the town. Council Member Distasi hopes that if we ever have a band shell, we will have a specialized art committee for it also.
Council Member Rizzuto commented that engineering studies have not been done because we do not have the money to do them. He has already raised over $30,000 and the actual projected cost should be about $350,000. The band shell itself which is a 45-foot structure including the changing rooms will be $178,444. The difference would be the price of installation which is about $180,000 not inclusive of electric. Council Member Rizzuto explained that jazz in the park gets great responses. He has had conversations with the school superintendent who assured Council Member Rizzuto that he would be most happy see programs diverted to the band shell for the benefit of the community.
Council Member Sparta explained that he changed his mind on the pump track committee. After having a lengthy conversation with Mayor Burrell and providing some alternatives to what he thought could be done with the volunteers. Council Member Sparta made it clear that he knows some of the volunteers, the work they do at the pump track is greatly appreciated and this has nothing to do with them. However, the options that Council Member Sparta provided were not recognized and there was no consideration to discuss them further. Council Member Sparta explained that because of these reasons, he decided to change his vote.
Council Member Tadrick had no comments.
Council Member Rizzuto encouraged everyone to attend the fireworks that will benefit the fire departments for the 4th of July.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT COMMENTS
Council President Buccieri had no comments.
ADJOURNMENT
At 8:10 pm Council Member Sparta made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Council Member Distasi.
All were in favor.
Marcy Gianattasio, RMC, CMR
Municipal Clerk
Minutes approved: July 10, 2023
