1 00:00:07,420 --> 00:00:08,020 Good evening, 2 00:00:13,560 --> 00:00:30,720 everybody. I would like to call this meeting to order with the statement of proper notice. Notice of this meeting has been posted on the municipal bulletin board and forwarded to the hopeful valley news. The times. 3 00:00:30,720 --> 00:00:39,500 Yes, the Chentanian, and hope will express in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 231, B.L.1975. 4 00:00:40,240 --> 00:00:42,060 Ms. Pantanuman, can you please call the room. 5 00:00:42,840 --> 00:00:44,100 Committee member Kaczynski? 6 00:00:44,360 --> 00:00:44,540 Here. 7 00:00:45,100 --> 00:00:46,520 Committee member Peter Svannon? 8 00:00:46,700 --> 00:00:46,880 Here. 9 00:00:47,280 --> 00:00:48,560 Deputy Mayor Pieran Dara? 10 00:00:48,780 --> 00:00:48,980 Here. 11 00:00:49,300 --> 00:00:50,320 And Mayor Chaita Zaps. 12 00:00:50,480 --> 00:00:52,860 Committee member Ritter, I've totally forgotten you. 13 00:00:53,200 --> 00:00:53,800 I'm here, too. 14 00:00:55,160 --> 00:00:56,840 I'm looking straight up to two. 15 00:00:58,120 --> 00:00:59,580 Mayor Chaita Zaps. 16 00:00:59,580 --> 00:01:02,400 Can you please raise for pleasure, please? 17 00:01:03,300 --> 00:01:08,000 I have two allegiance to the five of the United States of America. 18 00:01:08,680 --> 00:01:09,880 And do you ever bother with her? 19 00:01:10,000 --> 00:01:10,620 Which stands? 20 00:01:11,180 --> 00:01:11,340 One. 21 00:01:12,280 --> 00:01:12,400 One. 22 00:01:12,620 --> 00:01:12,720 One. 23 00:01:12,720 --> 00:01:12,860 One. 24 00:01:13,240 --> 00:01:13,460 One. 25 00:01:13,460 --> 00:01:13,480 One. 26 00:01:19,920 --> 00:01:20,520 So, 27 00:01:23,290 --> 00:01:29,990 there are two additional atoms on the meeting today, there is one, there is one 28 00:01:29,990 --> 00:01:38,210 the ordinance and one resolution which we will take it in the order, the ordinance will 29 00:01:38,210 --> 00:01:45,050 be seven B and the resolution will be nine B. So, as we go through the agenda, we will 30 00:01:45,050 --> 00:01:46,070 We'll get to that. 31 00:01:47,230 --> 00:01:54,570 With that, we are on the committee members and the staff reports, and I'll start with Mr. Snyder. 32 00:02:02,510 --> 00:02:03,110 Thank you. 33 00:02:06,730 --> 00:02:09,550 So just one quick, a couple of just quick questions. 34 00:02:09,930 --> 00:02:12,130 I know there's a lot going on this time of year. 35 00:02:13,390 --> 00:02:17,550 I'd like to just follow up with you in the mayor when he's back just on the hiring. 36 00:02:17,790 --> 00:02:27,230 And we're doing both seasonal hiring, additional form and crew to help deal with the increased load within the township. 37 00:02:27,390 --> 00:02:28,730 And so we'll follow up offline. 38 00:02:29,050 --> 00:02:31,930 But everything's looking good after a hard winner. 39 00:02:32,610 --> 00:02:33,810 Thank you, appreciate that. 40 00:02:34,130 --> 00:02:34,910 Thank you. 41 00:02:35,610 --> 00:02:36,670 Mr. Gideon, 42 00:02:38,770 --> 00:02:40,430 Ms. Chaotman. 43 00:02:41,430 --> 00:02:43,610 All right, Ms. Spendanyuman. 44 00:02:44,470 --> 00:02:46,290 Nothing to report, Mayor of Daxingham. 45 00:02:46,290 --> 00:02:46,810 Thank you. 46 00:02:47,910 --> 00:02:49,370 All right, so committee report. 47 00:02:49,790 --> 00:02:50,390 Committee report. 48 00:02:50,750 --> 00:02:52,390 Mr. Ruger, you can start with you. 49 00:02:52,590 --> 00:02:56,090 The Open Space Advisory Committee will be meeting tomorrow night at 7 o'clock. 50 00:02:56,950 --> 00:02:57,910 Mr. Kachinsky. 51 00:02:58,490 --> 00:03:00,770 So, Planning Board is meeting this Thursday. 52 00:03:01,710 --> 00:03:04,770 You know, they have a very busy schedule in the weeks ahead. 53 00:03:05,210 --> 00:03:07,190 You're going to see one of the additional items. 54 00:03:07,730 --> 00:03:10,090 Effects are fourth round, affordable housing plans. 55 00:03:10,090 --> 00:03:13,890 And so we'll speak to that introduction more as it comes forward. 56 00:03:14,510 --> 00:03:20,730 It's for the partnership with over at the White L tract. 57 00:03:20,910 --> 00:03:22,430 And so we'll talk more of that. 58 00:03:22,790 --> 00:03:27,690 And I've been working with the mayor and with our professionals to advance that. 59 00:03:28,570 --> 00:03:35,530 And the big focus on the fourth round is really towards senior housing and 100% affordable. 60 00:03:36,370 --> 00:03:37,170 Thank you. 61 00:03:37,670 --> 00:03:38,870 Mr. Peters-Manning. 62 00:03:39,110 --> 00:03:39,810 I have nothing to say. 63 00:03:40,390 --> 00:03:40,970 Thank you. 64 00:03:41,830 --> 00:03:47,030 For me, Environment Commission is going to meet tomorrow at 7 p.m. on the Zoom. 65 00:03:47,830 --> 00:03:53,270 The Board of Health is going to be on May 4th at 5.30 here in the Township Office, and I 66 00:03:53,270 --> 00:03:58,190 also would like to remind everybody again this coming Saturday we are going to have the 67 00:03:58,190 --> 00:04:04,650 cultural festival in collaboration with the cultural connection? 68 00:04:06,130 --> 00:04:08,670 May 2nd. May 2nd Saturday. 69 00:04:09,330 --> 00:04:11,890 From 11 to 2 at Pulsey Park. 70 00:04:12,230 --> 00:04:15,090 So again, there are going to be some food trucks, 71 00:04:15,230 --> 00:04:17,810 life performances from diverse ethnic background. 72 00:04:18,150 --> 00:04:20,270 It's going to be a great family event. 73 00:04:21,450 --> 00:04:24,550 So with that, I'll open the publicsation. 74 00:04:24,790 --> 00:04:25,990 The first publicsation. 75 00:04:25,990 --> 00:04:28,070 I will now open the first public session. 76 00:04:28,430 --> 00:04:31,250 If you have a comment, please step up to the podium 77 00:04:31,250 --> 00:04:34,550 and speak clearly into the microphone, state your name 78 00:04:34,550 --> 00:04:35,450 and your address. 79 00:04:36,130 --> 00:04:39,630 Public comment will be limited to three minutes per person 80 00:04:39,630 --> 00:04:42,730 and question will be answered at the end of the public 81 00:04:42,730 --> 00:04:43,570 comment session. 82 00:04:43,990 --> 00:04:44,170 And 83 00:04:48,140 --> 00:04:49,040 for you, how 84 00:05:00,530 --> 00:05:01,450 many of you have been here? 85 00:05:02,950 --> 00:05:04,670 Just a check and see if you move. 86 00:05:04,730 --> 00:05:05,370 Let's go on, Dan. 87 00:05:05,870 --> 00:05:06,670 So, one, yeah. 88 00:05:06,670 --> 00:05:07,310 Okay. 89 00:05:10,120 --> 00:05:16,580 Good afternoon, Jim Bird. Hope well, township. The reason I'm coming is because I sent 90 00:05:16,580 --> 00:05:21,920 an email to the mayor, and I don't know if he reported it on you or not. But there 91 00:05:21,920 --> 00:05:29,300 would say there's an issue that's taking place with some people that used to be 92 00:05:29,300 --> 00:05:40,440 Mayors. One was John Hart, the other one was Miss Sando. And it's in regards to a change 93 00:05:41,120 --> 00:05:52,380 of the Township Committee's operation, the way it operates. The reason that I contacted the 94 00:05:52,380 --> 00:06:14,620 was because I said it's a great concept to review, but the other important aspect is there's at least six or more different types of political programs for the different municipalities throughout New Jersey. 95 00:06:14,620 --> 00:06:22,520 So, what I'm saying is that, yes, it's nice that you go for aid petition, but I think 96 00:06:22,520 --> 00:06:30,080 that one of the most important things is that it goes before everyone in regards to 97 00:06:30,080 --> 00:06:40,540 every type of government that's available in New Jersey prior to approving a petition. 98 00:06:40,540 --> 00:06:51,540 Now, I remember the petitions, I remember when we went and four out of five members of 99 00:06:51,540 --> 00:07:00,660 the Township Committee passed a law or an ordinance, I should say, that people on 100 00:07:00,660 --> 00:07:09,420 Crest Avenue, Orchard Avenue, and other avenues in there could get, excuse me, could get 101 00:07:12,560 --> 00:07:19,220 the sewer for $15 a gallon for the setups. 102 00:07:20,540 --> 00:07:26,780 At that time, the sand would help put together a petition to thwart that. 103 00:07:26,780 --> 00:07:35,780 and that's why I say that I'm a little apprehensive of just accepting one 104 00:07:35,780 --> 00:07:44,700 petition for a choice of other options for Hopewell Township. I have nothing 105 00:07:44,700 --> 00:07:52,040 I have no problems with the change of it's necessary but before we go through 106 00:07:52,040 --> 00:08:04,600 Through with the petition, I think we should do a complete evaluation of every type of government for the municipality prior to making a decision. 107 00:08:05,260 --> 00:08:10,060 I'd like to know what your opinion is on this and what we can do in regards to that. 108 00:08:10,260 --> 00:08:11,200 Thank you very much. 109 00:08:11,860 --> 00:08:12,740 Thank you, Mr. Berry. 110 00:08:14,520 --> 00:08:17,240 Anybody else has comment or questions? 111 00:08:21,650 --> 00:08:25,370 Any one on Zoom who has a comment, please raise your hand. 112 00:08:29,200 --> 00:08:30,620 No one's raising their hand. 113 00:08:31,880 --> 00:08:35,180 All right, so there are no further comments. 114 00:08:35,380 --> 00:08:36,660 I'll close the public session. 115 00:08:38,020 --> 00:08:40,680 So, Mr. Burr, yes, thank you for your question. 116 00:08:42,980 --> 00:08:49,920 We have been discussing on that particular issue extensively and we truly believe that it 117 00:08:49,920 --> 00:08:55,160 needs to be kind of look into a holistic view. 118 00:08:55,880 --> 00:08:57,920 And we are still in the discussion 119 00:08:57,920 --> 00:09:00,060 what would be the best way to move forward. 120 00:09:00,500 --> 00:09:02,920 And I'll let my fellow committee member add into 121 00:09:02,920 --> 00:09:04,760 if you have anything to add in. 122 00:09:05,000 --> 00:09:06,480 Sure, I'd be happy to talk about that. 123 00:09:06,720 --> 00:09:09,980 At our meeting last week, we introduced an ordinance 124 00:09:09,980 --> 00:09:13,760 to potentially put a charter study commission on the ballot. 125 00:09:14,380 --> 00:09:17,840 That would be same thing happened in 2004 126 00:09:17,840 --> 00:09:21,620 where it would be a commission that studies all of the alternatives available, there's 12. 127 00:09:22,680 --> 00:09:27,460 And I agree with you 100% that we shouldn't just pick one, we should have without any discussion of the alternatives. 128 00:09:27,900 --> 00:09:33,400 So the Charter Study Commission, the first reading was last week, the public hearing is set for May 4th. 129 00:09:33,600 --> 00:09:37,840 We're hoping to hear from the community to decide if that's something that people are looking for a change. 130 00:09:38,600 --> 00:09:47,980 We also, as a part of our 2026 budget, we are getting a grant to study efficiency overall 131 00:09:47,980 --> 00:09:48,820 in the township. 132 00:09:48,980 --> 00:09:56,460 It's called the Merp Grant, which is a municipal efficiency review Merp MERP. 133 00:09:56,740 --> 00:09:58,280 I'll get back to you on what that exactly means. 134 00:09:59,600 --> 00:10:03,780 And so that will study whether we need to change forms, and if so, to what form, and also 135 00:10:03,780 --> 00:10:10,080 So just holistically look at the efficiency of our township operations and what might need to be changed. 136 00:10:10,440 --> 00:10:16,100 I mean, to just build on what Peter's Manning and the deputy mayor said, I think it starts with, 137 00:10:16,980 --> 00:10:22,700 it makes sense time to time to get someone from the outside to look at and advise us. 138 00:10:22,820 --> 00:10:25,180 And so that starts with facts, right? 139 00:10:25,360 --> 00:10:31,320 So in 2013 there was a study within the municipality that looked at structure and staffing. 140 00:10:31,320 --> 00:10:35,800 And from an outside perspective said, this is what's working. 141 00:10:36,300 --> 00:10:41,140 Here are some suggested changes if any, and that came back committee. 142 00:10:41,340 --> 00:10:46,060 I know, because I've looked at the history now in 2004, so I'm familiar with that process. 143 00:10:46,120 --> 00:10:49,260 I'm also familiar with the SOAR referendum, but I agree with you Mr. 144 00:10:49,480 --> 00:10:56,060 Bird, there's not one form of government that a select few should unilaterally decide on. 145 00:10:56,160 --> 00:11:01,300 I think there are alternate options, and we have in the last meeting, I don't even know 146 00:11:01,300 --> 00:11:08,720 If the four or five of us are necessarily on the same page as to we want to hear from the public. 147 00:11:09,200 --> 00:11:13,380 We want to hear an outside independent assessment of where we're at. 148 00:11:14,220 --> 00:11:22,080 And then if there is a charter commission, there will be five independent members who take all that input, 149 00:11:22,300 --> 00:11:24,900 who can hire an expert, that's part of why we're looking to get the grant. 150 00:11:25,380 --> 00:11:28,940 And they will advise the community on what they recommend. 151 00:11:28,940 --> 00:11:33,400 And it is a, the charter commission plan is a two step process. 152 00:11:33,940 --> 00:11:41,380 So in 2004, the charter commission did recommend a change that went back to voters the following year. 153 00:11:41,760 --> 00:11:51,400 And after the voters looked at all the options, my understanding was that the voters said we believe the current form of government is working. 154 00:11:51,920 --> 00:11:56,440 We're not presupposing any of that, we're not presupposing one form of government or another. 155 00:11:56,440 --> 00:12:01,260 But I agree with you, it should not be just one that we go forward with. 156 00:12:02,520 --> 00:12:05,820 So it appears that Merp has management enhancement review program. 157 00:12:05,940 --> 00:12:06,280 Thank you. 158 00:12:09,420 --> 00:12:13,780 And Mr. Burd, I just had a little bit to what my colleague said. 159 00:12:14,200 --> 00:12:16,400 What I think is the most important thing here is the process. 160 00:12:17,140 --> 00:12:20,760 Changing the government is a very big deal if we are going to make that change. 161 00:12:21,280 --> 00:12:25,120 It should not be done because one person or one small group of people say, 162 00:12:25,120 --> 00:12:27,320 take it or leave it here is our proposal, 163 00:12:27,760 --> 00:12:29,300 either you like this or you don't. 164 00:12:29,700 --> 00:12:31,560 What we need to do is we need to have the right process 165 00:12:31,560 --> 00:12:35,000 where we have the everybody who wants to participate, 166 00:12:35,220 --> 00:12:37,880 to participate or we have an independent party, 167 00:12:38,480 --> 00:12:40,540 look at things and let us know what we're doing right 168 00:12:40,540 --> 00:12:42,360 and what we're doing wrong and what we can do better. 169 00:12:43,080 --> 00:12:46,960 We do not have perfect knowledge of the 560 plus 170 00:12:47,980 --> 00:12:49,780 municipalities in the state of New Jersey, 171 00:12:50,660 --> 00:12:53,880 but whoever we bring in as an expert will. 172 00:12:54,520 --> 00:13:11,520 And to be able to rely on that person's expertise and make a proposal that could then go to the public I think is a far, far better idea, a more inclusive idea and a more democratic idea, small day than having a one person or small group of people say here's what we think you should do. 173 00:13:12,180 --> 00:13:17,060 Can I just one thing about the particular town manager form of government that is being proposed with this referendum? 174 00:13:17,060 --> 00:13:22,780 them, it puts the executive power of the government in an unelected town manager. 175 00:13:23,040 --> 00:13:28,180 So the town manager is appointed by the town council and that person has all of the executive 176 00:13:28,180 --> 00:13:31,960 authority like you would imagine a mayor does in many other forms of government. 177 00:13:32,180 --> 00:13:36,340 So while you would directly elect the mayor, you're directly electing a figurehead who runs 178 00:13:36,340 --> 00:13:42,180 meetings and goes to ribbon cuttings and it's largely a ceremonial role, even less so than 179 00:13:42,180 --> 00:13:45,240 and our mayor is in the Township Committee Forum. 180 00:13:45,800 --> 00:13:49,180 And I also wanted to say sort of a pitch 181 00:13:49,180 --> 00:13:50,820 for the Township Committee Forum of Government 182 00:13:50,820 --> 00:13:53,580 because for our form, the executive authority 183 00:13:53,580 --> 00:13:54,760 is in all five of us. 184 00:13:55,140 --> 00:13:57,300 So it is not just one person that makes the decisions. 185 00:13:57,480 --> 00:13:59,040 We have to vote on pretty much everything. 186 00:13:59,120 --> 00:14:00,240 If you see one of the additions tonight 187 00:14:00,240 --> 00:14:02,960 is supporting the mayor writing a letter 188 00:14:02,960 --> 00:14:04,140 and supporting a grant application 189 00:14:04,140 --> 00:14:06,180 and supportive lowering the speed limit. 190 00:14:06,280 --> 00:14:07,740 So the mayor can't really make those decisions. 191 00:14:07,780 --> 00:14:09,440 We all have to make those decisions together. 192 00:14:09,440 --> 00:14:16,380 And while that is, for sure, clunky sometimes, I think promotes better decision-making because we're all very different. 193 00:14:16,540 --> 00:14:17,220 We have different opinions. 194 00:14:17,340 --> 00:14:21,240 We approach problems differently, so we get to better solutions, in my opinion. 195 00:14:22,120 --> 00:14:25,680 Mr. Gradel, do you have to add anything in here in the clarification? 196 00:14:29,190 --> 00:14:32,410 Clear, but there are two different ways to change the chart. 197 00:14:32,890 --> 00:14:40,150 One is to have a petition that recommends a particular change in the notice select. 198 00:14:40,150 --> 00:14:47,210 The other is to have a charter study commission, which then itself studies the government. 199 00:14:47,550 --> 00:14:55,150 And so your study, analyzing, determine what they think is best in sending that to the voters. 200 00:14:55,150 --> 00:14:59,350 So, can you have the two different, first, previous versions? 201 00:15:00,000 --> 00:15:29,240 Right now. And, I mean, all of us are in consensus that, you know, we cannot rush to this decision or just pick one or the other. We have to kind of look at the overall situation. What is going to work the best for current, I mean, expanding our township is expanding and what would work best now and in the future. And to be clear, the ordinance that the township is introduced. 202 00:15:29,240 --> 00:15:34,280 would put the question on the ballot, shall there be a charter study commission? 203 00:15:34,640 --> 00:15:41,220 And at the same time, there are people who may want to be on that charter study commission, 204 00:15:41,560 --> 00:15:43,700 can submit petitions and be on the ballot. 205 00:15:44,100 --> 00:15:48,380 So if the answer is yes, then they take the top five vote getters, 206 00:15:48,800 --> 00:15:53,280 and those people become the commission, they study the government for the next nine months, 207 00:15:53,620 --> 00:15:57,180 and issue a report, if they think the charter should be changed, 208 00:15:57,180 --> 00:16:00,400 their recommendation goes on the ballot the following year. 209 00:16:00,700 --> 00:16:02,000 Great, thank you. 210 00:16:02,320 --> 00:16:03,680 I think that's pretty clear now. 211 00:16:05,360 --> 00:16:08,860 With that, we are going to move to the next agenda item, 212 00:16:09,040 --> 00:16:11,680 the ordinances, and this is the introduction 213 00:16:11,680 --> 00:16:13,860 and the first reading of the ordinance. 214 00:16:15,700 --> 00:16:19,680 So A, the ordinance amending chapter 17 land use 215 00:16:19,680 --> 00:16:21,980 of the code of the township of Hopewell 216 00:16:21,980 --> 00:16:25,580 to establish requirements for native land species 217 00:16:25,580 --> 00:16:28,300 This is in the landscaping plants. 218 00:16:28,900 --> 00:16:30,720 Can I get the motion and the second, please? 219 00:16:31,600 --> 00:16:32,140 I'll move that. 220 00:16:32,760 --> 00:16:33,460 I'll second it. 221 00:16:33,760 --> 00:16:34,260 Thank you. 222 00:16:35,720 --> 00:16:36,460 Mr. Snyder. 223 00:16:36,780 --> 00:16:37,860 Thank you, Deputy Mayor. 224 00:16:38,760 --> 00:16:45,340 The remarkable vision has worked quite extensively for several months to create this ordinance, 225 00:16:46,060 --> 00:16:50,740 where the, which changes the lane use code to require that landscaping plants use native plants. 226 00:16:50,740 --> 00:17:05,720 It prohibits cultivars and genetically modified plants unless granted an exception by an environmental commission, and it also creates a new exception review process and clarifies enforcement, including remove unapproved plants. 227 00:17:06,820 --> 00:17:10,060 And the review process goes through the environmental commission. 228 00:17:10,060 --> 00:17:19,320 The plan board reviewed the draft ordinance at a March 26, 2026 meeting, and concluded that the ordinance is not inconsistent with the Township Baster Platt. 229 00:17:20,780 --> 00:17:34,880 Thank you. And as I am a liaison for the Environmental Commission, I have seen that the Environmental Commission is very passionate about making sure that we grow the native plans to kind of keep the floor and 230 00:17:34,880 --> 00:17:41,700 If you're now off our area, which is very environmentally rich, so I also support this. 231 00:17:42,540 --> 00:17:44,020 So, it's a roll call vote. 232 00:17:44,480 --> 00:17:45,260 Can I have that one? 233 00:17:45,260 --> 00:17:45,740 Yes, please. 234 00:17:46,420 --> 00:17:52,520 So, I just want to make sure, this only applies when someone is planning board or the zoning 235 00:17:52,520 --> 00:17:52,960 board, right? 236 00:17:53,020 --> 00:17:55,840 It's not just to everybody in the tap too, it's like correct. 237 00:17:56,760 --> 00:17:57,540 Good question. 238 00:17:59,700 --> 00:18:02,940 This is not the requirement, this is suggestion. 239 00:18:02,940 --> 00:18:07,060 I don't think this is going to make the hardship on anybody. 240 00:18:07,400 --> 00:18:13,000 It's more like a new development where people are just picking and choosing whatever they want. 241 00:18:13,340 --> 00:18:16,900 And we would like to suggest a huge list of the plans. 242 00:18:17,160 --> 00:18:20,580 But it does say it will be removed if it is not consistent. 243 00:18:21,020 --> 00:18:28,380 So my understanding was that it applies to only applications of the planning board 244 00:18:28,380 --> 00:18:29,860 or people can be variants of the software. 245 00:18:30,340 --> 00:18:32,040 So it's not just if I wanted to plan something 246 00:18:32,040 --> 00:18:33,220 that would be invasive. 247 00:18:33,580 --> 00:18:34,740 No, I would because I don't. 248 00:18:34,800 --> 00:18:37,480 Yeah, but I wouldn't be subject to this ordinance. 249 00:18:37,680 --> 00:18:38,040 That's right. 250 00:18:38,240 --> 00:18:38,900 OK, that's correct. 251 00:18:39,440 --> 00:18:40,140 That is correct. 252 00:18:40,620 --> 00:18:40,680 Yes. 253 00:18:42,220 --> 00:18:43,600 All right, so. 254 00:18:43,940 --> 00:18:45,940 So I'm deputy mayor. 255 00:18:46,060 --> 00:18:49,440 I did have to, you know, Mr. Snyder mentioned Cultivar. 256 00:18:49,520 --> 00:18:51,740 I think that we're familiar with what a genetically modified 257 00:18:51,740 --> 00:18:52,360 plan is. 258 00:18:52,720 --> 00:18:54,340 I had to look up what a Cultivar is. 259 00:18:54,340 --> 00:19:02,960 A cultivar is a plant variety selected by humans for specific desirable traits that is maintained through cloning or controlled propagation. 260 00:19:04,100 --> 00:19:08,640 So clearly that is a genetically modified plant. 261 00:19:09,120 --> 00:19:13,820 I think functionally it's genetically modified plant by the time that you're done. 262 00:19:15,120 --> 00:19:15,940 I will be interested. 263 00:19:16,220 --> 00:19:19,540 I have tremendous respect for the work of the people on the environmental commission. 264 00:19:19,540 --> 00:19:23,380 it was Liz on for several years and know how hard they work on these things and, you know, 265 00:19:23,480 --> 00:19:27,980 Mr. Snyder, thank you for your help on this. I do look forward to hearing if any members of 266 00:19:27,980 --> 00:19:30,940 the public have any specific comments about these. They're pro or calm. 267 00:19:31,140 --> 00:19:35,300 And I'm sorry, thank you for mentioning that because one question because I know, for example, 268 00:19:35,320 --> 00:19:40,140 the American chestnut was dying until they crossbred it with a chestnut that was resistant to 269 00:19:40,140 --> 00:19:46,720 the light of killing all the chestnut trees. So is that allowed? If you have, I mean, so, you know, 270 00:19:46,720 --> 00:19:52,920 So I guess since it will now, so there is traditional breeding, crossbreeding programs 271 00:19:52,920 --> 00:19:58,100 like they did with the American Chestnut, where they, I mean, that's been going on for 272 00:19:58,100 --> 00:20:02,920 hundreds, if not more years, where they take two species and they bring them together, 273 00:20:03,100 --> 00:20:09,880 or they, in the case, some of the cases of the Chestnut, they would splice one plant 274 00:20:09,880 --> 00:20:11,120 onto the roots of another. 275 00:20:11,120 --> 00:20:18,040 There are several techniques that they use broadly in the industry. 276 00:20:18,560 --> 00:20:25,780 It's different from using a CRISPR type tool and actually going in and modifying the genome. 277 00:20:26,020 --> 00:20:30,040 As I understand it, now, if we need to get an expert in, because I agree with both of 278 00:20:30,040 --> 00:20:35,680 you that it's genetically modified, sometimes it's a scary word, would you stop to understand 279 00:20:35,680 --> 00:20:40,560 Is it genetic reading or is it genetic, it's going to change? 280 00:20:40,740 --> 00:20:46,180 I mean, it is modifying, you know, I completely, you know, I remember those stories as a young kid. 281 00:20:46,480 --> 00:20:52,040 I'm glad we have the sapling here in the township, and I hope that the chestnut comes back. 282 00:20:52,160 --> 00:20:57,020 Maybe for the public hearing of this ordinance, we could have someone from the Environmental Commission come and answer some questions. 283 00:20:57,920 --> 00:20:58,600 Good idea. 284 00:20:58,980 --> 00:21:02,360 Okay, so should we just table it for now? 285 00:21:02,360 --> 00:21:05,560 I think we can introduce it, but then we can do all of this of the public hearing. 286 00:21:05,880 --> 00:21:06,020 Sure. 287 00:21:07,840 --> 00:21:13,300 As far as a cultivar, a cultivar can be specifically identified because after its Latin name, 288 00:21:13,460 --> 00:21:16,780 it will include another name in single quotes. 289 00:21:17,360 --> 00:21:21,280 So that's how you can differentiate a cultivar from a non-cultivar. 290 00:21:22,080 --> 00:21:22,220 Okay. 291 00:21:22,820 --> 00:21:23,080 Okay. 292 00:21:23,460 --> 00:21:24,460 I'll have that. 293 00:21:25,980 --> 00:21:31,940 I mean, I'm part of this discussion, but I'm not aware of all these small nuances that 294 00:21:31,940 --> 00:21:38,220 I mean, it's a good idea that we can bring one of the native land experts to explain it to us. 295 00:21:38,540 --> 00:21:38,940 Thank you, thank you. 296 00:21:39,140 --> 00:21:42,920 And I'm sorry, but I just, I wanted to back up on something. 297 00:21:43,440 --> 00:21:50,520 I'm looking at the ordinance, and as I look at the section, the proposed ordinance, 17-89.2, exception review. 298 00:21:51,020 --> 00:21:54,880 Our applications to the zoning board of approval, planning board, stream quarter parmits, 299 00:21:54,940 --> 00:21:59,240 or any agenda item that comes before the Environmental Commission that proposed any landscaping 300 00:21:59,240 --> 00:22:00,820 must include landscaping plans. 301 00:22:00,820 --> 00:22:09,380 So, as I read this, this is for anything that would come before those groups that proposed 302 00:22:09,380 --> 00:22:14,340 landscaping as opposed to if you ran out to the garden store and bought something. 303 00:22:15,000 --> 00:22:22,640 Yeah, that's what, as you said, Mr. Peter Manning, that this is more like people who are 304 00:22:22,640 --> 00:22:28,560 coming for the huge landscaping, you know, new development and rather than bringing some 305 00:22:28,560 --> 00:22:33,920 non-native, it just entries them to and there are tons of, I mean, I think they have included 306 00:22:33,920 --> 00:22:40,200 the website where literally have thousands and thousands of choices. So it's just the preference 307 00:22:40,200 --> 00:22:47,840 that what you plant. So you are free to buy a cultivar, but it is a, you know, developer, 308 00:22:48,060 --> 00:22:53,040 a developer would not be permitted to have a cultivar. I mean, I think what logic is that, 309 00:22:53,040 --> 00:22:59,620 And, you know, as a resident, you probably will have a relatively small landscaping versus 310 00:22:59,620 --> 00:23:05,540 the entire development may have a huge acres and acres of the plantation to be done. 311 00:23:05,900 --> 00:23:12,580 So, I mean, you know, we all should be cognizant about having the netheeds, but you know. 312 00:23:12,580 --> 00:23:14,280 It's also sort of what's the reach of the government, right? 313 00:23:14,500 --> 00:23:20,640 If you're asking to develop a neighborhood in a town, that's a different thing, 314 00:23:20,640 --> 00:23:23,640 And if you just live in your property and you don't plan what you want to plan. 315 00:23:23,920 --> 00:23:24,840 So I understand. 316 00:23:25,100 --> 00:23:25,280 I understand. 317 00:23:25,720 --> 00:23:27,540 Still totally in favor of native plans. 318 00:23:27,540 --> 00:23:27,860 Me too. 319 00:23:28,040 --> 00:23:29,540 I have my eye on that on my backyard. 320 00:23:30,100 --> 00:23:35,060 So we're supposed to be on the board of adjustment, though, that's only part of approval. 321 00:23:35,680 --> 00:23:38,520 So I'll move it as a man doing it. 322 00:23:39,460 --> 00:23:39,980 Thank you. 323 00:23:41,360 --> 00:23:43,660 So should we move to the roll call board? 324 00:23:45,060 --> 00:23:46,400 Committee member Kaczynski? 325 00:23:46,600 --> 00:23:46,740 Yes. 326 00:23:47,500 --> 00:23:48,760 Committee member Peters Manning? 327 00:23:48,840 --> 00:23:48,980 Yes. 328 00:23:48,980 --> 00:23:49,140 Yes. 329 00:23:49,640 --> 00:23:50,860 Community member Rueger? 330 00:23:51,160 --> 00:23:51,320 Yes. 331 00:23:51,800 --> 00:23:53,020 And Deputy Mayor Parenthood? 332 00:23:53,420 --> 00:23:53,560 Yes. 333 00:23:54,400 --> 00:23:58,300 And this ordinance has been introduced on the first reading and will be published on the 334 00:23:58,300 --> 00:24:05,100 township's official municipal website in accordance with PL 2035, chapter 72. 335 00:24:05,860 --> 00:24:09,620 Second reading in public hearing date will be set for May 4th. 336 00:24:09,960 --> 00:24:10,220 Okay. 337 00:24:10,580 --> 00:24:11,000 Thank you. 338 00:24:12,120 --> 00:24:18,780 We have seven B is the ordinance amending the chapter 17 of the Code of Township of 339 00:24:18,780 --> 00:24:27,220 Opal Entry to land use development ordinance to include a new affordable housing one district 340 00:24:27,640 --> 00:24:33,860 affordable housing district so can I can I get the motion and the second please and I will 341 00:24:33,860 --> 00:24:34,620 move it. 342 00:24:34,620 --> 00:24:35,920 Thank you. 343 00:24:35,920 --> 00:24:36,560 Thank you. 344 00:24:37,100 --> 00:24:38,700 Roll call for it, please. 345 00:24:40,080 --> 00:24:40,760 Sure. 346 00:24:41,140 --> 00:24:42,760 Oh, anybody has any comments here? 347 00:24:44,340 --> 00:24:51,200 So I mean, this ordinance was prepared by Mr. Banish, our master planner, coming out 348 00:24:51,200 --> 00:24:55,120 of discussions we've had regarding the White L track with the Walters group. 349 00:24:55,460 --> 00:25:02,900 They are as envisioned in our fourth round plan, proposing a 70 unit 100% affordable project 350 00:25:02,900 --> 00:25:09,220 on why Dow, that they are working actively to get state funding. 351 00:25:09,860 --> 00:25:14,780 They believe it will get a very high score under the state funding formula. 352 00:25:15,560 --> 00:25:17,820 This is because the township controls the land. 353 00:25:17,820 --> 00:25:20,220 This is something within our purview. 354 00:25:20,860 --> 00:25:27,860 We have had discussions and there is a separate process to look more broadly at that area, 355 00:25:28,140 --> 00:25:32,020 that intersection on both sides of denial road across from the stop and shop. 356 00:25:32,020 --> 00:25:39,900 But this is an ordinance that starts the process and is an enabling ordinance to move forward with it. 357 00:25:40,840 --> 00:25:46,160 It, of course, has to have a public hearing, and like the last one, we encourage members of the public to come out. 358 00:25:46,340 --> 00:25:58,000 But Mr. Banish has looked at the site along with Mr. Katrina can has within the ordinance proposed the controlling zoning setbacks and 359 00:25:58,000 --> 00:26:04,880 And other requirements for it, and we'll have a full public hearing if everyone's inclined to move forward at our May 4th meeting. 360 00:26:05,380 --> 00:26:10,740 There will be other elements we walked through an overall timeline. 361 00:26:11,140 --> 00:26:25,000 Mr. Snyder, we probably should just follow up with Mr. Deluca and or Deluca and just share that with the full committee so that everyone is aware before meetings like this of what is coming down the pike. 362 00:26:25,000 --> 00:26:29,300 But they are working towards a June 30th application for the site. 363 00:26:30,140 --> 00:26:41,080 And as a reminder, one of the requirements in the fourth round is that all 100% affordable projects are under a certain timeline. 364 00:26:41,560 --> 00:26:47,700 And there is a very tight two year overall process because this one is the one that we control. 365 00:26:47,700 --> 00:26:56,440 We have several other projects and vision in our fourth round plan that are not as far advanced as this, but we believe it will show good faith. 366 00:26:57,960 --> 00:26:58,980 Anyone else? 367 00:27:01,230 --> 00:27:01,350 Okay. 368 00:27:02,510 --> 00:27:05,470 Can we move on to the Royal Goldwood Police? 369 00:27:06,410 --> 00:27:07,490 Can you remember Kaczynski? 370 00:27:07,670 --> 00:27:07,830 Yes. 371 00:27:08,170 --> 00:27:09,830 Can you remember Peters Manning? 372 00:27:09,870 --> 00:27:10,030 Yes. 373 00:27:10,370 --> 00:27:11,230 Can you remember Ruder? 374 00:27:11,530 --> 00:27:11,730 Yes. 375 00:27:11,730 --> 00:27:11,910 Yes. 376 00:27:12,370 --> 00:27:13,570 Deputy Mayor Purandari. 377 00:27:13,790 --> 00:27:13,930 Yes. 378 00:27:14,470 --> 00:27:18,770 And this ordinance has been introduced on its first reading and will be published on the 379 00:27:18,770 --> 00:27:24,550 tabship's official municipal website and reporting with PL 2025, Chapter 72. 380 00:27:25,510 --> 00:27:28,770 Second reading and public hearing date will be set for May 4th. 381 00:27:29,270 --> 00:27:29,590 All right. 382 00:27:29,890 --> 00:27:30,270 Thank you. 383 00:27:31,230 --> 00:27:34,210 So, that brings us to the consent agenda. 384 00:27:35,910 --> 00:27:41,350 If you have had a chance to review it, do you have any consent before I could go with this? 385 00:27:41,350 --> 00:27:46,730 Do you want to just read the, by title, the four items on the consent agenda? 386 00:27:47,250 --> 00:27:47,350 Okay. 387 00:27:48,090 --> 00:27:53,930 A, consent agenda, A, resolution accepting the resignation of the community development 388 00:27:53,930 --> 00:28:03,170 coordinator in the community development department, Ashley B. Smith, B, resolution amending, resolution 389 00:28:03,170 --> 00:28:11,230 amending, resolution number 26-5, a, designating official newspapers, C, a, resolution 390 00:28:11,230 --> 00:28:17,810 position appointing Michael Martin as a part-time social seasonal labor in the public 391 00:28:17,810 --> 00:28:25,590 worst department, de-resolution rectifying the authorization of committee member Kevin 392 00:28:25,590 --> 00:28:32,290 Kuchinski to execute a letter of support for the grant application on behalf of the Historical 393 00:28:32,290 --> 00:28:33,550 Preservation Commission. 394 00:28:35,370 --> 00:28:39,370 So I will move the consent agenda, I'll second it. 395 00:28:39,890 --> 00:28:40,350 Thank you. 396 00:28:40,610 --> 00:28:41,190 All in favor? 397 00:28:41,610 --> 00:28:42,010 Aye. 398 00:28:42,730 --> 00:28:44,390 Any opposed our abstentions? 399 00:28:45,710 --> 00:28:46,710 I see none. 400 00:28:47,270 --> 00:28:48,490 Consent agenda passes. 401 00:28:49,570 --> 00:28:56,550 The next is resolutions, a resolution approving the promotion of the 402 00:28:56,550 --> 00:29:00,910 Janet Pratt to the position of executive secretary in the 403 00:29:00,910 --> 00:29:03,810 the regional department, can I get motion in the second place? 404 00:29:03,870 --> 00:29:04,410 So moved. 405 00:29:04,810 --> 00:29:05,190 Second. 406 00:29:05,510 --> 00:29:06,310 Thank you. 407 00:29:06,530 --> 00:29:07,690 Mr. Snyder, please. 408 00:29:08,570 --> 00:29:09,430 Thank you, Deputy Mayor. 409 00:29:10,150 --> 00:29:17,310 We had several internal and external candidates apply for the Executive Secretary position 410 00:29:17,310 --> 00:29:23,110 in the Recreation Department and I have to vetting process and that Pratt is offered to position. 411 00:29:24,390 --> 00:29:28,470 She's been here nearly a year and improving herself to be an excellent member of our team, 412 00:29:28,470 --> 00:29:37,530 And if the motion becomes effective, May 1st, this will, we're trying to balance it out, get someone in recreation as soon as possible, but also backfill her position in administration. 413 00:29:38,130 --> 00:29:39,870 So, it can be effective, May 4th. 414 00:29:40,230 --> 00:29:49,890 Great, thank you, and she's great I had talked to her a couple of times, and please can we are congratulations for her appointment. 415 00:29:50,310 --> 00:29:50,970 Thank you. 416 00:29:52,250 --> 00:29:59,510 As I said, 9-B, sorry vote, resolution, congratulations. 417 00:30:00,000 --> 00:30:11,960 All in favour? Aye. Thank you. This is resolution passes. 9-B, resolution authorizing a mayor to sign the 418 00:30:11,960 --> 00:30:18,960 letter of support to Mercer County engineering engineers regarding a speed limit reduction on the 419 00:30:18,960 --> 00:30:27,080 county of 579 Bayer-Tabran Road. Can I have a motion and a second please? I will move it. Second. 420 00:30:27,760 --> 00:30:31,800 Thank you. Anything from the committee if you want to comment? 421 00:30:33,100 --> 00:30:38,780 So, you know, I appreciate the letter that was put together in response to the inquiries 422 00:30:38,780 --> 00:30:43,440 that got from the public. While this letter primarily talks about the section from 423 00:30:43,440 --> 00:30:49,060 Washington Crossing Pennington Road to Pleasant Valley Road, it does include supporting the 424 00:30:49,060 --> 00:30:54,080 exploring need for reduced speeds along the entirety, so going all the way up to the border 425 00:30:54,080 --> 00:30:59,260 because when you go north of Pleasant Valley Road full disclosure, I live on 426 00:30:59,260 --> 00:31:04,280 that part of the road. Shoulders disappear, you go off the road, you go into a 427 00:31:04,280 --> 00:31:09,040 ditch. There's very little room for error, so I do think that it is worth 428 00:31:09,040 --> 00:31:13,520 exploring there. Mr. Snyder, I know that Ms. Burkhead is not with us this evening, 429 00:31:13,860 --> 00:31:16,780 but the one thing that I would like to do there's a reference in the letter to 430 00:31:16,780 --> 00:31:20,480 the frequent horse traffic requiring vehicles to slow to 25 miles an hour. 431 00:31:23,620 --> 00:31:24,060 I'd be 432 00:31:24,700 --> 00:31:28,320 And for getting any kinds of signs, letting the public know that. 433 00:31:29,560 --> 00:31:33,800 And if we could do that during our last meeting, I expressed surprise. 434 00:31:33,960 --> 00:31:38,580 I was not aware of that and members of the public said they have seen signs like that elsewhere. 435 00:31:39,020 --> 00:31:44,500 So I think that if it is deemed appropriate with the level of horse traffic that we have, 436 00:31:44,920 --> 00:31:45,820 I would like to see those. 437 00:31:45,980 --> 00:31:50,440 I don't know if that's something through, you know, through Sonny's office or someone else. 438 00:31:50,780 --> 00:31:52,860 But I would like to make that request, please. 439 00:31:52,860 --> 00:31:58,140 Okay, Wendy and I will start working on that and it is a state statute. 440 00:31:58,300 --> 00:32:03,200 We looked it up and it is a statute that motors have to slow down to 25 miles an hour and a horse is present. 441 00:32:03,680 --> 00:32:09,140 And there are portions of Barrett Javron Road that are township controlled and 442 00:32:09,140 --> 00:32:11,280 there are portions that are county controlled. 443 00:32:12,140 --> 00:32:20,540 I think I know the answer on township roads we have the power to put up the signs with the support of the committee on county roads. 444 00:32:20,540 --> 00:32:24,620 I think they're generally, it's not the same process as the state DOT. 445 00:32:25,060 --> 00:32:28,640 So I think we could get those signs up, I think would be generally a positive. 446 00:32:29,140 --> 00:32:33,880 Okay, and I think the other thing, I said this in the last meeting. 447 00:32:34,680 --> 00:32:45,960 I think part of the issue that we saw even north of the circle on Route 31 is that there's a lot of change in traffic conditions. 448 00:32:45,960 --> 00:32:52,580 In several years ago, we worked with the state and with neighboring municipalities to create a more harmonized 449 00:32:53,220 --> 00:32:56,580 series of speed zones that we are waiting for final approval on that. 450 00:32:57,240 --> 00:33:02,420 But I look at, we made the improvement in front of bear tabern, and that's an important safety improvement. 451 00:33:02,640 --> 00:33:09,840 But I do think that there is value in looking at whether, certainly as we come out of the bear tabern school area, 452 00:33:09,840 --> 00:33:13,060 and we go north to the areas that Mr. Ruger mentioned, 453 00:33:13,640 --> 00:33:16,940 of whether we could have a harmonized 35 mile an hour speed zone. 454 00:33:17,060 --> 00:33:19,860 We did that recently on Pennington, Titusville Road 455 00:33:19,860 --> 00:33:21,380 and Pennington Harbourton Road. 456 00:33:21,380 --> 00:33:22,660 We changed speed limits. 457 00:33:22,840 --> 00:33:23,780 We put in four way stops. 458 00:33:25,700 --> 00:33:28,300 You know, I mean, I think the data is clear 459 00:33:28,300 --> 00:33:30,720 on pedestrian vehicle incidents. 460 00:33:31,100 --> 00:33:34,620 And I've seen quite a bit of commentary over mailboxes 461 00:33:34,620 --> 00:33:37,200 and we have a number of residents who have to cross the road 462 00:33:37,200 --> 00:33:38,340 to get their mail every day. 463 00:33:38,340 --> 00:33:43,320 When someone's gone 45 and they're coming around a corner over hill, there's a lot less time to react. 464 00:33:43,540 --> 00:33:45,820 So I support this and look forward. 465 00:33:46,620 --> 00:33:48,700 I think we've done good work with the county. 466 00:33:48,880 --> 00:33:59,160 I think it's appropriate that we signal our support, but it's ultimately, they have to do their due diligence and their call in sort of it. 467 00:33:59,220 --> 00:34:01,660 But I for one would encourage that and support it. 468 00:34:02,200 --> 00:34:06,600 I mean, honestly, I wish that there were the equivalent of signs of people maybe crossing 469 00:34:06,600 --> 00:34:12,220 go to their mailboxes, but I, you know, kind of like, and I don't mean it facetiously 470 00:34:12,220 --> 00:34:16,340 because if you're not familiar with the, you know, if you're from out of town and you're 471 00:34:16,340 --> 00:34:19,580 driving down the road, you don't realize that somebody's mailbox might be across the street. 472 00:34:21,000 --> 00:34:22,000 They don't know it. 473 00:34:22,120 --> 00:34:23,480 And what do they want to cross the street? 474 00:34:23,700 --> 00:34:23,820 Yeah. 475 00:34:23,820 --> 00:34:33,400 Well, the one that gives me the concern on the northern part of baritade, or you know, of 579 is somebody who's gotten their mail. 476 00:34:33,800 --> 00:34:41,760 It was safe when they crossed and they have to stand there and then cars are going both north and south because, again, there's very little room for a person to stand. 477 00:34:42,940 --> 00:34:52,160 But, you know, unless the post office changes its rules and mailboxes are always on the same side as somebody's house, that's not something we can control. 478 00:34:52,160 --> 00:34:53,300 Have 479 00:34:55,410 --> 00:34:55,890 any comment? 480 00:34:56,470 --> 00:34:56,710 All right. 481 00:34:57,410 --> 00:35:01,190 And, you know, we had extensive discussion 482 00:35:01,190 --> 00:35:04,410 about this particular issue, and we had few residents 483 00:35:04,410 --> 00:35:07,990 coming here last meeting, and we always have committed 484 00:35:07,990 --> 00:35:11,170 for the safety of the resident in the township. 485 00:35:11,730 --> 00:35:15,010 And Mr. Kuchenski mentioned few of the things, 486 00:35:15,330 --> 00:35:19,470 Mr. Alki, we have done to improve the safety and security 487 00:35:19,470 --> 00:35:20,230 in the town. 488 00:35:20,370 --> 00:35:23,110 This is one of the things, and we also have said, 489 00:35:23,110 --> 00:35:29,170 Mayer said last meeting that it's a process and this is the first step in the process. 490 00:35:29,450 --> 00:35:33,970 So we are going to follow the process, we'll follow it through with the county and make 491 00:35:33,970 --> 00:35:38,370 sure we make this correct, right for everybody and safe for everybody. 492 00:35:39,810 --> 00:35:45,550 So with that, any normal comment, all in favor? 493 00:35:46,130 --> 00:35:46,470 Aye. 494 00:35:47,090 --> 00:35:48,670 Any opposed or abstentions? 495 00:35:48,670 --> 00:35:58,410 No, there is a resolution passes, so next will be, yeah, 496 00:36:00,440 --> 00:36:01,500 we already said that. 497 00:36:02,300 --> 00:36:06,780 Now we are at the last, the sea is the Bins and Plains. 498 00:36:08,200 --> 00:36:10,300 Can I get the motion and the second and this? 499 00:36:11,380 --> 00:36:11,760 Thank you. 500 00:36:12,580 --> 00:36:12,920 Thank you. 501 00:36:13,320 --> 00:36:14,480 Mr. Darkman. 502 00:36:14,480 --> 00:36:15,800 Yep, so thank you. 503 00:36:16,000 --> 00:36:20,320 The disposal claims only represents disbursements made 504 00:36:20,320 --> 00:36:22,340 from the township for Bill's and claims. 505 00:36:22,340 --> 00:36:24,740 No payroll on this one since we just started meeting 506 00:36:24,740 --> 00:36:25,720 one week ago. 507 00:36:26,660 --> 00:36:30,580 The Bill's and claims includes our quarterly payments 508 00:36:30,580 --> 00:36:34,740 of going to the county for their share of pilot revenues. 509 00:36:35,460 --> 00:36:37,940 So you'll see going forward quarterly, 510 00:36:38,380 --> 00:36:40,860 we'll all have that going forward on the bill's and claims. 511 00:36:41,300 --> 00:36:41,680 That's great. 512 00:36:42,120 --> 00:36:42,560 Thank you. 513 00:36:42,560 --> 00:36:45,440 Anybody from the committee has comments or questions? 514 00:36:46,620 --> 00:36:46,840 All right. 515 00:36:47,360 --> 00:36:48,220 So roll call. 516 00:36:48,380 --> 00:36:49,740 I think this is a little confound. 517 00:36:49,960 --> 00:36:51,000 Committee member Kaczynski. 518 00:36:51,140 --> 00:36:51,300 Yes. 519 00:36:51,660 --> 00:36:52,960 Committee member Peters, man. 520 00:36:53,140 --> 00:36:53,300 Yes. 521 00:36:53,600 --> 00:36:54,400 Committee member Ruger. 522 00:36:54,680 --> 00:36:54,860 Yes. 523 00:36:55,260 --> 00:36:56,480 Deputy Mayor Purandari. 524 00:36:56,680 --> 00:36:56,840 Yes. 525 00:36:57,120 --> 00:36:58,340 And Bill Sinclaims passes. 526 00:37:03,140 --> 00:37:03,840 The second one. 527 00:37:05,840 --> 00:37:06,200 Oops. 528 00:37:06,900 --> 00:37:09,120 That brings us to the second public session. 529 00:37:09,700 --> 00:37:11,560 And same rule just last time. 530 00:37:12,140 --> 00:37:15,780 If you have a comment, please step up to the podium. 531 00:37:15,780 --> 00:37:21,700 speak clearly your name, address where you leave and public comments are 532 00:37:21,700 --> 00:37:25,100 limited to three minutes per person. There you are. Thank you, Mr. 533 00:37:25,300 --> 00:37:30,800 Burd. Yes, Jim Burd, who bought township. I guess I have a question in regards to 534 00:37:30,800 --> 00:37:37,040 this petition that we were just discussing because if they present a 535 00:37:37,040 --> 00:37:45,060 petition and they get X number of vote or excuse me, signatures, I assume that in 536 00:37:45,060 --> 00:37:52,040 In turn would be presented to the public for a decision yes or no. 537 00:37:52,920 --> 00:38:00,110 And I wanted to just check with you to find out, can that be deterred? 538 00:38:00,390 --> 00:38:01,370 Does it go through? 539 00:38:02,230 --> 00:38:08,570 If it does go through and they get the amount of votes to pass it, 540 00:38:10,760 --> 00:38:12,400 do they in turn change 541 00:38:12,400 --> 00:38:15,440 the township organization? 542 00:38:16,760 --> 00:38:19,840 So that's the question I have in regards to that. 543 00:38:20,440 --> 00:38:21,820 Okay, thank you. 544 00:38:22,560 --> 00:38:23,900 Anyone else in the public? 545 00:38:25,660 --> 00:38:28,960 If you're on Zoom, please raise your hand if you'd like to make a comment. 546 00:38:33,020 --> 00:38:33,340 No one else in the comment. 547 00:38:33,340 --> 00:38:34,860 No one on Zoom, that being there. 548 00:38:36,880 --> 00:38:39,160 So no further comments or question? 549 00:38:39,320 --> 00:38:43,240 I'll close the publicsation and thank you, Mr. Bird again, follow up. 550 00:38:43,500 --> 00:38:46,660 Question I'll have Mr. Gadel to explain it even further. 551 00:38:48,920 --> 00:38:52,680 before any one of us could answer that, so. 552 00:38:53,320 --> 00:38:55,200 OK, well that's the question of the hour. 553 00:38:58,020 --> 00:39:01,100 They have every right to circulate a petition. 554 00:39:02,040 --> 00:39:06,420 They have an obligation to get a certain amount of signatures. 555 00:39:08,260 --> 00:39:12,340 And once they get the required number of signatures, 556 00:39:13,020 --> 00:39:16,060 they can turn their petitions into the clerk. 557 00:39:16,060 --> 00:39:20,700 and then the clerk gives the obligation to check the signatures and make sure 558 00:39:20,700 --> 00:39:28,360 they are accurate just 20 days to do that. If they turn in a viable petition, then 559 00:39:28,360 --> 00:39:36,020 that the former government that set forth in that petition would be placed on the 560 00:39:36,020 --> 00:39:42,220 ballot for a referendum in November. On the other hand, there cannot be two 561 00:39:42,220 --> 00:39:50,580 processes at the same time. You have initiated a process as well. So at this point, two different 562 00:39:50,580 --> 00:39:57,620 processes have been initiated. Only one can be on the ballot. So you've got a timeline 563 00:39:58,130 --> 00:40:04,660 for when you will be voting on and adopting your ordinance. Assuming you do adopt your 564 00:40:04,660 --> 00:40:07,060 You're going to have a public hearing, and then make up your mind. 565 00:40:08,780 --> 00:40:16,220 Once that ordinance is effective, then if there is no other process in place, and 566 00:40:16,220 --> 00:40:21,780 there is no petition filed, it will be the process that moves forward and is on the 567 00:40:21,780 --> 00:40:21,980 ballot. 568 00:40:23,120 --> 00:40:23,580 Okay. 569 00:40:23,940 --> 00:40:27,520 So, it's like two, yeah, one or the other. 570 00:40:28,580 --> 00:40:30,660 Anybody else has any comments? 571 00:40:33,030 --> 00:40:33,310 All right. 572 00:40:33,310 --> 00:40:40,890 I guess that's clarifies further, so that brings us to, we need to have the executive 573 00:40:40,890 --> 00:40:46,130 session and now we will be in the executive. 574 00:40:46,690 --> 00:40:50,090 Can I have motion to adjourn the legal session? 575 00:40:51,130 --> 00:40:51,290 Second. 576 00:40:52,030 --> 00:40:52,670 Thank you. 577 00:40:53,110 --> 00:40:53,590 Any? 578 00:40:54,010 --> 00:40:54,510 All in favor? 579 00:40:55,030 --> 00:40:55,230 Aye. 580 00:40:55,590 --> 00:40:57,790 Any abstentions or opposition? 581 00:40:57,970 --> 00:41:00,750 You can just say, a lot more than discussing one session. 582 00:41:01,170 --> 00:41:01,510 Oh, yeah. 583 00:41:01,510 --> 00:41:08,170 I will read the statement, whereas it is necessary for the Township Committee to discuss the 584 00:41:08,170 --> 00:41:14,530 real estate legal contract negotiations and the personal matter and whereas NJS810 call 585 00:41:14,530 --> 00:41:20,910 N4-12 permits the Township Committee to conduct the meeting from which the public is excluded 586 00:41:20,910 --> 00:41:27,490 in order to discuss such matters and whereas the time, when and circumstances under which 587 00:41:27,490 --> 00:41:34,390 discussion conducted in the executive session may be disclosed to the public in when appropriate. 588 00:41:34,810 --> 00:41:39,770 Now therefore, BEAT resolved by the township committee of the Hopal Township County of 589 00:41:39,770 --> 00:41:45,890 Mercer State of New Jersey that the township committee shall forth with conduct and executive 590 00:41:45,890 --> 00:41:52,490 session to discuss the above matters. Be it further resolved that the scope of the aforesaid 591 00:41:52,490 --> 00:42:00,730 Executization will be limited to the above matters as stated and we don't expect to make any decision. 592 00:42:01,390 --> 00:42:03,210 Thank you. We are in the executive. 593 00:42:04,030 --> 00:42:10,170 The topics are litigations, update from litigations, real estate, personal contact. 594 00:42:11,030 --> 00:42:13,670 Thank you. We are in the executive.