HomeMy Public PortalAbout2000/01/13
An Agenda Meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of
Carteret proceeding the Regular Meeting, January 20,2000, was held
on January 13, 2000, 7:00 P.M., Municipal Court/Police Facility, 230
Roosevelt Avenue, Carteret, New Jersey.
The following were noted present:
Mayor James A. Failace
Councilmember Crilley
" Fazekas
" O'Brien
" Quinones
" Santoro
" Sohayda
Also noted present was Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin
" Judge Allen Comba - Debra Uhouse
" Borough Engineer
Mailed to the Home News Tribune, The Star Ledger and posted on the
bulletin board on January 7, 2000.
Mayor Failace stated that he spoke to Craig Coughlin after the vote for
Council President last week. The vote was not valid because it was
only three (3) votes and it needed a forth (4) vote. It needed to be a
majority of Council so it has to be done again. The nominations have
to be taken again.
Councilmember Janet Santoro asked if they could just continue with
the second nomination since they never voted on the second first.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied they he didn't believe so.
He said that the appropriate way to do it is to redo it since the process
was what lead to confusion around it. It was made by virtue of a
motion and the question then comes to the motion which had three (3)
votes in the affirmative, one (1) no and two (2) abstentions. That
would therefore constitute a majority. As a motion it would have, and
both motion or vote is proper under Robert's Rules. However, the
appropriate way to do it, since there was never a vote with regard to
the motion made or the second (2) with regard to Councilmember
Fazekas.
Councilmember Santoro stated that there was a motion and it was
seconded.
Mayor Failace stated that they did take a vote
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated that you can't take a motion
on the floor. Nor can you take a vote on a motion that was made at a
meeting that adjourned.
Councilmember Santoro stated that it was because it was done
incorrectly. During the confusion Councilmember Santoro said that no
one asked for the second roll call including the Borough Attorney.
JANUARY 13, 2000
AGENDA MEETING
ROLL CALL
STATEMENT OF
MEETING NOTICE
MAYOR FAILACE
DISCUSSION
1
fANUARY 13, 2000
DISCUSSION
(CONTINUED)
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated at the time, he did not recall
being asked if it was appropriate. He said that the answer to the
question is the need for separate nominations; a process or to be redone.
You can't vote on a motion that was made at a meeting that was
adjourned.
Councilmember Crilley stated that Robert Rules orders, if it is true or
not, you can't have a second motion when you have one motion on the
floor.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied when there is one on the
floor (inaudible).
Councilmember Crilley stated that the motion, in effect, was done out
of order because there was already a motion on the floor.
Councilmember Santoro replied no because they were taking
nominations at that point.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied that there was a motion, a
nomination made and a second for each of the candidates. There was a
motion with regard to Councilmember Quinones for her candidacies for
the vote on her as the Council President. It was a second to that motion
and there was a vote.
Councilmember Santoro stated that the vote just began. There was
never a motion to start a vote. There were two (2) nominations.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied that there was clearly a
motion for Councilmember Quinones because that resulted in an
affirmative vote and it resulted in a negative vote and two (2)
abstentions. Clearly that motion was voted upon.
Councilmember Crilley stated that they should define what a motion
was and what a nomination was.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied that you can do a nomination
as a motion or you can use a nomination as a nomination. He said that
he thought the Mayor opened and asked for nominations for the
Council President.
Councilmember Crilley asked why is anything called a motion.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied because there was
subsequently a motion with regard to the candidacies of
Councilmember Quinones.
Councilmember Santoro stated that her understanding was a motion for
nominations, one (I) being for Councilmember Quinones seconded and
one (1) was for Jack Fazekas and it was seconded and then we
immediately began a vote. There was no motion for either one. That
was why she had asked whom were they voting for.
Councilmember Jack Fazekas stated that maybe they should look at the
minutes to find out to make the correct ruling.
2
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated that they can't vote on a
motion that was made at a meeting that was adjourned.
Councilmember Jack Fazekas stated that the Borough Attorney
sounded unsure.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied that he wasn't unsure.
Councilmember Jack Fazekas replied that the Borough Attorney didn't
know that there was a second.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin asked if it was a second for a
nomination. He said it was a second and he was clear on that.
Mayor Failace stated that the Borough Attorney clearly stated that you
can't take a vote on an adjourned meeting regardless of anything else.
Councilmember Crilley asked why they were arguing about it. Why
don't we just made the nominations?
Councilmember Santoro stated because the vote was done incorrectly
the first time you would want to insure that the vote is done correctly
this time.
Councilmember Quinones stated that the Borough Attorney obviously
didn't know there was an error.
Councilmember Fazekas stated that the Borough Attorney is trying to
explain it and get it corrected.
Councilmember Quinones stated yes he is but he has explained it over
and over. The meeting was already adjourned.
Councilmember Fazekas stated that they understood that but they were
making a point that there was no second.
Councilmember Santoro stated that the vote wasn't taken on an actual
Councilperson. There was just two (2) motions made.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated that there was a vote taken.
Councilmember Santoro stated that she knew that and asked who was it
made on?
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied that just for a minute they
should assume it wasn't clear.
Councilmember Santoro stated that we clearly need to know what
we're supposed to do it so we don't do it incorrectly.
Mayor James A. Failace stated that the way we do it is that we take
nominations and by a voice vote you vote for whom you choose. If
there are seven (7) nominations you vote for one (1) of the seven- (7)
people.
Councilmember Santoro asked if they were going to do nominations
during roll call.
3
JANUARY 13, 2000
DISCUSSION
(CONTINUED)
rANUARY 13, 2000
IlSCUSSION
. CONTINUED)
E: NOMINATION
OR COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Mayor James A. Failace replied that after all the nominations come in
and there are six (6) nominations then you vote for whomever you
choose.
Councilmember Santoro stated that it was one (I) vote and then you
vote for whomever you are going to vote for at that time.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated to the Mayor that they are
open to nominations presumably with the one (1) two (2) or more
nominations. The Mayor would then close the nominations and the
Municipal Clerk would call the roll asking each Councilperson to
indicate which candidate they were voting for.
Councilmember Santoro asked if the vote has to be the majority.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated that the vote requires a
majority of the Council according to the Ordinance and the statute. The
majority of the Council is four- (4). However the Ordinance and the
statute both provide that when the Council fails to elect a President then
the Mayor selects the Council President who is then appointed without
the confirmation of the Council. For example if there was a two- (2)
two- (2) two- (2) vote and the Council was intractably deadlocked the
Mayor would then select.
Mayor James A. Failace asked for a motion to nominate a Council
President.
Councilmember Crilley nominated Councilmember Janet Santoro.
Councilmember Quinones asked ifthere was a need for a second.
Councilmember Crilley replied that a second was not needed.
Councilmember Santoro nominated Councilmember Jack Fazekas and
Councilmember Sohayda second the nomination.
Mayor Failace asked if there were any more nominations and the
Borough Attorney told the Mayor to close the nominations.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin asked the Municipal Clerk to call
roll and ask each Councilperson to indicate their choice for Council
President.
Councilmember Crilley passed. Councilmembers O'Brien and
Quinones nominated Councilmember Quinones. Councilmembers
Fazekas, Santoro and Sohayda nominated Councilmember Jack
Fazekas.
A second roll was then taken. There was a three- (3) two- (2) vote.
Councilmember Crilley at first abstained and then he nominated
Councilmember Quinones.
The Municipal Clerk stated that the vote was three- (3) three (3).
Mayor Failace asked ifthe call was his.
4
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated that it was a dead lock vote.
Mayor Failace then nominated Councilmember Remy Quinones.
a) Judge Comba - on the twenty-ninth (29th) of November he wrote the
Mayor a letter requesting that they expand their hours to every Monday
night. You probably know, as does Councilmember Remy Quinones
knows that we work basically two (2) Monday's nights a month and
every Wednesday. Our calendar has grown enormously. This past
Monday night he got home at 2:15 A.M. That makes the third (3rd)
Monday night in three (3) months that we've done that. He said it's his
job and he doesn't mind doing it. He is very pleased to have the job, it
does create a problem with our calendar. You may not be aware of it
but we are monitored (inaudible) Trenton and we can get rated for
backlog. The problem is that we have other cases that have to be moved
and when the Police Officers change schedules there is a mass of
rescheduling. That created a problem for us because we schedule our
cases at least two (2) to three (3) months in advance. We schedule them
(inaudible) so we don't have an abundance of overtime. On January
30th the department changed the schedule and that made a problem for
us. What happened was when they have an Officer on shift on Monday
night (inaudible). It means that the case has to be postponed for two (2)
months and that is a problem especially with vacations and people
being out. If we were able to work every Monday night the problems
could be worked out a lot quicker. We've had sessions that were quite
late and we feel the additional time would give us a more efficient
operation. It is going to increase our cost. We have to pay the
prosecutor, pay overtime for the staff and a little bit of compensation
for myself. He said he put himself last on the list as far as that goes.
We feel we could be more efficient if we could make it four (4) nights a
month as opposed to what we are doing now. If for some reason it
wasn't producing efficiently in terms of moving the calendar we can
always change it back the way it was before.
Debra Uhouse - the only thing she would add to that is the DWI'S.
They are under a time restraint of sixty (60) days. It is nearly
impossible to do so. This past Monday night we had sixteen (16) of
them and we may not get those police officers back for another month
or two (2).
Judge Comba - stated that because we are an independent body we do
get monitored monthly by the administrative office in New Brunswick.
Thankfully Tuesday we had fifteen (15) to twenty (20) no shows. Ifwe
ever had a Monday night where everyone shows up we wouldn't get
home until Wednesday. That is literally the truth and that does create a
tremendous problem.
Councilmember Quinones asked if this is basically a problem with
trials. This has nothing to do with (inaudible) or the prosecutor.
Judge Comba replied absolutely not. We had the same problem last
year. We only started the new prosecutor. Fortunately her baptism-by-
fire was at night. It's getting to be more usual than unusual. It's rare to
finish a session on Monday night (inaudible). On Wednesday, it's
becoming all day. We did change our hours Monday night. We added a
5
JANUARY 13, 2000
COUNCILMEMBER
QUINONES WON THE
ELECTION FOR
COUNCIL PRESIDENT
TO ADDRESS
GOVERNING BODY -
JUDGE A. COMBA
DEBRA UHOUSE
JANUARY 13, 2000
nSCUSSION
: CONTINUED)
30ROUGH ENGINEER-
\L BENINATO
half-hour on. We use to start at 7:00 P.M. and now we start at 6:30
P.M.. The other problem we run into is two shifts. With the second
shift the police officers come on a 9:00 P.M.. Councilmember Crilley
has to come one night when we're done about 11 :00 P.M..
Mayor Failace stated that we understand your needs. What you have to
do is put together a budget. Sit down with the Borough Administrator,
put together a budget and let me know what we need.
Judge Comba replied that they did put some numbers together in our
letter.
Mayor Failace replied that they were right. Then what has to be done is
as part of the budget process is sit down at the beginning if the month.
Councilmember Santoro asked when will that be done. How long a
period of time will that be to put your budget together? Then you would
be able to come back and review.
Mayor Failace replied in February when we sit with all the department
heads and go over the budget. We can approve it any time after that.
Councilmember Santoro asked if that was after February.
Mayor Failace replied anytime we get the budgets and we see what the
dollar amounts are.
b) Borough Engineer-AI Beninato-Librarv/Senior Communitv Center-
They have completed a Punch List dated January 11, 2000 for related
items. They will continue to work with Potter Architects, the
Construction Office and the general contractor for the remaining work
to be done.
Town Center Proiect- # 99-21 is near completion and the preliminary
contract bid will be completed within the next several weeks. Killam
Associates is requesting authorization of the Engineering services
during the construction budget which was approved as part if the total
project allotment funded by UEZ. The budget is required because much
of the utility work is related to construction and not included in the
design of the work.
Application for Restricted Parking for Handicapped Person - the review
of an application for 75 Hagaman Street - there is no off street parking
and a restricted parking space on the dead end section of Mulberry
Street may be warranted.
Sewer Facilities- #99-16 was completed early December 1999. They
have reviewed the TV inspection to identify if there is any repair or
rehabilitation work needed. With several illegal connections on
Blanchard Street and Pershing Avenue, one on Pershing Avenue across
fÌom Borough Hall and one off Emerson Street. There are many more
repairs to make. The NJDEP hotline was notified as required by the
State upon the confirmation of the illegal lateral connections. The UEZ
Grant does not include utility work and monies for a portion of the
proj ect might be obtained fÌom the general sewer budget.
Dorothv Street Pumping Station Upgrade - there was an investigation
done with Al Beil, Sr. of the Sewer Department in November of 1999
to investigate Dorothy Street and Roosevelt Avenue. The electrical and
mechanical components are in disrepair. A report dated January 2000
includes a list of items that need repair or replacement with the cost.
6
The estimated construction cost recommended is approximately
$350,000. They are requesting an Engineering Design Budget of
$37,300 and that includes a budget for the necessary conditions of the
station and the Construction budget of $38,500.
The estimated total cost is $425,800.
Bergen Street and Hayward Avenue Pump Station - #98-14_and #99-6
Two (2) contracts are in progress for the Bergen and Hayward Pump
Stations. Contract # 98-14 includes electrical and control
improvements. Contract # 99-6 includes two (2) new raw sewage
pumps which will give each station one (1) spare pump. The remaining
pump that failed and removed fÌom the Hayward Pump Station has
been inspected and to meet the WEMCO warranty the pump requires
approximately $6,792.06 in additional work. It is recommended that the
Borough proceed with the retrofitting on the borrowed pump. The cost
is estimated to be $10,965, which is already included in the purchase
order #99-0690. Our office has cost information fÌom the contractor for
replacement valves. The Hayward and Bergen Pump Stations are not
equipped with any by-pass piping in the event of an emergency. It is
recommended that the by-pass connection be considered since is
required to replace the existing valves. P&H Construction has provided
a quotation of $28,292.50 for a temporary by-pass system.
Illegal Connection ill & Reduction Program (ICI & III Program) - the
initial metering phase of the ICI & III reduction program. Killam
Associates provided a status report to the NJDEP to inform them of the
Borough's continued progress. The NJDEP conducted their annual
compliance inspection of the Borough's Sewer Department. The State
should issue their compliance report within three (3) to four (4) weeks.
Annual Sewer Maintenance & Emergencv Service Contract - the storm
sewer repair, the inlet installation and temporary paving of Hermann
Avenue was completed by LBD Contractors, Inc. in December 1999.
Sewer Proiect Bond Ordinance- since there are several large sewer
projects required this year, it may be beneficial for the Borough to
considered issuing a Bond Ordinance. The total estimated project cost
is $1,030,000. Since the Bond Ordinance may take several weeks to
process due to the deteriorated conditions, Killam request the Borough
consider authorizing the Design Budget for the Dorothy Street Pump
Station Upgrades in the amount of$37,300.
Road Proiects-NJ Turnpike Interchange Improvements - the meeting is
scheduled for January 20, 2000 to discuss the proposed NJ Turnpike
Interchange study that is underway.
Improvements to Industrial Road (Phase 1) - Contract #98-12 &
Improvements to Louis Street and Fillmore Avenue - Contract #99-11-
The contractor, Tarheel Enterprises, has completed some of the work
on Louis Street to eliminate the pond conditions. Some time in March
2000 they are scheduled to return and complete the corrective work
along Fillmore Avenue, Barlik Street and State Street. Weather
permitting, the work the work shall be done sometime in mid April
2000. The Base Bid portion of Industrial Road is complete. Tarheel is
scheduled to complete the guard rail replacement work during the
winter. The remaining pavement improvement will tentatively be
completed by mid April 2000, weather permitting.
Year 2000 Road Improvements & Road Opening Procedure- Killam
Associates is in the process of preparing the annual notification to the
utility companies of the Borough roads that will be resurfaced in the
year 2000. The roads that are scheduled for improvements this year
include portions of Cooke Avenue, Pershing Avenue and Blanchard
Street under the Town Center project, Hagaman and Sycamore Streets
7
JANUARY 13, 2000
BOROUGH ENGINEER
(CONTINUED)
JANUARY 13, 2000
30ROUGH ENGINEER
: CONTINUED)
are under the NJDOT Trust Fund, portions of State, Barlik, Sabo
Streets, Pinho Avenue and a southern portion of Industrial Road. The
Borough may wish to consider if there are additional that will be
included. Furthermore the Engineer's have received several inquiries
fÌom utilities regarding the status of the Borough's new road opening
procedure.
Mayor Failace stated that he thought that the Borough Attorney needs
to reaffirm to the Council the DEP position in reference to Phase Two,
especially the new members. He said that he understood that it is a lot
of money and there is a lot more that needs to be spent on it but, the
DEP'S position and their position on the fines. The Council should be
aware of that. For some, this is their first Agenda Meeting and to ask
them to vote on something like this they need to know what it involves.
Borough Engineer- Al Beninato- a little more then a year ago it became
evident that a number of properties in the Borough were connected to
the into the storm sewer. At that time there were only a handful of
connections resulted in (inaudible). The Borough began to take an
active approach to address the problem. Further investigation revealed
that in the late 1980's it was (inaudible). It left only a handful of illegal
connections. The rest is all-inaudible.
)ISCUSSION
(CONTINUED)
Councilmember Santoro asked if the illegal penalties were the
connections.
Al Beninato replied that essentially it was the illegal connections.
Councilmember Santoro asked if the illegal connections were the
penalties and that basically would have to be (inaudible).
Al Beninato replied that it is required at the present time. Some of the
study work that we are also undertaking (inaudible) mandate under the
(inaudible). The Attorney's office and our office have been negotiating
(inaudible). He feels as well as the Borough Attorney feels that the
order, as drafted, could have significant impact on the Borough
(inaudible) when we can't put our arms around the problem in the
manner in which we correct the problem. The State and the Borough is
investigating the entire (inaudible) also.
Councilmember Santoro asked if there was ever TV or smoke and dye
testing done in the Borough.
Al Beninato replied that there was testing done in the mid 1980's.
There was some limited smoke testing done in West Carteret. There
was significant studies undertaken in the early 1990's (inaudible)
Borough System.
Councilmember Santoro asked if that would be a project across fÌom
the schools.
Mayor Failace replied that they already handled that. Is that across
fÌom Columbus School?
Al Beninato replied that they have already been approved. It was
approved around the time when (inaudible) was put in place.
8
Councilmember Santoro asked these project costs that you estimate;
which ones directly go directly to the (inaudible) and the mandates.
Al Beninato replied that they are a budget estimate. The annual sewer
maintenance emergency contract (inaudible).
Councilmember Santoro stated they were not sure if it was a mandate
or not.
Al Beninato replied that what is dangerous is the temporary controls,
the lack of speed control and the pump. The State may very well make
that a mandate. Mandate or not that is something that has to be done.
Councilmember Santoro asked if the one on Dorothy Street and ICI are
associated with the mandate.
Al Beninato replied that he was going to go back to the Town Center
Utility Proj ect. It is an illegal sewer connection.
Mayor Failace stated that he thought the Dorothy Street Pump Station
mandated or not, has got to be fixed.
Councilmember Santoro asked the Mayor if there were questions about
whether you are privatizing or whether you are going out to another
company.
Mayor Failace replied if that happens a year fÌom now we can't allow
the pump station to sit idle.
Councilmember Santoro stated that what she was saying is that until he
sees which clear direction to take, maybe if you see to what extent he
has to do (inaudible).
Mayor Failace replied that Al Beninato is making a point and he did
not see how we can wait. (inaudible) we'll be pumping into the
Rahway River.
Al Beninato replied to emphasize the problem area it would only take a
quick visit to listen to the pumps and see the condition of the station. It
really has not had much attention in the last ten-(10) years.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack asked what caused the
deterioration of the electrical panels at the pump station.
Al Beninato replied that the pump station was hit by lighting.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack asked what the problem was
with the other pump station.
Al Beninato replied that Hayward and Bergen Street failed because of
the nature of the (inaudible) pumps.
Councilmember Santoro asked when the station was hit by lightning.
JANUARY 13, 2000
DISCUSSION
(CONTINUED)
9
ANUARY 13, 2000
ISCUSSION
CONTINUED)
Al Beninato replied that there was an electrical surge around October or
November. Since then it has been temporarily (inaudible). Because of
the design of the pump station there is a (inaudible) it varies the output
of the pump station. It various the outcome of the pumps. Because of
the design of that pump station a variable (inaudible) of the pumps. The
pumps are operating as though they are at a constant speed, they come
on and off at a high rate of speed.
Councilmember O'Brien asked if that pump station shuts down how
many homes will it affect.
Al Beninato replied that he doesn't have a count but that serves all of
West Carteret including the Sabo Street Pumping Station.
Mayor Failace stated that Councilmembers Santoro and Sohayda
already should know while we are looking at this other thing to see if
it's feasible for us and at the same time the Mayor is speaking to
Congressman Menendez in reference to some federal money. He said
we are looking at both sides, we are spending money but the Mayor
does not think they can wait to see if we get the money. We just can't
say we're going to do this because if we do get money even through we
did that the money was well spent and either way it is something that
we have to do.
Councilmember Santoro stated that either way you are putting this
together for a possible bond.
Mayor Failace stated that if we don't do the other thing and a year fÌom
now if it turns out that we are not going to do that, we must continue
with the projects we're doing. You must know that we have eight (8) to
ten (10) million dollars worth of projects. We are going to have to ask
for that money. We don't have enough money in our sewer reserve to
continue with that. We would have to do something at some point in
time no matter what. We have to do something this year, we can't wait.
If we wait until next year that fund will be bankrupt and we'll have no
money for emergencies or anything else. We have to plan ahead from
now and yet nobody wants to hear the word bond and unfortunately we
have ten (10) million dollars worth of projects. If we do the projects
that put us in a better position, if we were to go to the privatization, it
puts us in a better position with the company. Anything we do now will
put us in a better position for the privatization at that time in the future.
Al Beninato - inaudible.
Councilmember Santoro stated that we are still going to be paying that
bond.
Mayor Failace replied that it was not necessarily true. That can be
negotiated in the sale as other bond monies with the sewage can be.
Al Beninato replied that you could negotiate all your conditions into the
value of the system. It is certainly something that has to be done.
Councilmember Crilley asked if that gets paid fÌom the sewer fees not
from the general (inaudible).
Mayor Failace replied that with the two (2) to three (3) million dollars
we spent over the last couple of years our reserve is dwindling and we
10
are not putting two (2) to three (3) million dollars into it. We have to
continue, we can't sit back and say okay maybe we'll get money or
maybe we won't get money. We have to move forward year by year.
You never know what will happen next year. The Mayor asked the
Borough Engineer to speak to the Council. He contacted Jim Lapp, he
is the Deputy County Coordinator for the Middlesex County Office of
Emergency Management about possible grant money for the sewer that
we need to do under Industrial Road.
Al Beninato stated that when the Industrial Road was constructed ten
(10) years ago (inaudible) created a barrier between the low lying areas
of (inaudible) Street and the Rahway River and the Arthur Kill. Certain
work that was done between Beverly Street and the Industrial Road that
involved a storm sewer and the continuation of that sewer was parallel
to and across from Industrial Road. It eventually goes to a drainage
ditch that goes out to the Rahway River.
The Mayor was noted absent at approximately 7:40 P.M. and was back
at approximately 7:42 P.M.
Councilmember Quinones was noted absent at approximately 7:45
P.M. and was back approximately 7:48 P.M.
Mayor Failace asked if anyone had any questions for the Borough
Engineer.
Councilmember Santoro asked about the second half of the Industrial
Road and ifthere was anything going on with that.
Mayor Failace replied that we are going to schedule a meeting with
Woodbridge sometime in February, it's just been too hectic right now.
He said after he meets with them they will have a full count.
Councilmember Fazekas asked the Borough Engineer if he was aware
of the gap in the wall in the men's room at the Fire Department. It was
about three (3) to four (4) inches and now it has expanded.
Councilmember. Fazekas stated that he did not see the Borough
Engineer's report, if he even looked at it. He wanted to know what
some of the Borough Engineer's recommendations were and ifhe could
have a look at the wall again.
Borough Engineer Al Beninato stated that there is going to be some
internal improvement at the Fire House and the details that we
furnished were to help secure that back wall.
Councilmember Fazekas stated that it was when they were doing the
roof he didn't know if the wall was bowing out but they could actually
see the other room. The other thing is the garage door in the FireHouse.
He asked the Borough Engineer to see if they were standard. We have
been having some problems with the truck and he said he would
address that later. He stated that he just wanted to see if the garage
doors are up to standard of width and height for that building. In the
utility room in the Police Station they have all their communications.
He asked the Borough Engineer if it would be possible for him to find
out about the ventilation flow because we're just upgrading that and we
put in a computer, a server and a new radio backup. The room is very
warm and they keep the door open and what is happening is the room is
11
JANUARY 13, 2000
DISCUSSION
(CONTINUED)
rANUARY 13, 2000
nSCUSSION
unsecured and anyone can go in there. Maybe you could redirect the air
conditioner flow into that room or the exhaust.
Borough Engineer stated that there was an evaluation done and we are
aware of the problem.
Councilmember Fazekas replied if you can find out and see what you
can do with that.
Mayor Failace stated that there was a census meeting today at the Pines
Manor. Freeholder David Crabiel invited him and the Borough
Administrator. He said the Council was not able to attend and asked
Vincent Manetta to attend. The Mayor stated that he would like Vince
to address the Council to inform them on the meeting.
rrNCENT MANETTA
Œ: 2000 CENSUS
Vincent Manetta - The only grant money that is available is the
whopping sum of $999.99. Every Municipality was represented at that
meeting today. The main thing that came out of the meeting is that the
Planning Board, the Planning Department of the County, the Census
Bureau, Freeholders would like each Municipality to do their own yard
work. Public Service, the Telephone Company are all putting flyer in
their bill. They want the library, the schools, and the churches to get on
the bandwagon to publicize (inaudible). They are offering temporary
jobs to individuals. Some of the jobs may be only for two- (2) or three-
(3) days but they are paying up to $17.00 per hour.
Borough Clerk Kathleen Barney stated that there are jobs that we have
posted at Borough Hall, anyone interested can sign up. They are going
to be doing job testing every Friday fÌom February through May. We're
putting posters up now.
Vincent Manetta - Also going door to door. They expect anywhere
from 50% to 70% mail returns fÌom the census. They would like 90%
because the higher the percentage the less people have to go knocking
on doors. Carteret is no bad; we're very good in returns. After April 1st
which is census day they expect to go knocking on doors. Count people
under bridges, flop houses etc. all over the County. As you know the
more people we have the higher percentage of money we get for the
County. The main thing they want you to do, Mr. Mayor is to proclaim
a Proclamation on April 1 sl as Census Day. They would also like you to
set up a standing committee for the census and prepare a chart for them
on how this is going to work.
Mayor Failace stated that Councilmember O'Brien IS the Council
Person who is coordinating the census.
Vincent Manetta - There are temporary job openings, sample
newsletters, the Proclamation schedule and the census survey to be
returned to the County. It's $999.99 to the good.
Mayor Failace stated that we will take the $999.99. He then thanked
Vincent Manetta and asked him if he would like to be on the
committee.
lINUTES FOR
\PPROV AL
Minutes For Approval: December 16, 1999, January 2, 2000.
RESOLUTIONS:
ŒSOLUTIONS -
12
1. Directing the Issuance of Various Bingo Licenses.
2. Directing the Issuance of Various Raffle Licenses.
3. Refund of Tax and/or Sewer Fee Overpayments.
4. Award of Bid - Stump Cutter.
5. Professional Services - Craig Coughlin, Esq., not to exceed
$60,000.00, Re: Legal Services.
6. Authorizing Mayor to Execute Interlocal Services Agreement for
Dog Warden Services.
7. Approving State Contractors for Year 2000.
8. Authorizing Mayor to Execute Agreement with Middlesex County
for Public Health Services.
9. Renewal of Agreement with Mid-State Federal Credit Union
10. Professional Services - Killam Associates, not to exceed
$54,000.00, Re: Engineering Services for the Construction of
Borough Green/Cooke Avenue Streetscape Project.
11. Creating Handicapped Parking Space - Hagaman Street &
Mulberry Street.
12. Resolution Appropriating $4104.02 for Hayward Avenue Pump
Station Emergency Repairs - P&H Construction.
13. Appointing Seasonal Employees - Winter Basketball Program.
14. Amendment to 2000 Temporary Budget
15. Agreement to Extraordinary Unspecified Services - Gartland &
Company, Re: Insurance Coverage.
16. Junk Dealer - Yard License for David Bass.
APPLICATIONS:
1. St. Joseph RC Church - Amending RL-1550 by canceling raffle.
COMMUNICATIONS:
1. Township of Bloomfield - Resolution opposing reselling or trading
obsolete weapons to manufacturers, brokers or dealers; Requesting
grant funding to defray loss of revenue.
2. MC Board of Chosen Freeholders - Resolution adopting Integrated
Pest Management Policy.
3. City of South Amboy - Resolution opposing S-1742/A-2328, Re:
Police & Fire Personnel Retirement Policy.
Councilmember Crilley stated that the Linden Dog - we should look at
doing it per case rather then paying a flat $22,000.00. How many calls
did Linden make to Carteret last year?
Mayor Failace replied quite a few you'll have to speak to the Board of
Health you can speak to Ellen Ransdell about it. They recommend that
we do it.
Councilmember Crilley replied that he understood that because it
covers the Borough.
(Inaudible) asked for Dogs?
Municipal Clerk Kathleen Barney stated that it is for all animals.
Mayor Failace replied yes it's for all animals. Go to Ellen Ransdell
about it.
13
JANUARY 13, 2000
RESOLUTIONS -
(CONTINUED)
APPLICATIONS
COMMUNICATIONS
DISCUSSION
ANUARY 13, 2000
Councilmember Crilley stated that their contract calls for (inaudible).
Maybe there is a cheaper way of doing this because it's $400.00 a
week.
.EPORTS
REPORTS:
1. Board of Health
2. Clerk's Office - December 1999
3. Inspection of Buildings - December 1999
4. Sewage Collection - December 1999
IATTERS FOR
IISCUSSION
MATTERS FOR DISCUSSION:
I. John Riggio - Requesting resolution relocating bus stop adjacent to
Civic Center Park. From the corner of Pershing & Cooke move it
up 75 feet north.
Councilmember Crilley stated that it is located at the end of the triangle
and John Riggio wants to move it closer to the parking lot.
Mayor Failace stated that he wants it on the North side.
nSCUSSION
Councilmember Crilley asked if he wanted a shelter on each side,
across from each other.
John Riggio replied it's because people go to New York and Perth
Amboy.
2. AFSCME Local #2291 - requesting hearing, Re: Grievance.
Mayor Failace stated that it will be discussed in Closed Session.
3. Newark International Airport Partnership - Requesting resolution
opposing ocean routing of aircraft.
4. Senator Schluter - Requesting resolution asking legislature remove
"account wagering" from horserace gambling bill.
5. Robert Maxam, Inc. Asking Municipalities to request DCA to
provide tax deferred program for New Jersey volunteers. Public
comments accepted until January 19,2000.
6. Office on Aging - Vacancy, Term to Expire 12/31/05
Mayor Failace asked if that was the Mayor's Appointment with the
Council's consent. If anyone has names please submit them to me.
7. Tony Neibert - a) No Parking Ordinance, Terminal Avenue
b) Requesting additional 6 month temporary appointment -Mary Jane
Keratt.
Councilmember Crilley asked if that was a provisional appointment.
Mayor Failace replied that it's a part time temporary appointment.
Councilmember Santoro asked if there was a time limit for that. Do the
part timers get benefits?
Councilmember Crilley replied that some of them do.
14
Mayor Failace replied that there are some; but that is not in the future.
Councilmember Crilley stated that they are regular employees, this is
temporary.
8. Alexander Beil, Jr. - Requesting reappointment as C-3 Operator for
2000.
9. Gloria Goodrich - Asking if application engineering fee, $275.00
will be waived, Re: Revival Center Church.
Councilmember Crilley stated that these are the fees for the inspector
that goes out to the building, these aren't applications.
(Inaudible) asked why we are waiving the fees?
Mayor Failace replied because we always have.
10. Genova, Burns & Vernoia - Requesting additional appropriation.
Councilmember Santoro stated during the reorganization there were
two (2) names missing on the (inaudible).
Mayor Failace stated that anyone can give me names and he will take
them into consideration. This was for recreation sub committee.
Councilmember Santoro stated that she spoke to Beverly Hedesh on the
two-(2) names. One being Debra Aleksandrich and the other one is
Judy Leshko.
Councilmember Quinones stated that she also has some names,
Ruthann Donovan, Sue Ivaniski, Danielle Mackvick and Joann
Rodman. She believes that Beverly Hedesh is aware of them, not
through my discussion with her, but with someone else.
BUSINESS TO BE ADDED:
Councilmember Jack Fazekas stated that one of the things that he
wanted the Mayor and Council to know was that the ladder truck is
going to be out for about eight (8) days. He asked if there was a report
filled out.
Business Administrator Nick Goldsack replied that he does not get a
copy of it.
Mayor Failace asked if anyone was hurt.
Councilmember Fazekas replied that he didn't know and he was
checking on this himself. It had to be that they were either pulling in or
backing out or inside the house. What he wanted to know if Nick
would find out anything in terms of reports to file or anything.
Councilmember Crilley stated that there has to be a Police Report for
that, for insurance purposes.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated that he (inaudible) forms last
year for property damage.
15
JANUARY 13, 2000
DISCUSSION
(CONTINUED)
BUSINESS TO BE
ADDED
RE: FIRE TRUCK
fANUARY 13, 2000
Councilmember Fazekas asked if the Borough Administrator looked at
that.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied that he should. He's not sure
what people have been sending them. They will ultimately end up in
the hands ofthe Insurance Company so they could open files and things
like that. It probably should be rerouted to the Business Administrators
office.
Councilmember Fazekas stated that the ladder won't be available for
the latter part of next week.
RE: FIRE
DEPARTMENT
FIRE:
Councilmember Fazekas stated that there is a rail in the back that is off,
so if OSHA should come down they would tell us that we couldn't use
the truck. The thing he doesn't want to do is invalidate the warrantee
and make sure that we do it properly. It was properly reported to the
msurance company.
RE: BUILDINGS &
GROUNDS
BUILDINGS & GROUNDS:
Councilmember Santoro reported that she met with the Borough
Administrator to discuss Borough Hall and she suggested regardless
what the decision is with Borough Hall you have to move the people
out of the there to do any type ofrepairs. Yesterday there were two (2)
more steam pipes that broke within the wall. So before there is anymore
money put into that building if you are going to be doing renovations or
no renovations, you need to relocate those people.
Mayor Failace asked if Councilmember Santoro wanted them to
relocate the people now.
RE: BOROUGH HALL
EMPLOYEES
Councilmember Santoro stated that the Borough Administrator is going
to look into the possibility of where to locate them, the cost and what
would have to be done.
Mayor Failace asked what will be done with Borough Hall. Do you
want it boarded up?
Councilmember Santoro replied that the people in Borough Hall were
without heat for two (2) weeks during the holidays. Part of it is closed
off to plastic. As long as you keep people in there and you're heading
into the winter you're probably going to be facing problems daily. If
you have the available space somewhere in the district to relocate those
people it would not be on an urgency basis every time something
happened there. Regardless of what you do with that building you
would have to relocate those people while you were doing it. Then you
would have time to see what you were going to do with that building.
Councilmember Crilley stated that the problem with relocating people
beside where and how much is what about all the files and everything
else in that building. You can't tear that building down.
Mayor Failace replied that he didn't think so either but that is
something that we have to look at. Councilmember Santoro is the head
16
of Borough Hall so she should look at it and come back and report what
you think should be done and we'll take it into consideration.
Councilmember Santoro stated that she wanted to mention to
Councilmember Fazekas that she would like to have a meeting Monday
night. Is 7:00 P.M. okay with you?
Councilmember Fazekas replied that 7:00 P.M. is fine. He told
Councilmember Santoro that she will have to label everything. If there
is asbestos it has to be labeled otherwise we're in violation.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack stated that they went through
that with the furnace so he does know the procedure.
Councilmember Fazekas stated just so it's labeled.
Councilmember Crilley asked if they will close the building down.
Councilmember Fazekas replied no, what he's talking right now is with
that room closed. You have to put a visible sign that there is asbestos.
Mayor Failace asked if that was the Council Chambers. That wasn't
asbestos it was fungus that grew in there fÌom all the water that leaked.
Councilmember Fazekas replied that everyone said to label everything
and he just wants to make sure they do.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack stated that a company should
come in and do a reassessment of the air quality not only in that room
but also in the basement for two (2) purposes. Number one (I) we'll put
in an insurance claim for the old Council Chambers and have that
renovated. We have determined it was a broken (inaudible) that caused
all the problems. The second thing is to have the air quality checked in
the basement and to have the basement gutted out. The carpeting and
the walls should be removed and just have the shell there.
Councilmember Santoro stated that while we were discussing that Jeff
Pino was in attendance as a Library Treasurer Trustee and was asked
about what they are doing with that building once they are completely
out of the old building.
Mayor Failace replied that he just spoke to Jeff about it and he knows it
was after the Council spoke to him. Head Start wants to come back to
Carteret and he presented to Jeff using that building to bring the
children back into Carteret.
Councilmember Santoro asked what about using the area where the
Senior Citizens met before.
Mayor Failace replied that each of the Council should discuss it with
their committees and come back and we'll discuss this.
Councilmember Crilley asked to be corrected ifhe's wrong but in order
to change the use of that building you have to totally upgrade it for all
the zoning laws.
Tony Neibert replied that Councilmember Crilley was correct.
17
JANUARY 13, 2000
DISCUSSION
(CONTINUED)
RE: RELOCATING
BOROUGH HALL
EMPLOYEES
RE: HEAD START
~NUARY 13, 2000
[SCUSSION
:ONTINUED)
Councilmember Crilley stated that you are changing the use of the
building, you are changing it into a school. In order to change the use
of the building you have to bring it up to code. To do that would be
prohibitive for that type of program. To bring them in to use the Senior
Center, if you are going to lease it to them, then you have to bring it up
to code too. It would be a problem.
E: CARTERET
IBRARY - 61
ARTERET AVE.
Tony Neibert stated that the Library sits in what is called (inaudible)
25. When the building was a library the zoning was never changes for
many years obviously it is a heck of an (inaudible). As Councilmember
Crilley pointed out everything would have to be approved.
Councilmember Santoro asked how about offices moving there.
Tony Neibert replied that it would be the same thing.
Councilmember Crilley stated that cost wise the best bet is to sell.
Mayor Failace stated that he did not think we owned the building. He
thinks it belongs to the library.
Councilmember Crilley stated that we could always put it to the debt of
the new library.
Councilmember Santoro stated basically we are going to have to sit on
Monday. Tony Neibert is going to be looking at other buildings. Mr.
Neibert went with Mr. Pino to the other library and the other area
would be the new community center to see if there is any space
available and in the annex. She guesses they will bring it to the meeting
and we'll discuss it. Does anyone have any other ideas? With the Head
Start is there anything else we should know about?
Mayor Failace replied that the new community center is just about
booked up. He said he didn't know and he doesn't know if anyone
else knows either.
Councilmember Sohayda stated that he met with the department heads
and there is nothing to report.
Councilmember Quinones stated that she had something to say III
Closed Session.
Œ: BOARD OF THE
DISABLED
Councilmember O'Brien stated that they were upset that we didn't
follow their recommendation for the Board of the Disabled, Charles
Heller, leave Pat Gutowski on and that would leave Sally as the Liaison
for the Board of Education. We will need a resolution to approve
Charles Heller.
Œ: PARK
EQUIPMENT
Councilmember Crilley stated that we're going to wait for the library to
get done and then we are going get the park equipment for the Civic
Center Park. We have park equipment for Chrome Park, which is going
to be started pretty soon. The dugouts are being worked on in Sullivan
Field.
18
Mayor Failace replied maybe not, because we have to wash the fire
truck. The Mayor said that he was told if we don't wash the fire truck
fÌom the ball game, they're not going to build the dugout.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated that he updated the litigation
outline and he made ten (10) copies. The Municipal Clerk always wants
two -(2) and it's for everyone's perusal. He said he spoke to a number
of towers with regard to the Towing Ordinance and they have some
comments. They requested a meeting. He said that he is going to set up
something with the Borough Administrator and anyone wishing to
participate are welcome to come in and hear the concerns of the towers.
He will let everyone know when it's convenience for them and we can
get that offthe (inaudible).
Councilmember Sohayda asked if that is going to stay light duty or
heavy duty.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied that as a proposed ordinance
the structure that every company wants to perform this ordinance
would be required to have.
Councilmember Sohayda asked if we are making unnecessary demands
on these people.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin replied that he thought that it was a
clear message from the folks that are doing it. They called me and he
sent it to everybody that was on the list. They're saying it's really
burdensome to have heavy equipment wrecker accordingly there is only
one who is on the list that could do that. He stated that he indicated it
wasn't the Mayor and Council intentions to eliminate people but rather
just to provide for the fact that we do have a large amount of truck
traffic. Thinking it through and talking with those fellows he thinks that
ultimately what probably would make sense is to have two (2) separate
list, one (1) for regular towing and one (1) for heavy towing. What is
proposed, he has copies for Councilmembers Santoro and Sohayda
because he didn't know if they had gotten it, the new proposed towing
ordinance. He said he sent it out for the people who actually live it and
to get their input per the Mayor and Council. They have requested a
meeting (inaudible). We are going to have to make sure that we comply
with the State requirements.
Tony Neibert stated that the Graffiti Ordinance (totally inaudible).
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack stated that on January 19th he
will be having a meeting with Mr. Butch Henry fÌom Woodbridge
Township regarding the feasibility of an Interlocal Service Agreement
on (inaudible) inspections of emission control and possibly fleet
maintenance. As everyone knows the State is pushing for an Interlocal
Service Agreement. They are providing the Municipalities that are
involved in grants to look into the possibility of doing it and grants to
assist in any transition that does take place, if there is approval.
Councilmember Fazekas asked what we paid for the fleet.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack replied that right now the
budget calls for, with benefits, approximately $365,000.00 a year.
19
JANUARY 13, 2000
RE: DUGOUT
SULLIVAN FIELD
DISCUSSION
RE: INTERLOCAL
SERVICE AGREEMENT
rANUARY 13, 2000
RE: MEETING
M.C.I.A. WITH
MR. HILL
RE: PRIVATIZATION
RECYCLING DEPT.
RE: METRICOM
DRUG & ALCOHOL
POLICY IN THE
WORK PLACE
Councilmember Sohayda asked how many vehicles.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack replied for 100 pieces of
equipment.
Councilmember Santoro asked when the meeting was.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack stated that on January 19th at
10:00 A.M. On January 26th he will be having a meeting and
Councilmember Sohayda will be at both meetings with Mr. Richard
Hills of the M.C.I.A. The meeting is in regard to the possibility of
them doing our recycling pickup presently, the Borough does the
recycling. There are two (2) issues with that and number one (1) it is
costing us $145,000.00 more than we are taking in on the recycling fees
plus we received notification from the firm that takes our co-mingled
plastic and glass and they want to charge us $20.00 a ton. Right now
there is no charge for it, we should seriously take a look at this and see
feasibility of the Borough going with the County.
Councilmember Crilley asked if they used to pay us.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack replied yes.
Mayor Failace asked if we have looked at anyone else, is there any
other firm out there?
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack replied that one of the reasons
that he wants to take a look at this is because the M.C.I.A. has many
sources for dumping the Recycling. This week they had a first meeting
on sewer privatization. What Pat DeBlasio and myself did was to
provide the auditor with some preliminary data as far as revenue and
expenses. They had a meeting scheduled for January 18th which would
include the engineer to do an assessment of the needs not only for the
year 2000 but for the future and what we have to look at as far as
capital projects. That date will be changed because the (inaudible)
requested that we have a change. The Borough Administrator said that
Mr. McGovern called him regarding PBA negotiations. If it is okay
with the Council we will meet with the negotiator on January 31st at
4:00 P.M. at Borough Hall.
Mayor Failace stated that they will have the meeting upstairs III
Borough Hall.
Borough Attorney Craig Coughlin stated that they also need to add the
Metricom contract.
Mayor Failace stated that they need to get a copy of the Drug and
Alcohol Policy that they have talked about. Councilmembers Santoro
and Sohayda also need copies. He said that they have to do something
with it.
Inaudible asked why do they need copies.
Mayor Failace replied that they need new copies of the Drug & Alcohol
Policy in the work place.
20
Councilmember Crilley asked if there was a recent ruling that Police
and Fireman can be tested.
Mayor Failace replied yes.
Borough Administrator Nick Goldsack stated that in the city of
Patterson Drug and Alcohol testing for Police was brought to court and
upheld and he thinks we should include that.
Mayor Failace stated that they should speak to Chris Elg because he
brought all this to his attention.
Councilmember Crilley stated that they should get this right.
Mayor Failace stated that is why he wants to do it. He said that is why
he brought it up he wants them to have a copy of it and let them read it.
If they have any questions or adjustments we'll do that and lets move
forward and get it done.
RESOLUTION #00-15 was introduced by the Mayor and referred to
the Council for action.
Upon MMS&C, by Councilmembers Crilley and O'Brien
RESOLUTION #00-15
"RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION"
was adopted. Upon individual roll call vote, Councilmembers Crilley,
O'Brien, Quinones, Santoro and Sohayda voted in the affirmative.
Councilmember Fazekas was noted absent.
Upon MMS&C, by Councilmembers Crilley and O'Brien and
unanimous affirmative vote of the five (5) members present, the
meeting was adjourned into a Closed Session at approximately 8:45
P.M.
Upon MMS&C, by Councilmembers Crilley and O'Brien and
unanimous affirmative vote of the five (5) Councilmembers present, the
meeting was opened to the public at approximately 9:42 P.M.
21
JANUARY 13, 2000
DISCUSSION
RESOLUTION 100-15
CLOSED SESSION
ADOPTED
MEETING
CLOSED
OPENED TO THE
PUBLIC
f;.NUARY 13, 2000
,DJOURNED
There being no further business or discussion, upon MMS&C, by
Councilmember Quinones and O'Brien and unanimous affirmative vote
of the five (5) Councilmembers present, the meeting was adjourned at
approximately 9:47 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Ka leen M. Barney, RMC/CM
Municipal Clerk
KMB/apm
22