[0:13] Good evening, scotch planes and welcome to our May 5th, 2026.
[0:18] Scotch planes, town, council, business meeting. I wish to make
[0:21] the following announcement to show compliance with the open public
[0:24] meetings act known as chapter 2 30, 1 of the public laws
[0:27] of New Jersey, 1975.
[0:30] Notice of this meeting was given by publishing a notice
[0:32] of the location time and date sending copies to the
[0:35] star ledger. And the leader posting said notice on the
[0:38] township website and bulletin board in the municipal building and
[0:42] filing San with our township clerk.
[0:45] If everyone would please rise for the pledge to the
[0:48] flag.
[0:50] Allegiance to the flag.
[0:56] Nation Liberty, Ms. Lacina. May I have the role call
[1:04] please? Ms. Adams here, Ms. Stanler here Mr. White.
[1:08] Ms. SimMan here, Mayor Losardo here. Thank you, Ms. Lacina
[1:12] our colleague Councilman white has a conflict. This evening is
[1:16] unable to join us.
[1:18] Tonight, we're going to start with several presentations and proclamations.
[1:22] I think that's why most of you are here today.
[1:25] The first.
[1:27] Is was brought to my attention.
[1:30] By someone who's part of the whose family is part
[1:32] of the scotch Plains family.
[1:34] George Surio. He re reached out to me a couple
[1:37] of months ago.
[1:38] And asked that we helped spread awareness.
[1:40] About a L S and at this time I'm going
[1:43] to call on my colleague Councilwoman Stamler to read this
[1:47] proclamation and then invite George up to the mic.
[1:52] Whereas Amio Tropic lateral sclerosis.
[1:55] Commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease is a progressive.
[1:59] Fatal neurodegenerative disease in which a person's brain loses connection
[2:03] with their muscles slowly, reducing a person's ability to walk.
[2:07] Talk eat and eventually breathe.
[2:09] And whereas thousands of new ALS cases are reported every
[2:13] year. And estimates show that every 90 minutes someone is
[2:16] diagnosed with ALS and someone passes away from ALS.
[2:20] ALS. And whereas on average patients diagnosed with ALS survive
[2:24] only two to five years from the time of diagnosis.
[2:28] And whereas the exact causes of ALS are unknown and
[2:31] there is no known cure for ALS.
[2:34] ALS. And whereas people who have served in the military
[2:37] are more likely to develop ALS and die from the
[2:40] disease than those with no history of military service and
[2:44] whereas securing access to new therapies during durable medical equipment
[2:48] and communication technologies is a, a vital importance to people
[2:51] living with a.
[2:52] ALS and whereas clinical trials play a pivotal role in
[2:57] evaluating new treatments.
[2:59] Enhancing quality of life and fostering assistive technologies for those
[3:02] living with a L S.
[3:04] ALS and whereas the ALS association is the largest.
[3:08] Philanthropic funder of ALS research globally.
[3:11] And has committed more than 154 million to support more than
[3:15] 550 projects across the us and 18 other countries.
[3:19] And whereas the ALS association is committed to make ALS,
[3:23] livable and curate for everyone everywhere.
[3:27] And whereas ALS awareness month provides an opportunity to increase
[3:31] public awareness of the dire circumstances of people living with
[3:34] ALS.
[3:36] ALS acknowledge the terrible impact this disease has on those
[3:38] individuals and their families and support research to eradicate this
[3:42] disease.
[3:43] Now there are four. Be it proclaimed.
[3:46] The township council of the township of scotch Plains, hereby
[3:48] proclaims.
[3:50] Proclaims the month of May, 2026 as ALS awareness month and
[3:53] call upon all residents of scotch Plains to join in
[3:56] supporting ALS research.
[3:59] Advocating for increased funding and standing in solidarity with those
[4:02] affected by this relentless.
[4:04] Disease. Thank you, Liz George.
[4:06] Thank you so much Mayor and, and members of the
[4:08] town council.
[4:10] For issuing this proclamation and recognizing may as ALS awareness
[4:13] this month, I lost my mom to this horrific disease
[4:16] and impacted my family greatly.
[4:19] It's it's only through recognitions like these that, you know,
[4:22] we can generate awareness and through organizations like the ALS
[4:25] association, raise money for research and hopefully one day.
[4:29] Have a cure and develop new therapies. That'll help people
[4:32] that are impacted.
[4:34] Thank you once again, this is a, you know, I
[4:36] issue that's very important to me and I thank you
[4:38] for all for your recognition. Thank you. Thank.
[4:57] Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, George. Thank you.
[5:01] George bring us to our session.
[5:07] The
[5:09] second resolution that we're raising tonight.
[5:14] Concerns a contest in the 22nd legislative district in a
[5:18] minute or so. I think my colleague is going to
[5:20] call on the one assemblywoman in the room, Linda Carter. Who's
[5:24] right there in the third row. Thank you for joining
[5:25] us tonight, but for some information and background about this
[5:29] contest, Councilwoman Zimmerman.
[5:32] Thank you Mayor. Yes. Thank you. Assemblywoman Carter for being
[5:36] here with us, I'm gonna read the.
[5:39] The resolution and then ask you to come say a
[5:40] few words as well. Assemblywoman Carter, along with assemblyman Kennedy
[5:46] and Senator Scutari of the 27th 22nd.
[5:50] Legislative district had a 2026 middle school essay contest.
[5:56] And the winner of that contest is a scotch Plains
[5:59] resident. Joining us tonight.
[6:02] Olivia Lavelle. Am I correct on that? Cause I'm gonna
[6:04] say your name several times. I wanna make sure I
[6:06] said it correctly. all right.
[6:09] So, and if you want to.
[6:11] Join us as well when the assemblywoman comes up.
[6:14] Whereas the members of the 22nd legislative district recently announced
[6:19] the winners of the 2026 student essay contest.
[6:23] An initiative designed to encourage middle school students to share
[6:27] their vision for the future of America.
[6:30] And whereas the contest was open to students in grade
[6:33] six through eight.
[6:35] Residing within the district and inviting participants to respond to
[6:39] the prompt. What do you think America will look like
[6:42] a hundred years from now? And whereas the contest re
[6:46] received strong interest in participation from students across the district.
[6:51] Demonstrating a commendable level of engagement, creativity, and thoughtful inquiry.
[6:57] Among young residents. And whereas each submission was carefully reviewed
[7:01] by the three legislators who selected three outstanding students as
[7:05] winners, based on creativity, critical thinking and originality.
[7:11] And whereas Olivia Lavelle, a student at Terrell middle school
[7:15] in scotch Plains.
[7:17] Planes was selected as one of the three winners of
[7:19] the 2020 sixth student essay contest.
[7:22] And whereas Olivia Lavelle's essay presented a thoughtful and insightful
[7:27] perspective on how advancements in technology.
[7:30] Healthcare and environmental.
[7:32] Responsibility may shape everyday life in the future.
[7:35] While also recognizing the potential risks associated.
[7:40] With over-reliance on technology.
[7:42] And whereas as a winner of the contest,
[7:45] Olivia Lavelle will receive 200 up $250 gift card.
[7:49] And an invitation to participate in a special.
[7:52] Chat and chew discussion with members of the 22nd legislative
[7:56] district.
[7:57] To further share her ideas and perspectives.
[8:00] Perspectives. And whereas the township council of the township of
[8:03] scotch Plains recognizes the importance of fostering critical thinking, civic
[8:07] engagement and the amplification of student voices within the community.
[8:13] Now, therefore be it resolved by the township council of
[8:16] the township of scotch Plains county of union, state of
[8:19] New Jersey.
[8:20] That it hereby congratulates, Olivia Lavelli on being named.
[8:24] A winner of the 2026.
[8:27] Student essay contest and be it further resolved that the
[8:30] township council.
[8:31] Commends Olivia for her academic achievement.
[8:35] Creativity and thoughtful vision vision for the future.
[8:38] And extends its best wishes for her continued success.
[8:53] Olivia would you like to join?
[8:57] Assembly golden quarter.
[9:19] Good evening, everyone.
[9:21] It's truly is a pleasure to be here. I am
[9:23] assemblywoman Linda Carter, and I wanna take an opportunity.
[9:26] To congratulate you Libby for being able to be, create
[9:30] not just creative.
[9:32] But really looking into the future.
[9:34] So when this idea came up,
[9:37] in all. And we sat around and said, well, what
[9:38] are we going to do? Well, what's the best thing.
[9:42] We are now 250 years old for our country.
[9:45] And all, and the best thing, maybe even to get
[9:47] some ideas of what we need to work on as
[9:49] legislators.
[9:51] Why not try to figure out what people either want
[9:54] to see or what they feel it's going to be
[9:56] like a hundred years from now.
[9:59] I, I would love to be here in a hundred
[10:01] years, but I don't think I will.
[10:04] But I believe that we can make sure that, you
[10:06] know what we try to incorporate some of those great
[10:09] ideas.
[10:10] Ideas and we added the contest. We had many.
[10:13] Many people that did write.
[10:15] My eyes got tired that night. I think that's why
[10:16] I also have to make sure that I have my
[10:18] glasses all the time.
[10:20] But we were able to pick three winners.
[10:23] Winners Libby, you are one of the three winners, and
[10:25] I wanna congratulate you because what you wrote about was
[10:28] just amazing. I'm gonna ask you to give your ideas
[10:31] about what it's a hundred years, but what I am
[10:33] gonna ask the township of scotch Plains to do is
[10:36] to take your letter.
[10:38] Put it in some type of a time capsule.
[10:41] Or try to have it where in a hundred years.
[10:43] That we can look back on that letter and see.
[10:47] Maybe there's some things in there that we might have
[10:49] gotten, right. Or just naturally.
[10:51] Happened so we can see and they can see what
[10:54] the vision of were individuals, especially our middle schoolers.
[10:58] A hundred years before. So again, on behalf of Senate
[11:01] president, Nick's Qatar, assemblyman, Jim Kennedy and myself, I do
[11:04] have a Senate and general assembly citation for you.
[11:09] Com commendations and praise extended to Olivia.
[11:12] Libya Lavelle by the citizenry of the 22nd New Jersey legislative
[11:16] district.
[11:17] Through their elected representatives for bringing honor to herself and
[11:20] pride to her family.
[11:22] And most importantly to your community.
[11:25] As the recipient of the, what do you think America
[11:28] will look like 100 years from now?
[11:31] Essay contest in honor, of the 250th anniversary of the
[11:35] United States of America.
[11:37] Again, congratulations.
[11:47] Family. Come on up, everybody.
[12:00] Come on in
[12:02] congratulations. Congratulations. Congratulations. Great job. Thank you. Which grade are
[12:06] you in? Seventh. I have a seventh grader.
[12:10] Michael Adams, my son. Congratulations. Make sure he works. Sergeant's
[12:15] cool.
[12:16] Congratulations. Congratulations. If I tried to take a family picture,
[12:20] if you email me, I'll pull it.
[12:26] Just look right between us.
[12:30] Hold this one up for you.
[12:38] Great. Thank you. Thank you. Great job. Thank you.
[12:52] The assemblywoman Carter shared an interesting idea.
[12:57] About putting that essay in a time capsule.
[13:01] And Olivia I'd like you to know.
[13:05] We have a time capsule. We have actually a few
[13:07] time capsules out front. Thank you.
[13:11] And one of them was.
[13:14] We was set in stone in 1984.
[13:17] And we were direct. The scotch planes in the future
[13:19] was directed to open it in 2026.
[13:23] On the 250th anniversary of the declaration of independence.
[13:27] And we are playing with the idea of.
[13:29] Of once we open it, we're going to do that
[13:31] in June of putting another time capsule together. And we're
[13:34] talking about how to generate ideas of what to put
[13:37] in there. I think the assembly woman had a terrific
[13:39] idea and, and maybe we'll see if some of it
[13:41] comes true. So please reach out chair yours essay with
[13:44] us, and we're probably going to do that on.
[13:47] Scotch planes day. Things are a little up in the
[13:50] air, but we're planning to put something together soon. I
[13:53] think putting the SA would be a great idea.
[13:55] Thank you and congratulations to you and your family.
[13:58] Wonderful job, our, our next proclamation.
[14:02] I think everyone seated here is surrounded by police officers.
[14:06] Officers and the chief is going to explain why the
[14:08] police officers are here in just a minute.
[14:11] It's it's I know it's related to police week, which
[14:14] is next week.
[14:15] And recognizing several of our officers for.
[14:19] Some heroic acts performed over the last year. Chief Lavry
[14:23] Flo yours. Hi, thank you, Mayor.
[14:26] Before I start off, I just wanna say thank you
[14:27] to captain Richie, captain Richie, and several officers months preparing
[14:31] this.
[14:33] Ordering citation bars, figuring out what the awards committee, who
[14:36] who's entitled to these awards based on.
[14:39] Actions from the year 2025. So thank you, captain Richie
[14:42] for putting the time in to organize this event.
[14:45] That starting in 1962, the week surrounding May 15th, which is
[14:49] next week is recognized as national police week on May 15th, 2023,
[14:54] Deputy Mayor Matt Adams presented a proclamation, which was unanimously
[14:57] approved by this council declaring that we of May 15th to
[15:00] May 21st national police appreciation week here in Scott.
[15:03] Scotch Plains as we enter the month of may. I'd
[15:07] like to remind everyone of this upcoming tradition and use
[15:09] this opportunity to remember and honor law enforcement officers who
[15:12] have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
[15:15] Unfortunately on the list of phone officers is scotch Plains,
[15:18] police chiefs, police, chief Florence, J O Sullivan who's end
[15:22] of watch was on September 2nd, 1921 in keeping witness tradition. I
[15:26] asked that we have a moment of silence to honor
[15:28] all the brave men and women who have given their
[15:30] life since their service to their communities.
[15:42] Thank you today. I would like to take the opportunity
[15:45] to recognize and acknowledge our law enforcement officer's dedication, contributions,
[15:49] and commitment to our community. I'm honored to present the
[15:51] accomplishments of our scotch Plains police department officers.
[15:55] Officers first, we're gonna start with the letters of appreciation.
[15:58] During the 2025 calendar year, the department received letters of
[16:01] appreciation from eight individual residents who identified nine officers, deserving
[16:05] their recognition for their professionalism and service to our community.
[16:08] And I just wanna start off our officers do things
[16:10] every day. The go on recognize they go above and
[16:12] beyond.
[16:14] They, they do things to improve the quality of life
[16:16] of our residents.
[16:18] Residents and they never, they never get recognized, but on
[16:19] the rare occasion, an office, a resident or, or a
[16:22] member of the public feels compelled to write a letter
[16:25] to, to myself or to the Mayor or to the
[16:27] manager or to the Deputy Mayor or anybody in the
[16:29] council that they're they're friends with, just to appreciate us.
[16:31] And.
[16:33] We would like to recognize those officers tonight.
[16:36] Okay. If the officers are present, I know.
[16:39] Officers are, are working, got kids sports. There are some
[16:42] officers that aren't here tonight, but I'm gonna read everybody's
[16:44] names. So they get recognized. The officers are as follows
[16:46] police officer Edward Budzinski.
[16:49] Police officer Richard Hernandez, police officer Richard Sako.
[16:53] Police officer Rolando Rodriguez.
[16:56] Police officer Steven crater.
[16:59] Police officer Vincent Conti.
[17:01] Police officer Kobe, white police officer, Olivia DeFalco and police
[17:04] officer.
[17:06] Michael DOE if you guys can just make your way
[17:07] up here to the front row, please.
[17:09] You can just filter out for us so everybody can
[17:11] recognize you.
[17:23] In years past we have, we have read out every
[17:25] single.
[17:26] Letter of appreciation, but I know people have places to
[17:29] go and things to do.
[17:31] I mean the Knicks aren't playing tonight, but I'm sure
[17:33] there's a basketball game out there to watch. It's not
[17:36] every day that people truly take the time and go
[17:38] outta their way to compliment someone.
[17:40] In our case, these residents took the time to write
[17:42] letters, send emails, and personally call the police department because
[17:45] they want us to know that these officers have done
[17:47] a great job. Can we please give these officers a
[17:50] round of applause for.
[18:06] Thank you guys. Did you want me to get pictures?
[18:10] Job? We can't be here.
[18:13] Can we do one at the end. We'll just do
[18:15] at the end. Perfect. Save some time. Thank you.
[18:21] Okay, next is gonna be letters of accommodation.
[18:23] During the 2025 calendar year, this department nominated four individual
[18:27] officers for letters of accommodation, deserving their recognition for their
[18:31] professionalism and service to the community.
[18:34] I'd like to call up the first two officers who
[18:35] are receiving this award tonight.
[18:37] The first one is unable to attend is officer Dominic
[18:40] Luciano. And the second is police officer Brian reginal.
[19:00] All right. Here you go.
[19:01] Everybody's looking at you face your judgment.
[19:06] On February 14th, 2025.
[19:09] Officers Luciano and reginal were dispatched to an incident.
[19:12] Following a reported incident of a male with a knife
[19:13] running towards the high school during an active school dismissal.
[19:17] Officer reginal immediately responded to nearby evergreen elementary, initiated a
[19:21] school lockdown, officer Luciano located and detained the suspect and
[19:24] ultimately recovered a six-inch K bar style fixed blade.
[19:27] All officers of this was achieved without incident.
[19:31] Can we please give officer reginal a round of applause
[19:34] to.
[19:42] Thank you, Brian.
[19:45] All right. I'd like to call up third officer. I'll
[19:47] be receiving award tonight. This is police officer Frank Deranti.
[20:02] We can call him detective now, but when it happened,
[20:04] it was police officer.
[20:06] Frank is just recently joined our detective bureau and will
[20:09] be investigating cases for us. And we, we look forward
[20:11] to see what he has to offer the bureau.
[20:14] All right on July 14th, 2025 officer Deranti.
[20:18] Responded to the Y M C a during a township
[20:19] wide storm and flooding to assist a mother whose son
[20:22] was an urgent need of his medication, which was located
[20:26] at the Westfield train station with no means to attainit.
[20:27] Officer D Duranti scouted, a safe route to the train
[20:30] station and proceeded to personally initiate transported the patient and
[20:32] his mother to the medication ensuring was received in a
[20:35] timely manner.
[20:36] Officer D Duranti has received a letter of accommodation for
[20:39] this. Can we please give him a round of applause
[20:41] for a job?
[20:50] I'd like to call up a fourth officer tonight, we'll
[20:52] be receiving award. This is police officer Kobe white.
[20:58] I guess your dad had more to.
[21:09] Yeah, good question.
[21:13] All right on May 4th, 2025, officer white responded to an abandoned
[21:17] residence on Willow Ave on a report of an unconscious,
[21:20] but breathing male officer white, located the male in a
[21:22] pile of trash triaged to him along with info information
[21:24] from the call that deter determined the male was suffering
[21:27] from a Jugg overdose.
[21:29] Officer white administrator, a dose of Narcan and continue to
[21:31] provide medical care until EMS arrived.
[21:34] Officer white then continued his investigation.
[21:36] Resulting in the location of empty pill bottle, another containing
[21:38] an unknown substance. The resident was reported by the building
[21:41] department. So as toque, the use of property from squatters
[21:43] and drug users.
[21:45] So thank you, officer white for your letter of accommodation.
[21:56] All right next, we're gonna be moving on to our
[21:58] awards section.
[21:59] There were several incidents that happened this year, including a
[22:02] large scale flood where many officers were involved.
[22:06] It, it was a
[22:07] all hands on deck effort. Okay.
[22:11] Right now this past year two separate calls for service
[22:13] resulted in 27.
[22:15] Individual officers being submitted by their supervisors to re receive
[22:19] unit citation awards.
[22:21] This department presents the unit citation award to officers for
[22:23] situations in which an entire unit or section displays an
[22:26] extraordinary degree of teamwork and has made a significant contribution
[22:30] to our department's mission. I'd like to call up the
[22:32] first group of recipients who are receiving this award to
[22:34] tonight.
[22:35] Sergeant Ted floo, which is now Lieutenant Ted floo.
[22:47] Sergeant Michael Baltazar.
[22:56] Unable to attend. Sergeant David Belford.
[23:03] Then detective now, Sergeant Damien Serafin.
[23:13] Detective Devin Turner.
[23:20] Police officer now, detective Joseph Mirabel.
[23:32] Officer Luis Perrera.
[23:43] Officer Scott Laden.
[23:53] Great officer Richard Soko.
[24:08] Officer Joseph COSTI.
[24:20] Officer Rolando Rodriguez.
[24:32] Then officer now, Sergeant
[24:35] officer Ryan Sergeant Ryan Cruz.
[24:43] Unable to attend tonight. Officer dins Moise.
[24:51] Officer Vincent Rami.
[24:53] Ramy also unable to attend tonight. Officer Olivia Deka.
[25:08] Officer Michael CERI.
[25:16] And lastly, officer Michael dome.
[25:32] All right. So
[25:34] what they're receiving a unit citation for is something that
[25:37] they're supervisors nominated them for. They felt that they went
[25:40] above and beyond.
[25:41] The call of duty for sustained period of time on
[25:43] July 3rd, 2025, a severe storm.
[25:47] That caused widespread damage throughout the town outlawing.
[25:50] Extraordinary teamwork and dedication to service.
[25:53] During a prolonged period of call volume and hazardous conditions.
[25:56] These officers distinguish themselves through exceptional performance under pressure.
[26:00] They exceeded the expectation of normal duties, working titles through
[26:03] the night and to establish road closures, deploy barricades and
[26:06] caution tape.
[26:07] Respond to alarm and accident calls, assist residents in need
[26:10] and maintain regular service responses. These officers demonstrated exemplary teamwork.
[26:16] Professionalism and dedication to the community.
[26:19] Each officer took initiative adapted to evolving conditions and successfully
[26:22] fulfilled their assigned responsibilities with competence and integrity. Can we
[26:26] please give these officers a round of applause for.
[26:49] That's awesome.
[26:51] Right. Just, just a moment.
[26:54] That's so cute. That's all right.
[27:03] So for the next award.
[27:05] Cause I want to keep this going. Cause I know
[27:06] we have a council meeting going on.
[27:09] I just want to, it's not every day that a
[27:11] command level.
[27:12] Officer receives an award, but, but captain Richie is gonna
[27:15] be named. And I just want everybody to know, even
[27:17] though he's on the awards committee, he did not vote
[27:20] on it. this was done independently of him and
[27:23] he deserves the award. So I like to call second
[27:25] group for a recipient to who'll proceeding, a unit psych
[27:27] citation award, captain James Richie.
[27:36] Lieutenant Mark Lynch, who I believe is not here tonight.
[27:43] Sergeant Gerard Wrights.
[27:51] Sergeant Andrew JTO.
[27:57] Unable to attend tonight. Sergeant David Belfort.
[28:04] Then detective, but now Sergeant Damien Serafin.
[28:14] Detective Devin Turner.
[28:20] Officer Zach Von Lang again, I'll be running full 10.
[28:24] Congratulations.
[28:27] Detective Joseph Mirabel.
[28:40] Officer Richard Soko.
[28:49] Yes, officer Charles trip it.
[28:58] Officer Brian reginal.
[29:07] Come on officer Rolando Rodriguez.
[29:29] Detective Frank Duranti.
[29:38] Officer Steven crater.
[29:46] Officer Vincent Conti.
[29:53] Officer Vincent Ram.
[30:01] Unable to attend officer Olivia DeFalco.
[30:09] Officer Michael CERI.
[30:15] And lastly, officer Michael dome.
[30:31] On July 14th, 2025, a severe rainstorm leading to significant property damage,
[30:36] hazardous road conditions, and an overwhelming number of residence requiring
[30:40] E.
[30:41] Emergency assistance, outlined exceptional teamwork, bravery and dedication to duty
[30:45] officers repeatedly placed themselves in harm's way to rescue citizens
[30:48] from submerged vehicles into manage road closures in areas rendered
[30:51] impassable by floodwaters they're efforts and insured that additional motors
[30:55] did not be become victims of the storm. These officers
[30:58] responded to a.
[30:59] Hundred 88 calls for service.
[31:01] From 5:00 PM on July 14th.
[31:03] To 11:11 AM on July 15th, 157 of which occurred on the
[31:09] evening hours of July 14th alone.
[31:11] In addition to the high volume of storm related emergencies.
[31:15] Officers concurrently responded to a range of critical incidents, including
[31:17] a structure fire.
[31:19] Domestic violence calls, intoxicated individuals and medical emergencies. Each of
[31:23] these calls were handled with professionalism and urgency, despite the
[31:26] ongoing and unprecedented.
[31:28] Demand for service. Can we please give these officers a
[31:30] round with calls?
[31:45] During 20 25, 3 officers names were submitted by their supervisors to
[31:49] receive a life-saving award.
[31:51] This department presents a lifesaving award to officers for an
[31:54] act performed that results in saving a life. I would
[31:56] like to call up three officers who are receiving this
[31:58] award tonight, unable to attend tonight. Sergeant Michael Smolinski.
[32:06] I lied. He's here.
[32:10] You may
[32:11] it congratulations, officer.
[32:13] Scott Laden.
[32:21] And unable to attend tonight. Officer Christie Morgan.
[32:29] On September 10th, 2024 officers responded to a medical call regarding an
[32:33] unconscious woman.
[32:35] While on scene, the patient became unresponsive and presented agonal
[32:37] breathing.
[32:39] Officers recognize the patient was experienced a cardiac event and
[32:41] immediately began lifesaving measures. Officers conducted CPR and administrative administered,
[32:46] several shocks via an a E D.
[32:49] Before advanced life support took control of the patient. These
[32:51] life-saving efforts.
[32:53] Efforts restored the patient's breathing and pulse. It was later
[32:54] confirmed that the patient had suffered a massive heart attack
[32:57] with a fully blocked artery.
[32:59] Thanks to their efforts. This person is still alive. Can
[33:01] we please give these officers a round of applause?
[33:13] All right. And this year,
[33:15] one officer's name was submitted by their supervisor to receive
[33:17] a meritorious service award.
[33:20] This department presents the meritorious service award to officers who
[33:22] have undertaken a police action under adverse conditions.
[33:26] With some degree of hazard to life or limb to
[33:28] the nominee or where death or injury to a third
[33:30] party is prevented. I'd like to call up Sergeant Andrew
[33:33] Gito.
[33:42] And this, this happened during our second of two catastrophic
[33:45] storms we saw within two weeks.
[33:47] On July 14th, 2025 Valiant actions were undertaken by Sergeant Gito during
[33:52] a flash flood.
[33:53] Upon responding to mountain avenue where 10 occupied vehicles were
[33:56] trapped, amid rapidly rising treacherous floodwaters. Sergeant JTO placed himself
[34:00] in personal peril by conducting over 10 separate runs to
[34:03] escort more than 10 civilians to safety. Each time returning
[34:06] into heightening flood conditions and increasing currents. He meticulously tallied
[34:10] occupants as.
[34:11] Each vehicle to ensure no one remains stranded beyond these
[34:14] rescues Sergeant JTO state engaged throughout the storm overseeing multi-agency
[34:18] coordination.
[34:20] Deploying personnel to emergent hotspots and continually directing operations, amidst,
[34:24] evolving conditions. And I believe he also lost his body
[34:27] camera, which he still has to pay us for. .
[34:31] Now he gets a waiver for that chief wipe that
[34:34] one. Okay. We good spot camera was returned by a
[34:37] citizen. We still don't know where his radio is.
[34:40] wash away.
[34:41] Can we please give officer or Sergeant Chitto round applause.
[34:52] Sure. Everybody's hands are sore from clapping. We're down to
[34:55] the last one.
[34:56] The final award that we present this evening is the
[34:58] father. And ELGAN.
[34:59] Officer of the year award. This was done at the
[35:01] shields award ceremony last week, but it's the equivalent of
[35:05] our officer of the year award, which is prevented to
[35:07] presented to an officer who's performed at the highest level
[35:09] of expectation throughout a particular calendar year. I'd like to
[35:12] call up officer Mike SII, who will be receiving this
[35:14] award tonight.
[35:29] This is an award every year that, that we have
[35:32] to just try to look at the body of work
[35:33] of officers. There's so many officers that do a great
[35:36] job here every year, and it's, it's never an easy
[35:38] decision.
[35:39] Sometimes it's one, one event that may.
[35:43] Put them in a position to win the award. Sometimes
[35:44] it's just somebody.
[35:46] Coming to work and, and putting in an effort every
[35:47] day and, and bettering themselves. And.
[35:50] Protecting and serving the community throughout 2025, officer Michael SII
[35:54] performed his duties at a high level recognized by his
[35:56] supervisors. He's exemplified ex exemplified. All police officers should be
[36:01] and is proudly and humbly served his community in such
[36:03] a fashion that it can help up be recognized and
[36:05] celebrated. We are proud of all these achieved and look
[36:07] forward.
[36:08] To all he's yet to become. Did everybody please give
[36:10] him a round of applause?
[36:27] And lastly, I'd like to thank the town manager's office.
[36:29] I'd like to thank the town council members, the Mayor,
[36:31] the Deputy Mayor members of the council.
[36:34] For allowing us to hold this ceremony here tonight. I
[36:35] know it takes.
[36:37] A little while. I know people have places to be
[36:38] and things to do, but they take the time to
[36:41] allow us to do this. And we are eternally grateful
[36:43] for it. I'd also like to thank the officers under
[36:46] my command that come here every day and put in
[36:49] effort to keep this community safe. So thank you guys.
[37:00] You guys should come up.
[37:01] And just get a photo.
[37:03] Margaret take photo take. So if you guys can come
[37:06] up here to the, with the Mayor council, quick photo.
[37:12] We'll see you. This is baseball from up here.
[37:21] Yeah. Yeah, I should mark, whatever you said, maybe just.
[37:35] In the front, then everybody is here, like up against
[37:38] this wall. Now there's.
[37:50] In there you can stand on Sergeant.
[38:04] I thought it was fine.
[38:05] No, I felt 23. I.
[38:31] Huh? Do you want us down there? We'll stay.
[38:48] All right. Thank you everyone.
[38:55] Congratulations.
[39:00] Pickleball player. That's congrats. Thank you.
[39:05] Congrat coming to a lot of meetings.
[39:09] He's a Sergeant.
[39:13] We're very happy.
[39:22] Karaoke.
[39:27] Don't
[39:38] okay. Yeah.
[39:41] But
[39:44] just gimme a second.
[40:03] Who we'll see how those actually published when the pictures.
[40:10] Pictures. All right.
[40:13] All right.
[40:17] Just a few more seconds.
[40:27] Thank you, chief Lavry.
[40:29] And the Scottish Plains police department for giving us the
[40:32] opportunity to share with the community.
[40:35] Just a few of the everyday acts that are emergency
[40:40] responders have to deal with.
[40:43] And
[40:46] interestingly tonight, we have a few opportunities to thank our
[40:49] emergency responders.
[40:51] The the next proclamation relates to international firefighters day.
[40:55] That happened to fall yesterday and chief Lestarchick and Deputy
[40:59] chief Paul. I met with them.
[41:02] Earlier this afternoon and they asked me to.
[41:04] Say this says a lot of nice things about firefighters
[41:07] and to thank our firefighters for all the work that
[41:11] they do each and every day.
[41:13] I see our Deputy chief is in the back. Thank
[41:14] you, Deputy chief.
[41:23] My colleague's asking if you'd like a picture, but I
[41:25] think the answer's no.
[41:27] It's I'll well, next time, next time to keep things
[41:30] moving.
[41:31] Thank you, but there are many members of our volunteer
[41:36] rescue squad here today, and I'm calling up my colleague
[41:39] Councilwoman Stamler to share information about that, and then invite
[41:44] the chief and member up. If you'd like to say
[41:47] if few word thereafter, chief.
[41:49] Whereas the scotch planes rescue squad members are ready to
[41:52] provide life sustaining care to those in need 24 hours
[41:55] a day, seven days a week. And whereas over the
[41:58] years, the quality of emergency care has dramatically improved the
[42:02] survival and recovery rate.
[42:04] Of those who experience sudden illness or injury.
[42:07] And whereas the scotch planes rescue squad has committed 89
[42:10] years. Uninterrupted medical.
[42:13] Volunteer service to the community and renders mutual aid to
[42:17] the surrounding communities.
[42:19] And whereas the members of the rescue squad undergo extensive
[42:22] education and training to make significant.
[42:26] I'm sorry, and make significant.
[42:28] Personal sacrifices in order to achieve the expertise required to
[42:32] respond to emergency situations.
[42:35] And whereas the rescue squad was originally sponsored by a
[42:38] few who saw a need for such an organization and
[42:41] was formed on March 9th, 1937.
[42:45] And on April 10th, 1937 was incorporated as the scotch Plains rescue
[42:49] squad.
[42:50] Purchasing its first vehicle from Muhlenberg hospital for $250. And
[42:56] whereas having started with 17 original members, the squad has.
[43:00] Now over 90 plus volunteer members.
[43:03] We hereby set aside a special period to observe the
[43:07] contributions of these men and women to our people here
[43:09] in scotch Plains.
[43:11] Planes now, therefore be it resolved that the township of
[43:13] council of the township of scotch Plains would like to
[43:16] thank present and former members of the scotch Plains rescue
[43:19] squad, and hereby proclaim May, 2026 as Scott Plains rescue squad
[43:24] month in scotch Plains, and I all citizens to express
[43:28] their appreci.
[43:29] Appreciation to these dedicated volunteers who tirelessly give of their
[43:33] time. 24 7.
[43:35] In compassionate, life-saving service to our community and those around
[43:38] us. And they should be recognized, especially during this health
[43:41] crisis.
[43:43] Thank you.
[43:50] So I wanna thank the town council and thank you
[43:52] very much too. Councilwoman Sandler.
[43:55] I appreciate that she was able to read that off
[43:57] because we've known her and her family for many years.
[44:00] So it's nice to see the kids grow up. And
[44:03] now they're part of the town council. So thank you.
[44:06] Were the
[44:08] emergency medical services, town, where you'll never receive a bill.
[44:11] We don't bill for our services.
[44:14] Services everybody here doesn't receive a paycheck.
[44:16] Now you do it because they want to do it.
[44:18] It's neighbors helping neighbors, and we do it for pride,
[44:20] not pay.
[44:22] We have 122 people on the squad at this particular
[44:25] point in time.
[44:27] We have 17 Carly in the EMT class of union
[44:29] college. That should be graduating.
[44:32] Next week. So
[44:35] we pride ourselves in that.
[44:37] They cause volunteers, but we do the same training.
[44:40] As all the paid services have to do, we're certified
[44:43] the same way.
[44:45] We have several people on the EMS task force.
[44:47] That are on our squad for the state of New Jersey.
[44:50] So.
[44:51] It's a rounded organization.
[44:54] And next year will be our 90th year, which we're
[44:57] very proud of.
[44:59] And just think about that. It's 90 years of people
[45:01] and I was trying to figure out the other day,
[45:03] how many thousands of people have come through the front
[45:05] door.
[45:07] As members as well as how many patients.
[45:10] Patients. So it's, it's just amazing. And you don't realize
[45:12] how many it is until you start making up counts.
[45:15] So.
[45:16] We appreciate everything. The town council does.
[45:19] I want to thank Josh Rosaro for the many meetings
[45:21] we've had.
[45:22] So they've always been productive.
[45:24] so one thing about Josh and I we're always
[45:27] able to get along. We always made the.
[45:30] Determination months ago that
[45:32] no matter what we'd always remain.
[45:35] Friends and smile to each other, so, okay.
[45:39] Thank you very much chief for sharing that on behalf
[45:42] of my colleagues. I, you know, I say it each
[45:43] and every year, we're the township has a lot, many
[45:46] reasons to thank the rescue squad and, and for so
[45:48] many years serving the township so well, and I think
[45:51] Elizabeth wants to take a picture, but may, may, can
[45:55] we get everybody, maybe get everyone to come up.
[45:58] And then we'll get everybody.
[46:12] Thank you. We're gonna come. They're gonna come here.
[46:26] I love it. Rescue squad month in scotch Plains. That's
[46:28] great. Awesome.
[46:44] Thank you. Thank you. Thanks.
[46:53] Thank you.
[46:55] My neighbors. There you go. Lucky you. Thank you very
[46:58] much, everyone for coming.
[47:05] Come on that side. If somebody all the time.
[47:23] Don't don't mess it up. Fred, where are we going?
[47:25] First? Marker. First.
[47:35] That's great. Thank you.
[47:39] Thank you. Thank absolutely hope so. I don't want that.
[47:47] Nice to see you. Thank you. Thanks Dan. Bye bye.
[47:54] But chief related to what chief Lavry and chief Sullivan.
[48:03] We're sharing in, in their remarks. I'm going to call
[48:06] on my colleague, Deputy Mayor Adams to bring attention to
[48:10] EMS week and police week.
[48:12] Yeah. So I'm gonna really kind of piggyback off of
[48:15] most of what we've been listening to over the course
[48:18] of the last hour, which is to celebrate the.
[48:21] Brave men and women who constitute our professional first responders
[48:24] in this community.
[48:26] Whether it be our police department, our fire department, our
[48:28] rescue squad, our EMS professionals on the fire department, all
[48:32] collectively working together.
[48:34] Side by side when people need them the most.
[48:38] And therefore I'm gonna present Mayor two separate proclamations.
[48:43] First recognizing
[48:46] law enforcement.
[48:47] National police week for the week of May 11th through the
[48:50] 16th in, in scotch Plains.
[48:54] Planes, one of the distinct honors I've had since serving.
[48:56] On this council has been to be the liaison to
[48:58] the police department. My father is a retired police chief,
[49:01] as I've said, many times.
[49:04] His department was the host of, and continues to be
[49:07] the host of the.
[49:08] New Jersey police Memorial every year in may at the great
[49:12] auditorium in ocean Grove. And I've attended that ceremony. It's
[49:15] wonderful. So it prides me to say that.
[49:18] Now, therefore be it resolved that the township council, the
[49:21] township of scotch Plains does hereby declare.
[49:23] The week of May 11th through the 16th as national police
[49:27] week. And we publicly salute as we've been doing.
[49:31] Our law enforcement officers in our community and across communities
[49:34] across the nation. And then similarly, Mayor.
[49:39] We, we just heard from.
[49:41] The, the rescue squad, we have a number of.
[49:45] Very integral first responders who.
[49:49] Respond in the event of a medical.
[49:51] Emergency, whether it be in our homes, a car accident
[49:54] or elsewhere in our community, that survey very, very important
[49:59] function in ensuring the safety and security of our community.
[50:03] So.
[50:05] Now, therefore
[50:06] this council resolves that in recognition.
[50:10] Of emergency services week.
[50:13] This is the 52nd.
[50:15] Anniversary of that emergency services week as well.
[50:19] And, and the theme of that week is.
[50:22] Improving outcomes together.
[50:24] And I encourage the community observe this week over the
[50:27] course of May 17th to the 23rd.
[50:30] With the appropriate programs and ceremonies and activities in honor
[50:34] of the EMS profession and in particular,
[50:37] those EMS professionals. We just recognized who volunteer their time
[50:40] to, to, to serve their neighbors. So Mayor I, I
[50:44] issue both of those proclamations.
[50:46] In honor of emergency services week and.
[50:50] National police week.
[50:51] Thank you very much. Deputy Mayor moving on. I blame
[50:55] our clerk for as many presentations as we've had this
[50:57] evening. I call on my colleague Councilwoman Zimmerman to
[51:02] share information about national nurse week. And then we have
[51:05] one. Thank you. Last one for you. Are there any.
[51:09] Nurses left in the building. Okay. Well that's okay.
[51:14] But we still wanna recognize, and I'll just.
[51:18] Nurses week begins on May 6th and ends on May 12th with
[51:23] national nurses day being May 6th, the birthday of Florence Nightingale,
[51:27] the fam founder of modern Merc nursing.
[51:30] Whereas these permanent dates, enhanced planning and position.
[51:34] National nurses week as an established recognition event.
[51:38] And whereas national nurses week acknowledges and honors all nurses
[51:42] for all of their hard work and dedication.
[51:45] And where are there are more than 150,000 registered nurses
[51:48] and advanced practice nurses.
[51:51] In the state of New Jersey and whereas professional nursing is
[51:54] an indispensable component in the safety and quality of care.
[51:58] Of hospitalized patients and those needing healthcare and why, and
[52:01] a wide range of settings.
[52:04] Settings nurses are advocates, nurses, advocate for their patients.
[52:08] Patients every day now for their.
[52:11] Now, therefore be it reclaimed the Nat, the township council
[52:14] of the township of scotch Plains recognized national nurses week.
[52:19] May 6th through 12th, 20, 26 in the township of scotch Blains.
[52:23] Blains to honor the nation's indispensable nurse, registered nurses and
[52:26] their tireless, commitment and exceptional service.
[52:30] 365 days a year. Thank you. Thank you, Mayor. Thank
[52:33] you.
[52:35] Anyone that has been to a hospital knows how important
[52:38] nurses or the role of nurses are. Thank you very
[52:40] much.
[52:42] Our, our final proclamation relates to mental health awareness month.
[52:47] And this was brought to our attention by our friend
[52:50] Mike Walsh and Dr. Lydia Abrams of the resolve.
[52:54] Community counseling center.
[52:57] The president of resolve Mike Walsh also known as coach Mike.
[53:01] He's been in touch with our time manager and me
[53:04] for several years.
[53:06] Not related to bringing awareness attention to mental health awareness
[53:10] month.
[53:11] But attention to resolve and the role that resolve plays
[53:13] in our community. And I'll, I'll just say, share right
[53:17] now. Part of our agenda tonight, it's in our consent
[53:19] agenda is a resolution adopting authorization for me to sign
[53:23] a new lease with resolve the township leases space to
[53:27] the community sent.
[53:29] Resolve counseling community center.
[53:31] And is, is we've reached terms for an, an additional
[53:34] 20 year lease.
[53:36] And after the proclamation is read, I'd like to invite
[53:40] you up to the mic. And if you could share
[53:42] in your remarks, the role resolve plays and, and, and,
[53:46] and, and, and build on what you shared at the
[53:48] mental health fair on Saturday and Dr. Abrams, if you'd
[53:53] like to also.
[53:55] Thank you with that Councilwoman Stamler and I do have
[53:57] my bracelets on, cause we're breaking the stigma.
[54:01] Whereas mental health is essential to the overall wellbeing of
[54:04] individuals, families, and the community.
[54:07] And whereas millions of Americans experience mental health and behavioral
[54:11] health challenges each year and stigma and misunderstanding.
[54:15] Often present, I'm sorry. Prevent individuals from seeking the help
[54:19] and support they need.
[54:21] And whereas increasing awareness, education and access to resources can
[54:25] improve outcomes, foster resilience and strengthen community connections.
[54:30] And whereas mental health America has designated the theme for
[54:33] may 20, 26 as.
[54:36] More good days together.
[54:38] Emphasizing the importance of fostering community support.
[54:42] Connecting individuals to resources.
[54:44] Resources and providing actionable tools to improve mental health.
[54:47] And whereas this theme encourages individuals and communities to reflect
[54:51] on what constitutes a good day.
[54:55] And to take meaningful steps toward achieving more of those
[54:58] days together.
[55:00] And whereas resolve community counseling center in partnership with the
[55:04] Fanwood scotch Plains rotary club is committed to raising awareness
[55:07] of mental and behavioral health issues and working to reduce
[55:11] the SIG stigma associated with seeking care.
[55:15] And whereas the township of scotch Plains has consistently supported
[55:18] efforts to promote mental health awareness and community wellbeing.
[55:23] Now, therefore be it resolved by the township council of
[55:26] the township of scotch Plains county of union, state of
[55:29] New Jersey.
[55:31] That the month of May, 2026 is hereby designated as mental
[55:34] health awareness month in the township of scotch Plains. And
[55:37] be it further resolved that the township council encourages all
[55:40] residents to support efforts that promote mental wellness, increase, aware,
[55:44] awareness, reduce stigma, and connect individuals and families to needed.
[55:49] Resources and be it further resolved that the township expresses
[55:53] its appreciation.
[55:55] To resolve community counseling center and the Fanwood scotch Plains
[55:58] rotary club for their continued dedication to improving the mental
[56:01] health of our community.
[56:12] Thank you Mayor. Losardo.
[56:15] Losardo the town council, Fenwood scotch Plains, rotary, and the
[56:18] people of scotch Plains for your support.
[56:21] I'm Mike Walch, outgoing president of the board of directors
[56:24] of resolve community counseling. Tonight. We also have with us,
[56:27] our executive director for over 20 years, Dr. Liddy Abrams
[56:30] and Gail Moser, who is also been on the board
[56:32] for over 20 years at actually most of our board
[56:36] has been with us over 10 years. Many of them.
[56:39] 25 to 40 years.
[56:42] When you take a look at our board, there really
[56:44] the who's who.
[56:46] The older generation of the people in the, in the
[56:48] town.
[56:50] For over 50 years, resolve community counseling has provided counseling
[56:53] services to this community in a quiet and confidential manner.
[56:58] We make a significant difference to families.
[57:01] Individuals the community and the court.
[57:04] And we never turn anyone away due to financial reasons.
[57:07] We have a Scott, a sliding scale fee schedule for
[57:10] those that need it.
[57:13] So COVID hits.
[57:15] At that point, our client visits.
[57:18] Visits tripled.
[57:20] We still are in a mental health crisis.
[57:23] Our stats for our monthly client visits are still.
[57:26] Two and a half times what it was.
[57:29] Pre COVID. So if you know somebody.
[57:33] Or you yourself need help to cope.
[57:35] Please make sure that you reach out for help, whether
[57:37] to resolve.
[57:39] Or to any other counseling service church, synagogue or school,
[57:43] get the help that they need or that you need.
[57:46] Mental health America has designated this year as more good
[57:49] days together.
[57:51] So let's make it so.
[57:53] We have come a long way as a nation to
[57:55] ending the stigma of seeking counseling.
[57:58] Thank you again. Here's to 20 more years.
[58:02] Of helping others and working together.
[58:05] Thank you. Excellent.
[58:09] And Olivia up and take a picture. Should we go
[58:12] down there? Sure.
[58:16] That picture helps us I'll to you the story. Sure.
[58:18] Yeah. Thank you so much.
[58:26] Thank you. You. Yes. Yes.
[58:37] Thank you.
[59:00] Thank thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you so
[59:04] much. Thank you're. Welcome. Welcome your son's doing well. I've
[59:08] been watching so.
[59:15] You so much. Thank you.
[59:18] You're welcome very much. Josh, did they advisor? Yes. Yeah.
[59:23] Thank you very much for all.
[59:26] Resolved does. And it, it builds on what we did
[59:28] worked on together on Saturday.
[59:30] Which was a nice, a terrific fair and, and walk.
[59:33] And thank you very, very much.
[59:36] Now we move on to public comment. Is there anyone
[59:38] here that wishes to share any comments with the council?
[59:44] Yes. If you stand up people here. Yeah. There aren't.
[59:50] But in order for your voice to be heard on
[59:53] will be heard on Facebook and TV, they, they need
[59:58] yet the mic.
[1:00:00] Thanks for joining us and you'll have three minutes. Our
[1:00:03] clerk keeps time to share any walk faster. Any, any
[1:00:06] comments that you wish? And if you'd please start just
[1:00:09] with your name and address for our record. Yeah. Good
[1:00:11] evening. My name is Rob Johnson. Ice stood here about
[1:00:13] ice and I've been resident for almost 30 years in
[1:00:15] this community. I stood here about a year.
[1:00:18] Ago after we lost five people tragically.
[1:00:21] Due to vehicle accidents.
[1:00:23] Accidents since then, I have not seen any improvement in
[1:00:27] this area. I left the building that evening.
[1:00:30] I hit the flashing yellow light in front of the
[1:00:32] city hall.
[1:00:34] The first vehicles going over 40 miles an hour.
[1:00:37] Didn't relent. I stepped into the crosswalk.
[1:00:40] Another vehicle was coming. I put my hand out the
[1:00:42] comment that the driver was, why are you walking into
[1:00:45] traffic?
[1:00:46] My comment is why are you going over 25?
[1:00:50] And not yielding in front of city hall to a
[1:00:52] flashing yellow light.
[1:00:55] You, I believe, cuz I had said I got here
[1:00:58] unscathed that evening.
[1:00:59] By the bank of America said a light cost, $15,000.
[1:01:03] If I'm not mistaken.
[1:01:06] The following day.
[1:01:08] I was at the intersection of Westfield avenue and Westfield
[1:01:11] road.
[1:01:12] Mind you I'm on a motorcycle all of the time.
[1:01:15] A bus was about 20 feet.
[1:01:18] From the yellow light and went through.
[1:01:21] And stopped at the bus stop.
[1:01:24] The vehicle behind that.
[1:01:27] Bus 75 to a hundred feet.
[1:01:30] Ran the red light went over to the turn only.
[1:01:34] Lane to avoid the bus, which.
[1:01:37] They did not have to do. And I decided.
[1:01:39] To turn and follow me and say something.
[1:01:43] As I hit 35 miles an hour. I could not
[1:01:45] keep up with it.
[1:01:47] Fortunately, they pulled into the liquor store, parking lot where
[1:01:50] I met and had a conversation with them.
[1:01:53] Not acceptable.
[1:01:57] I live on stout avenue.
[1:02:00] The other day I was getting gas.
[1:02:02] I turned right.
[1:02:04] Off of Scotland.
[1:02:06] Montague is diagonal.
[1:02:10] I must have been going 10 miles an hour.
[1:02:13] A black Honda civic.
[1:02:15] Ran the stop sign.
[1:02:18] Thank God. Mountain is very wide street. I pull over
[1:02:20] to the side, I accelerate slightly and I stopped immediately
[1:02:24] in front of the car. And I got off of
[1:02:26] my bike. I was.
[1:02:28] Shaken. It was an Amazon delivery driver.
[1:02:32] Did not speak a word of English.
[1:02:35] I could not communicate, but I was irate.
[1:02:38] Later on that day.
[1:02:40] I turned onto park avenue. I'm in the right-hand lane
[1:02:43] and this is habitual for this community and something needs
[1:02:46] to be done. I'm in the right-hand lane.
[1:02:49] I'm making the left up the hill.
[1:02:52] And the car invariably, they move right over into the
[1:02:56] right. I had enough time to accelerate.
[1:02:59] And beat my horn, but now I have to contend
[1:03:02] with those that do not yield coming off of 22,
[1:03:04] going up the ramp.
[1:03:08] The driver of that car said I'm experiencing road rage.
[1:03:12] Beeping my horn not to get hit is not experiencing
[1:03:15] road rage.
[1:03:16] As I get over into the.
[1:03:19] Far left. Cause I'm going to go up.
[1:03:22] From new Providence road and turn onto Bonnie burn road,
[1:03:25] sir. Sorry. Ooh, that slack, if you could just wrap
[1:03:28] it up cause we are time, something needs to be
[1:03:30] done. You're gonna raise reserve taxes, put out speed bumps.
[1:03:33] Thank apologize. That thousands of people.
[1:03:38] No. I'd like to say thank you to the community.
[1:03:40] Cause I used the police officers, the fire department and
[1:03:43] the emergency circumstances.
[1:03:45] Very well, right. I, I know we limited the three,
[1:03:49] the three minutes, but I explain three minutes, but please
[1:03:52] they, they keep, how am, if we can't, we can't
[1:03:55] can't have a back and forth in our meetings. I,
[1:03:56] I just wanted to thank you for taking the time
[1:03:58] to come and, and share and, and, and point out,
[1:04:01] you know, you, you can always reach out.
[1:04:03] To my colleagues and me outside of our meetings on
[1:04:06] these issues. Right. Set up. And, and I, and I,
[1:04:09] yes. And, and, and I will, I like that.
[1:04:11] Please do, if you would email me, email me and
[1:04:14] we could set up a meeting. Go ahead, ahead and
[1:04:15] email tomorrow. Okay. Thank you. Thank you. Goodnight. Goodnight.
[1:04:19] I oh, goodnight. Goodnight. Goodnight. Goodnight. Thank you. And, and
[1:04:25] just to wrap up on that, this is a problem
[1:04:29] it's not specific to scotch Plains. We know an it's
[1:04:33] something that our police department were on every, every single
[1:04:36] day.
[1:04:38] When
[1:04:40] and, and, and as our town has approximately 25,000 people
[1:04:43] in it and approximately 50 police officers who aren't on
[1:04:47] duty, they can't all the time.
[1:04:50] Obviously, they can't be everywhere at every time.
[1:04:53] But we ask those who are watching to drive with
[1:04:56] more caution.
[1:04:58] Is there anyone else that wishes to participate in public
[1:05:00] comment? If not, we will open the phone line.
[1:05:03] It's 9 0 8 3 2 2.
[1:05:05] 6,700. No.
[1:05:07] Oh, oh 2 0 76. Thank you. I was just corrected .
[1:05:11] Thank you. 2 76. Got it. Wrong. What would you do
[1:05:14] without? And there's a little delay, so we'll just give
[1:05:17] the line a moment.
[1:05:19] To see if it rings.
[1:05:24] And I think our attorney's going to say it hasn't
[1:05:26] rung in quite some time.
[1:05:29] It has not. No, not since I've been your township
[1:05:31] attorney, so over a year, really? Really? Yeah. Mm-hmm .
[1:05:37] Well, since the phone isn't ringing, the tradition continues. We
[1:05:40] will close public comment and move on to approval of
[1:05:43] council minutes. Deputy Mayor, I moved to approve the business
[1:05:46] meeting minutes of April 14th, 2026. May I have a second? Second.
[1:05:51] Oh, great. Oh, in favor. Aye. Aye.
[1:05:54] Excellent. Thank you, Deputy Mayor and moving on to our
[1:05:57] manager's report, Ms. Heisey. Thank you, Mayor.
[1:06:01] I just wanna remind the community that brush pickup is
[1:06:04] almost complete on the south side. The north side was
[1:06:06] completed I believe a week and a half ago. So
[1:06:09] we have a little bit more to do on the
[1:06:11] south side. And after that, the cruise will return to
[1:06:14] trees and potholes.
[1:06:15] Potholes as we gear up for paving in the summer
[1:06:18] after, after school is out.
[1:06:21] Rev two 50 plans are progressing really well. And we're
[1:06:23] looking forward to the community, joining us on June 26th. And
[1:06:27] of course on June 27th for the fireworks, I know you'll
[1:06:29] speak to that, cuz you're an active participant in the
[1:06:32] rev two 50 committee. I think you did a video
[1:06:33] today that will be seen soon.
[1:06:36] Seen soon, excuse me. And the tax transition with having
[1:06:39] the fam wood residents coming here to pay their taxes
[1:06:42] is going really well. I haven't heard anything from the
[1:06:45] tax finance department, so that's a good thing I do
[1:06:48] wanna bring to a everybody's attention. Who's listening at home
[1:06:51] and to all of you.
[1:06:53] To please bear with us.
[1:06:56] As we work through some issues with our website, we
[1:06:58] have recently added an AI, a chatbot feature, which is
[1:07:02] really helpful and works very well. For the most part.
[1:07:05] You can find out how to get my job there.
[1:07:06] If you just put, you know, how do I, how
[1:07:07] do I become the municipal man?
[1:07:10] All kinds of great things. However, it's it is.
[1:07:14] Brought more and more traffic to the website, which is
[1:07:15] a good thing. So we're looking at some solutions to
[1:07:17] that.
[1:07:19] If you
[1:07:21] do experience that you can't get on due to increased
[1:07:23] traffic. Just please try again. We're working with our website
[1:07:26] designer.
[1:07:27] To always allowed more.
[1:07:30] Space. It's not the correct term, but you know what
[1:07:32] I mean? The way I understand that we were considering
[1:07:34] purchasing a new service. Yes, I have a, I have
[1:07:36] a, yeah, I'm working on that with our it provider.
[1:07:39] So it's, it's a, it's another, language's another language exactly.
[1:07:43] Today.
[1:07:45] Councilman white is not here, but we appointed a new.
[1:07:49] Member to the scotch Plains fire department today. So I'm
[1:07:51] very pleased to announce that.
[1:07:54] And
[1:07:56] and that's about it for tonight. We have very, very
[1:07:58] short report. Things are moving along very well.
[1:08:01] Very we're very, very busy as usual. And, and we'll
[1:08:05] be speaking to the chief tomorrow. I will speak to
[1:08:06] the chief tomorrow, the officer from one of the officers
[1:08:09] from our traffic bureaus here tonight. So he got, heard
[1:08:12] that resident speak about things we can do. I've experienced
[1:08:14] this same thing. I've watched one of our employee employees
[1:08:17] today. Try to cross the street by using the.
[1:08:20] Flashing sign one car stopped. The other one just looked.
[1:08:23] And I, and I did that. I'm walking here, but
[1:08:25] it, they just, it's people just aren't being as considerate
[1:08:28] as they were, and it's a shame, but we will
[1:08:31] do our best to address it. Yeah. That thank thank
[1:08:33] you. Thank you.
[1:08:35] Ms. Izi moving on to report of special committees. Councilwoman
[1:08:39] Elizabeth Stamler. Yes. I'd like to thank everyone who participated
[1:08:43] in our green team earth day events, the free cycle,
[1:08:46] and the cleanups were all a big success. And we
[1:08:49] look forward to doing a free cycle again in the
[1:08:53] fall.
[1:08:55] In addition to keeping our community clean and green, I'm
[1:08:59] proud to share that we are the recipient.
[1:09:01] Of the 2026 plant a seed grant from the union
[1:09:05] county open space.
[1:09:07] Recreation and historic preservation trust fund, which is administered by
[1:09:11] the board of county commissioners. And this will go towards
[1:09:14] the purchase and care.
[1:09:16] Of fruit trees, which will be put.
[1:09:20] In FRA park in collaboration with the community garden, community
[1:09:23] garden.
[1:09:25] So look for those, they should be out soon, right?
[1:09:28] Because we have a time constraint.
[1:09:31] And also yesterday.
[1:09:34] I had the honor of attending the clean communities.
[1:09:39] Council check presentation ceremony with the Mayor. I'm sorry.
[1:09:43] Mayor. And we got over $56,000 to use to keep
[1:09:47] our town.
[1:09:49] Clean and green is a very nice ceremony and we
[1:09:51] got to hear what other towns use the money for.
[1:09:54] So we have some ideas.
[1:09:56] Ideas, perhaps adding a litter cleanup to our next walk
[1:09:59] with the Mayor.
[1:10:01] Stay tuned for more details. And that's all I have.
[1:10:04] Excellent. Thank you very much, Councilwoman.
[1:10:06] Councilwoman everyone. Yes, we have some exciting.
[1:10:11] Spring activities for our scotch plain seniors, which is.
[1:10:16] Those who are 55 and older.
[1:10:19] On May 19th. We're continuing with the it sessions at our
[1:10:24] senior cafe lunch.
[1:10:27] They're added on to the lunch.
[1:10:29] Continuing with seniors bridge to AI.
[1:10:33] So these have been very well received by members who
[1:10:37] participated. So please come out for these sessions.
[1:10:41] Sessions they are. The next one is Tuesday, May 19th.
[1:10:44] 1145 to 1:00 PM. And it does include lunch.
[1:10:48] So please just register so that we know there's enough
[1:10:51] people, enough food for the lunch.
[1:10:55] There is also
[1:10:57] our senior tea party, which is.
[1:10:59] Something that was started last year and it was a
[1:11:01] really, really fun day. So it's from 10 to 12.
[1:11:04] At shady rest.
[1:11:07] On Wednesday, June 17th.
[1:11:09] And for more information on that you can reach out
[1:11:11] to the recreation department or on the website.
[1:11:16] And we have a new trip being.
[1:11:19] Planned for late, the late spring into the summer.
[1:11:23] And it is for Wednesday. Well, actually it's middle of
[1:11:25] summer. Sorry. I saw June it's July 29th.
[1:11:29] And it's a bus trip to the Somerset Patriots game.
[1:11:31] So there will be transportation, optional transportation provided.
[1:11:37] Provided or you can get their honor on your own.
[1:11:40] But it is a
[1:11:42] senior advisory committee presents a night at the Somerset Patriots
[1:11:45] game.
[1:11:46] It's a $20 registration fee that will include, include tickets
[1:11:51] to the game.
[1:11:52] As well as a $25 food and beverage.
[1:11:56] Voucher. So there is some, like I said, lung limited
[1:11:59] bus transportation. So if you are interested, the bus would
[1:12:03] leave from shady rest, but reach out to the registration,
[1:12:06] to the Regis.
[1:12:08] To the recreation department.
[1:12:11] For more details on those. This is a daytime game,
[1:12:13] by the way.
[1:12:15] So the bus will leave at 10 45.
[1:12:17] And the game starts at 1205 and return to scotch
[1:12:20] planes at four.
[1:12:22] Thank you Mayor. Thank you. Deputy Mayor, just a brief
[1:12:25] update from the recreation department. They're announcing some brand new
[1:12:30] exciting youth programs. They're youth fitness classes to get the
[1:12:35] little ones off the.
[1:12:37] Game consoles and
[1:12:39] other screens and get them outside and moving. That will
[1:12:42] include.
[1:12:44] Plyometrics strength and conditioning and speed and agility, agility, therefore.
[1:12:50] Kindergarten to eighth grade.
[1:12:53] And they will be held within our municipal parks.
[1:12:57] Parks sunrise, yoga open for registration today. It begins in
[1:13:00] July.
[1:13:02] And summer basketball under the lights Kramer, man is back
[1:13:04] and will begin June 30th, all that information's available on the
[1:13:07] website as far as is.
[1:13:10] Registration information.
[1:13:13] On the events front.
[1:13:15] Pride in the park will be back. I think it's
[1:13:17] the fifth or sixth year that we've celebrated pride month.
[1:13:22] June 3rd, we'll be at a new location Jersey land park
[1:13:25] to accommodate a bigger space for all those in attendance.
[1:13:31] And on the parks projects front, I'm proud to announce
[1:13:34] that.
[1:13:35] Three new scoreboards have arrived. They will compliment some of
[1:13:39] the work we've been doing along our parks portfolio.
[1:13:42] And movie installed.
[1:13:44] To replace existing scoreboards at Memorial field Farley park.
[1:13:50] And at Jersey land, which those, those scoreboards for anybody
[1:13:55] that's been keeping track have been op inoperable.
[1:13:59] For, I think as long as I've lived in scotch
[1:14:01] Plains. So it'll be a welcome.
[1:14:04] Refresher to those facilities.
[1:14:07] And Mayor, that's all I have on the update from
[1:14:09] excellent. I look forward to seeing many high scoring radar
[1:14:12] games. And so we, we can honor those teams. Thank
[1:14:14] you, Deputy Mayor. I, I have just two updates related
[1:14:18] to our planning board. That's working on our master plan.
[1:14:21] There's a master plan survey we've been promoting for some
[1:14:24] time.
[1:14:25] And we're doing a final push now, before we close
[1:14:27] the survey.
[1:14:29] Tom Strowe director of planning and community resilience and development.
[1:14:34] I can't get the wrong. Can't get it right. You're
[1:14:36] right in the video. Tell community development resilience, give another
[1:14:38] responsibility. Oh yeah.
[1:14:42] Tom Strowe and I will be at the farmer's market
[1:14:44] on Saturday.
[1:14:46] Handing out these flyers and trying to generate interest so
[1:14:48] that we have more participation in this survey. It's really
[1:14:51] important to us that we have.
[1:14:53] That we gain more responses. We're competing against our neighbors,
[1:14:57] and we're very, very close to being the, having a
[1:15:01] master plan that has the most responses.
[1:15:04] Responses and rev two 50. That's come up a few
[1:15:06] times tonight.
[1:15:07] As it gets closer and closer to the end of
[1:15:09] June.
[1:15:10] This is something that scotch Plains has been working on
[1:15:12] for.
[1:15:14] Years, and I promise you it's years in the making.
[1:15:16] June 26th outside town hall, we will be having a terrific
[1:15:20] celebration. George Washington is coming.
[1:15:23] Face painters are coming. We'll be opening up a time
[1:15:25] capsule.
[1:15:26] That's out in front today.
[1:15:31] Dustin Noel, the stage manager of the stage house. And
[1:15:33] I did a video to try to generate interest and
[1:15:36] we're going to be doing some additional videos over the
[1:15:38] weeks ahead. Try to get families to come out and
[1:15:41] celebrate with us on June 26th, between fourth 30 and seven
[1:15:44] 30, right outside town hall. The following day at the
[1:15:48] shady res golf.
[1:15:49] Country club. We're going to have a big fireworks celebration
[1:15:52] as well. Now we hope you can join us.
[1:15:55] That's it for special committees moving on to new business
[1:15:58] consent agenda. The reason we're all here tonight to adopt
[1:16:02] what's on this consent agenda. Deputy Mayor, I make a
[1:16:05] motion to adopt the consent agenda agenda, including the bill
[1:16:08] list and the amount of $10,345,334.
[1:16:13] And 8 cents, as long as along with resolutions 20 26, 1 0 1.
[1:16:20] Through and including 20, 26.
[1:16:23] 18, may I have a second?
[1:16:26] Second Ms. Lacina. Mr. Adams? Yes. Ms. Stamler. Yes. Ms.
[1:16:30] Zimmerman. Yes. Mayor Losardo. Yes. Thank you, Ms. Lacina. And
[1:16:34] finally, tonight count our final part of this evening is
[1:16:38] council comment, Councilwoman Sandler. I wanted to say that I
[1:16:42] was very happy to attend the opening day.
[1:16:44] At the farmer's market, we are back. It was a
[1:16:47] great opening day. It's every Saturday, eight to one through
[1:16:51] November.
[1:16:53] And also please don't forget about our Memorial day parade.
[1:16:57] Before we have the parade, we have a very nice
[1:16:59] ceremony and we are proud that we got almost 20
[1:17:02] new requests for hometown heroes, banners.
[1:17:06] Banners. So be on the lookout for those, they should
[1:17:07] be going up soon cuz it's my fifth.
[1:17:10] And that's all I have. Thank you, Councilwoman. I don't
[1:17:14] have anything to add to all the wonderful presentations we've
[1:17:17] had we had tonight. So it was great. Debbie Mayor,
[1:17:20] I'll just note part of supporting our first responders. We,
[1:17:22] we did a lot of this evening is in ensuring
[1:17:25] that they have the best in equipment and training.
[1:17:29] We have to make as a governing body financial investments
[1:17:31] in public safety. And I just point out of the
[1:17:34] consent agenda, 20 26, 100.
[1:17:38] 1 0, 8 1 0 9 and one 10 all involve.
[1:17:41] Equipping, both our fire and police departments with some new
[1:17:44] technologically advanced equipment as part of our capital budget this
[1:17:48] year. So I think.
[1:17:51] To say the least we're putting our money where our
[1:17:53] mouth is and it's money well spent, cuz it's an
[1:17:55] investment in public safety.
[1:17:57] And just to echo feedback that came out in public
[1:18:00] comment tonight.
[1:18:02] Spring has sprung there's kids out there on bikes. They're
[1:18:04] everywhere.
[1:18:05] Especially after school.
[1:18:08] It's nice that the weather has finally.
[1:18:11] Seemingly broken, although I'm, tomorrow's gonna be kind of nasty.
[1:18:14] Please. Slow down.
[1:18:16] Give five minutes extra just to get wherever you're going
[1:18:18] and not be rushing through town.
[1:18:22] I, I, I assure you the inconvenience of leaving a
[1:18:25] few minutes early.
[1:18:26] Is pales in comparison to.
[1:18:30] The tragedy that it
[1:18:32] could could be sustained if.
[1:18:34] If in your haste to get somewhere, there's an accident.
[1:18:37] So slow down.
[1:18:39] Thanks Mayor well said. Thank you, Deputy Mayor. I also
[1:18:42] have a few comments to share.
[1:18:45] Last week on Thursday, we hosted.
[1:18:48] Four fourth grade classes from school. One.
[1:18:51] And they all, they sat right here and they learned
[1:18:53] about local government and sitting up at on the day
[1:18:56] as, were all the directors of various departments in town.
[1:19:00] And they, they shared their experience and what they do
[1:19:02] for scotch planes and invited the students to be more
[1:19:05] active.
[1:19:06] Residents. And I, I think.
[1:19:09] What was left on my desk today were these thank
[1:19:11] yous that I wanted to share. So I think, I
[1:19:13] think we did a job. It was a job well
[1:19:15] done where we educated these kids.
[1:19:18] And they, I want to thank them and their teachers
[1:19:20] for these wonderful, thank you notes that made my day.
[1:19:23] By day and thank all the directors that participated.
[1:19:27] In the program. It was, it was very nice. And
[1:19:30] Thursday morning came a few hours.
[1:19:32] And since one recognized the Mayor at the farmer's market.
[1:19:38] A student she came up to oh, yes. Oh yes,
[1:19:39] yes. Yes. We were standing with the it's very sweet
[1:19:42] and thank me.
[1:19:44] It was a very nice program.
[1:19:47] And my, and yeah, I lost my train of thought
[1:19:48] with that comment, but, but.
[1:19:51] But I wanna, I just wanna thank them. It was,
[1:19:52] it was wonderful to thank everybody. The participated.
[1:19:55] Some good news with regards to a field in town.
[1:19:59] That the vo-tech field was recently.
[1:20:03] Turfed. And over the last several weeks, there have been
[1:20:05] inspections to, for seeking approvals so that the field can
[1:20:09] be used.
[1:20:10] And just before the meeting, the township manager whispered in
[1:20:13] my ear that the inspections have been are behind us.
[1:20:17] They've been approved and the county.
[1:20:19] Is issuing permits for vo-tech field. We hope that many.
[1:20:24] Towns and, and clubs in the county are able to
[1:20:27] use the field and we especially hope that it makes
[1:20:29] a meaningful difference with some of the scotch planes clubs
[1:20:33] as well. So vo-tech looks like it's finally ready to,
[1:20:35] to be played on.
[1:20:38] And just my final two updates on April 29th.
[1:20:43] Fair our litigation in the matter of scotch Plains fair
[1:20:46] share housing and related to our fourth round affordable housing.
[1:20:51] Compliance, the judge signed his consent order. Final compliance certification.
[1:20:57] This means that scotch Plains is immune from builders, remedy
[1:21:01] suits for the next.
[1:21:02] 10 years. It means that we, what we memorialized in
[1:21:07] our fourth round as to where we want to see.
[1:21:10] Construction, we can limit it to those.
[1:21:13] Sites. And I wanted to bring attention that we have
[1:21:15] this final certifi final compliance certification.
[1:21:20] Finally issued and
[1:21:22] last, but certainly not least.
[1:21:25] My colleagues and I have been working with our manager
[1:21:27] and with Tom Strowe and with our professionals since day
[1:21:30] one, five years ago, when Ellen and I were sworn
[1:21:33] in and took our positions as council members here on
[1:21:38] downtown redevelopment. And we are finally in a place to
[1:21:41] share.
[1:21:42] With the community where things stand and show the community
[1:21:46] concepts of what's been designed and catch everybody up as
[1:21:49] to our next steps.
[1:21:51] On May 18th, the township will be hosting a meeting with
[1:21:54] our conditional redeveloper Woodmont properties.
[1:21:58] And we hope you're able to join us. This is
[1:21:59] a flyer that'll be in our E messenger. And on
[1:22:01] social media, the meeting is on May 18th at 7:00 PM. Right
[1:22:05] here. It will also be broadcast on television, on our
[1:22:09] local TV and on Facebook. So if youre unable to
[1:22:12] be here, you'll be able to see the meeting live
[1:22:15] or thereafter.
[1:22:16] And we're really looking forward to this meeting and hope
[1:22:18] that you're able to participate. We want to hear from
[1:22:20] you, we want to hear your concerns with these plans
[1:22:24] so that we can make this application as perfect as,
[1:22:27] as it can be, make any changes that may be
[1:22:29] necessary as a result of public.
[1:22:33] Input and thereafter file or applications so that we can
[1:22:36] be on our way.
[1:22:38] So May 18th, we hope you'll join us right here at
[1:22:40] town hall.
[1:22:42] And with that, I'll move on to the Deputy Mayor.
[1:22:45] Make a motion to adjourn. May I have a second?
[1:22:47] Second. All in favor. Aye. Are I meeting adjourned? Thank
[1:22:50] you. Good evening. See you in a couple weeks.