MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COMMITTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WANTAGE, HELD AT THE WANTAGE TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 888 STATE HIGHWAY 23, WANTAGE, N.J. ON THE DATE OF JANUARY 25, 2007

Mayor William DeBoer called the Work Session meeting to order on behalf of Wantage Township, and requested the Wantage Township Clerk to call the roll.  Upon roll call, the following members of the Wantage Township governing body were present:  Mayor DeBoer, Committee members Parrott, Space. The following members were absent: None.

Mayor De Boer stated, “This meeting is being held in compliance with the provisions of the Open Public Meetings Act, Public Laws 1975, Chapter 231.  It has been properly noticed and posted to the public, and certified by the Clerk."

Mayor Katherine Little called the Work Session meeting to order on behalf of Sussex Borough.  Mayor Little stated, “This meeting is being held in compliance with the provisions of the Open Public Meetings Act, Public Laws 1975, Chapter 231.  It has been properly noticed and posted to the public, and certified by the Clerk."

Mayor Little requested the Sussex Deputy Clerk to call the roll.  Upon roll call, the following members of the Sussex Borough governing body were present:  Mayor Little, Council members Stendor, Fronheiser, Ezzo, and Rose.  The following members were absent:  Pierce, Fransen.

Mayor DeBoer led the assembly in the Salute to the Flag.

Mayor DeBoer led discussion to address the letter written by the 2006 Wantage Mayor Jeff Parrott on October 10, 2006, which stated "the Mayor and Committee of the Township of Wantage seek a dialogue with (the Sussex) governing body, to either obtain a reassurance that our two communities share a vision of mutual cooperation, or else to obtain an official indication that the best interests of our respective communities will involve seeking other interlocal partners."  

Members of both governing bodies expressed support for sharing a continued vision of mutual cooperation.

With regard to the Construction Department Interlocal, all parties agreed to work toward monthly meetings between representatives of Wantage and Sussex in 2007.  Mr. Doherty stated he would await contact from Sussex Borough for a meeting date in February.

With regard to the current Interlocal agreement for the Sussex DPW to utilize the Wantage Township Salt Shed, representatives of Sussex Borough indicated that they have made alternate arrangements elsewhere for this need, and the Sussex Borough Attorney Michael Hanifan expressed a belief that the agreement expired as of 12/31/06. 

With regard to Motor Fuel Use Agreements for Sussex DPW, the members of the Sussex governing body informed that alternative arrangements have been secured for this need.

With regard to Fuel Use Agreements for Sussex Fire Department, Sussex Fire Chief John Rome requested permission to continue utilizing the Wantage Township Motor Fuel Pumps for some of their vehicles.  The members of the governing body agreed, by consensus, to grant this request.

Discussion took place regarding the status of the Long Range Vehicle Replacement Program for Emergency Response Vehicles between Wantage and Sussex Borough.

General discussion took place regarding whether the proposed agreement should include both fire and first aid vehicles, or just fire vehicles.  Discussion also included possible cost share scenarios and financing strategies available.

Mayor Little requested time to review this matter with the Sussex Borough governing body as a whole, given that two members of the Sussex Council were absent this evening.

The Mayor and Committee of the Township of Wantage agreed with this suggestion.  It was also agreed by consensus of both governing bodies that future negotiations and discussions on this topic could be held through informal committee negotiations with representatives of all parties affected, rather than to try and coordinate meetings of the full governing bodies for future discussions on this topic.  Mr. Doherty stated he would await contact from Sussex Borough to schedule continued discussions on this topic.

Mayor DeBoer opened the meeting to the public for any questions or comments at this time.  There being no one present wishing to speak, Mayor DeBoer closed the meeting to the public and the governing bodies continued with the regular order of business.

There being no further items for discussion at this time, Mr. Parrott moved to adjourn the Work Session and move to the Regular meeting of the Mayor and Committee of the Township of Wantage for January 25, 2007.  Mr. Space seconded the motion. Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain:  None

Mr. Stendor moved to adjourn this meeting on behalf of Sussex Borough.  Mr. Ezzo seconded the motion.  Upon roll call,Ayes: Stendor, Fronheiser, Ezzo, Rose. Nays: None. Absent: Pierce, Fransen. Abstain: None

Mayor Little declared this meeting adjourned on behalf of Sussex Borough.

Mayor DeBoer thanked the members of the Sussex Borough governing body for attending this evening’s work session.

Mayor William DeBoer called the Regular meeting of the Mayor and Committee of the Township of Wantage to order, and requested the Clerk to call the roll.  Upon roll call, the following members of the governing body were present:Mayor DeBoer, Committee members Parrott, Space. The following members were absent:  None. Also present: Township Attorney Michael Garofalo.

Mayor DeBoer led the assembly in the Salute to the Flag.

Mayor De Boer stated, “This meeting is being held in compliance with the provisions of the Open Public Meetings Act, Public Laws 1975, Chapter 231. It has been properly noticed and posted to the public, and certified by the Clerk."

CONSENT AGENDA

Mayor DeBoer requested that the members of the Committee Review the Consent Agenda.  There being no Committee member present wishing to comment on the proposed Consent Agenda, Mayor DeBoer requested approval of the Consent Agenda.

Mr. Space moved to approve the following reports, for filing:

Registrar’s Report for December 2006
Tax Collector’s Report for December 2006
Municipal Clerk’s Report for December 2006

The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays:  None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize Transfer of Appropriation Reserves totaling $1,200, as per resolution dated January 25, 2007.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott. Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize Payment of Bills for the meeting of January 25, 2007.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to adopt the following
Professional Services Resolution:

WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5 et. seq. Allows for a municipality to award a contract without public advertising for bids and bidding thereof under certain circumstances, and

WHEREAS, the Township has a need for assistance during the course of this calendar year involving various professional services, and

WHEREAS, the services being solicited are essential to the security of the community, and

WHEREAS, the contract award for these services complies with requirements set forth by N.J.S.A.19:44A-20.4 et seq., as shown on the attached Pay to Play Compliance Statement; and

WHEREAS, the governing body of the Township of Wantage is of the opinion that the circumstances for professional service contractual arrangements, as required by NJSA 40A:11-5(1) are satisfied in this situation,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Committee of the Township of Wantage, in the County of Sussex, New Jersey, that the following contracts be and they are hereby approved without the need for public advertisement of bids and bidding thereof:

Awarded to: Michael Garofalo, of the law firm Laddey Clark & Ryan of Sparta, NJ
Services: Township Attorney
Duration: calendar year of 2007
Amount: Varies based on service per fee schedule attached to contract

Awarded to: Edward McManimon, of the law firm McManimon & Scotland of Newark, NJ
Services: Township Bond Counsel.
Duration: calendar year of 2007.
Amount: Varies based on service per fee schedule attached to contract

Awarded to:Harold E. Pellow of the Firm of Harold E. Pellow and Associates, of Augusta, N.J.
Services: Township Engineer.
Duration: calendar year of 2007 thru 2009.
Amount: Varies based on service per fee schedule attached to contract

Awarded to: Tom Ferry, of the Accounting & Auditing firm
                   Ferraioli, Wielkotz, Cerullo & Cuva of Newton, N.J.
Services: Township Auditor.
Duration: calendar year of 2007.
Amount: Varies based on service per fee schedule attached to contract

Awarded to: William Haggerty, of the law firm Dolan & Dolan of Newton, N.J.
Services: Township Prosecutor.
Duration: calendar year of 2007.
Amount: Varies based on service per fee schedule attached to contract

Awarded to: Frank Covelli, of Professional Insurance Associates, Inc. of Carlstadt, N.J.
Services: Health and Dental Benefits Consultant
Duration: calendar year of 2007.
Amount: Commission based on service agreement with North Jersey HIF

Awarded to: William Nestor, of Country Insurance Associates of Wantage, N.J.
Services: Risk Management Consultant
Duration: calendar year of 2007.
Amount: Commission based on service contract with Statewide Insurance Fun

Awarded to: Charles Schaffer of Charles Schaffer Associates of Newton, N.J.
Services: Architect Consultant  
Duration: calendar year of 2007.
Amount: Varies based on service per fee schedule attached to contract

Awarded to: James Sloan, Esq., of Allamuchy, N.J.
Services: Public Defender
Duration: calendar year of 2007.
Amount: $3000 stipend

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, in accordance with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5, the Township Clerk is hereby directed to post a copy of this resolution on the bulletin board of the Township Hall, and publish a brief public notice stating the nature, duration, service and amount of the contracts herein awarded, and stating that said contract and this resolution are on file and available for public inspection in the office of the Municipal Clerk.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize Release of Cash Bond to Toll Brothers in the amount of $166,340.91.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize Release of Seeding and Haying Bond to Nick Stefano for Block 147 Lot 3.03 in the amount of $2500.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize refund of $7.20 to Darlene Langley for overpayment of Dog License Fee for License 242.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize refund of tax overpayment on Block 17 Lot 2, in the amount of $50.13.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize refund of tax sale premium on Block 102 Lot 28, to Park finance LLC, in the amount of $1,500.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize adoption of a resolution Requesting permission of the Director of the Division of Local Government Services for the creation of a Dedication by Rider for Gasoline and Diesel Fuel reimbursement payments associated with interlocal service agreements.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to authorize reduction of Site Plan Bond B197231 for Bob McEwan Construction Corporation from $53,926.32 to the amount of $26,271.12, associated with Block 15, Lots 8 & 10, as per recommendation of the Township Engineer dated 1/18/07.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to award a contract to Absolute Air Quality Inc, in the amount of $5,895, to perform HVAC Air Duct cleaning in the Wantage Township Municipal Building, representing the lowest quote submitted for this contract.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Space moved to award a contract to Empire Overall to provide Uniform Rental Service for the Wantage Township Public Works Department, in the amount of $5.23 per employee, per week, for 156 weeks commencing April 5, 2007, representing the lowest quote submitted for this contract.   Mr. Parrott seconded the motion.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Administrator’s Report

Mayor Space requested Mr. Doherty to give the Administrator’s report.

Mr. Doherty clarified that the Salt Shed Agreement between Sussex and Wantage had a provision calling for automatic renewal each succeeding year, unless a motion is made to terminate the contract.  Mr. Doherty suggested that, given the input from Sussex Borough officials during the work session in which they indicated they had no desire to continue the arrangement, it would be appropriate for Wantage Township to adopt a motion terminating the Salt Shed Interlocal Services agreement between Wantage Township and Sussex Borough in accordance with the provisions of that agreement.

Mr. Space moved to terminate the Salt Shed Interlocal Services agreement between Wantage Township and Sussex Borough in accordance with the provisions of that agreement.  Mr. Parrott seconded the motion.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Encroachment onto Right of Way to facilitate a Septic Design on South Shore Drive:  with permission from Mayor DeBoer, Mr. Doherty invited Mr. Ken Wentink to join the governing body to discuss a proposed encroachment onto the public right of way on South Shore Drive, to facilityate a Septic system design.  Mr. Wentink explained that he has reviewed the proposed encroachment with Mark Little, Assistant Road Supervisor, who informs that the proposed course of action would have no adverse impact on the DPW’s ability to maintain the traveled road.  Mr. Wentink explained other options that were available, and why each alternative presented greater obstacles and concerns than the one being requested herein.

The members of the governing body endorsed the proposal in concept, by consensus, with the understanding that Mr. Wentink and Mr. Garofalo would communicate to have appropriate agreements drawn up for signature and approval.

Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment:  Mr. Doherty advised that the Land Use Board suggests an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to clarify “contiguous developable land” in the RE-5 zone.

After review and consideration, Mr. Parrott moved to introduce on first reading, Ordinance 2007-05, entitled AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER XIII ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE REVISED GENERAL ORDINANCES OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WANTAGE”.  Final hearing date set for February 22, 2007.  Mr. Space seconded the motion.  Upon Roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Attorney’s Report

Mayor Space requested Mr. Garofalo to give the Attorney’s report.

Mr. Garofalo reported on his recommendations for the Release of 2006 Executive Session Minutes, reporting that he recommends the release of executive session minutes of January 5, July 20 (with discussion concerning negotiations of the Toal property continuing to be closed session), August 10, September 14, and November 2, 2006.

Mr. Space moved to authorize release of the above-stated minutes, and accept them as public records.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon Roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mr. Garofalo reported on his efforts to obtain a response from the attorney of the developer for Lillian Court & Ann Marie Court.  The governing body offered consensus for Mr. Garofalo to contact the attorney and inform that if the outstanding items needed for road acceptance are not forthcoming, the Township will utilize available funds in the Performance Bond for this project to accomplish the necessary action items.

Mr. Garofalo offered his recommendations in response to an inquiry made by Mr. Doherty about municipal responsibility to fund OSHA equipment for Fire Companies in municipal budget.  Mr. Garofalo confirmed that it is indeed the responsibility of each municipality to ensure that sufficient funds are available to properly outfit the fire department in that municipality with OSHA turnout gear and PEOSHA safety clothing.

Mr. Garofalo offered a proposed draft of a Cell Phone Usage Policy, and asked the governing body and Mr. Doherty to review the draft and offer him input and suggestions regarding this proposed policy.

Committee Reports

Mr. Parrott offered details from a letter he received from High Point Regional High School Superntendent John Hannum, announcing the new Athletic Director and reporting on various security measures taken at the school.

OLD BUSINESS

General discussion took place regarding efforts to convince the State of New Jersey and the County of Sussex to re-establish various property locations along State Highway Route 23 within the Wantage Township Wastewater Management Plan as approved sewer service areas.  Township Engineer Harold Pellow and Mr. Garofalo reported on discussions held earlier this date with the County Planner and representatives of affected properties along Route 23.  Mayor DeBoer reported that this matter would be followed up through the Land Use Board with recommendations for action.

NEW BUSINESS

Final Hearing of Ordinance 2007-01:  Budget Cap Waiver

Mr. Parrott moved to adopt on final reading, Ordinance 2007-01, entitled “CY 2007 ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK (N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14)”.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Space.

Prior to final roll call, Mayor DeBoer opened the meeting to the public for any questions or comments with regard to this proposed Ordinance.  There being no one present wishing to address the governing body on this matter, Mayor DeBoer closed the meeting to the public and requested a roll call vote.  Upon Roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Final Hearing of Ordinance 2007-02:  Salary Ranges

Mr. Space moved to adopt on final reading, Ordinance 2007-02, entitled ““ORDINANCE FIXING THE SALARIES OF OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WANTAGE, COUNTY OF SUSSEX AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY, FOR THE YEAR 2007”.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.

Prior to final roll call, Mayor DeBoer opened the meeting to the public for any questions or comments with regard to this proposed Ordinance.  There being no one present wishing to address the governing body on this matter, Mayor DeBoer closed the meeting to the public and requested a roll call vote.  Upon Roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Introduction of Ordinance 2007-03:  Capital Improvement Fund

Mr. Space moved to introduce on first reading, Ordinance 2007-03, entitled “ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING THE SUM OF $221,050 FOR PURCHASE OF DPW EQUIPMENT AND IMPROVEMENTS TO VARIOUS ROADS.”  Final Hearing set for February 8, 2007.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Parrott.  Upon Roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Introduction of Ordinance 2007-04:  Animal Control Amendment

Mr. Parrott moved to introduce on first reading, Ordinance 2007-04, entitled “AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND OF CHAPTER V OF THE GENERAL ORDINANCES OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WANTAGE ENTITLED “LICENSING OF DOGS”. 

Final Hearing set for February 8, 2007.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Space.

Upon Roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Approval of Minutes

Mr. Parrott moved to approve the minutes of the meetings of the Wantage governing body held on January 4, 2007 (Organization Meeting), January 4, 2007 (Regular Meeting), January 11, 2007 and January 18, 2007.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Space.  Upon Roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

OPEN PUBLIC SESSION

Mayor DeBoer opened the meeting to the public for any questions or comments.

Mr. Foley requested that the governing body consider eliminating the existing zoning ordinance that prohibits sheds in front yards.  General discussion took place regarding the merits of this suggestion.  The governing body chose to take no action to authorize a change in the ordinance.

There being no one else present wishing to speak, Mayor DeBoer closed the meeting to the public and the governing body returned to the regular order of business.

There being no other items for consideration at this time, Mr. Parrott moved to adjourn the meeting.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Space.  Upon roll call, Ayes: Parrott, DeBoer, Space. Nays: None. Absent: None. Abstain: None.

Mayor DeBoer declared this meeting to be adjourned.

________________________________
James R. Doherty, Administrator/Clerk