[0:06] Good evening. Welcome to the 2026 reorganization of the Township Committee. I hereby call the January 5th, 2026 reorganization meeting to order.

[0:18] Add a quick notice of this meeting of the Township Committee of the Township of Mennon was given as required by the Open Public Meetings Act as follows.

[0:25] Notice was given to the Observer Tribune and Daily Record on January 9, 2025.

[0:31] Notice was posted on the Bolton Board in the Township offices and notice was filed with

[0:35] the Township Clerk.

[0:37] Well, everyone please rise and join me for the Pledge of Allegiance.

[1:00] At

[1:03] this time, I would like to invite Rabbi Ari Hirshan from the Chabad of Mettendum

[1:08] and Chester to give the invocation?

[1:19] You might feel like we're living in a world

[1:21] and a time that has gone mad.

[1:24] I'm not gonna argue with you.

[1:27] But let us turn our minds and our thoughts to the words

[1:31] of Kinsalman and Proverbs and what you can refer

[1:34] to our world as an orchard in the garden.

[1:38] Much as an orchard demands toil and attention

[1:41] and a garden commands focus and work.

[1:47] We live in a world that the man such and so I ask Almighty God,

[1:54] less this committee, our mayor and deputy mayor,

[1:59] our emergency services, the police, our fire companies,

[2:04] as well as our first responders and all the officials

[2:06] administrators and functionaries that make this beautiful

[2:10] township tick. Lesson with wisdom, sagacity, fortitude, and peace to do their work and may

[2:19] we look back this time next year at this world and see something that approximates a little

[2:27] bit more of a garden of an orchard amen.

[2:32] Thank you, Rabbi. Next on the agenda we have the statement

[2:37] of determination of the Board of County canvassers.

[2:40] Statement of determination of the Board of County canvassers relative to an election held

[2:45] in the Township of Mendingham County of Morris and State of New Jersey for the election

[2:50] of certain municipal officers for the missipality on 4th day of November 2025.

[2:56] The said board does determine that at the set election, Tracy Morin and Lauren Spirig were elected

[3:03] to the office of Township Committee for the term of three years.

[3:07] At this time, I would like to ask Ms. Morene, and anyone she wishes to join her to come forward.

[4:41] It happens to prevent them, but we said that that's the vitality of our people, so I think that's the best thing to do.

[5:00] Ms. Morey, would you like to give a statement?

[5:05] Just very quickly.

[5:09] Before I begin this new role, I want to thank the four people in my life that mean the most to me.

[5:15] The first is my three kids, thank you for your patience and your hugs and the time spent on this journey with me. It's a sacrifice that all of you made to help me get elected. So thank you so much.

[5:30] So my husband, thank you for being my anchor in the wind. Thank you for being my sounding board. Thank you for putting up and taking down all the election signs.

[5:41] And thank you for being my partner in crime.

[5:47] I'm deeply grateful and I'm going to carry the love of all of you with me as I serve

[5:52] Madam Township.

[5:54] So thank you.

[5:55] I stay in here tonight, just for all of you deeply honored and humbled by the trust

[6:00] our neighbors have placed a need to serve on the Madam Township Committee.

[6:05] This community, it's people, it's values, it's beauty, it's history,

[6:09] is what brought many of us here, and it's what motivates me to give my best in public service.

[6:16] So I hope to make all of you proud. Thank you.

[6:28] At this time, I would like to ask Ms. Spirig and anyone she wishes to join her to come forward.

[7:30] That I wrote the court's constitution of the United States.

[7:33] That was 20 to 16 of the United States.

[7:36] And the constitution of the State of New Jersey.

[7:38] And I was 2 to 16 of the State staff.

[7:41] And then I'm aware of 2 state's allegiance to the State.

[7:44] Then I will be aware to the State and allegiance to the State.

[7:47] Into the government's establishment, the United States.

[7:50] The government's establishment, the United States.

[7:53] And in this page, and in this state.

[7:55] Under the authority of the State.

[7:56] Under the authority of the State.

[7:58] I do further. I do further. I do further. I will take the place and I will trace the place and partially and just leave the forest.

[8:09] All the duties of all the duties of the office of childcare.

[8:14] We often attempt to affording the bathroom.

[8:17] According to the bathroom, there I will be got.

[8:20] I don't want to talk to you.

[8:35] Ms. Spirig would you like to make a statement?

[8:52] I will save most of this for later when we're all speaking,

[8:56] but so that all these beautiful children can go home.

[8:59] I know that they want to.

[9:03] To each of my fellow committee members for the time energy

[9:06] and personal sacrifices, you each make to be here.

[9:09] Our town is so much better for it.

[9:12] To our incredible professional staff,

[9:14] you are so often the unsung heroes and we are internally grateful. So the residents that once again

[9:20] placed your trust in Tracy and me, we will always show up for you. And to my family, John, Luke,

[9:26] and Zoe, who are so supportive, but also so tired of mom being at meetings every night.

[9:32] Just three years to go.

[9:58] Next, I will call roll. Mistory. Here, Mr. Monahan.

[10:02] Yeah. Miss Maureen. Miss Spirig. Yeah. Miss Nibar. Yeah.

[10:14] May I ask for a motion for a five-minute

[10:16] recess to allow anyone who is not planning to stay for the meeting to provide time.

[10:21] Motion. Second. Second. All in favor. Hi. Hi.

[10:26] We're in a five-minute recess. Oh, everybody go to read my comments. That was not a surprise.

[10:35] I don't know, but I ain't just a little.

[10:39] Those are all, it's a little front, right?

[10:40] Yes.

[10:42] How people are selling these?

[10:43] Any seats that are open, please feel free to sit in them?

[10:48] For this one.

[10:54] At this time, I would like to open nominations for mayor.

[10:57] Is there a nomination?

[10:59] Yes.

[11:03] I am honored to nominate Sarah Nibart to continue serving as mayor of

[11:08] them township.

[11:10] Mending township operates under a weak mayor form of government a system that deliberately limits

[11:15] individual authority and places real power and collaboration consensus and shared responsibility.

[11:23] So there's no turns, what's fair or politics, it's we five, we five equals, we choose

[11:30] our leader to be first among equals.

[11:33] So no matter who is elected or chosen, as our mayor or deputy mayor, the residents are represented by five people with equal influence.

[11:45] In such a system though, effective leadership does not come from title or control it comes from preparation, from trust and from respect.

[11:53] Sarah has consistently demonstrated exactly that kind of leadership.

[11:59] As mayor, she has guided this committee with fairness, professionalism and a steady hand.

[12:05] She understands the complexities of municipal government and brings invaluable institutional knowledge

[12:11] that helps ensure decisions are thoughtful, consistent, and in the best interest of the entire township.

[12:18] Her leadership reflects respect for process, for colleagues and for the residents she serves.

[12:23] And a system where the mayor is one vote among many Sarah has let not led, not by authority, but by example.

[12:31] She has been the Communist, most compassionate, most collaborative leader on this day, as over the last few years.

[12:39] She encourages productive discussion. She fosters cooperation, and she ensures that differing viewpoints are heard and respected.

[12:46] that ability to build consensus is what makes a mayor truly effective in

[12:51] men-dum's townships in men-dum townships form a government. Her continued service

[12:56] provides stability, accountability, and confidence during a time when steady

[13:01] leadership matters more than ever. For her experience, her dedication and

[13:05] her provenability to lead strongly within a week, within a week mayor

[13:09] system, I am proud to nominate Sarah and I've art to continue serving as mayor

[13:14] of Mindum Township.

[13:18] I also have an nomination.

[13:21] I would like to nominate committee woman

[13:23] and Molly to RTA.

[13:25] I don't have, I'm sorry, Molly,

[13:27] a big speech prepared.

[13:29] But I think a lot has already been said on this topic.

[13:33] It is very true that Sarah and I

[13:36] are part is a fantastic mayor.

[13:38] I think both of these things can be true, Sarah,

[13:41] serves us very well and is so so dedicated.

[13:44] Um, Emalia's entering her 9th year, uh, without having had a leadership role on this body.

[13:52] And I think that just speaks for itself. I think both of these things can be true.

[13:58] That, uh, Emalia can and should be given the chance to step up and play a leadership role.

[14:05] And that Mayor Nibart has, has done really wonderful things for our town.

[14:09] So with that, I'd love everyone to consider voting for Emalia for mayor.

[14:15] Are there any other nominations?

[14:19] Do I have a motion to close nominations?

[14:21] Motion.

[14:22] Second.

[14:24] All those in favor?

[14:25] All right.

[14:28] Would the nominees like to give a statement?

[14:34] I don't.

[14:35] So, it's great to see such a full house this evening.

[14:40] I really wasn't going to say anything because I haven't the past few years.

[14:43] But it's my as committee woman spirit mentioned it is my ninth year on the council and it's the last year of my third term.

[14:54] So this may be my final township committee reorganization meeting.

[14:59] So I act.

[15:02] So, every January for those who come to these meetings, you know, that this is how we start off the year. Our first order of business is deciding who gets to serve in leadership positions for the year. And in our form of government, those positions are traditionally rotated.

[15:17] I am the longest serving member on the Township Committee. I was first elected in 2017 before any of my colleagues.

[15:23] And before that I have a long record of community service, I used to coach my kids in basketball

[15:30] and soccer.

[15:31] I served on the board of the Westmore soccer club, the Mendium Patriots Basketball League.

[15:36] I served and still do on the board of shift in nature preserve.

[15:39] I served on the Township Recreation Committee and with the group started up the Patriots

[15:44] Race, which still continues to this day.

[15:47] I was the Chairwoman of the Rec Commission for a long time.

[15:49] I also served as the Vice Chairman of the Zoning Board of Adjustment, just to name a few things that I did before I decided I was asked to run for Township Committee.

[16:00] Despite my long record of service, I've been bypassed to serve as either the Mayor or Deputy Mayor, and I do hope that ends tonight.

[16:08] It's nothing against Sarah, absolutely not. Sarah has served well as the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor, a total of six times.

[16:16] My colleague, Nick Monahan, is served as either mayor or deputy mayor five times, so they basically held on to it kind of like a monopoly and that, in my opinion, is not very democratic and I mean small D.

[16:30] It's also disappointing and most importantly, it's a disservice to our community, especially to every resident who voted for me in three different elections, elections that I won very easily by hundreds of votes.

[16:43] So it's not about me, it's about all of you, all of you who supported me and is soon, they

[16:49] want I got elected to the Township Committee and I get my chance.

[16:54] And I'll also just send a close of the final point.

[16:58] I really think as was said by the Rabbi earlier, you know, we're kind of living in crazy times.

[17:02] I think people are very tired of divisiveness.

[17:05] I think they're tired of the lack of bipartisanship and I don't think it's something that

[17:09] community wants to see in our little town that we sometimes talk about being like a Norman

[17:14] Brockwell community. So whether I'm a Democrat or a public in, it doesn't really matter.

[17:20] I've lived in this community for almost 30 years. I've been a volunteer nearly that entire time

[17:26] and I should have an opportunity for leadership on the Township Committee. So I'll close by saying

[17:32] that I will still optimistically hope.

[17:36] My colleagues tonight will support me in my final year

[17:40] of my third term to serve as either the mayor

[17:43] or the deputy mayor.

[17:44] And I thank you for your consideration.

[17:50] Good meeting members, when I call your name,

[17:52] please state the individual you wish to vote

[17:54] for the position of mayor.

[17:56] Ms. Dwarthe.

[17:58] Myself.

[17:59] Mr. Monahan.

[18:01] Oh, that's Dara Niber.

[18:03] Ms. Maureen, Sarah Niber.

[18:05] Ms. Nibart, Ms. Spirig, Ms. Dwartland, motion carries, for Ms. Nibart, for the position of Mayor.

[18:21] At this time, I would like to ask Mayor Nibart to come forward for the oath of office and anyone else you wish to come forward.

[18:43] Way clear that serving an office is a family affair.

[18:46] I have a lot to balance, but I know that we have faith that true faith in Sarah and I

[18:53] are as a trusted leader for this public and public service for the town you've proven

[18:59] year after year that you lead through action by being a listener and listening to all

[19:05] voices in the community.

[19:07] So I feel confident that you will continue to serve all of us with dignity, integrity, and

[19:12] dedication.

[19:13] all

[19:17] right, you ready to repeat after me? I state your name.

[19:26] Raise your right hand. Can you do that?

[19:27] All right, I

[19:32] do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey and that I will bear

[19:47] listening, faith and allegiance to the same and to the government's established in the United

[19:55] States and to the government's established and in this state under the authority of the

[20:02] people.

[20:03] I do further solemnly swear that I will faithfully impartially and justly perform all the duties

[20:14] of the Office of Township Committee, according to the best of my ability, and

[20:40] by the way, Rabbi, we all have to look up that SAT words to gas.

[21:20] Thank you everyone.

[21:24] I will now ask for nominations for the Office of Deputy Mayor.

[21:27] Are there any nominations?

[21:31] I would like to nominate Nick Monahan for the Office of Deputy Mayor.

[21:36] Second, are there any other nominations?

[21:39] I would like to nominate a mother to wear a tape for the Office of Deputy Mayor.

[21:44] Are there any other nominations?

[21:48] There are most of close nominations?

[21:50] motion. Motion. I heard a motion. A second, all in favor of closing please say aye. I

[21:55] opposed. Okay, would either candidate like to make a statement? Well, I think it

[22:01] gets set at all. I'm good. With that, I'll ask our clerks of Paul Roll. Miss Dwarthe

[22:09] team. Are we voting on? Yes. I'm going to again vote for myself. Mr. Monahan. I will also

[22:18] for myself. Ms. Marine.

[22:20] Dick Monahan, please.

[22:22] Mayor Nibart. Nick Monahan.

[22:25] Ms. Ferrig.

[22:26] Mr. Arto.

[22:28] Hey, with that, Nick Monahan.

[22:30] Please, anybody who you'd like to swear you in the Office of Deputy Mayor, congratulations.

[23:29] all of them that are here tonight that served and thank you for being served as one.

[23:36] They're not a couple of them all remain safe right from childhood.

[23:40] They're not going to play with them.

[23:48] I've stayed here today, I remember.

[23:51] The song is where people, that I was born.

[23:54] But I was born to be a part of the song.

[23:56] I've been a part of the song.

[24:01] I've been a part of the song.

[24:02] I've been a part of the song.

[24:03] I'll have a fairer too, but I will have a good day.

[24:06] And I'll be there soon, so they don't fit to stop them.

[24:11] They'll be there soon.

[24:12] The United States, the United States, and in the States,

[24:15] we must come to the informer and keep them to the United States.

[24:19] And he furthers up his hair.

[24:21] He furthers up his hair.

[24:22] He furthers up his hair.

[24:23] And he furthers up his hair.

[24:24] And constantly, couple more.

[24:27] He has to be informed.

[24:28] All they do is use for all the heat,

[24:58] Congratulations, Deputy Mayor. At this time, I'm going to move the address of the mayor to

[25:05] after we swear in the new first aid squad and part of Parliament officers. So first on the agenda,

[25:12] we have Madam Township First Aid Squad members. We have Captain Amory Saito. We've kind of

[25:20] Cormaster, a cell, past choir, assistant coremaster, East, Daniel Gaston, a sister coremaster,

[25:27] Wes, Eric Morales, president, Marlene Russell, treasurer, Bernadette Coneck, Secretary

[25:31] Camie Boyle's training officer, Barbara Nelson, and data steward Nancy Cain.

[25:38] Deputy Mayor, do you want to conduct a, oh sorry, yeah, I guess I've made a tip for that.

[25:45] We're going to need a couple of eyeballs.

[25:52] Where are you going?

[25:55] I don't know.

[25:55] I thought you were doing something.

[25:59] Yep, yep.

[26:17] Okay.

[26:25] Okay.

[26:28] Okay.

[26:29] to the office, but it's quite difficult, it's quite difficult, it's difficult, it's difficult,

[26:34] but it's difficult.

[26:36] So I'll read you just to see that.

[26:38] I take in it.

[26:40] I have an idea.

[26:42] You saw a week later.

[26:43] You saw this, where I had to support the contribution of the United States.

[26:47] That was the one I had to do in the United States.

[26:50] And it's not supposed to be an excuse to make a excuse.

[26:52] And I was in the United States.

[26:55] And then I was there a true day.

[26:56] I don't know the Internet, but the Internet is good for them.

[27:01] You can do whatever they need to.

[27:03] In the Internet, in the United States, in the United States,

[27:07] they end in this state.

[27:08] In the United States, under the authority of the United States.

[27:12] I do solemnly swear, on that I will say something,

[27:17] I explain the impartialry when Palestinians just leave before them.

[27:25] I have to say that any time that there are always

[27:30] according to the best of my ability,

[27:32] I have to write my name on the side of the desk.

[27:36] You have to write it.

[27:45] Okay.

[27:47] No, I'm going to be a student.

[27:49] I'm going to be

[27:54] a student.

[28:04] Okay.

[28:04] I'm going

[28:13] to be a student.

[28:15] Okay.

[28:16] Okay.

[28:41] So next we have the Fire Department Officers. It is my great honor as a member of the Brookside

[28:48] Engine Company to serve in our Fire Department. We have Brookside Engine Company number one officers chief

[28:57] and Township Chief John Camp, W. Chief Jeffrey Vets, Assistant Chief Eric Habersang, Lieutenant

[29:04] Warren Geiser, Chief Engineer Refuse Steinberg, and for a Rawson Engine Company number

[29:10] one, we have officers Chief Tom Montgomery, W. Chief Nicholas Potonic, second Assistant Chief

[29:17] Jeffrey Vets. I believe Chief Camp, who is going to be the Township Chiefs, would like to

[29:23] morning first and then we will be swarming in the rest of the officers together.

[29:51] I stay your name.

[29:54] Do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of

[30:00] The United States and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey, and that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same and to the governments established in the United States and in this state under the authority of the people.

[30:19] I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully impartially and justly perform all the duties of

[30:31] the ownership by her chief according to the best of my ability so help me God, congratulations

[30:39] chief.

[30:55] The remaining officers of Brookside Engineering Company in Charleston to join me up here with

[31:01] the town should sheave to take the oath of office.

[31:07] We have the Bible.

[31:11] We can get another book.

[31:14] That's the Jewish second.

[31:18] Tracy has one.

[31:22] Tracy, how old is that Bible?

[31:24] 100 years old?

[31:26] Wow, that's incredible.

[31:28] Okay.

[31:30] Okay, do you want to stand right here?

[31:35] Okay.

[31:35] So repeat after me, I state your name through solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States, the Constitution of the State of New Jersey, and I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same as the governments established in the United States.

[32:08] And in this state, into the authority that people, I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully, impartially, ingestly, reform all the duties, as officers of the Brookside and Rossent Engine companies,

[32:33] and I'm taught to fire department, according to the best of my ability, so help me God.

[33:17] Good

[33:35] evening everyone and happy new year. It is truly a pleasure to welcome you to the

[33:41] to the 2026 township and then the reorganization meeting.

[33:46] I want to begin by extending a warm welcome to everyone joining us this evening.

[33:50] Our residents, first responders, professional staff, fellow elected officials, members of the

[33:56] press and of course my husband, daughter and son who just recently left and the rest of my family.

[34:03] Seeing so many familiar faces here tonight is a reminder how deeply people care about this community

[34:09] and I don't take that for granted. I also want to sincerely thank the Township Administrator

[34:15] and CFO, Jason Gabelov, Township Clerk, Caramblet, Bellamy, Recreation Director David Guida,

[34:23] and Township Attorney John Mills. Your professionalism, expertise, and steady leadership

[34:28] to make a real difference every single day, and our town is better because of your work.

[34:33] And Rabbi Harrison, thank you as always for grounding us, for your perspective, and for reminding

[34:39] asked by service matters.

[34:42] 2025 was a consequential year for minimum

[34:44] township.

[34:46] Despite continued state mandated increases and

[34:48] unfunded mandates, many of which are entirely out of the town's control.

[34:53] minimum township was once again showed what careful thoughtful stewardship looks like.

[34:59] I'm proud of share that minimum township maintain

[35:01] triple A bond rating for the seventh consecutive year.

[35:05] The highest credit rating immunizipality can receive.

[35:07] I'm also pleased to report that the 2020-25 municipal tax rate was reduced, whereas presenting

[35:14] a 4.944% decrease from 2024.

[35:18] The average property owner saw an estimated $371 reduction in the municipal portion of their

[35:24] tax bill.

[35:26] And like in 2024, every property minimum pounds should have seen a decrease in the municipal

[35:31] portion of their taxes.

[35:33] These outcomes are not are the result of the Township Committee, the five of us, who

[35:39] stayed focused on making careful decisions, expanding shared services, maintaining

[35:43] a responsible, that paid down schedule, and investing thoughtfully while continuing to support

[35:49] the services that people rely on every day.

[35:52] In 2025, the capital budget included nearly $3 million for roads, equipment, and infrastructure.

[35:59] many supported through the New Jersey Department of Transportation grants.

[36:04] There's allowed us to improve our town while being mindful to impact on taxpayers.

[36:09] We continue investing in our police department via Department for State Squad and Department of Public Works

[36:14] and of course recreation.

[36:17] And we continue caring for the land and open spaces that make them special.

[36:21] Through reinforced station efforts, trails, safety, improvements and ongoing work with our environmental commission in the Highlands.

[36:28] We have also taken steps to make sure essential services are sustainable over the long term.

[36:35] At the end of last year the township launched and solid waste and recycling utility, creating

[36:40] a more transparent and stable way to fund garbage and recycling service services.

[36:46] And now that we're in 2026, I'm pleased to share that garbage stickers are no longer required,

[36:52] simplifying the process for residents while keeping service reliable.

[36:57] I also want to take a few minutes tonight to talk clearly and honestly about affordable housing.

[37:03] If they know it's an issue that raises questions, and residents deserve straightforward answers.

[37:09] Under New Jersey law, every municipality is assigned affordable housing obligations.

[37:14] From the end of township, the court determined that we have zero present need obligations,

[37:20] meeting we're not required to rehabilitate existing, substandard housing.

[37:26] For the current planning period, 2025's through 2020.

[37:30] 35. The township was assigned a perspective need obligation of 120 units. The real question for us was never whether we had a legal obligation. The question was how that obligation could realistically and responsibly be addressed in a town like ours.

[37:48] Men and Township does not have public water or sewer systems, and we're subject to significant environmental and highlands protections.

[37:58] These realities matter, and the law recognizes that housing obligations cannot be met worth supporting infrastructure simply does not exist.

[38:08] To protect the township, we entered into a mediation agreement with a fair share housing center.

[38:14] through the state's affordable housing dispute resolution program. This was not about inviting

[38:20] development. It was about giving, it was not about giving anything away. It was about protecting

[38:26] the township by resolving our obligations carefully, defensively, and transparently. Here's the

[38:33] most important takeaway from that agreement that we signed. Because the minimum township does not

[38:39] have public water or steward, the township is entitled to a generational adjustment.

[38:45] In plain English, that means affordable housing obligations are deferred, unless and until

[38:51] adequate water or sewer capacity becomes available, which, as all of you know, is unlikely.

[38:58] As part of the agreement, the fair share housing center supports the township seeking

[39:02] core approval to defer the entire remaining combined third and fourth round obligations of 243 units

[39:11] until infrastructure conditions change. This is a very meaningful and important protection for

[39:17] our community. The agreement also makes clear that the township is not opening the door to

[39:23] any widespread development. Instead, it prioritizes existing housing and very limited targeted opportunities

[39:31] One, extending affordability controls on existing homes to a five unit, or potentially five unit,

[39:40] affordable development opportunity at Alcott Manor, and three recognition of support of housing,

[39:47] one example of the Allegra Group home.

[39:50] If a developer were to propose a project to present a realistic need,

[39:55] feasible plans provide public water steward while complying with environmental and land use laws,

[40:00] The township will be required to engage in good faith.

[40:04] However, the agreement reads that the township regains the right to oppose any proposal

[40:09] that does not comply with sound planning practices.

[40:13] Any disagreement will be resolved by court, not behind closed doors.

[40:18] This agreement also requires a township wide affordable housing, set aside ordinance, meaning

[40:24] that if large or residential developments ever occur, 20% of the units must be affordable.

[40:29] which is actually state law.

[40:33] In short, disagreement confirms men and township has met its obligations.

[40:38] The first future obligations unless infrastructure exists.

[40:42] Protects the township from unrealistic development pressures

[40:46] and preserves local control and environmental safeguards.

[40:51] It was about meeting our legal obligations responsibility

[40:54] while maintaining our values and protecting the community residents called home.

[40:59] As we look ahead at 2026, I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the broader historical

[41:05] moment we are entering.

[41:07] This year our nation commemorates America's 250th anniversary, a once-in-a-generation

[41:13] milestone, and there are a few places in this country, and certainly a few in New Jersey,

[41:18] more essential to that story, in Mars County, and then in Township.

[41:22] Lawrence County was a strategic heart of the American Revolution, serving as the military

[41:29] hub, a supplies center, and a place where decisions were made that shaped the outcome of

[41:34] the war, minimum budget played a meaningful role in that effort, supporting troops, providing

[41:39] resources, and serving as part of the network of communities that made independence possible.

[41:45] That history is not something that we just read about.

[41:48] It lives in our landscape, our roads, our historic homes, and our preserved open spaces.

[41:55] It's why preservation matters here, it's why planning matters here.

[41:59] And we are lucky to have such great people in the historic preservation committee.

[42:05] We take seriously our responsibility to care for this town, not just for today, but for the generations who will come after us.

[42:13] The values that shape this country, service, sacrifice, civic responsibility and community,

[42:20] are the same values that guide how we govern today in this town.

[42:24] Serving as Mayor of Madam Township continues to be one of the greatest honors in my life.

[42:29] I'm deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me and I promise to continue serving

[42:33] this community with care, discipline, and heart. Alongside my four colleagues of the Township

[42:38] committee. I look forward to making 2026 a year of thoughtful decisions, strong community, and continue progress.

[42:46] Thank you for being here tonight. Thank you for caring about our town.

[42:50] And thank you for making my new township the special place it is. Happy New Year.

[43:03] Next, we're going to go into our consent agenda. We have revolutions 1 through 25 on our extension agenda.

[43:09] I'm going to for 24 in our consent agenda. I'm going to ask that we pulled

[43:14] and vote separately in a men's resolution 6, 8 and 9.

[43:20] Are there any objections to that?

[43:24] I hope so.

[43:25] Okay, so our consent agenda will include resolutions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 8, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, is our motion.

[43:39] Motion, is there a second?

[43:40] There are any comments or questions.

[43:45] They're most called a question.

[43:46] Motion to call the question.

[43:47] Thank you.

[43:48] Is there a second?

[43:49] There are directions calling the question.

[43:52] Madam Clerk can call roll please.

[43:54] Ms. Dorte.

[43:54] Yes.

[43:55] Ms. Maureen.

[43:57] Mr. Monahan.

[43:58] Ms. Ferrig.

[43:59] Mayor Nibar.

[44:00] Yes.

[44:01] Wrong resolution.

[44:03] 266.

[44:04] Resolution is how to continue the town to the minimum authorizing the award of a non fair and open contract for legal services for labor attorney.

[44:11] Is there a motion motion? There's that good. I'm going to ask that we amend the knock to exceed

[44:18] for a flat $10,000 instead of $15,000. Is there a second? Second. I had discussed this

[44:29] with Jason and this is more in line to what we spent last year, what we intend to spend.

[44:35] Are there any comments or questions? There are any additional points of three.

[44:40] Sir, most of the question, motion to call the question.

[44:42] Sir, second, there are any objections to calling the question.

[44:46] Madam Clerk can call roll please.

[44:48] Ms. Clark, thank you.

[44:50] Ms. Maureen?

[44:51] Yes. Mr. Monahan?

[44:53] Ms. Spirig?

[44:54] Yes. Mayor Nibar.

[44:54] Yes.

[44:56] Resolution 2568. Resolution is 100.

[44:58] We need to touch the minimum authorizing the award.

[45:00] We have a non-fair and open contract for professional engineering services to French and Purella Associates, the Sermotion, motion, there are seconds.

[45:09] For my conversations with Jason, 50,000 is more reflective than 50,000.

[45:14] So that would be my amendment. So I'll move to be crease, 55,000 to 50. Is there a second?

[45:22] Second, are there any comments or questions?

[45:27] There are most of the questions, most of them are all the questions.

[45:29] There are second.

[45:31] Are there any objections to the question?

[45:34] Medical Clerk, please call roll.

[45:35] Ms. Dwarthe, I guess.

[45:36] Ms. Maureen?

[45:38] Mr. Monahan?

[45:38] Yes.

[45:39] Ms. Spirig?

[45:40] Mayor Nibar.

[45:41] Yes.

[45:42] That's the decision.

[45:42] 226.

[45:43] Nine resolution.

[45:44] This is how the committee, the time to minimize any award of a non-parent open contract for a

[45:48] management and health insurance consultant, Frank Cavalli from PIA is their motion.

[45:53] motion, sir, second. This was an increase of about $10,000, and so since this was a significant increase,

[46:03] we asked Frank if we could actually spread that increase over two years instead of one,

[46:07] and so he's okay with a knot to exceed to a reflect 20,000 instead of 25.

[46:14] That's one of my motion is

[46:15] decreased 25 to 20 and the knot to exceed, sir, second. Thank you. Are there any comments or questions?

[46:30] Sir, what was the call of question?

[46:32] Motion to call the question.

[46:33] Sir, second.

[46:36] All the favor please say aye.

[46:38] Aye.

[46:39] With that, is there a motion to call the question on the ordinance as a whole or so that resolution

[46:43] as a whole?

[46:44] Motion to call the question.

[46:45] Sir, second.

[46:46] Any objections?

[46:47] Call the question.

[46:49] None of the clerk can call roll, please.

[46:51] Mr. Arte, yes.

[46:52] Ms. Maureen?

[46:53] Mr. Monahan?

[46:54] Mr. Monahan?

[46:55] Mayor Nibar, yes, actually

[47:02] we have one more resolution that was in our

[47:06] consent agenda that I call for so we'll just do it resolution 202625 to affirm the

[47:12] township of Madame Civil Rights policy or respect to all officials appointees

[47:16] employees, perspective employees, volunteers, independent contractors, amendment members

[47:20] of the public, that come in contact with municipal employees, officials and volunteers

[47:25] is their motion. Motion, there's that can't.

[47:27] So, are there any comments or questions?

[47:30] They're most of all questions. Motion to call the question.

[47:32] There's that can't. Is there any of your questions?

[47:34] Is there any of your questions?

[47:36] No, no, Perkney, call roll, please.

[47:38] Ms. Markton, yes, Ms. Mooreen. Yes. Mr. Monahan. Yes.

[47:41] Ms. Ferry. Yes, Mayor Nibar. Yes.

[47:46] Resolution 202626.

[47:47] First, there's in the township community, the township,

[47:48] the minimum point in township officials for 2026 is their motion.

[47:51] Motion, there's that can't.

[47:53] for them. These are our officials, the times of fire chief, John Kent, fire official, Christopher

[47:58] Shay, fire safety inspector, our Cooper, OEM coordinator, Evan Thomas, that the OEM coordinator

[48:05] is Sarah Nive, Martin Nicholas Woodzac, public agency compliance officer, clean community

[48:10] coordinator, Jason Gavloff, stormwater management coordinator, Dennis Keenan, and recycling

[48:14] coordinator, Kirby Johnson. Are there any comments or questions? I'll be abstaining since

[48:20] My name is listed.

[48:22] They're most of the question.

[48:23] I'm going to call the question.

[48:24] There's that gap.

[48:25] Are there any objections to all that question?

[48:27] Madam Clark, do you call it role please?

[48:29] It's Dorothy.

[48:30] Ms. Morin?

[48:32] Mr. Monahan.

[48:33] Ms. Fiery.

[48:34] Yes.

[48:34] Mayor and I, Barc.

[48:37] Resolution 2026-27.

[48:38] Resolution of the Township.

[48:39] We need the punch of the minimum.

[48:40] A point of number to the tree preservation land.

[48:42] Land.

[48:44] I believe you're supposed to abstain on that last.

[48:46] I'm sorry.

[48:46] We'll check you in my read it out.

[48:47] Oh, sorry.

[48:48] All right.

[48:51] Thank

[48:54] you.

[48:54] Resolution 2026-27.

[48:56] Resolution.

[48:56] That's how it's like many of the times.

[48:57] And then I'm appointing members.

[48:59] The tree preservation landscape committee is their motion.

[49:02] Motion.

[49:03] So I heard a motion in the second.

[49:05] Are there any comments or questions?

[49:06] I'm going to abstain on this because my son is being appointed.

[49:11] You.

[49:12] I don't have to abstain.

[49:13] Oh, all right.

[49:14] Then I guess I'll be voting for it.

[49:18] The other not may always plan by the role stone.

[49:24] Is there a motion call question? Motion.

[49:26] There is that. Okay. Is there any objections to any question?

[49:30] Monitoring call roll please.

[49:31] Mr. Arte. Yes. Miss Maureen. Yes. Mr. Monahan. Yes.

[49:35] Mr. Monahan. Yes.

[49:35] Mr. Spirig. Yes.

[49:36] Mayor Nibar. Yes.

[49:39] Resolution 202628. Resolution is how should community detention men of appointing a class

[49:43] 3 member to the planning board. Is there a motion?

[49:47] I would like to nominate my thoughts, hey, there's a second, are there any other nominations?

[49:57] Yeah, I'm going to ask the attorney to abstain on this one or to vote on it.

[50:03] What kind of order it?

[50:05] Well, let me think about that.

[50:10] Are there any other nominations?

[50:19] motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion.

[50:37] Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion. Motion

[50:41] There's that.

[50:43] Okay.

[50:44] Are there any comments or questions?

[50:47] There are most of the question.

[50:49] There's that.

[50:50] There you have it.

[50:51] There's a question.

[50:52] No, no.

[50:53] Correct.

[50:54] Mr. Moran.

[50:56] Yes.

[50:57] Mr. Monahan.

[50:58] Yes.

[50:59] Mayor and I.

[51:00] Yes.

[51:00] Resolution 2630.

[51:02] Resolution 2630.

[51:03] Attention.

[51:06] Attention.

[51:07] There's that.

[51:07] Order.

[51:09] There are any comments or questions.

[51:12] There are most of all the questions, motion.

[51:14] Is there a second?

[51:15] Are there any objections?

[51:17] Is there a question?

[51:18] I don't park the call, please.

[51:20] Ms. Dortay?

[51:21] Ms. Morin?

[51:22] Yes.

[51:23] Mr. Monahan?

[51:24] Ms. Fiery?

[51:25] Yes.

[51:25] Mayor Nibar. Yes.

[51:26] Resolution 202631.

[51:28] Resolution of the Township Community Attention.

[51:29] None of the pointy members of the financial advisory committee.

[51:32] Is there a motion?

[51:33] There's a second.

[51:34] Is there any comments or questions?

[51:38] Do you want to say we are so lucky to have individuals listening, listed on this committee,

[51:46] volunteer there, time, finance committee is one of the committees that meets weekly or every

[51:51] two weeks that every month and I'm just so grateful to somebody who's interacted with them.

[51:57] So I just wanted us to throw that out there.

[52:00] There are any comments or questions?

[52:02] servition echo your comments I mean phenomenal for people really I mean the all of our committees are great

[52:09] You know work with these people a lot and they go through a lot and it's really

[52:13] It's a tribute to them really so definitely

[52:18] servition a call question version. There's that can't are there any objection to any question

[52:24] I don't know Parker Paul roll please. Ms. Dwarthe. Yes, Ms. Maureen. Yes, Mr. Monahan. Yes

[52:30] Mr. Speaker, Mayor, aye, bar, yes. Resolution 202632, resolution, how should committee to touch the minimum of pointing members of the historic preservation committee, is their motion motion.

[52:39] There's that.

[52:39] Second, third.

[52:41] Are there any comments or questions?

[52:46] Is there a most important question?

[52:47] Is there a second?

[52:49] Okay.

[52:49] Are there any objections to the question?

[52:53] I don't have any questions.

[52:54] Mr. Speaker, yes.

[52:55] Ms. Maureen, yes. Mr. Monahan.

[52:58] Yes.

[52:58] Yes, Mayor and I barp. Yes, those lesions 26, 33 rose lesions, how should I communicate the time to

[53:03] men and when he members the open space trust communities their motion. Motion. Sir second.

[53:09] Are there any comments or questions?

[53:13] There are most of all questions.

[53:15] Motion.

[53:15] Second.

[53:16] Are there any objections?

[53:17] Any questions?

[53:19] Madam person you call roll please.

[53:20] Mr. Tarte.

[53:21] Yes.

[53:22] Ms. Maureen.

[53:23] Yes. Mr. Monahan.

[53:24] Yes.

[53:25] Ms. Fierre. Yes.

[53:26] May or all appointments that will be codified, but for environmental commission, we will be

[53:35] re-appointing Heather's Procars as a regular member, and then Chris Repoucle and Marcelo

[53:41] Figurall will be the alternate members. They were previously at large, and now they'll have

[53:47] this alternate position, and then our at large appointments are Jesse Lewis, Mark Trocans, Sasha Proshka,

[53:53] Jeffrey Gangle, Philip Pepe and Kevin Duffy, and then the chairman of the Environmental Commission who really does a fantastic job is Richard Smith.

[54:05] Planning board members, I will be designating my seat on the planning board at Tracy Marine.

[54:12] And then chief Ross Johnson will be the past two officer.

[54:17] And then for the citizens of the municipality who will be serving on planning board, Michael Rohall is actually going to be taking the open regular member state.

[54:27] He was previously an alternate member number two and only Ryan is appointed to his alternate member number two seat.

[54:35] And then for finance advisory committee myself and deputy mayor Monahan will be serving on that as well as the men and east and west pollution control system advisory committee.

[54:46] With that, before we go to hearing persons present, I wanted to see if any members of the

[54:51] township committee wanted to make any additional statements.

[54:54] Before we go there, can we go back to open space?

[54:57] Because we have the planning board appointment, which is TBD and the township media appointment.

[55:03] I think we ought to make sure we just get that button up tonight.

[55:06] For the open space, so planning board will be Tracy Morene, and then you'll be the township

[55:14] committee appointment.

[55:15] Correct, so it's the same as last year, but yeah, I don't know if we need to re- vote or what

[55:21] I think those are judging me. It's the township, but are there any objections of

[55:26] Nick Monahan, the township committee appointment to the open space committee?

[55:32] I assume that that's who's going back on. Yeah, it's equals. Yeah, it's very,

[55:37] we'll see. Yeah, and then I guess the planning board will designate when I assume that'll be a

[55:45] Okay, yeah.

[55:48] Okay.

[55:48] There.

[55:49] Karen, do we need to reveal on that?

[55:51] Or those just.

[55:52] That's a mission.

[55:54] Questioning.

[55:54] Resolution.

[55:55] 33.

[55:57] That's what we're looking at.

[55:59] Yeah.

[56:00] What were you looking for exactly?

[56:02] Because that we had to go.

[56:03] I think we're okay.

[56:05] I think we did, but then.

[56:07] I was going a little bit.

[56:08] Yeah.

[56:08] That's fine.

[56:09] But.

[56:10] Five.

[56:11] Five.

[56:12] Oh.

[56:14] Oh hi. Oh hi. Is there another one that you think I missed if it wasn't the open space one?

[56:20] I was questioning if it was the sewer east and west.

[56:26] I might have missed that one, but you

[56:28] made your designies. Yeah, but there was a there is a resolution about sewer east and west in here.

[56:37] I'm trying to find it. I read it. It's definitely on the digital poppy, but I

[56:46] on the words.

[56:50] All right.

[56:53] What?

[56:54] On the steward committee?

[56:56] I actually think the consensus on the part of the steward people.

[57:00] Is there a?

[57:02] Is there more?

[57:05] Is that in the consensus?

[57:07] Okay.

[57:07] So we did it.

[57:10] Okay.

[57:11] So we did it though.

[57:14] Okay.

[57:15] I think we're done.

[57:17] Okay.

[57:18] Are there any additional statements from

[57:20] the Township Committee Deputy Mayor, did you have a statement?

[57:24] I am keeping with my firm belief in limited brief government.

[57:31] I'm going to have limited brief comments.

[57:34] I really just want to thank my colleagues for their support for me to continue

[57:38] as Deputy Mayor.

[57:39] Few of my focus areas for 2026 are to improve coordination with

[57:46] and between our fire departments in the two fire companies.

[57:50] I'd like to continue working with the Historic Preservation Committee to preserve Historic Properties and Menum Township where possible and to continue the collaboration with our building department.

[57:59] I'd also like to ensure that we do that in coordination with our state and county partners.

[58:05] I'd like to work with our deputy W Superintendent to ensure that he has the resources needed to to accomplish the goals set out by and for him.

[58:12] And like every other department is obviously only so much to go around for prioritization and communication will be essential.

[58:20] Please to continue working with our finance committee to ensure a sound of responsible budget for 2026.

[58:27] I want to absolutely continue working with our open space committee and specifically to hopefully craft an acceptable solution for increasing maintenance on our touch of owned open spaces.

[58:37] And finally, I've spoken with Jason and Lauren, as well as other colleagues, about setting up

[58:44] a personnel committee consisting of two members of the Township Committee, I would propose

[58:49] myself and Lauren to work with Jason on personnel matters for the town.

[58:55] The goal is to help Jason with all the decisions and planning needs when managing our staff

[58:59] and then its workload, expect to work with Lauren to create an enabling ordinance and resolution,

[59:05] Whichever is needed and presented to this committee for ratification over the next month or so or to come. That's all I have

[59:13] Thank you

[59:14] When you have a spirit

[59:15] I will try to be brief as well. Um, thank you so much. Mayor my fellow committee members and men and township residents

[59:22] It's an incredible honor to embark on another three years serving you on the men and township committee

[59:28] Circumstance I would not have believed

[59:30] You had told me I'd be here back in 2022 for so many

[59:34] reasons. At our last meeting on December 23rd, someone remarked that we are entering season four

[59:41] of our Township Committee together. And like any good TV series, we have all evolved in our roles

[59:46] over our years together. Each year brings fresh challenges, unexpected issues, and new residents

[59:51] that we get to know. I am deeply, deeply grateful for everyone who spends their time getting to know

[59:56] the ins and outs of Township Government, Governance, and make their-

[1:00:02] I hear off and how much folks appreciate the balance on the current committee and I always want to reiterate that that is an intentional choice and one that comes with commitment. Everyone in this room is a busy person and how we choose to spend our time matters.

[1:00:17] I recently saw a meme, which is, I guess, the new old adage, that for every change you see

[1:00:27] happen in government, people had to spend hundreds of hours in boring meetings.

[1:00:34] And, you know, cynics may claim not always wrongly that government can make things worse.

[1:00:40] I believe we have such a unique opportunity at our local level to do better than what we see elsewhere,

[1:00:45] especially on the national stage. We have the power to make our community exactly what we

[1:00:51] want it to be, a thriving place with residents who care for it deeply and want the best for

[1:00:55] their families and their neighbors. As Revigerson referred to earlier, when the world around us seems

[1:01:01] crazy, men and township is our refuge. So my guiding principle for this new term is one that I

[1:01:07] often call upon assume good intents, assume that we are all looking for solutions that we

[1:01:15] may have different opinions and ways of getting there. We don't have to agree, but putting

[1:01:19] aside cynicism never makes things worse. To me, that means letting go of narrow notions

[1:01:25] of power, seeing what happens when collaboration and seeking solutions are the main drivers,

[1:01:30] combining rich institutional knowledge with fresh perspectives from our community.

[1:01:35] I already said my thank yous but I don't think you can thank people enough so thank

[1:01:40] you everyone up here all of our township committee professionals. You actually make it fun to

[1:01:45] sit here for many, many hours so I appreciate that very much and thank you everyone.

[1:01:53] Thank you everyone.

[1:01:55] The last three years I sat and gave a speech about red and blue and purple and let's not have

[1:02:00] colors and let's be nonpartisan and I promise to save you from that speech this year.

[1:02:05] But I do want to talk, oh, in the reason I'm not going to give the speech is I think now more than ever we are balanced.

[1:02:12] We do treat each other with respect.

[1:02:14] We do act as a collaborative group.

[1:02:17] We don't always agree, but we hash it out with respect for the individual.

[1:02:21] And I came to meetings before I was elected.

[1:02:23] That wasn't always the case historically on the Township Committee.

[1:02:27] So I'm proud of all of us for that.

[1:02:29] I do want to take just two minutes and talk about my vote for Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

[1:02:34] because we'll hear about it, I'm sure,

[1:02:36] and hearing persons present because I'm largely considered

[1:02:40] the swing vote.

[1:02:41] I think it's the part that people don't say out loud.

[1:02:44] That if you kind of meetings,

[1:02:46] I think very much for myself, very independent

[1:02:49] and go issue by issue.

[1:02:51] Sometimes I'm with Amolian Lawrence,

[1:02:54] sometimes I'm with Nick and Sarah,

[1:02:55] sometimes everybody's against me.

[1:02:58] But that's what I'm proud of, is that we take it issue by issue.

[1:03:01] But, you know, I sent my kids home this year because three years ago, it was pretty vitriolic and, you know, my, my character and integrity were attacked and, and I took it very personally, and that's why I take very seriously all the decisions that we, we'd make up here, but it is true that Nick and Sarah held office for a very long time, absolutely.

[1:03:24] but it's also true. There are taxes have remained stable. We have a triple A rating that they also won by hundreds of votes that they're also wildly popular among our residents as is Amalia.

[1:03:37] But I think we're in a good place and we're healthier than ever and I want to keep a good thing going I really do.

[1:03:43] And Amalia has key appointments and is on the planning board.

[1:03:47] three years ago, four years ago, I'll say with my own words that she was treated as a second class citizen here on the day as, and that's no longer, that's no longer true.

[1:03:57] I'm all your, you're, you're one of, you know, one of us and, and we're all equals and I just don't, I think that we've come a long way in three years and I personally didn't blindly support Nick and Sarah because of political party.

[1:04:10] I said come to the meetings, you'll see that I make my choices based based on the fact.

[1:04:18] And to that, I exercise my own vote for the leaders that I would like to see lead us as a committee.

[1:04:24] And we all had to write to exercise that vote and I voted unapologetically.

[1:04:32] I didn't vote against Somalia. I voted for Nick and Sarah.

[1:04:35] so I hope we can move forward in a very healthy way.

[1:04:41] Just a couple of things. I never expected to run for a second term. I'm not a politician.

[1:04:44] I have no political aspirations. I ran because I care very deeply about open space and

[1:04:50] preserving our legacy. And, you know, your basic, you know, keep taxes low kind of principles.

[1:04:58] I ran for a second term because we do have a good thing going. And I wanted to continue that.

[1:05:05] And I, you know, I had a fear, you know, that maybe things would be unstable or we'd take a step back.

[1:05:12] I think anybody, you know, we had four amazing candidates this year, I think anybody could have taken it forward.

[1:05:19] But I wasn't ready to finish what we all, but we five have started.

[1:05:25] And so just the highlight really quickly, I talked about legacy.

[1:05:29] There was a legacy that was created from about 2000 to 2005 that if you go back and read all the historical documents,

[1:05:36] I referenced some often in meetings because the legislation and the ordinances that were passed in those five years

[1:05:44] are why MENDEM is what it is today period in my opinion.

[1:05:50] It's about the trees in the open space, but it was also about how we run MENDEM.

[1:05:54] And if you, you know, I encourage anybody to go back and look at that.

[1:05:59] So, so I do care about creating that, like, you know, preserving that legacy.

[1:06:03] We have to change.

[1:06:04] We have to evolve.

[1:06:05] We call it smart growth or whatever.

[1:06:07] But every decision we make around open space, around our zoning, around our planning board,

[1:06:13] around our master plans, around our conservation areas, et cetera.

[1:06:18] It's going to take, it's going to make an impact 20 years from now.

[1:06:21] So I will continue to focus on those things.

[1:06:23] I will continue to advocate for those things.

[1:06:26] And I welcome debate, in terms of evolving away from those.

[1:06:30] But I think that we have to continue to be very vigilant

[1:06:33] in keeping in township what it is.

[1:06:36] We need to do more with what we have, DPW maintenance.

[1:06:40] We need to make sure every one of our DPW roles

[1:06:43] is filled, and all of our personnel roles are filled.

[1:06:46] So I'm happy that Jason and Nick and Lauren

[1:06:49] and others will focus on that.

[1:06:55] We've not raised taxes for some number of years,

[1:06:58] and so that's why the optimization

[1:07:00] and the utilization of what we have is so important.

[1:07:04] So I hope to bring to bear some of,

[1:07:06] kind of what I do incorporate America

[1:07:09] in terms of process optimization, work with Jason,

[1:07:12] and really squeeze that last bit of juice out of what we have.

[1:07:16] And then we have to start having the difficult conversations

[1:07:18] that we've started to have. But do we have more shared services? Do we need better capital planning?

[1:07:26] When will taxes go up? It's not if it's when?

[1:07:30] Is it this year? Is it next year? It's five years. Those are all the difficult conversations. I think we do need to start having this year. And I welcome, I welcome those discussions. So so with that, I look forward to the exciting 2026.

[1:07:46] Can you go in the dark?

[1:07:47] Thank you. And I always love to be the closer on these commentaries. I want to start by first of all, congratulating my colleagues, committeewoman, mori and spirit.

[1:07:58] and I hope them so much success in their second terms.

[1:08:02] I want to recognize the professionals and staff who work for our community.

[1:08:06] They are the ones who run the town on a day-to-day basis, not us.

[1:08:10] In particular, our clerk, Karen Bellamy, our Township Administrator, CFO, Jason Gabloff,

[1:08:16] a police chief, Frost Johnson, is not here, but I think I see Sergeant Calvett

[1:08:20] in the back, who else, our DPW Superintendent, David Reed,

[1:08:25] a recreation director, David Guida, and of course our attorney John Mills.

[1:08:31] I want to thank our first responders, I think they all left, but they do a fantastic

[1:08:35] job with the Brookside and Raulston Engine Company in all of our first aid squad.

[1:08:41] And then also to thank every resident who stepped up to serve on a subcommittee, whether

[1:08:45] you are serving for the first time or re-upping, I really appreciate all the time and effort

[1:08:51] and dedication that you put into all of our subcommittees.

[1:08:53] It's a lot and that's also how I got started. So watch out. Looking back on 2025, as mentioned, we did accomplish a lot.

[1:09:02] We finalized our affordable housing plan. We created the new garbage utility.

[1:09:07] We finally bought a new Tender truck for the Royalston Engine Company.

[1:09:11] We adopted a dark sky ordinance, so if we do have development in our community,

[1:09:16] they have to minimize light pollution. And very importantly, we voted to conform with the Highlands,

[1:09:21] an idea that I first proposed back in 2022 and I was thrilled when the Township Committee came

[1:09:27] around to the idea. This is going to help us push back against unwanted over-development

[1:09:33] in the future and for years to come. And one more note from last year, it really was a privilege

[1:09:38] and when I think back about 2025 to organize the installation of a plaque to honor our town's

[1:09:44] first woman mayor, Marion Wiesong, at her namesake park, Wiesong Park, and then to lead the dedication

[1:09:51] and ceremony. So if you haven't seen the plaque, please take a drive over there. It's right

[1:09:55] by the Rolston playground and having that plaque there is going to ensure that the next generation

[1:10:01] of kids and men don't know all about Mary and Wysong and her terrific legacy to our town.

[1:10:08] Looking forward to 2026 because that's the year we're now in. I think top of the list has to

[1:10:13] be updating our tree ordinance and getting into compliance with the state mandates. Unfortunately,

[1:10:19] that effort was stalled last year. I hope we're able to get it done quickly and come into compliance.

[1:10:26] The big update in the mandate is pretty simple. Most of the time, but not all the time,

[1:10:31] if you cut down a beautiful healthy living tree, you have to replace it.

[1:10:37] Another important project which I'm excited about is bringing to life the old police station.

[1:10:42] I'm excited and already working with the group of residents to transform it into a community resource

[1:10:48] for workshops, meetings, small events.

[1:10:51] Mendom TV is already moving in.

[1:10:54] They're building out a new studio in editing room,

[1:10:56] and his historic preservation committee

[1:10:58] has moved in much of its archives over there.

[1:11:01] So thrilled that we saved the building

[1:11:03] and looking forward to getting that going.

[1:11:06] And I also want to check off my to-do list

[1:11:07] with Township Committee.

[1:11:08] We talked about this a while ago,

[1:11:10] and it was something that we were going to move forward with,

[1:11:13] but to finally install welcome to Mendom Township signs,

[1:11:16] as you drive into our community.

[1:11:19] I see our Arts Council member there is clapping,

[1:11:23] but just about every other town around us

[1:11:25] and a Morse County has signs like that.

[1:11:28] So I hope we finally get that done.

[1:11:30] So in closing, as the committee one more in just said,

[1:11:34] I too never aspired to run for public office.

[1:11:37] It was definitely not on my bucket list.

[1:11:40] I'm sitting up here because I was asked to serve.

[1:11:43] And in case you didn't know,

[1:11:44] the Republicans asked me first before the Democrats. I finally agreed to run for office in 2017

[1:11:51] and had a simple goal to make a positive difference in our community and to give back to the town

[1:11:57] where I have lived almost 30 years, made lifelong friendships, and raised a family. I motivation

[1:12:05] hasn't changed. I hope to continue working for the residents of our community on behalf of all of you,

[1:12:11] tackling whatever problems come our way, listening to different points of view, and making

[1:12:16] a positive impact. And finally, God willing, I hope to continue my eight-year track record

[1:12:22] of never-missing a Township Committee meeting, knock-on-wood. So happy new year to everyone,

[1:12:28] a blessed new year, and let's hope for a very successful 2026 for Madam Township. Thank you.

[1:12:35] Thank you all so much, and I'm excited to continue working with each of you,

[1:12:39] I just want to thank again, before we open to the public, our incredible volunteers are

[1:12:44] to have not survived without all of our volunteers, and I'm just so deeply grateful that

[1:12:51] so many people have stepped up.

[1:12:52] We now have at large appointments to committee, so more people are serving than ever before.

[1:12:57] I see a lot of them in the audience and also on Zoom, so I really hope that we are able

[1:13:03] to see you all in person soon, but for those of you who are here in person, we are actually

[1:13:09] having a reception at the emergency services building after this meeting on the second floor

[1:13:14] in the ready room. And with that, I'll open it to hearing persons present. If anybody

[1:13:19] in town hall would like to speak to the public, please come up to the microphones, state your name

[1:13:24] and your address for the record. You'll have three minutes to speak.

[1:13:33] Anyone via Zoom, would you like

[1:13:34] speak, please raise your hand.

[1:13:38] I think it's on the bottom of the screen. I don't see any hands at

[1:13:41] the moment. It would be

[1:13:46] anyone else. With that, I'll ask that we close the public, is there

[1:13:52] motion? Motion. There's second. All of favor closing please say aye. Aye. All opposed?

[1:13:58] Without entertain a motion to adjourn, is there motion? Motion. There's second. All of

[1:14:04] of our journey, please say aye, all opposed. Have a good night. Thank you.

Township Committee Meeting — January 5, 2026 (Re-Org)

Transcript