Source: http://bloomfieldtownnj.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileView.aspx?Type=15&ID=1146
Timestamp: 2018-01-19 18:00:37
Document Index: 360390644

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 5', '§ 5', '§ 5', '§ 5', '§ 5', '§ 5']

2014/01/06 07:00 PM Township Council Unknown - Bloomfield Township, New Jersey
MINUTES FOR BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP Conference Meeting
7:00 PM – Law Enforcement Building, RM 205 - Conference Room
“Notice of the time, date, location and agenda of this meeting, to the extent then known was provided at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the commencement of this meeting in the following manner pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 231 of the Law of 1975 (The Open Public Meeting Act).
2. By mailing such notice to the offices of the Independent Press, Bloomfield Life and the Star Ledger, Baristanet and Patch.
Mayor Venezia led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Also present were Ted Ehrenberg, Township Administrator, Louise M. Palagano, Municipal Clerk, Brian Aloia Esq., Township Attorney, Robert Renna, Finance Director, Paul Lasek, Township Engineer, Captain James Behre, Officer in Charge and Fire Chief Joe McCarthy.
Mayor Venezia read a statement to the audience:
"I appreciate your attendance at our first official Council Meeting of the new year. This administration supports our military at home and abroad. One thing I'm most proud of on my resume is my five and a half years working for the last member of the United States Senate who served in World War 2, Senator Frank Lautenberg. I cannot publicly comment on a personnel issue as it would interfere with due process for our employees and we must ensure that their rights are protected and that the process itself remains free of bias. I can ensure you that the two officers in question were not targeted because they were veterans and the Township of Bloomfield recently received an award from the Veteran's Administration for having a Veterans friendly environment. The Township has hired, with the consultation of the Township Administrator and Attorney, a third party Hearing Officer to hear the case of these two officers.
Mayor Venezia opened the public portion of the meeting, limiting the speakers to five minutes and a one hour public portion.
Anthony Argento, President, Bloomfield FOP Lodge 214, congratulated Mayor Venezia on his new appointment. He said he is there to speak about the recent suspensions and pending terminations of two Bloomfield Police officers. He said at the time they were charged with misuse of time, they were traveling to and from official functions, receiving medical treatment, etc. He said that there will be an Attorney General investigation. Mr. Argento also stated the FOP fully supports these officers. He said based on the military investigation, he is confident that these charges are unwarranted. He thanked the Mayor and Council for bringing these two men back to work.
Gary Iacobacci, 252 Franklin Street, congratulated the new Mayor and Counil-at-Large members. He talked about the Attorney General Guidelines regarding selection of the Internal Affairs Unit. He also talked about lists that were hanging on Sgt. Sierchio's bulletin board as a detective in the Police Department. Mr. Iacobacci stated that this list was allowed to be on the bulletin board for one year. He said that he understood that when Sgt. Sierchio was interviewed by the military, he told the military that he was being pressured by the Mayor and Council. Mr. Iacobacci stated to the Mayor and Council that he would hope that the time of fear is over.
Debra Bischoff, Newark, stated that her child would like to become a Police Officer. She said that the prosecutor's office found no criminal charges. She said that Bloomfield is a Civil Service Township and she read the law regarding veterans from Title 11A. She feels that what the Township is doing is wrong and only Civil Service should decide if these men were wrong.
Maria Probst, 569 Broad Street, stated that she attended a forum hosted by Councilman Joanow in November regarding Bloomfield Pride. She read the flyer that she asked Ms. Palagano to pass out. She asked the Mayor and Council to please ask Parkway Lofts to ad more of Bloomfield items to its website.
Mayor Venezia said that he would have Mr. Dominick reach out to the developer and see what can be done.
Rob Cibic, Darling Ave., stated that he is there as an American and a Veteran. He said that these men were punished without any trial or hearing. He questioned what the facts are. He urged the Mayor and Council to review all policies and procedures and if they do not follow the US Constitution, then they need to be disregarded. Mr. Cibic urged the Mayor and Council to make sure this does not happen to anyone again.
Bill Brennan, Esq., 14 Iowa Road, Wayne, stated that the Mayor and Council did the right thing by reinstating the two Police Officers. He said that someone with the an ax to grind was given some power and this is the result. Mr. Brennan said that before he went to Law School he was a Fireman in Teaneck and he had a legal battle with them that cost Teaneck $12 million dollars.
Michael Frazzano, retired Sgt. Bloomfield Police Department, stated that he was on the job for 35 years. He said that he is a Marine Corp Veteran and that he served in the Vietnam War. He feels that the treatment the two officers received is a disgrace. Mr. Frazzano also stated that the Township Administrator allowed this to happen.
Geoff Gove,734 Broad Street, talked about Lion Gate. He said that comments were made at a meeting that Councilman Joanow organized. He said that when his wife raised the subject about Lion Gate, she was told by Mayor Venezia that all he knew regarding Lion Gate was that presently they are doing site work. He asked if this could be defined.
Mayor Venezia stated that as of today they have not submitted any paperwork or plans. He said that is what it means when he says they are only doing site work.
Mr. Gove said that they were approved by the Planning Board.
Mayor Venezia said that they still need to obtain permits.
Mr. Gove said that there was a problem with Glen Ridge Golf Course clearing the sidewalks after it had snowed. He said that he understands that they are cleared now.
Mayor Venezia said that Mr. Dominick called the Country Club today and explained to them that the next time the sidewalks were not cleaned they would be fined.
Mr. Gove asked why they are not being fined now.
Mayor Venezia said that the Township has no proof.
Mr. Gove said he took pictures on his cell phone. He questioned why people that follow the rules get fined and a person that has 500 feet does not.
Mayor Venezia said that they are aware of the problem and the Township will make sure the sidewalks are cleared.
Steve Antonsson, 267 Spruce Street, stated that he is a former Police Officer in the Township. He said that he wanted to bring to the attention of the Mayor and Council that he stood in the Detective Bureau when John Sierchio pointed at that list and said that no one on that list better not ever need a pension. Mr. Antonsson said that Mr. Sierchio is viscous and is out to hurt everyone on that list.
Mayor Venezia stated that he would like to thank the DPW Director, Anthony Nesto and his department for the great job they did during the snow storm.
Councilman Bernard moved to close the Oral Portion of the meeting to the public, which motion was seconded by Councilman Joanow and approved by all.
Councilman Chalet moved the following ordinance on first reading:
WHEREAS, the Local Government Cap Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.1 et seq., provides that in the preparation of its annual budget, a municipality shall limit any increase in said budget to .5% unless authorized by ordinance to increase it to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, subject to certain exceptions; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield in the County of Essex finds it advisable and necessary to increase its CY 2014 budget by up to 3.5% over the previous year’s final appropriations, in the interest of promoting the health, safety and welfare of the citizens; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council hereby determine that a 3.00% increase in the budget for said year, amounting to $1,849,491.39 in excess of the increase in final appropriations otherwise permitted by the Local Government Cap Law, is advisable and necessary; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, in the County of Essex, a majority of the full authorized membership of this Governing Body affirmatively concurring that, in the CY 2014 budget year, the final appropriations of the Township of Bloomfield shall, in accordance with this ordinance and N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.14, be increased by 3.5%, amounting to $2,157,739.96 and that the CY 2014 municipal budget for the Township of Bloomfield be approved and adopted in accordance with this ordinance; and
On motion of Councilman Chalet and seconded by Councilman Joanow, same was passed on First Reading.
Roll call vote showed:
RESULT: FIRST READING [UNANIMOUS] Next: 2/3/2014 7:00 PM
AYES: Chalet, Joanow, Bernard, Pomares, Lopez, Davis, Venezia
Councilman Joanow moved the following ordinance on first reading:
ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD, IN THE COUNTY OF ESSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, AUTHORIZING THE ACQUISITION OF THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1 AND 8 LION GATE DRIVE, AND IDENTIFIED ON THE TAX MAPS AS BLOCK 871, LOTS 55 AND 102 FOR PUBLIC USE
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:61-1(a), the governing body of a municipality may acquire, lay out, improve, embellish and maintain within and without the municipality, such public parks, squares, open spaces, playgrounds, beaches, water fronts and places for public resort and recreation, and also streets, avenues, boulevards and parkways leading to and connecting the same, as it may deem advisable, and extend and enlarge the same or any of them; and for such purposes, acquire, in fee or less estate, and by gift, devise, purchase or condemnation, any real estate, improved or unimproved, or interest therein, within or without the municipality, suitable therefor; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council desires to acquire the properties located at 1 and 8 Lion Gate Drive in the Township of Bloomfield (the “Township”), and identified on the Tax Maps of the Township as Block 871, Lots 55 and 102 (the “Property”) for the purpose of improving and maintaining as a public park and for recreational uses; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:61-1(a) and to the Eminent Domain Act of 1971 (N.J.S.A. 20:3-1 et seq.) (the “Eminent Domain Act”) the Township is authorized to acquire the Property for a public purpose; and
WHEREAS, the acquisition of the Property for use as a public park and recreational uses constitutes a public purpose.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Council of Township of Bloomfield, New Jersey, as follows:
Section 2. The Township is hereby authorized to acquire the Property.
Section 3. The acquisition of the Property may be achieved by any of the following methods: (i) consummation of a purchase and sale contract by negotiations with the property owner, (ii) by a gift, grant, or contribution by the property owner, or (iii) by condemnation of the Property pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:61-1(a) and the Eminent Domain Act.
Section 4. The Mayor, Administrator, Clerk, Director of Law, Director of Community Development, Chief Financial Officer, Bond Counsel and/or Redevelopment Counsel (collectively, the “Authorized Persons”) are hereby authorized and directed to take, or cause to be taken, any and all actions necessary to initiate and complete the acquisition of the Property, including but not limited to obtaining any studies, surveys, tests, soundings, borings, appraisals, title searches and title reports, as reasonably necessary to determine the value, boundary, ownership, interests or environmental condition regarding said property.
Section 5. Any and all actions previously taken by the Authorized Persons in connection with the acquisition of the Property are hereby ratified and confirmed.
Section 6. If any part(s) of this ordinance shall be deemed invalid, such part(s) shall be severed and the invalidity thereof shall not affect the remaining parts of this ordinance.
Section 7. This ordinance shall take effect in accordance with applicable law.
On motion of Councilman Joanow and seconded by Councilman Bernard, same was passed on First Reading.
Councilman Bernard moved the following ordinance on first reading:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 5, “ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT,” ARTICLE III “Township Council,” § 5-14 “Conferences,” SECTION A OF THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD, COUNTY OF ESSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Section 1. Chapter 5, “ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT,” ARTICLE III “Township Council,” § 5-143 “Conferences,” of the Code of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey, is hereby amended to read as follows:
§ 5-14 Conferences.
The Township Council shall meet once a month or on the third or fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. or any other time selected and approved by the Council in formal conference for the consideration of any Township business or to meet with any officer or employee of the Township or any other person on Township business. The Mayor and Council may schedule additional conference meetings throughout the year as they deem appropriate after properly notifying public of the same.
On motion of Councilman Bernard and seconded by Councilwoman Davis, same was passed on First Reading.
Councilwoman Davis moved the following ordinance on first reading:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 5, “ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT,” ARTICLE III “Township Council,” § 5-13 “Regular and special meetings,” SECTION A OF THE CODE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD, COUNTY OF ESSEX, STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Section 1. Chapter 5, “ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT,” ARTICLE III “Township Council,” § 5-13 “Regular and special meetings,” Section A of the Code of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey, is hereby amended to read as follows:
§ 5-13 Regular and special meetings
A. Regular meetings. The Township Council shall meet annually for organization on the first day of January, unless that day is a Sunday, in which case it shall meet on the next succeeding day. The Township Council may, at its option, combine the organization meeting with the first regular scheduled meeting in January. The Council shall meet once a month thereafter on the first or second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. or any other time selected and approve by the Council. The Mayor and Council may schedule additional regular meetings throughout the year as they deem appropriate after properly notifying public of the same.
On motion of Councilwoman Davis and seconded by Councilman Lopez, same was passed on first reading.
SECONDER: Joseph Lopez, Councilman
Councilman Lopez moved the following ordinance on first reading:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD’S ORDINANCE ADOPTING TITLES FOR EMPLOYEES AND FIXING SALARY RANGES
Section 1. Section 2 of an ordinance entitled "AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING TITLES FOR EMPLOYEES, FIXING SALARY RANGES THEREFORE, FIXING THEIR DUTIES AND QUALIFICATIONS AND FIXING SALARIES” as amended and supplemented, is hereby further amended and supplemented so that the same shall read as follows:
Equipment Operator/Water Repairer
Salary Range Per Annum Effective January 1, 2013
Salary Range Per Annum Effective January 1, 2014
Salary Range Per Annum Effective January 1, 2015
29.97 - 33.03
30.57 - 33.69
31.18 - 34.36
Section 2. The salary range shall be twelve steps within each range unless otherwise indicated in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement. Those salaries without a range shall be considered a flat rate.
On motion of Councilman Lopez and seconded by Councilman Pomares, same was passed on first reading.
Councilman Pomares moved the following ordinance on first reading:
BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey:
Section 1. Section 2 of an ordinance entitled "AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING TITLES FOR EMPLOYEES, FIXING SALARY RANGES THEREFOR, FIXING THEIR DUTIES AND QUALIFICATIONS AND FIXING SALARIES” as amended and supplemented, is hereby further amended and supplemented so that the same shall read as follows:
Salary Per Annum Effective JANUARY 1, 2014
On Motion of Councilman Pomares and seconded by Councilman Chalet, same was passed on first reading.
SECONDER: Elias N. Chalet, First Ward Councilman
Councilman Chalet moved the following resolution, which motion was seconded by Councilman Joanow:
ESTABLISHING PETTY CASH FUND
WHEREAS, under the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:5-21, the Finance Director has made written application and authority has been granted for the establishment of a Petty Cash Fund; and
WHEREAS, the various departments heretofore allotted Petty Cash Fund have complied with the Statute and the Rules and Regulations promulgated by the Director of the Division of Local Government Services, in the Department of Community Affairs of the State of New Jersey.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey that the following Petty Cash funds are hereby established for the calendar year 2014 for the departments and in the amounts indicated below:
Ted Ehrenburg
Michael Sceurman
Health & Welfare (Division of Health)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the custodians of said Petty Cash Funds are hereby directed to maintain accurate records of all disbursements made from said Funds, the same to be audited by the Township Auditor as heretofore.
2. That the financial officers of the Township are hereby authorized and directed to issue checks for the various petty cash funds herein mentioned in the aggregate amount of $885.00.
3. That this resolution shall be effective as of January 1, 2014.
4. That two (2) certified copies of this resolution shall be filed with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs of the State of New Jersey.
BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey, that pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:5-14 of the laws of New Jersey, PNC Bank National Association, The Provident Bank, Investors Savings Bank, Santander Bank, the State of New Jersey Cash Management Fund, Enterprise National Bank N.J., Wells Fargo Bank, Valley National Bank, TD Bank, NJ/ARM, NA are hereby designated as the depositories wherein all public monies and other funds of the Township of Bloomfield shall be kept.
Prior to the deposit of any municipal funds in the above mentioned depositories, said bank shall file with the Director of Finance a statement indicating that the bank is covered under the Government Units Deposit Protection Act (R.S. 17:9-41).
AUTHORIZATION TO SIGN CHECKS
WHEREAS, Section 5-52 (E) of the “Bloomfield Township Code,” effective November 15, 1987, adopted by the Bloomfield Township Council on November 2, 1987 provides that disbursements of the Township Funds shall be made by an individual warrant check for each bill, claim, wage and salary payment, as approved by the Township Administrator, and that each warrant check shall bear the signatures of the Mayor, the Township Administrator, or Acting Township Administrator, and the Township Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer or Acting Township Treasurer, as the case may be; it being understood that each warrant check shall bear three (3) signatures.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey that the following named individuals be and are hereby authorized to sign checks, drafts, notes, etc., and receipts for the payment of money when necessary co-jointly with the Mayor and/or the Township Administrator, and/or the Township Treasurer, when the appointees to each respective position shall be absent upon authorized to leave, or in the event of a vacancy in such office or position:
1. Michael Venezia
2. Louise M. Palagano
3. Robert Renna
Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer/ Comptroller
4. Cindy Prochilo
5. Ted Ehrenburg
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that pursuant to regulation promulgated by the Local Finance Board by Resolution adopted by it on September 28, 1971, that commencing January 1, 1972, the Mayor of the Township of Bloomfield must affix his signature on all checks of the municipality for the payment of claims, regardless of type of local government.
EXPRESSLY DESIGNATING THE FINANCIAL OFFICER OF THE TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD, ESSEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY TO SELL BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES AND CAPITAL NOTES OF THE TOWNSHIP.
WHEREAS, the Local Bond Law of the State of New Jersey, constituting Chapter 2 of Title 40A of the New Jersey Statutes (the “Local Bond Law”) authorizes a local unit, which includes the Township of Bloomfield (the “Township” to: (1) borrow money and issue negotiable notes in anticipation of the issuance of bonds, if the bond ordinance or subsequent resolution so provides (“Bond Anticipation Notes”); and (2) finance any improvement which it has the power to finance under the Local Bond Law by the issuance of capital notes (“Capital Notes”); and
WHEREAS, the Local Bond Law provides that all Bond Anticipation Notes or Capital Notes may be sold at private sale pursuant to a resolution of the governing body or by a financial officer of the local unit expressly designated by resolution to sell such notes; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Township (the “Township Council”) deems it advantageous to expressly designate a financial officer of the Township to sell Bond Anticipation Notes and Capital Notes.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council, of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey (not less than the majority of the full membership thereof affirmatively concurring), that:
1. Pursuant to Section 28 of the Local Bond Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:2-28, the Township may expressly designate a financial officer of the Township to sell Bond Anticipation Notes and Capital Notes.
2. The Mayor and Council hereby appoint and authorize the Chief Financial Officer of the Township, as designated by the Mayor and Council (the “Chief Financial Officer”) to sell the Township’s Bond Anticipation Notes and Capital Notes.
3. The Chief Financial Officer making any such sale shall report in writing to the Council at the next meeting thereof as to the principal amount, interest rate, and maturities of Bond Anticipation Notes or Capital Notes sold, the price obtained and the name of the purchaser.
CONDUCT TAX SALE FOR TAX/WATER DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 54:5-19 allows the Governing Body to authorize by resolution the Tax Lien Sale for delinquent accounts.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State Of New Jersey, that the Tax Collector is hereby authorized and directed to conduct Bloomfield’s Tax Sale schedule for October 9, 2014 for all Tax/Water accounts delinquent for the year 2014 and prior in accordance with N.J.S.A. 54:5-19
Roll call vote show:
DESIGNATION OF TAX SEARCHER
BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey that Cindy Prochilo, Tax Collector in the Division of Revenue, Department of Finance of the Township of Bloomfield, is hereby designated as the Official Tax Searcher in the Tax Collector’s Office of the Township of Bloomfield, New Jersey, for the year 2014, to make examinations of the Township Records as to unpaid municipal liens and to certify the results thereof.
INTEREST & DEBT REDEMPTION CHARGES
WHEREAS, under N.J.S. 40A:4-19 the governing body may make appropriations for all interest and debt redemption charges maturing during the fiscal year at any time between December 19 of the year preceding the beginning of the fiscal year and the date of the adoption of the budget.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, New Jersey that the following appropriations be and are hereby made for interest and debt redemption charges for the fiscal year 2014.
4-01-45-840-170 Payment of Bond Principal
4-01-45-842-172 Interest on Bonds
1,078,650.00
4-01-45-843-173 Interest on Notes
134,716.00
4-01-45-940-174 Green Acres Loan Payments Total
42,156.00
$2,893,522.00
Water Utility Debt Service
4-05-45-840-170 Payment of Bond Principal
4-05-45-842-172 Interest on Bonds
4-05-45-843-173 Interest on Notes
$ 679,901.00
INTEREST ON DELINQUENT TAXES AND PENALTY
WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 54:4-67, as amended and supplemented, the rate of interest to be charged for the non-payment of taxes or assessments on or after the date when they become delinquent shall be as follows:
1. No interest shall be charged if payment of any installment so due is made within the tenth calendar day following the date upon which the same became payable; and
2. Upon the expiration of the ten (10) calendar day period as aforesaid, the rate of interest shall be eight percent (8%) per annum on the first $1,500 of the delinquency and eighteen percent (18%) per annum interest to be charged for delinquency of sums in excess of $1,500; and
3. Interest to be calculated from the due date the tax was payable until the date of actual payment.
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 54:4-67 also provides that the governing body may fix a penalty not to exceed 6% to be charge to a taxpayer with a delinquency in excess of $10,000 who fails to pay the delinquency prior to the end of the calendar year.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IF RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey, that the rate on delinquent municipal charges be amended to read as follows:
8% up to the first $1,500 delinquency
18% in delinquencies of sums in excess of the first $1,500
6% additional penalty for a delinquency over $10,000 if not paid prior to the end of the calendar year.
INTEREST ON DELINQUENT WATER CHARGES
WHEREAS, the rate of interest to be charged for the non-payment of water charges on or after the date when they become delinquent shall be as follows:
1. No interest shall be charged if payment of any billing so due is made within the 30 days allowed following the billing date upon which the same became payable; and
2. Upon the expiration of the 30 day period following the billing date aforesaid, the rate of interest shall be eight percent (8%) per annum on the first $200 of the delinquency and sixteen percent (16%) per annum interest to be charged for delinquency of sums in excess of $200; and
3. Interest to be calculated from the due date the watr charge was payable until the date of actual payment.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IF RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey, that the rate on water charges be amended to read as follows:
8% up to the first $200 delinquency
16% in delinquencies of sums in excess of the first $200
2014 TEMPORARY BUDGET WATER UTILITY
WHEREAS, N.J.S. 40A:4-19 of the Local Budget Law provides that where any contracts, commitments or payments are to be made prior to the final adoption of the 2014 budget, temporary appropriations shall be made for the purposes and amounts required in the manner and time therein provided; and
WHEREAS, the date of adoption of this resolution is prior to January 31, 2014; and
WHEREAS, the total appropriations in the 2013 water utility budget, exclusive of any appropriations made for interest and debt redemption charges, capital improvement fund is the sum of $7,621,492.00; and
WHEREAS, 26.25% of the total appropriation in the 2013 budget, exclusive of any appropriations made for interest and debt redemption charges, capital improvement fund is the sum of $2,000,641.65.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, New Jersey, that the following temporary appropriations be and are hereby made and that a certified copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Chief Financial Officer for his records:
WATER UTILITY APPROPRIATIONS
2014 TEMPORARY BUDGET
4-05-20-512-011
4-05-26-511-011
4-05-20-512-028
4-05-26-511-028
Operation of Water Wells
4-05-20-513-071
4-05-20-514-072
Bloomfield Share - Wanaque Cost North
4-05-20-515-072
Bloomfield Share - Wanaque Cost South
4-05-20-516-072
4-05-36-837-137
4-05-36-834-140
1,792,600.00
WHEREAS, the total appropriations in the 2013 current budget, exclusive of any appropriations made for interest and debt redemption charges, capital improvement fund and public assistance is the sum of $71,143,716.47; and
WHEREAS, 26.25% of the total appropriation in the 2013 budget, exclusive of any appropriations made for interest and debt redemption charges, capital improvement fund and public assistance is the sum of $18,675,225.57.
Division of Accounts and Control:
280,437.00
300,437.00
Division of Revenue:
167,230.00
331,550.00
Postage and Office Supplies:
Cable Television Committee:
General Liability (Self-Insurance Trust Fund)
1,104,190.00
1,424,190.00
13,425,000.00
15,472,100.00
(290,000.00)
15,182,100.00
5,060,200.00
8,759,000.00
2,919,400.00
215,937.00
205,937.00
189,640.00
477,800.00
505,599.00
Public Buildings and Grounds:
26-772
Division of Electrical Services:
Care of Shade Trees and Grounds:
Cervical Cancer Screening Programs:
863,720.00
27-794
266,200.00
Celebration of Public Events:
1,445,208.00
Health Interlocal - Bd of Education:
Health Interlocal - Caldwell:
Animal Control Interlocal - Caldwell:
Health Interlocal - Glen Ridge
Bd of Education: - Code Red
13,541.50
Animal Control Interlocal - Glen Ridge
Unclassified Utilities:
Building Electricity and Gas
31-821
Garbage and Trash Removal - Contractual
936,174.00
36-837
Consolidated Police and Firemen's Pension
56,781.00
36-839
5,343,879.00
36-834
Outlet Sewer System:
Third River Joint Meeting
3,116,173.00
Tax Appeals Pending
OSHA Regulations - Blood Borne Pathogen:
School Board Elections (N.J.S.A. 19:60-12):
38-789
Funding of Capital Ordinances
3,721,900.00
70,561,243.50
18,375,700.00
Drunk Driving Enforcement (DWI) S&W
71,792.92
Municipal Alliance on Drug Abuse - State Share
Municipal Alliance on Drug Abuse - Local Match
Safe and Secure Communities S&W
Police Body Armor Replacement
Recreational Opportunities for Disabled - S&W
State Share - S&W
Public Health Services - West Milford S&W
Public Health Services - West Milford O/E
Bureau of Justice Assistance - Salaries and Wages
Southern NJ Prenatal Cooperative
Recycling Tonnage Aid
35,407.05
Essex County Law Enforcement Technology
Assistance To Firefighters Homeland Security
Assistance To Firefighters Local Match
712,472.97
Total Temporary Budget
Payment of Bond Anticipation Note
1,048,464.00
965,030.00
188,363.00
188,713.00
Green Acres Loans:
2,898,780.00
2,811,258.00
74,172,496.47
21,186,958.00
43,411,758.47
43,725,058.47
11,063,858.00
30,760,738.00
(313,300.00)
30,447,438.00
10,123,100.00
Total 2013 Budget
(2,898,780.00)
71,143,716.47
Allowable Temporary Budget
18,675,225.57
(18,375,700.00)
299,525.57
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield hereby approves the following Cash Management Plan
The Township of Bloomfield’s objectives in this area are:
B. Safekeeping of assets
C. Maintenance of liquidity to meet operating needs
D. Diversification of the Township’s portfolio to minimize risks
associated with individual investments
E. Investment of assets in accordance with State and Federal
F. Maximize investment earnings from all cash and deposits
A. All Township funds shall be deposited in institutions that are certified by the NJ Department of Banking & Insurance in accordance with the Government Unit Deposit Protection Act.
B. Approved depositories must be insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other agency of the United States that insures deposits.
C. The Mayor and Council shall annually designate approved depositories whereby the Chief Financial Officer is authorized to transact banking business.
D. Designated official depositories are required to submit to the Chief Financial Officer, a copy of the Government Unit Deposit Protection Act Notification of eligibility, which is filed semi-annually with the Department of Banking each June 30th and December 31st.
E. The Chief Financial Officer shall solicit written proposals for banking services every three to five years.
A. All funds shall be deposited within 48 hours of receipt in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:5-15.
B. The Chief Financial Officer shall minimize the possibility of idle cash accumulating in accounts by assuring that the amounts in excess of negotiated compensating balances are kept in interest bearing accounts or promptly swept into the investment portfolio.
C. The method of calculating banking fees and compensating balances shall be reviewed on a monthly basis.
D. Investment decisions shall be guided by the cash flow projections prepared by the Chief Financial Officer.
A. Bonds or other obligations of the United States of America or obligations guaranteed by the United States of America. This includes instruments such as Treasury Bills, notes and bonds.
B. Government money market mutual funds.
C. Any federal agency of instrumentality obligation authorized by Congress that matures within 397 days from the date of purchase, and has a fixed rates of interest not dependent on any index or external factors.
D. Bonds or other obligations of the local unit or school districts of which the local unit is a part.
E. Any other obligations with maturities not exceeding 397 days, as permitted by the Division of Investments.
F. Local government investment pools including the New Jersey Arbitrage Rebate Management Program.
G. New Jersey State Cash Management Fund.
H. Repurchase agreements of fully collateralized securities.
A. The Chief Financial Officer is authorized and directed to make investments on behalf of the Township. All investment decisions shall be consistent with this plan and all appropriate regulatory constraints.
A. Securities purchased on behalf of the Township shall be delivered electronically or physically to the Township’s custodial bank, which shall maintain custodial and/or safekeeping accounts for such securities on behalf of the Township.
A. The Chief Financial Officer shall submit a monthly Treasurer’s report to the Mayor and Council which shall include a listing of all investments in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A: 5-15.2.
A. The Cash Management Plan shall be subject to annual audit conducted pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A: 5-14.
9. Disposition of Abandoned Property
A. The Chief Financial Officer shall escheat to the State of New Jersey, checks that remain outstanding for twelve or more months after the date of issuance.
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE TIMES, DATES AND PLACES OF CONFERENCE MEETINGS OF THE TOWNSHIP COUNCIL OF THE TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD, ESSEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY PURSUANT TO THE “OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS LAW” P.L. 1975, CHAPTER 231
WHEREAS, the “Open Public Meetings Law”, P.L. 1975, Chapter 231, requires that notice be given to the public of the times, dates and places of all regular meetings and all conference meetings of the public bodies to which reference is made in said law; and
WHEREAS, said law applies to the regular meetings and the conference meetings of the Bloomfield Township Council, the Governing Body of the Township of Bloomfield, in the County of Essex, New Jersey.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey that the following are the times, dates and places of the conference meetings of the Bloomfield Township Council for the year 2014:
6:00 P.M./7:30 P.M
(Conf/Reg)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the meetings in July and August are subject to revision at a later date, and if the dates of said meetings shall be changed, adequate notice thereof shall be given pursuant to law; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all conference meetings of the Bloomfield Township Council shall be conducted at 7:00 P.M. in Room 205 of the Law Enforcement Building, Municipal Plaza, Bloomfield, New Jersey; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Municipal Clerk is authorized and directed to furnish certified copies of this resolution to Channels 30/35, Bloomfield Life, which is the official newspaper for the Township of Bloomfield, and the Independent Press and The Star-Ledger, which newspaper is circulated daily in the Township of Bloomfield, which in the opinion of the Township Council of the Township of Bloomfield, are newspapers which have the greatest likelihood of informing the public in the Township of Bloomfield; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Municipal Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to post a certified copy of this resolution on the bulletin board located on the first floor of the Municipal Building, Municipal Plaza, Bloomfield, N.J.
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE TIMES, DATES AND PLACES OF REGULAR MEETINGS OF THE TOWNSHIP COUNCIL OF THE TOWNSHIP OF BLOOMFIELD, ESSEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY PURSUANT TO THE “OPEN PUBLIC” MEETINGS LAW” P.L. 1975, CHAPTER 231
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Township of Bloomfield, County of Essex, State of New Jersey that the following are the times, dates and places of the regular meetings of the Bloomfield Township Council for the year 2014:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the meetings in July and August are subject to revision at a later date, and if the dates of said meeting shall be changed, adequate notice thereof shall be given pursuant to law; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all regular meetings of the Township Council shall be conducted in the Council Chambers, Municipal Building, Municipal Plaza, at 7:00 P.M., Bloomfield, New Jersey; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Municipal Clerk is authorized and directed to furnish certified copies of this resolution to Channels 30/35, Bloomfield Life, which is the official newspaper for the Township of Bloomfield, and the Independent Press and The Star-Ledger, which newspaper is circulated daily in the Township of Bloomfield, which in the opinion of the Township Council of the Township of Bloomfield, are collectively the newspapers which have the greatest likelihood of informing the public in the Township of Bloomfield; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Municipal Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to post a certified copy of this resolution on the bulletin board located on the first floor of the Municipal Building, Municipal Plaza, Bloomfield, N.J.
Stuart Koperweis, Executive Director of the Bloomfield Center Alliance. Mr. Koperweis explained the budget for the Bloomfield Center Alliance. He said that they work very closely with the Department of Public Works. He also talked about what the BCA will be doing in 2014. Mr. Koperweis asked if the Mayor and Council could adopt the resolution tonight. He also asked if anyone had any questions.
Mayor Venezia asked what was the status of the six-point project.
Mr. Koperweis said that they are very close to having an SOP being approved by the Department of Transportation to allow the BCA to go out and receive a funding number from the Federal Government Highway Administration. He said that will allow them to go out for an RFP.
Mayor Venezia asked Mr. Koperweis to explain what the project is.
Mr. Koperweis said that it is the reconfiguration of six points to allow a left hand turning lane on Bloomfield Avenue going west into the train station. He said that it was approved by the County about a year ago and there will be new turning lanes and new landscaping.
The Council discussed this issue in detail and some of the topics discussed was clarification on what an Request for Proposals and Standard Operating Procedures are.
Mr. Ehrenburg explained that the former Mayor, Ray McCarthy, was the Commissioner for the Garden State Municipal Joint Insurance Fund. He said that he needs a resolution naming a new Commissioner and Alternate. Mr. Ehrenburg suggested that he would be the Commissioner and Mayor Venezia would be the alternate if Mr.
Mayor Venezia asked Mr. Ehrenburg to explain to the audience what the JIF was.
Mr. Ehrenburg stated that the Garden State Municipal Joint Insurance Fund is a group insurance program. He said this fund reduces the operating budget because it shares the cost of the insurance with other municipalities.
Councilman Joanow moved the request, which motion was seconded by Councilman Chalet for discussion.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] Next: 1/13/2014 6:45 PM
Mr. Domenick explained that this item is for a previously adopted redevelopment project for Bloomfield Center. He said Block 243 is for Anne Sez and surrounding properties. Mr. Domenick explained that before this went to the Planning Board, the Board Attorney had some issues that he believed deviated from the redevelopment plan. Mr. Domenick explained that he asked them to come back to the Mayor and Council for review and approval before they file their application. Mr. Domenick said one of the issues was the removal of some of the retail stores and the insertion of some window boxes for display and the lack of a loading dock on the project. He said he is turning it over to the developers to explain so the Mayor and Council can make an educated vote.
Mayor Venezia said that the loading dock is a Planning Board issue. He said that they are there for the windows because the windows go against the redevelopment plan.
Lisa John, Genova Burns Giantomasi & Webster, Attorneys at Law, representing MCP, Bloomfield Urban Renewal, LLC. She said that MCP had required the property. She said that back in 2013 they entered into a Redevelopment Agreement with the Township and attached to the Redevelopment Agreement was a Concept Plan. Ms. John said that since the initial approval, the Concept Plan has been modified slightly in order to accommodate the site. She said the Redevelopment Agreement states that if there are any changes in the Concept Plan, they must come back to the Mayor and Council for approval. Ms. John said that the plan did originally show shadow boxes and she was not sure if the Council originally noticed them. Ms. John turned over the discussion to the Architect, Dave Minno.
David Minno displayed a picture of the development and explained what the window boxes where going to be utilized for.
Councilman Pamares asked how many boxes there would be? How many would be for art work? What is the mechanism for choosing who the artist would be.
Mr. Minno said that he believes there will be eight window boxes.
Ms. John said with respect to the control of what goes in the windows, the art displays and the retail windows are a permitted use. She said that they will be asking the developer to showcase local art along with items of sale from the retail stores.
Dan Mandelbaum, MCP, said that the art would come from possible places like the College or the art museum. He said that vendors may also want to put their merchandise in the windows.
Councilman Pomares said that it is not a dedicated usage, but a rotating usage.
Mr. Mandelbaum said yes.
Councilman Joanow talked about the synergy of the two buildings and questioned if they would blend together. He talked about some of the green features.
Councilman Bernard moved the request for a resolution, which motion was seconded by Councilman Lopez for discussion.
Mr. Ehrenburg said that there is a listing of sixteen parking spaces to be removed because these spaces are no longer being utilized.
Councilman Lopez moved the request to repeal the sixteen parking spaces, which motion was seconded by Councilwoman Davis for discussion.
Councilman Bernard asked if residential handicapped parking spaces can be specific to the person asking for the spot.
Captain Behre explained that it would violate the ordinance.
Councilman Bernard said that he knows other towns allow it. He also said that he receives complaints from people that have handicapped spaces that when they get home someone is in their spot.
Captain Behre said that it is based on a need in the neighborhood and if the person made application in the past and was denied. He said that it could be looked into further, however, presently it violates the Township ordinance. He said you cannot preclude anyone from parking there.
Mayor Venezia said that Mr. Aloia was investigating this last year.
Mr. Aloia said that there is a procedure you can go through to actually have the space limited to only the applicant who applied for the space.
Captain Behre said he would look at that again.
RESULT: APPROVE [UNANIMOUS] Next: 1/13/2014 6:45 PM
Mr. Domenick said that his office has been working with a depleted staff. He would like to hire through this staffing agency, Clerks and Inspectors who are knowledgeable in the construction field. He is requesting to bring the agency in and try them out to help him staff the office. He said it is strictly an hourly rate. He would like to start by having them hire a clerical staff.
Councilman Bernard asked what happens if someone is out sick.
Mr. Domenick said that it depends on the field the inspections have to be done in. He said that some of the Inspectors have multiple licenses where they can cover a wider area and some of the Inspectors do not. He said that is in extreme circumstances and they try to avoid that.
Councilman Joanow moved the request, which motion was seconded by Councilman Bernard for discussion.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] Next: 2/3/2014 7:00 PM
Captain Behre said that bids were received in November, 2013. He said that three bids were picked up and two bids were returned. He said that ECRB presented a bid for $47.30 per car as well as submitting all of the required documents. Captain Behre is recommending ECRB.
Councilman Bernard moved the request of the Police Department, which motion was seconded by Councilman Joanow for discussion.
Ms. Palagano reviewed a request for an ad from the Nutley Irish American Association. She explained that Freeholder Gill will be the Grand Marshall this year.
Councilman Chalet moved a $100.00 ad, which motion was seconded by Councilman Joanow for discussion.
Ms. Palagano explained that since the meetings will be rotating around the schools, she will need to purchase a portable recording and sound system. She said that she has obtained three informal quotes which she placed in the packets. She said the lowest quote was from Gramco for $6,733.
Councilman Chalet moved the request to purchase the equipment, which motion was seconded by Councilman Bernard for discussion.
Mayor Venezia asked if there was a possibility of renting a system.
Ms. Palagano said that she would look into it.
Councilman Bernard said that he would like to see a Welcome to Bloomfield Sign at Chester Ave.
Mayor Venezia feels that there should be signs placed at all of the locations that enter into Bloomfield. He said they will do some research on it and go from there.
Mayor Venezia asked Mr. Nesto what happened to the Adopt an island program.
Mr. Nesto said that he would have some information at the next Council meeting.
RESULT: DISCUSSED NO VOTE Next: 2/18/2014 7:00 PM
Councilman Bernard said that he visited the Animal Shelter and it was clean and there was a lot of donations.
Mayor Venezia said that he would like to make a few appointments. He said to the Planning Board he would like to reappoint Dan McGonigle, and appoint Sam LaForte and Enver Domingo. He said he would like to also reappoint John Marek and appoint Mike Cantalupo to the Recreation Commission.
RESULT: APPROVED NO VOTE Next: 1/13/2014 6:45 PM
Councilman Bernard moved the following ordinance, which motion was seconded by Councilman Joanow:
Roll call vote showed: Councilman Chalet, Councilman Bernard, Councilman Joanow, Councilwoman Davis, Councilman Lopez, Councilman Pomares and Mayor Venezia voting "yes."
Mr. Aloia discussed the specifics of this case.
The Mayor and Council talked about the case in great detail. Some of the topics discussed were suspension, termination, minor offenses, major disciplinary action, criminal offenses, attacks on other officers, policies and procedures, amount of suspension time, IA process, Attorney General, and policy weakness.
Councilman Bernard moved to hire an outside Hearing Officer for $165.00 an hour, which motion was seconded by Councilwoman Davis for discussion.
Roll call vote showed: Roll call vote showed: Councilman Chalet, Councilman Bernard, Councilman Joanow, Councilwoman Davis, Councilman Lopez, Councilman Pomares and Mayor Venezia voting "yes."
RESULT: NOT DISCUSSED Next: 1/27/2014 6:30 PM
Mr. Aloia explained up the grievance for the Mayor and Council. He suggested that it should be denied.
Councilman Chalet moved to deny the grievance, which motion was seconded by Councilman Joanow for discussion.
The Mayor and Council discussed the possibility of downsizing the number of Crossing Guards.
Councilman Bernard moved to accept the resignations of the four Crossing Guards and hiring four Crossing Guards to replace them, which motion was seconded by Councilman Joanow for discussion.
The Mayor and Council discussed the resignation of Police Dispatchers.
Councilman Bernard moved the resignations, which motion was seconded by Councilwoman Davis for discussion.
This item was discussed earlier.
This item was deferred until January 27th for discussion.
RESULT: TABLED WITH NO VOTE Next: 1/27/2014 6:30 PM
The Mayor and Council reviewed the process of appointing Detectives to the Detective Bureau.
Mayor Venezia suggested this time be deferred until January 21st so the Council can get a better understanding of the process. He said they can moved the item tonight and then Captain Behre can return to the Council and give a better understanding of how a Detective becomes a Detective.
Councilman Chalet moved the pay increases, which motion was seconded by Councilman Pomares for discussion.
Mr. Aloia explained that it is the intent of employee #32649 to retire on March 1, 2014. He explained that he has not resigned, his intent is to retire.
The Mayor and Council discussed this in detail. Some of the topics discussed where the use of a town vehicle, sick time, doctor's note, holiday pay, Acting Chief and Officer in Charge.
Councilman Bernard moved to make Captain James Behre the Acting Officer in Charge until another determination is made, which motion was seconded by Councilwoman Davis for discussion.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] Next: 3/3/2014 7:00 PM
2. OPEIU - DPW
Councilman Bernard moved to go back into Open Session at 10:34 PM, which motion was seconded by Councilman Joanow and approved by all present.
There being no further business to discuss, on motion of Councilwoman Davis and seconded by Councilman Pomares, the meeting adjourned at 10:35 PM. All members present approved.