Source: https://ecode360.com/6352880
Timestamp: 2019-04-26 04:14:53+00:00

Document:
§ 2-27 Department of Administration established; department director.
§ 2-29 Division of Business Development.
§ 2-30 Division of Recreation.
§ 2-31 Division of Community Services.
§ 2-32 Division of Health.
§ 2-33 Division of Information Technology.
§ 2-34 Department of Finance established; department director.
§ 2-36 Division of Treasury.
§ 2-37 Division of Revenue.
§ 2-38 Department of Community Development established; department director.
§ 2-38.2 Division of Engineering and Transportation.
§ 2-38.3 Division of Uniform Construction.
§ 2-38.4 Division of Land Use.
§ 2-38.6 Division of Housing.
§ 2-43 Department of Public Works established; department head.
§ 2-45 Responsibilities of Public Works Director.
§ 2-46 Department of Public Safety established; department director.
§ 2-47 Division of Police.
§ 2-47.1 Division of Fire.
§ 2-47.2 Emergency Medical Services.
§ 2-48 Division of Emergency Management.
Each department shall be headed by a director, who shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council. Each director shall serve during the term of the Mayor appointing the director and until the appointment and qualification of a successor. The Mayor shall, with the advice and consent of the Council, appoint the Municipal Assessor and all other municipal officers not assigned within municipal departments, subject to the terms of any general law providing for these offices, unless a different appointment procedure is clearly required by this plan of government or by general law. A department director may simultaneously serve as a division manager.
Department heads shall appoint subordinate officers and employees within their respective departments and may, with approval of the Mayor, remove such officers and employees subject to the provisions of Title 11A of the New Jersey Statutes or other general law.
Devote such time as required for the purpose and efficient discharge of the duties of the respective office.
Have, exercise and discharge the functions, powers and duties of the department.
Prescribe the internal organization of the department and the duties of the subordinates and assistants, subject to approval of the Mayor.
Administer the work of the department with respect to the functions established by this chapter.
Appoint subordinate officers and employees to be employed within the department and upon the basis of a written job description and assign functions, powers and duties to them and delegate such powers as may be deemed necessary for the efficient administration of the department to be exercised by subordinate officers and employees.
Report at least annually to the Mayor and Council, in such form as may be approved by the Mayor, on the work of the department during the preceding year.
Certify the correctness and propriety of all payrolls and vouchers or provide the certification for them.
Prepare budgets and maintain proper accounts.
Appoint and hire qualified individuals for all positions, pursuant to the personnel policies of the Township.
Perform such other duties and responsibilities as directed by the Mayor or designee.
Vacancies in office of director of department. Whenever a vacancy exists for any reason in the office of a director of any Township department, the Mayor may temporarily fill such vacancy by appointing either the Mayor, as provided in the Optional Municipal Charter Law, or another officer or employee of the Township as acting director, who shall perform all the duties and functions of such department director until the office shall be filled permanently. Any such appointment of an acting director shall terminate not later than 90 days after the date of the appointment unless the Council shall by resolution authorize one or more extensions.
Appointment. The Mayor shall, with the advice and consent of the Council, appoint a Business Administrator, who shall be chosen solely on the basis of executive and administrative qualifications, with special reference to actual experience in or knowledge of the duties of the office, and who shall serve until the appointment and qualification of a successor.
Full-time position; holding of other offices. The Business Administrator shall devote full time to the duties of the office, except that nothing herein shall prevent the Business Administrator from also holding any other appointive municipal office of the Township and fulfilling the duties thereof.
Prescribe and require each department and other spending agency for which Township appropriations are made to maintain records and produce reports of their respective workload and performance, expressed in appropriate work units, which the Business Administrator may prescribe or approve for each of the departments and other spending agencies.
Develop and enforce, in cooperation with other directors, standards and procedures for the most efficient management of the Township government, not inconsistent with the Charter and ordinances of the Township.
Assist the Mayor in the preparation of the annual budget and maintain a continuing review and analysis of budget operations, work programs and costs of municipal services.
Administer a uniform centralized purchasing system program as the efficient management of the Township government may require.
Serve as chief personnel officer; develop and administer the personnel systems and all matters pertaining to personnel.
Subject to the direction of the Mayor, supervise the administration of each of the departments established by this chapter or by ordinance. For this purpose, the Business Administrator shall have power to investigate the organization and operation of any and all departments, to prescribe standards and rules of administrative practice and procedure and to consult with the heads of the departments under the Business Administrator's jurisdiction, provided that, with respect to the Department of Law, if any, or Department of Audit, Accounts or Control, if any, the authority of the Business Administrator shall extend only to matters of budgeting, personnel and purchasing.
Serve as the affirmative action officer or be authorized to designate the affirmative action officer and oversee the implementation and monitoring of the affirmative action program of the Township.
Construal of provisions. Nothing herein shall derogate from the powers and duties of the elective or appointive officials of the Township or of the boards and commissions thereof established pursuant to law or authorize the Business Administrator to exercise the powers and duties thereof.
Acting Business Administrator. Whenever and so long as there is a vacancy in the office of Business Administrator, the Mayor may serve as Acting Business Administrator without additional compensation, or the Mayor may appoint another suitable person to act as Acting Business Administrator. Any such appointment shall terminate after 90 days, unless the Council shall, by resolution, authorize one or more extensions. The Acting Business Administrator shall have all the functions, powers and duties of the Business Administrator.
The Division of Business Development shall be headed by the Manager of Business Development. The Manager of Business Development shall be qualified by training, experience and in accordance with the law.
Administering and operating indoor and outdoor athletic and recreational programs and activities for children and adults in parks, playgrounds and facilities.
Planning and promoting the immediate and long-term recreational needs of the Township.
The Division of Community Services shall be headed by the Manager of Community Services. The Director of Director of Community Services shall be qualified by training, experience and in accordance with the law.
Enforcing state and local laws and regulations related to public health.
Administering the public health programs of the Township, including public health nursing, community health education, environmental health, communicable disease control and chronic disease control.
Administering the laws relating to vital statistics and supervising the local Registrar of Vital Statistics.
Enforcing laws and ordinances providing for the prevention and control of disease and related inspections, including but not limited to the obligations of occupants and residents for the storage, collection and disposal of garbage and trash.
The Division of Information Technology shall be headed by the Manager of Information Technology. The Manager of Information Technology shall be qualified by training, experience and in accordance with the law.
There shall be a Department of Finance, the head of which shall be the Chief Financial Officer, who shall serve as Director of Finance. The Director shall be qualified by training and experience to be the head of the department, especially as set forth below. The Director shall serve during the term of office of the Mayor appointing the Director and until the appointment and qualification of a successor.
The Director of Finance shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council.
Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial Officer shall serve as the Manager of the Division of Treasury.
Receiving funds entrusted to or under the control of any department and depositing all funds received in depositories authorized by resolution of the Council within 48 hours of their receipt.
Keeping books and records of accounts for the exercise of financial budgetary control over each department, office and agency of the Township government and keeping such accounts as will show the amount of each appropriation, the cumulative amount paid therefor, and the unpaid obligations and unencumbered balance. The control function shall also include provision for an encumbrance system of budget operations, for expenditures only upon written requisition, for the pre-audit of all claims and demands against the Township prior to payment and for the control of all payments out of any public funds by individual warrants for each payment to the official having custody thereof.
Authorizing the payment of bills, claims, demands and payroll upon the proper certification of the appropriate director of the amount due and owing.
Auditing receipts and disbursements of each department and requiring reports to be made at such intervals as will most efficiently protect the public interest.
Disbursing monies for the payment of claims approved by a department director and the Business Administrator by means of checks signed by the Mayor and the Chief Financial Officer.
Tax Collector. The Tax Collector shall serve as the Manager of the Division of Revenue.
Extending each year's tax on the tax duplicate, preparing and mailing tax bills and maintaining tax accounting records in such manner as prescribed by law.
Receiving and collecting all current and delinquent real and personal property taxes, charging and receiving penalties and interest in accounting for all collections in such form and manner as may be prescribed by law.
Making or causing to be made and certifying searches for tax and other liens on any real property in the Township as may be authorized by law, and charging and collecting for the use of the Township the fee required by law for such search.
Preparing and mailing all utility bills and receiving and accounting for them in the manner provided by law.
Performing any and all other duties as the Mayor and/or Business Administrator or Chief Financial Officer shall assign.
There shall be a Department of Community Development, the head of which shall be the Director of Community Development. The Director shall be qualified by training and experience to be the head of the Department, especially as set forth below. The Director shall serve during the term of office of the Mayor appointing the Director and until the appointment and qualification of a successor.
The Director of Community Development shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council.
Division of Engineering and Transportation.
Division of Uniform Construction Code.
Editor's Note: Former Subsection D, Division of Utilities, was repealed 8-27-2009 by Ord. No. 2009-23. This ordinance also provided for the redesignation of former Subsection E as Subsection D.
Township Engineer. The Township Engineer shall serve as the Manager of the Division of Engineering and may also serve as the Director of Community Development. The Township Engineer shall be a duly licensed professional engineer of the State of New Jersey.
Working with the Director of Public Works in coordinating and planning for the maintenance and expansion of the roads of the Township and reporting annually on their status.
Preparing all plans and specifications for public works and improvements undertaken by the Township and certifying satisfactory completion of work, authorize progress payments pursuant to the contract.
Providing, maintaining and updating maps, plans, specifications, surveys and records with respect to public property, works and facilities owned and operated by the Township.
Providing engineering services to the various departments, boards or agencies of the Township, as directed by the Mayor or designee.
Issuing such certifications as may be necessary in approving all bills with respect to work performed under the Township Engineer's supervision.
Preparing maps, plans and specifications and preparing or causing to be prepared surveys and maps, including the tax maps.
Reviewing proposed preliminary and final subdivision plats and site plans for conformity with Township ordinances and advising the Planning Board as to such matters.
Inspecting and recommending acceptance of construction activities which will be dedicated as public improvements to the Township.
All papers, documents, memoranda, reports and other material relating to the administration of engineering duties of the Township Engineer shall be and remain the property of the Township. Upon termination of the Township Engineer's services with the Township, the Township Engineer shall forthwith surrender to any successor all such property.
The Division of Code Enforcement shall be headed by a Construction Code Official. The division shall also serve as the uniform construction code enforcing agency.
Uniform construction code enforcing agency. The various officials comprising the uniform construction code enforcing agency shall have such qualifications as are specified in the State Uniform Construction Code and its regulations. The powers and duties of such officials shall be as otherwise designated in Township ordinances and state law.
The division shall be responsible for building code enforcement of both preexisting and new construction.
The Division of Land Use shall be headed by the Director of Community Development. The Director of Community Development shall also be responsible for zoning enforcement and giving advice and assistance to the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Site Plan Review Advisory Board (SPRAB) and other applicable boards, bodies, commissions and committees of the Township. The powers and duties of the Director of Community Development shall be as otherwise designated in Township ordinances and state law.
Editor's Note: Former § 2-38.5, Division of Utilities, added 10-11-2007 by Ord. No. 2007-50, was repealed 8-27-2009 by Ord. No. 2009-23. See now § 2-45H.
The Division of Housing shall be headed by the Director of Community Development and shall be responsible for ensuring housing standards and property maintenance of the Township in accordance with state and local laws.
Editor's Note: Former § 2-39, Department divisions, was amended and redesignated as § 2-38.1.
Editor's Note: Former § 2-40, Division of Engineering and Transportation, was amended and redesignated as § 2-38.2.
Editor's Note: Former § 2-41, Division of Uniform Construction, was amended and redesignated as § 2-38.3.
Editor's Note: Former § 2-42, Division of Land Use, was amended and redesignated as § 2-38.4.
There shall be a Department of Public Works, the head of which shall be the Director of Public Works. The Director shall be qualified by training, experience and in accordance with the law.
The Director shall serve during the term of office of the Mayor appointing the Director and until the appointment and qualification of the successor. The Director shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council.
In accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:9-154.6, tenure shall be granted to the Director as follows. A person holding office, position or employment as full-time municipal Superintendent of Public Works who has held the office, position or employment continuously for five years or more shall continue to hold the office, position or employment, notwithstanding he or she is serving for a fixed term, during good behavior and efficiency and shall not be removed therefrom for political or other reasons except for good cause, upon written charges filed with the Municipal Clerk and after a public, fair and impartial hearing. The person may be retired when he or she shall have attained 70 years of age.
Solid waste collections, recycling collections and brush/yard waste collections.
Maintain and repair public roads of the Township.
Maintain, repair and provide public works services to the playgrounds of the Township and trim, plant and care for shade trees, public parks and greens.
Maintain Township streets and roads in a clean and safe condition for passage, free of obstructions and hazards, and remove snow and ice therefrom as required.
Operate, maintain and repair public parking areas and facilities.
Provide for the care, storage, use and disposition of motor vehicles and motorized equipment of the Township, except as otherwise directed.
Maintain and repair Township buildings and properties.
Oversee and manage the Township’s solid waste collections, recycling collections and brush/yard waste collections.
The Director of Public Works shall head the Division of Utilities and shall be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Township's sanitary sewer system in accordance with state and local laws.
There shall be a Department of Public Safety, headed by the Mayor, who shall serve as Public Safety Director.
The Police Division of the Township is hereby established with such number of subordinate police officers and sworn police positions as designated by the Mayor and authorized by the Council, as hereinafter provided. The Police Division shall be headed by a Chief of Police or ranking sworn officer in the absence of a Chief of Police, who shall be appointed by the Director of Public Safety and whose duties and responsibilities shall be those as governed by law, Township Code, where applicable, and the rules and regulations of the Township of Robbinsville Police Division. The Director of Public Safety shall serve as the appropriate authority of the Police Division.
Police officers regularly employed by the Township of Robbinsville at the time of passage of this chapter shall continue as members of the Police Division of the Township of Robbinsville.
The Division of Police shall preserve the public peace; protect life and property; detect, arrest and prosecute offenders of the laws of New Jersey and the ordinances of the Township of Robbinsville; direct and control traffic; provide assistance and protection during emergencies; provide appearances in court; cooperate with all other law enforcement agencies; and provide training for the efficiency of its members and officers.
The Division of Police shall consist of a Chief of Police, one Captain of Police, two Lieutenants of Police, seven Sergeants, not more than 25 patrolmen and not more than five probationary officers. Police matrons, traffic officers, school traffic officers and radio communications officers shall be subject to the rules of the Division but shall not be considered members of the police force within the meaning of any provision of N.J.S.A. 40A:14-118 et seq. They shall be appointed by the Public Safety Director, with the recommendation of the Chief of Police.
Be a citizen of the United States and a resident of the State of New Jersey.
Be at least 18 years of age but under the age of 35 years.
Be sound in body and of good health, sufficient to satisfy the Board of Trustees of the Police Retirement System of New Jersey that such person is eligible for membership in the retirement system.
Be able to read, write and speak the English language well and intelligently.
Be of good moral character and must not have been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude.
Serve a probationary period as set by the governing body by resolution and in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 56 of the Laws of 1961.
Possess a valid New Jersey driver's license.
Satisfactorily qualify on such examinations as the governing body may establish by resolution.
Satisfy any additional requirements that may be established by the governing body by resolution.
The Chief of Police or his designee shall establish a drug screening procedure for applicants and employees of the Robbinsville Township Police Department. The drug testing policy shall be reviewed and approved by the office of the Mercer County Prosecutor. The policy shall be adopted as part of the Police Department's Rules and Regulations and shall be amended from time to time so as to insure that applicants to the Department and the Department's sworn law enforcement personnel are drug-free.
Editor's Note: See Ch. 46, Police Department Rules and Regulations.
Applicants for the position of patrolman shall make written application to the Chief of Police and, at the same time, submit such proof as shall be requested with respect to the above qualifications.
Each full-time patrolman appointed to the Division of Police Department may pursue other employment outside of duty hours as prescribed by the Chief of Police and subject to the approval of the Township Administrator.
Be the executive head of the Division of Police, subject to the direction and supervision of the Director of Public Safety, and shall be responsible for the proper and efficient operation of the Division and the supervision of its activities.
Be responsible for the observation and enforcement of all laws of the state and ordinances within the jurisdiction of the Division and the enforcement of the rules and regulations of the Division of Police and shall perform such other duties as shall be prescribed by the Director of Public Safety and/or ordinances of the Township.
Ensure that all persons connected with the Division are properly instructed in their duties and give particular attention to the training and instruction of new members thereof.
Have under his control all records and property of the Division of Police and designate any member of the Division to prepare these reports and keep the records in such manner as he may prescribe as well as to take charge of such property and any other property coming into the custody of the Department.
Participate in the promotion and development of the rules and regulations of the Division of Police.
Develop objectives, policies and procedures of the Division of Police.
Administer programs and procedures of the Division.
Perform special assignments as Director of Public Safety directs.
Develop budget objectives for the operation of the Division of Police.
Maintain and assure that no overexpenditures occur in the Division.
Maintain all equipment assigned to the Police Department.
Recommend promotions and hires to adequately staff the Division of Police.
Develop a suitable successor and be responsible for the training of replacements at all levels within the Division.
Furnish to the Director of Public Safety complete monthly and yearly reports of Police Department matters.
Powers and duties of Department members. The rights, privileges, powers and duties of the members of the Division of Police, including temporary officers and special policemen, shall be those prescribed by the laws of the State of New Jersey governing municipal police departments generally, by the ordinances and resolutions of the Township and by such rules and regulations which may be established by the Director of Public Safety, Chief of Police and approved by the governing body.
Hours of employment. Subject to the provisions of any valid and existing bargaining agreement, each member of the Division of Police shall devote his whole time and services thereto, except as otherwise provided herein. Although certain hours will be allotted for the performance of regular tours of duty, officers are considered at all times available for duty and must act promptly at any time that their services are required, except when on authorized leave or in the event of disability.
Promotions. No member of the Division of Police shall be promoted to or hold any superior rank within the Division until he has served at least three years as an officer in the Division of Police of the Township. A promotional examination shall be given when more than one member is being considered for promotion to the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain or Chief. No promotion to Sergeant, Lieutenant, or Captain shall become final until a three-month probationary period has been served and the Chief of Police has recommended to the Director of Public Safety that the probation become permanent.
Officers with at least three years of experience with the Robbinsville Division of Police on the date the promotion is announced shall be eligible for consideration.
Eligible officers who wish to be considered shall submit to the Chief of Police, or designee, in writing, a letter of interest which outlines his or her qualifications for Sergeant and contains a C.V. or resume and the self-evaluation report set forth in the Division of Police Order No. 1.20 (a).
Thereafter, all interested officers shall participate in an oral interview to be conducted by a panel of three ranking officers of the Police Division as determined by the Chief of Police, and which panel may include the Chief. The panel shall ask the candidates the same questions, score the candidates responses and rank the officers in order of scores.
Following departmental interviews, the Police Chief, or his/her designee, shall refer the top three candidates, as determined by the Police Division interviews, to the Township Administration to be interviewed by the Director of Public Safety, the Administrator, and one other person designated by the Director of Public Safety.
Following Township Administration interviews, the Director of Public Safety shall promote the candidate deemed most qualified to the position of Sergeant.
The candidate promoted shall serve a three-month probationary period in the rank of Sergeant and shall only receive permanent appointment to the rank upon successful completion of probation. During or at the conclusion of the probationary period, the individual so promoted may be demoted to police officer by the Director of Public Safety upon recommendation of the Police Chief.
Officers with at least two years of experience as a Sergeant in the Robbinsville Division of Police on the date the promotion is announced shall be eligible for consideration.
Eligible Sergeants who wish to be considered shall submit to the Chief of Police, or the Chief's designee, in writing, a letter of interest which outlines his or her qualifications for Lieutenant and contains a C.V. or resume and the self-evaluation report set forth in the Division of Police Order No. 1.20 (b).
Thereafter, all interested officers shall participate in an oral interview by a panel of three ranking officers above the rank of Sergeant in the Police Department as determined by the Chief of Police, and which panel may include the Chief. The panel shall ask the candidates the same questions, score the candidates' responses and rank the officers in order of scores.
Following departmental interviews, the Police Chief, or his/her designee, shall refer the top two candidates, as determined by the Police Department interviews, to the Township Administration to be interviewed by the Director of Public Safety, the Administrator, and one other person designated by the Director of Public Safety.
Following Township Administration interviews, the Director of Public Safety shall promote the candidate deemed most qualified to the position of Lieutenant.
The candidate promoted shall serve a three-month probationary period in the rank of Lieutenant and shall only receive permanent appointment to the rank upon successful completion of probation. During or at the conclusion of the probationary period, the individual so promoted may be demoted to Sergeant by the Director of Public Safety upon recommendation of the Police Chief.
Officers with at least two years of experience as a Lieutenant in the Robbinsville Division of Police on the date the promotion is announced shall be eligible for consideration.
Eligible Lieutenants who wish to be considered shall submit to the Chief of Police, or the Chief's designee, in writing, a letter of interest which outlines his or her qualifications for Lieutenant and contains a C.V. or resume and the self-evaluation report set forth in the Division of Police Order No. 1.20 (b).
(c)Thereafter, all interested officers shall participate in an oral interview with the Chief of Police. The Chief shall ask the candidates the same questions, score the candidates' responses and rank the officers in order of scores.
Following Township Administration interviews, the Director of Public Safety shall promote the candidate deemed most qualified to the position of Captain.
The candidate promoted shall serve a three-month probationary period in the rank of Captain and shall only receive permanent appointment to the rank upon successful completion of probation. During or at the conclusion of the probationary period, the individual so promoted may be demoted to Lieutenant by the Director of Public Safety upon recommendation of the Police Chief.
Officers in the rank of Captain or Lieutenant of Police in the Robbinsville Division of Police and who have served at least one year in the rank of Captain or Lieutenant shall be eligible to test for the position of Chief.
Eligible officers who wish to be considered for the position of Chief of Police shall be subject to an examination by oral interview conducted by Township Administration consisting of a panel of five members empaneled by the Director of Public Safety. The Township Administration interview panel shall consist of the Director of Public Safety, the Township Administrator, and Council President, at least one Chief of Police from another New Jersey municipality and another member designated by the Director of Public Safety, such as the Township Attorney, the Township Labor Attorney, or any other person deemed appropriate by the Director.
Following the completion of the examination process, the Director of Public Safety shall promote the candidate deemed most qualified to the position of Chief of Police.
The candidate promoted shall serve a three-month probationary period in the rank of Chief and shall only receive permanent appointment to the rank upon successful completion of probation. During or at the conclusion of the probationary period, the individual so promoted may be demoted to the rank of Lieutenant based on unsatisfactory performance as determined by the Director of Public Safety.
Any promotional policies of the Police Department inconsistent with this subsection are repealed effective upon passage of this subsection.
Uniforms and badges. The members of the Division of Police, when on duty, shall wear such uniforms and equipment as shall be prescribed by the Director of Public Safety, or his designee, and shall at all times present a neat, clean and respectable appearance. This provision shall also apply to court appearances while on duty. The clothes and equipment shall at all times be the property of the Township of Robbinsville and, upon ceasing of service, shall be immediately returned to the office of the Division of Police.
Violate any criminal law of the United States or of the State of New Jersey or any ordinance of the Township.
Conduct himself in a manner unbecoming a police officer and a gentleman.
Conduct himself in a manner subversive to good order and discipline of the Division of Police.
Conduct himself in a manner disrespectful to a superior.
Absent himself from his post of duty without having obtained prior leave from his superior officer, except in case of emergency.
Absent himself from the Township, except when he should be off duty or on vacation, without having obtained prior leave from the Chief; provided, however, that this regulation shall apply to special police officers only while assigned to active duty.
Refuse to perform any of the duties of his office or evade the performance of such duties or any of them, whether on patrol or otherwise, and whether or not in uniform; provided, however, that this regulation shall apply to special police officers only while assigned to active duty.
Contract any debts or other financial obligations without reasonable expectation of being able to pay or discharge the same when due.
Hold any political office or be a candidate for such office or engage in any other form of political activity.
The Director of Public Safety may appoint special law enforcement officers for a term not exceeding one year and revoke such appointments without cause or hearing. Such special law enforcement officers shall carry out their duties and responsibilities under the direct supervision of the Chief of Police, and their powers, rights and duties shall be specifically defined by the Chief of Police. The powers, rights and duties shall immediately cease at the expiration of the term for which such special law enforcement officers were appointed or on revocation of their appointment. Special law enforcement officers shall not carry revolvers or other weapons at any time, except as otherwise directed by the Chief of Police and having completed the requirements as required by law.
No person shall be appointed a special law enforcement officer unless he is a citizen of the United States, is able to read, write and speak the English language, is physically qualified, of good moral character and shall not have been convicted of any crime. Each special law enforcement officer shall be fingerprinted, and his fingerprints shall be filed with the Division of State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Reports shall be made by the Chief of Police to the governing body concerning the eligibility and qualifications of any person proposed to be appointed a special law enforcement officer.
Departmental rules and regulations. The Director of Public Safety shall establish and may amend and repeal such rules and regulations as he may deem necessary for the government and efficient working of the entire Division. The rules and regulations, when adopted, amended or repealed, shall be posted by the Chief of Police in facilities assigned to the Division of Police for headquarters purposes and a copy delivered to each member of the Division within five days after their adoption, amendment or repeal.
Discipline against police officers; hearing.
The Police Department shall comply with all current guidelines and directives as issued by the Attorney General of the State of New Jersey and Prosecutor of Mercer County for all Internal Affairs activities.
All complaints alleging the misconduct of any police officer in the Division of Police shall be forwarded to the Chief of Police, or the officer in charge, for investigation by internal affairs. All complaints of officer misconduct will be accepted, whether by phone, in person or anonymously. The public is encouraged to report the complaint in writing; however, all complaints will be investigated.
Investigation; service of charges; hearing officer.
In any investigation of a permanent police officer that results in a finding of sustained resulting in disciplinary charges, which charges seek to suspend a permanent police officer for more than five days, demote, or terminate a permanent police officer for violation of N.J.S.A. 40A:14-147 or violation of the internal rules and regulations of the Division of Police, and where the police officer requests a hearing, the appropriate authority, or his/her designee, shall sit as hearing officer for the Township. If the police officer requests a hearing, the hearing shall be held no sooner than 10 days nor later than 30 days after service of the charges, unless the time period is waived by the officer and the Township.
The written charges shall be served on the police officer and the appropriate authority. The appropriate authority or his/her designee shall have the power to suspend, without pay, a police officer so charged upon recommendation of the Chief of Police, or the officer in charge, pending a determination of such charges.
In the event the appropriate authority does not act as hearing officer, the appropriate authority may designate and appoint another to act as hearing officer. The hearing officer designated to hear the disciplinary matter shall, at the conclusion of the hearing, forward his/her findings and recommendations to the appropriate authority, who shall make the final determination. The appropriate authority's decision shall be reviewable as provided by law, as amended from time to time.
The Chief of Police, or the officer in charge, shall have the authority to counsel police officers and issue reprimands without the matter coming before the appropriate authority.
The Chief of Police, or the officer in charge, with the approval of the appropriate authority, may suspend an officer for five days or less, without the need of holding a hearing before the appropriate authority. Any proposed suspension of five days or less of a permanent police officer must comply with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-147 and provide the officer with an opportunity for a hearing before the Chief or his designee prior to imposition of the penalty. Officers who are suspended for five days or less may appeal the suspension in accordance with the grievance procedure in the PBA collective bargaining agreement.
The appropriate authority may approve any recommendation of the Chief of Police, or the officer in charge, to resolve any disciplinary matter with the police officer.
All disciplinary proceedings against police officers shall comply with applicable laws and regulations.
Private duty assignment/rate for extra duty. The rate charged by the Township of Robbinsville for quasi-duty performed by officers of the Division of Police within the geographical limits of the Township of Robbinsville shall be in accordance with the collective negotiations bargaining agreement between the Township and PBA Local 344, a copy of which is on file in the Municipal Clerk's office.
Division of Fire established; appointed officers.
Within the Department of Public Safety there shall be a Division of Fire. Any and all functions, duties or responsibilities which are assigned to the Director of Public Safety by this Code shall be assigned to the Mayor. The Mayor shall supervise the Division of Fire.
The Division of Fire shall consist of any and all Career Firefighters/Emergency Medical Technicians, Career Emergency Medical Technicians, Fire Official and/or Inspectors, and civilian employees of the Township together with any Volunteer Firefighters operating within the Division of Fire. The personnel of the Career Firefighters/Emergency Medical Technicians, Career Emergency Medical Technicians, Fire Official and/or Inspectors, civilian employees, and such Volunteer Firefighters shall constitute the Division of Fire of the Township.
The head of the Division of Fire shall be the Chief of the Division of Fire, who shall be appointed by the Director of Public Safety. The Chief of the Division of Fire shall be the executive officer responsible for all administrative and operational aspects of the Division of Fire, in charge thereof, and shall be responsible to and under the supervision of the Director of Public Safety. The Chief of the Division of Fire, or the Chief's designee, as determined by the Director of Public Safety, shall also perform the duties of Fire Marshal and/or Fire Official as prescribed by any ordinance or law.
The Deputy Chief shall be appointed by the Director of Public Safety. In the absence of a Chief, the Deputy Chief shall be second in authority. The Deputy Chief shall perform the duties of the Chief, in the absence of a Chief, and shall be responsible to and under the supervision of the Director of Public Safety. The Deputy Chief of the Division of Fire shall be the secondary executive officer responsible for all administrative and operational aspects of the Division of Fire. The Deputy Chief shall be equally responsible for the performance of all duties and responsibilities outlined and specified in Subsection C(2)(a), regarding the duties and responsibilities of the Fire Chief/Deputy Chief.
Cooperate with other departments in time of need or emergency.
Personnel of the Division of Fire - Career.
Career personnel in the Division of Fire of the Township shall consist of the Fire Chief of the career Fire Department and such number of Deputy Chiefs, Captains, Firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians, Fire Officials and/or Fire Inspectors, and civilian employees as shall be determined to be needed by the Director of Public Safety. The positions of Fire Chief and Deputy Chief shall be appointed by the Director of Public Safety.
Provide for performance evaluations of all Department employees.
When using discipline, comply strictly with the provisions of the Division disciplinary process.
Perform all related work as required.
Career Firefighter; entry level criteria.
Applicant must be a citizen of the United States and resident of the State of New Jersey.
Applicants must be eligible for enrollment in the New Jersey Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS). Applicant's age must not be less than 18 or one day past their 35th birthday as of the official date of hire. Once an applicant has met the definition of "veteran" for pension purposes, certain periods of military service may be used as an exception to the age requirement. Certain periods of military service may be used on a one-for-one basis to "reduce" one's age for hire. Criteria for this exception are subject to current guidelines specified by the New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits. NOTE: Age limitation does not apply to those who are already members of the Police and Fire Retirement System of New Jersey.
One year prior experience as a Firefighter.
New Jersey State Fire Fighter 1.
Applicants are required to possess a current and valid Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification issued by the New Jersey Department of Health with a valid CPR certification.
Basic Incident Command System I-200 and/or Incident Management Level 1.
Applicant must possess a valid New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission driver's license at the time of appointment.
Applicant must have a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma and be able to read, write and speak the English language well and intelligently.
Applicant must be of good moral character; never convicted of any criminal offense involving moral turpitude, an offense involving dishonesty, or a crime of the third degree or above.
Applicant should be medically fit and sound, exhibiting no physical impairment which would render the applicant incapable of performing the duties of a firefighter. Applicant must have normal hearing, be able to distinguish colors accurately and have 20/30 corrected vision.
Applicant must pass the prescribed examinations of written, physical performance, driving, oral, medical, and psychology.
Interviews of family, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances.
Forcible entry. Possess knowledge of the tools and be able to make entry to an occupancy with the proper tool in a reasonable amount of time.
Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Shall be physically, medically and mentally capable to don self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) in a prescribed time and perform firefighting duties with full turnout gear.
First aid. Shall be able to perform Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) duties as prescribed by the Division, with an appropriate level of training, and gain and maintain certification as determined by the Division.
Ropes. Shall have knowledge of the proper care and use of Division rope, equipment, and knots.
Salvage. Shall know proper equipment to utilize and, under proper conditions, to protect personal property.
Hose, nozzles, appliances. Shall have basic understanding of the use, choice, maintenance, testing and repair and perform basic evolutions on the fire ground in advancing hose lines.
Ladders. Shall be able to choose, place, maintain, ascend, and descend the appropriate ladder.
Ventilation. Shall be aware of situations and methods of ventilation used by the Division and perform such functions.
Inspection. Shall possess a common knowledge of hazardous conditions related to various occupancies and perform public presentations.
Rescue. Shall be able to use safe and proper procedures to affect a rescue of a victim in various situations.
Sprinklers. Shall possess a basic knowledge in the types, parts, and use.
Safety. Shall have the utmost concern for safe Division operations on the fire ground, in station, driving, and be able to identify such conditions and remedy.
Fire behavior. Shall have a basic knowledge of fire chemistry, behavior, and dynamics.
Personal conduct. Shall be able to work with others and superior officers, take and perform orders, and function in a team effort.
Notification. The hiring process will begin by a notification to all Robbinsville Township employees and volunteers through notices posted in all fire stations, Township buildings, and notification in the public newspapers stating that the Division of Fire is establishing a list for the purpose of hiring entry-level Firefighters/Emergency Medical Technicians. The notification will list qualifications required for the position and application information.
Each applicant's fingerprints will be taken and submitted to the State of New Jersey and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to determine the possible existence of a criminal record by the applicant.
Any other area that might affect the applicant's performance as a member of the Division of Fire.
Written examination (30%). A written examination will be administered by the Division of Fire consisting of multiple choice questions which will minimally evaluate reading ability, mathematical reasoning, map reading, writing ability, human relations, and reasoning skills as they pertain to fire department operations. The test will be secured at all times and administered by the Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, or officer designated. A minimum score of 70% must be attained in order to qualify for the remainder of the testing process. Additionally, the process will be limited to the top 50 scoring candidates (additional candidates will be added in the case of tie scores) who minimally achieve a written examination score of 70%. To qualify for the remainder of the testing process, candidates must be within the top 50 applicants with a minimum score of 70%. Grading of the written examination may be conducted by Division of Fire personnel or by the examination provider. No explanation of answers deemed to be incorrect shall be provided.
Physical performance examination (30%). The applicant, given the proper equipment, will complete a prescribed obstacle course while being timed. The physical performance examination will measure the degree of physical fitness, with emphasis placed on physical strength, endurance, and speed. The obstacle course shall consist of a single, continuous, nonstop series of physical activities. The final score will be determined by total elapsed time taken to complete the obstacle course within a set period of time. To qualify for the remainder of the testing process, candidates must complete the physical performance examination within a set period of time. Failure to complete the physical performance examination within the prescribed time limit will result in the applicant being deemed ineligible to complete the testing process.
Driving examination (30%). The applicant shall perform a driving examination utilizing fire apparatus in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1002, Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications. Applicant will be graded on his/her ability to complete the specified test consisting of an alley dock exercise, serpentine exercise, confined space turnaround, and diminishing clearance exercise. All applicants will begin with a driving score of 100% with points deducted for struck cones or performance outside of stated tolerances. A minimum score of 70% must be attained in order to qualify for the remainder of the testing process.
Each candidate will be required to appear before an oral board. The board will consist of the Fire Chief or Deputy Chief, two Fire Captains, and the Township Business Administrator or the Mayor (and/or) designees. The oral board cannot be held without the presence of one Chief Officer, that being the Fire Chief or Deputy Chief.
The oral board will ask each candidate the same questions formulated by the board members. The board will prepare a series of questions to be posed to each applicant. The board members will be permitted to ask questions concerning the fire service and problems and qualities that may be encountered by or desired in fire service personnel. Personal background or questions related to experience may also be asked.
Each applicant will be scored by each member of the board in numerical format. The numerical format will be assigned a percentage. There will be no failing score for the oral portion of the testing procedure.
After completion of all phases of the testing set forth in Subsection D(6)(a), each applicant will be ranked according to their compiled score. The final ranking will be completed by tallying scores obtained during the written examination, physical performance examination, driving examination, and oral board. The applicants will be ranked numerically.
Following completion of a successful background check as described in Subsection D(5) and final ranking as described in Subsection D(7)(a), a conditional offer of employment will be made to the top candidate(s). Individuals who receive a conditional offer of employment will be sent for a medical/physical examination, which will include a drug/alcohol screen and a psychological examination. The conditional offer of employment will be withdrawn if the individual fails the medical/physical examination, tests positive for alcohol or drugs, or fails the psychological examination.
In the event that the individual fails the examinations, the Township may make a conditional offer of employment to the next candidate from the list, who will be required to pass the examinations. This procedure will be repeated until a qualified candidate is obtained or the last ranking applicant has been sent.
Candidates may be permitted to defer an offer of employment and remain on the current hiring list for future consideration. A candidate may defer on one occasion. Any candidate who fails to accept an offer of employment after deferring once will be permanently removed from any/all hiring lists.
The list will be in effect for three years from the date of completion of the testing procedure. The list may be extended for one additional year if the Township Administrator deems it in the best interest of the Township. No list shall be valid for more than four years. Applicants will be hired from this list based on their final ranking and successful completion of all examinations set forth in Subsection D(7)(b).
Career Emergency Medical Technician (EMT); entry level criteria.
Applicant must be 18 years of age, a citizen of the United States, and resident of the State of New Jersey.
Applicants must be eligible for enrollment in the New Jersey Public Employees Retirement System (PERS).
Two years as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in a 9-1-1 system (nontransport).
Applicant should be medically fit and sound, exhibiting no physical impairment which would render the applicant incapable of performing the duties of an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Applicant must have normal hearing, be able to distinguish colors accurately and have 20/30 corrected vision.
Applicant must pass the prescribed examinations of skills, physical ability, oral, medical, and psychology.
Knowledge of principles of emergency medical and first aid treatment.
Knowledge of the techniques used to administer pulmonary and cardiac resuscitation.
Knowledge of the techniques used to administer oxygen.
Knowledge of appropriate emergency treatment depending on the patient's condition.
Ability to remain calm in an emergency situation.
Ability to establish rapport with the patient.
Ability to drive an ambulance with caution.
Ability to work harmoniously with others.
Ability to determine the nature and extent of injury and provide emergency medical treatment.
Ability to administer first aid, CPR and other emergency medical care.
Ability to prioritize emergency medical treatment needs.
Ability to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of the position.
Safety. Shall have the utmost concern for safe Division operations on incident scenes, in station, driving, and be able to identify such conditions and remedy.
Notification. The hiring process will begin by a notification to all Robbinsville Township employees and volunteers through notices posted in all fire stations, Township buildings, and notification in the public newspapers stating that the Division of Fire is establishing a list for the purpose of hiring entry-level Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). The notification will list qualifications required for the position and application information.
Skills scenario examination (40%). A skills scenario examination will be administered by the Division of Fire consisting of skills evaluations to assess basic emergency medical knowledge and abilities. The evaluation will be overseen by the Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, or officer designated. A minimum evaluation score of 70% must be attained in order to qualify for the remainder of the testing process. Additionally, the process will be limited to the top 50 scoring candidates (additional candidates will be added in the case of tie scores) who minimally achieve a skills scenario examination score of 70%. To qualify for the remainder of the testing process, candidates must be within the top 50 applicants with a minimum score of 70%. Grading of the skills scenario examination will be conducted by Division of Fire personnel. No explanation of answers deemed to be incorrect shall be provided.
Physical ability examination (40%). The applicant, given the proper equipment, will complete a prescribed obstacle course while being timed. The physical performance examination will measure the degree of physical fitness, with emphasis placed on physical strength, endurance, and lifting abilities required of an Emergency Medical Technician. The obstacle course shall consist of a single, continuous, nonstop series of physical activities. The final score will be determined by total elapsed time taken to complete the obstacle course within a set period of time. To qualify for the remainder of the testing process, candidates must complete the physical performance examination within the prescribed allowable time. Failure to complete the physical ability examination within the prescribed time limit will result in the applicant being deemed ineligible to complete the testing process.
The oral board will ask each candidate the same questions formulated by the board members. The board will prepare a series of questions to be posed to each applicant. The board members will be permitted to ask questions concerning emergency/medical service and problems and qualities that may be encountered by or desired in emergency service personnel. Personal background or questions related to experience may also be asked.
After completion of all phases of the testing set forth in Subsection E(6)(a), each applicant will be ranked according to their compiled score. The final ranking will be completed by tallying scores obtained during the skills scenario examination, physical ability examination, and oral board. The applicants will be ranked numerically.
Following completion of a successful background check as described in Subsection E(5) and final ranking as described in Subsection E(7)(a), a conditional offer of employment will be made to the top candidate(s). Individuals who receive a conditional offer of employment will be sent for a medical/physical examination, which will include a drug/alcohol screen and a psychological examination. The conditional offer of employment will be withdrawn if the individual fails the medical/physical examination, tests positive for alcohol or drugs, or fails the psychological examination.
The list will be in effect for three years from the date of completion of the testing procedure. The list may be extended for one additional year if the Township Administrator deems it in the best interest of the Township. No list shall be valid for more than four years. Applicants will be hired from this list based on their final ranking and successful completion of all examinations set forth in Subsection E(7)(b).
Due to staffing considerations there may be required a certain number of per-diem Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). Per-diem employees will be selected from the current hiring list based on ranking. Per-diem employees who continue to meet all necessary requirements as stated and meet all performance expectations while employed as a per-diem will be given priority consideration when/if appropriate during the selection of full-time Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). Current per-diem Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) who continue to meet all necessary requirements and performance expectations will be placed at the top of any new/subsequent hiring list in order of their current list ranking.
The title of the position that is open.
The date that the promotion appointment is to be anticipated.
The educational, experiential and other substantive criteria that the employer intends to utilize in determining qualifications for such promotion.
The general weight the employer will attribute to each substantive criteria to be utilized.
The name of any courses, study guides, bibliographies, etc., that are required for such promotional consideration.
The duration of the promotional list, up to a maximum of two years.
Any notice of a promotional opportunity shall be made sufficiently in advance of the promotional appointment so as to enable equal opportunity by all employees to meet the specified substantive criteria where such criteria requires completion of course work, study guides or submission documents. In no event shall such notice be less than 30 days prior to any such appointment being made.
Criteria for promotion to Captain.
Candidate must have three years' service, employed by the Robbinsville Township Division of Fire as a Firefighter.
Candidate must possess a valid Fire Instructor Level 1 certification.
The Township will use a standardized written test obtained from an outside agency.
The passing grade for the written test shall be determined utilizing the recommendation of the standardized written test provider.
A promotional list, ranked in order of highest scores, will be created based on those candidates who pass the written test.
The promotional list will expire two years after the list is created.
The number one candidate on the list will immediately become acting officer on any shift whenever there is a vacancy created by long-term leave, i.e., long-term sick leave, disability, workman's compensation leave, leave of absence or military leave, greater than three consecutive tours.
A complete personnel file review of the top three candidates on the promotional list will be conducted and evaluated by the Fire Chief and two Township officials designated by the Mayor. A candidate's record of training, education, performance appraisals, commendations and disciplinary record, as reflected in the personnel file, will be considered. The Township may also, but is not required to, interview the top three candidates on the promotional list. If an interview is conducted, the candidates will receive advance notice of the topics which may be covered in the interview.
An interview/oral board is to consist of the Fire Chief and/or Deputy Chief and two Township officials. Candidates shall be interviewed as to their knowledge of the Division of Fire standard operating procedures, the Incident Command System, equipment and practices, and knowledge related to the fire service. Candidates shall also be interviewed on operations, safety, and fundamental leadership issues/techniques/abilities.
A working knowledge of Division systems, equipment, practices, guidelines, procedures and local geography may be evaluated. Performance and knowledge related to administrative tasks may also be similarly evaluated as they relate to the position.
Eligible candidates will also be judged on their fitness and ability, based on information set forth in the personnel files of each candidate. The information reviewed shall consist of the following and be accounted for in the oral board evaluation.
Industrial entrapment and impalement emergencies (man vs. machine).
The Township reserves the right to promote any one of the top three candidates on the promotional list. The candidate shall be chosen by the Fire Chief and the two Township officials designated by the Mayor. The decision of whom to recommend for promotion shall be unanimous. When all factors are equal, promotions shall be made given weight to seniority as the determining factor.
The Township has the right to determine all permanent assignments based upon such criteria as it deems appropriate, including but not limited to education, experience, training, and background skills.
The list will be in force for two years from the date it is certified. A new list shall be prepared and certified within 60 days of the expiration of the promotional list.
Violation of any Division of Fire rules and regulations, departmental policy and procedure or violation of any state or federal statute occurring after the promotional list is certified may result in the candidate being removed from the promotional list or having his or her position lowered on the list.
Any changes in the status of a candidate on this list will be at the ultimate discretion of the Director of Public Safety.
All promotional lists established by this section shall be posted in a time and manner prescribed by appropriate collective bargaining agreements.
Criteria for the position of Fire Official/Inspector.
The position of Fire Official/Inspector shall first be offered to current Division of Fire staff wishing to transfer to the position of Fire Official/Inspector. The applicant must have a minimum of three years' service with the Division of Fire as a Firefighter and possess a valid certification as a New Jersey Uniform Fire Code Official. Additional licenses/certifications, such as Fire Subcode Official and Fire Investigation are not required, but will be considered during the hiring phase.
The position of Fire Official/Inspector shall be posted internally for a period of 10 days. All internal qualified applicants must state their intent to the Fire Chief and/or Deputy Chief in writing and will be provided an interview. No ranked list will be established with this process. The interview will include the Fire Chief and/or Deputy Chief, two Fire Captains, and the Township Business Administrator or the Mayor (and/or) designees. Candidates shall be interviewed as to their knowledge of Robbinsville Township, the Division of Fire, fire prevention, and fire code related matters. Education and training will also be measured and considered during this phase. The final disposition of candidates shall be determined by the interview board.
Under direction administers and directs the enforcement of provisions of relevant fire safety codes and related regulations.
Establishes day-to-day operating routines of the code enforcement agency and performs all tasks associated with the operation of said agency.
Inspects or directs the inspection of various structures and premises for the purpose of ascertaining and causing to be corrected any conditions liable to cause fire, contribute to the spread of fire, interfere with fire operations, endanger life, or for any violations of the provisions or intent of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code or any other law, rules, or regulations affecting firesafety.
Investigates or causes to be investigated every reported fire or explosion occurring within the jurisdiction that involves loss of life or injury or causes destruction or damage to property.
If it appears that such an occurrence is of suspicious nature, takes charge immediately of physical evidence, and to preserve any physical evidence relating to the cause or origin of such fire or explosion, takes the steps necessary to prevent access by any person or persons to such building, structure, or premises until such persons designated by law to pursue investigations into such matters become involved, and cooperates with such authorities in the collection of evidence and prosecution of the case.
Keeps a record of all reported fires in life hazard use structures and all facts concerning same including investigation findings and information as to the cause, origin, and extent of such fires and the deaths, injuries, and damage caused thereby.
Directs public information and education programs designed to improve firesafety measures in the home, office buildings, industrial and commercial structures, and other locations.
Performs firefighting duties as directed.
The Fire Official/Inspector must possess and maintain all certifications as are minimally required for the position of Firefighter in addition to requirements for the position of Fire Official/Inspector. An existing Captain may be considered for the position in certain situations. The Fire Official/Inspector will remain eligible for the promotional process for the position of Captain, pending all criteria are met for eligibility, and maintain departmental seniority. The Fire Official/Inspector will remain enrolled in the New Jersey State Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS).
The Fire Chief and/or Deputy Chief will forward to the Director of Public Safety the information regarding the chosen applicant for review.
Personnel of the Division of Fire - Volunteer.
For the purpose of efficient firefighting response, there shall be accepted within the Division of Fire volunteer personnel overseen by the Fire Chief and/or Deputy Chief.
The Division of Fire shall accept volunteer personnel to assist with firefighting operations within the Division. Such volunteers shall be subject to an application process including an interview conducted by the Fire Chief/Deputy Chief, a background investigation, a medical physical examination, and a physical performance evaluation. The background investigation and medical physical examination shall be the same as conducted for career personnel.
All volunteer applicants must be 18 years of age, a citizen of the United States, and a resident of Robbinsville Township at the time of application. Proof of residency shall be required during the application process. Volunteer personnel are required to maintain Robbinsville Township residency for a period of 12 months after acceptance as a Division of Fire volunteer. Volunteer personnel who fail to maintain such residency will be removed from the Division of Fire.
Applicant should be medically fit and sound, exhibiting no physical impairment which would render the applicant incapable of performing the duties of a Firefighter. Applicants will be required to perform and successfully complete a physical performance evaluation organized by the Division of Fire to evaluate basic physical fitness. Applicant must have normal hearing, be able to distinguish colors accurately and have 20/30 corrected vision.
The volunteer applicant, given the proper equipment, will complete a prescribed obstacle course while being timed. The physical performance evaluation will measure the degree of physical fitness, with emphasis placed on physical strength, endurance, and speed. The obstacle course shall consist of a single, continuous, nonstop series of physical activities. Volunteer applicants must complete the physical performance evaluation within a set period of time. Failure to complete the physical performance evaluation within the prescribed time limit will result in the applicant being deemed ineligible.
Prospective volunteer personnel are not required to possess any specific fire-related training upon application. Training will be provided by the Division of Fire and/or applicable training academy upon successful completion of the application process which includes an interview, a background check, a medical physical examination, and a physical performance evaluation.
Inactive member: a legacy member of the former Washington Volunteer Firemen, Inc., who, at the time of consolidation, participated in nonactive firefighting activities of the organization. Inactive members of the organization who were in existence at the time of consolidation may continue their service within the Division of Fire. No additional inactive members will be accepted within the Division of Fire under the current organizational structure.
Volunteer firefighters shall serve under the supervision of the Fire Chief and/or Deputy Chief and shall be responsible for compliance with all laws, ordinances, rules, guidelines, and regulations related to the Division of Fire.
Robbinsville Township Emergency Medical Services shall operate under the purview of the Division of Fire and the Chief/Deputy Chief of the Division of Fire. Any and all functions, duties, and responsibilities which are assigned to the Director of Public Safety by this code shall be assigned to the Mayor. The Mayor shall supervise the Division of Fire and all functions of Emergency Medical Services. The objective of Emergency Medical Services is to provide for the protection/preservation of life by providing emergent lifesaving response and medical care.
A fee of $750, plus $15 per laden mile calculated one way; $25 for a disposable cervical collar; $75 for oxygen administration; $100 for automatic external defibrillator pads (AED), and $75 for each additional device utilized shall be charged to all persons receiving emergency medical services or ambulance transport services.
Light rescue. Batteries, fluid, stabilization, opening or removing doors to provide access. This entails operations such as stabilization, use of hand tools, hazard control, and other scene-related light rescue operations: $500.
Heavy rescue. This entails operations that include any technical rescue procedures, including without limitation water and ice rescue, rope rescue, confined space rescue, high-angle rescue, trench rescue or structural collapse rescue. This also includes motor vehicle rescue that requires that use of power tools and/or hydraulic tools to perform operations such as partial or full roof removal, front/dash displacement, third door access and separating vehicles from one another: $1,000.
These charges shall be billed to the insurance company of the resident or party receiving assistance. The rates set herein shall be reviewed annually by the Director of Public Safety, Township Administrator, Chief of Police, and the Chief of the Division of Fire of the Township of Robbinsville. The Director of Public Safety in consultation with the Administrator may thereafter recommend to the Township Council that the rate schedule be altered by resolution of the Township Council to reflect the appropriate increase or decrease, as the case may be. The Director of Public Safety may grant relief from these billings on a case-by-case basis based on hardship.
It is the intent and purpose of this section to establish an Emergency Management Council that will ensure the complete and efficient utilization of all of the Township's facilities to combat disaster resulting from major emergencies, natural, man-made or nuclear disasters, or enemy attack.
The Robbinsville Township Emergency Management Council shall be the coordinating agency for all activity in connection with emergency management. It shall be the instrument through which the Mayor may exercise the authority and discharge the responsibilities vested in him in the New Jersey Civil Defense Act of 1942 (P.L. 1942, as amended and supplemented) and this chapter.
This chapter will not relieve any Township department of the responsibilities of authority given to it in this Administrative Code or by local ordinances, nor will it adversely affect the work of any volunteer agency organized for relief in disaster emergencies.
The Coordinator of the Township of Robbinsville Office of Emergency Management appointed as prescribed in this chapter.
The person or persons appointed by the Public Safety Director to directly assist the Emergency Management Coordinator in the performance of his/her duties.
An unusual incident resulting from natural or unnatural causes which endangers the health, safety or resources of the residents of this Township and which is or may become too large in scope or unusual in type to be handled in its entirety by regular Township operating services.
Includes "disaster" and "war emergency" as defined in this section.
The employees, equipment and Township facilities of all departments and commissions and, in addition, it shall include all volunteer personnel, equipment and facilities contributed by or obtained from volunteer persons or agencies.
Any person duly registered, identified and appointed by the Coordinator of the Office of Emergency Management and assigned to participate in the emergency management activity.
Includes any disaster or the imminence thereof, resulting from natural or man-made causes, other than enemy attack, and limited to the extent that action by the Governor under the New Jersey Emergency Management Disaster Control Act is not required.
Includes plans, programs, and other emergency procedures deemed essential to civil defense.
Contributing a service, equipment or facilities to the emergency management organization without remuneration.
Includes any disaster occurring anywhere within the Township as the result of enemy attack or the imminent danger thereof.
The Public Safety Director shall appoint not more than 15 members to an Emergency Management Council. Members shall hold office at the will and pleasure of the Public Safety Director. The Emergency Management Coordinator shall be a member and shall serve as Chair of the Emergency Management Council. The Emergency Management Council shall assist the Township in establishing the various types of local volunteer support needed to meet the requirements of all emergency management and disaster control activities in accordance with rules and regulations established by the Governor in pursuance of the provisions of P.L. 1942, c. 251, as amended (N.J.S.A. A:9-41 et seq.), and this chapter.
The Public Safety Director shall appoint an Emergency Management Coordinator who shall be a person well-versed and trained in planning operations involving the activities of many different departments, agencies, boards and commissions, public, private and volunteer, which will operate to protect the public health, safety and welfare in the event of danger from emergencies as defined in this chapter.
The Coordinator is hereby authorized and directed to create an organization for emergency management, utilizing to the fullest extent the existing departments, agencies, boards and commissions, both public and private, within the Township. The Coordinator, as executive head of the Township of Robbinsville Emergency Management Council, shall be responsible for its organization, administration and operations.
A Division of Emergency Management. The Public Safety Director shall appoint an executive head of the Office of Emergency Management, who shall be known as the Coordinator of the Office of Emergency Management, and such assistants and other employees as are deemed necessary for the proper functioning of the organization. On some occasions the Coordinator may be referred to as the Director, Office of Emergency Management.
The employees, equipment and facilities of all Township departments, agencies, boards and commissions, both public and private, shall participate in emergency management activity when requested.
Volunteer persons, departments and agencies offering service to and accepted by the Township.
The Coordinator shall designate and appoint, with the approval of the Mayor, a Deputy Coordinator(s) to assume the emergency duties of the Coordinator in the event of his/her absence or inability to act, the intent being that there shall always be a coordinator in charge of emergency management operations.
Coordinating the recruitment of volunteer personnel and agencies to augment the personnel and facilities of the Township for emergency purposes. The Coordinator may require emergency services of any Township officer or employee. If regular forces are deemed to be inadequate, the Coordinator may require the services of such other personnel as he can obtain that are available, including citizen volunteers. All duly authorized persons rendering emergency services shall be entitled to the privileges and immunities as are provided by state law and ordinances for regular Township employees and other registered and identified emergency management workers.
In the event of an emergency, the Coordinator may obtain vital supplies, equipment and other properties found lacking and needed for the protection of health, life and property of the people and bind the Township for the fair value thereof.
In the event of any emergency, the Coordinator may negotiate and conclude agreements with owners or persons in control of buildings or other property for the use of such buildings or other property for emergency management purposes.
The Coordinator will cause to be prepared the basic plan herein referred to as the "Robbinsville Township Management Basic Plan."
Development and coordination of plans for the immediate use of all the facilities, equipment, manpower and other resources of the Township for the purpose of minimizing or preventing damage to persons and property and protecting and restoring to usefulness the governmental services and public utilities necessary for the public health, safety and welfare.
Through public information programs, educating the civilian population as to actions necessary and required for the protection of persons and their property in case of emergency as defined herein, either impending or present.
Conducting public practice alerts to ensure the efficient operation of the emergency management forces and to familiarize residents with regulations, procedures and operation.
The Coordinator, with the approval of the Mayor, shall order emergency management forces to the aid of other communities when required, only in accordance with the state statutes, and he may request the state, county or other political subdivisions of the state to send aid to the Township of Robbinsville in case of disaster when conditions in the Township are beyond the control of the local emergency management organization and/or resources.
Assuming such authority and conducting such activity as the Township Mayor may direct to promote and execute the emergency management plan.
The Coordinator shall be the Chair of the Emergency Management Council.
The Coordinator may exercise the emergency power and authority necessary to fulfill his general powers and duties as defined in this chapter. The judgment of the Coordinator shall be the sole criteria necessary to invoke emergency powers indicated in this chapter and in appropriate state and federal statutes. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as abridging the power or restrictions of the Public Safety Director, Mayor or governing body as defined in Township ordinances.
Regulations prohibiting or restricting the movement of vehicles in order to facilitate the mass movement of people from critical areas within or without the Township.
Regulations pertaining to the movement of persons from areas deemed to be hazardous or vulnerable to disaster.
Such other regulations necessary to preserve public peace, health and safety.
Regulations promulgated in accordance with the authority above will be given widespread circulation by proclamation published and uttered by newspaper and radio. These regulations will have the force of ordinance when duly filed with the Clerk, and violations will be subject to the penalties set forth in this section.
A comprehensive emergency management basic plan shall be maintained by the Coordinator. In the preparation of this plan as it pertains to the Township organization it is the intent that the services, equipment, facilities and personnel of all existing departments, agencies, boards and commissions, including volunteer fire companies and rescue squads (the departments, agencies and companies hereinafter referred to as "departments"), shall be utilized to the fullest extent to protect the peace, health and safety of citizens. When the plan is approved, it shall be the duty of all municipal departments to perform the functions assigned by the plan and to maintain their portion of the plan in a current state of readiness at all times. The basic plan shall be considered supplementary to this chapter and have the effect of law whenever a disaster as defined in this chapter has been proclaimed. The plan shall be compatible with county and state plans.
The Coordinator shall prescribe in the basic plan those positions within the disaster organization, in addition to his own, for which lines of succession are necessary.
The Coordinator and/or department head assigned responsibility in the basic plan shall be responsible for carrying out all duties and functions assigned therein. Duties shall include the organization and training of assigned Township employees. Each department head shall formulate an operation plan for his service which, when approved, shall be an annex to and part of the basic plan.
When a required competency or skill for a disaster function is not available within the Township government, the Coordinator is authorized to seek assistance from persons so assigned to carry out such duties prior to, during and after the occurrence of a disaster. The services from persons outside of government shall be accepted by the Township on a volunteer basis. Such citizens shall be enrolled as emergency management volunteers in cooperation with the heads of departments affected.
Compliance required; hindrance prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to violate any of the provisions of this article or of the regulations or plans issued pursuant to the authority contained herein, or to willingly obstruct, hinder or delay any member of the emergency management organization as herein defined in enforcement of the provisions of this article or by any regulation or plan issued thereunder.
Violations and penalties. Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this article or any rule or regulation promulgated thereunder, upon conviction thereof, shall be liable to the penalty as stated in the Code.

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