[This transcript was generated automatically from audio using AI and hasn't been reviewed by a person -- it can contain mistakes, including plausible-sounding sentences that were never actually said. Treat it as a starting point, not a verbatim record.]

[0:01] Thanks,
[0:08] Scotch Plains, and welcome to our- Hi, everybody. Hello, Scotch Plains, and welcome
[0:14] to our August 8, 2023 business meeting. I wish to make the following announcement to show
[0:19] compliance with the Open Public Media's Act, known as Chapter 231 of the public laws
[0:23] in New Jersey, 1975. Notice of this meeting was given by publishing a notice of location
[0:28] time and date, sending copies to the store ledger, boys in the back, to the store ledger, and
[0:35] the Union County Hawk posting said notice on the Township website and bulletin board
[0:40] in the municipal building and filing same with our Township clerk.
[0:46] Tonight, we're honored to be led in the pledge of allegiance by this winning Scotch Plains
[0:52] Raiders baseball team, the 11-U baseball future, 11-U baseball team, boys, if you'll please
[0:57] lead us in the pledge.
[0:58] Everyone please rise.
[1:02] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
[1:15] Thank you boys. Good job boys. Good job.
[1:19] Miss Lassina, may we have the roll call please?
[1:21] Mr. Adams?
[1:22] Mr. Danler?
[1:23] Here.
[1:24] Mr. White?
[1:25] Here.
[1:25] Miss Zimmerman?
[1:26] Here.
[1:26] Mayor, let's start out.
[1:28] Here, thank you, Ms. LaCena.
[1:30] I'll start out by saying tonight we're summer casual,
[1:35] not wearing ties, so if anything's out of the ordinary,
[1:39] that explains that.
[1:40] I want to share, if you're watching at home
[1:43] or better if you're unable to tune in,
[1:46] because you're on the wrong channel,
[1:47] Verizon has channel 22 off the air.
[1:51] But if you're watching on Verizon,
[1:53] and you can watch us on channel 21-22.
[1:57] If you know someone at home that may be watching
[1:59] and on that channel, I appreciate if you'd reach out.
[2:01] Of course, we're on Facebook Live as well
[2:03] and the meeting has been recorded
[2:04] so you can watch it at a later date
[2:06] if you're unable to tune in.
[2:08] I understand Verizon will be making their repairs shortly.
[2:12] Tonight we're going to start presentations of recognition
[2:16] by swearing in, by delivering the oath of office
[2:19] to three of our finest here in Scotch Plains,
[2:22] Chief Reel?
[2:33] Was that because the water didn't fall?
[2:36] Yeah, round the applause. Thank you so much.
[2:40] Thank you for having us here today, Mayor Counsel. This is Mayor Bala Masazi.
[2:44] Bonnie, thank you so much.
[2:48] Here to swear in, this is also a reminder graduated from the police academy back in June.
[2:54] He's been on the road for a couple of months. This is his recognition ceremony.
[2:58] and we're also here to swear in newly sergeant Mike Balthazar and Lieutenant
[3:03] Stan Pearson. So we're going to start off with Officer Ramondi. Officer Ramondi
[3:09] grew up in South Plain Field, New Jersey. Upon graduation of high school he held
[3:13] a few different jobs from auto body work to dialysis until in 2016 he decided
[3:19] to join the military. He left for the Army's basic training combat course in
[3:24] in early 2017 and was stationed in Fort Riley, Kansas.
[3:29] After deploying in 2019 as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve,
[3:33] he had the opportunity to take the civil service test
[3:36] while on leave.
[3:37] When he completed active duty service in 2021,
[3:40] he moved back to New Jersey into Scotch Plains
[3:43] where he worked for his father
[3:44] until he received their call to join our police force.
[3:47] He now serves our community while still serving,
[3:50] in our country in the New Jersey National Guard.
[3:56] Grounded family and Scotch claims in Ramondis.
[3:59] Business owner, ATA, Taqwondo, right here in Scotch claims,
[4:05] as well as a very long one in Rosalp Park,
[4:10] and also one in, what's the other one?
[4:14] Bayon.
[4:16] His brother-in-law is one of our lieutenants.
[4:19] Okay. Did very well on our civil service test. We were lucky enough to be able to get
[4:27] to him and he was an outstanding cadet in the police academy. Okay. We were very, very
[4:32] lucky to be able to get to him. Well, sir Vinny Ramondi.
[4:37] Sir,
[4:57] if you serve the city center, welcome to the PDA. If you will, please repeat after me.
[5:02] I Vincent Ramondi. I Vincent Ramondi. Do solemnly swear. Do solemnly swear that I was
[5:07] I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey that I will bear true faith in allegiance to the same and to the governments and to the governments established in the United States and in this state and in this state under the authority of the people under the authority of the people
[5:30] And then I will faithfully, and then I will faithfully, impartially, impartially, and justly perform, and justly perform all the duties of, all the duties of, police officer of the township of Scotch planes, police officer of the township of Scotch planes.
[5:44] According to the best of my ability, so help me God.
[5:46] Graduates, next
[6:03] up, Mike Boltzazard.
[6:06] Sergeant Boltzazard began his career in public services
[6:08] in 9-1-1 dispatcher in 2006 with Old Bridge Township
[6:13] while volunteering on one of the town's rescue
[6:16] squads as an emergency medical technician.
[6:19] Sergeant Boltzazard, the oldest of two
[6:21] and as a father of two, Riley, 12 years old, and Andrew 11.
[6:25] His parents are immigrants from Portugal.
[6:27] He grew up in a Elizabeth and graduated
[6:29] with a former high school in 2005.
[6:31] He successfully completed his associate's degree
[6:33] in criminal justice for Burkdale Community College.
[6:37] Sergeant Boltz is our beginner's police service in 2012
[6:40] as a special law enforcement officer,
[6:43] class one and two with the city of Long Branch.
[6:45] In 2014, he was employed by the borough of Hummetta
[6:48] as a class two officer and shortly after
[6:52] appointed as a full-time police officer.
[6:54] Sergeant Boltz is our became employed
[6:55] by the town of Scotch Plains in 2018.
[6:58] prior to his promotion, he served in the Patrol Division, mainly on the Midnight
[7:03] Ship. Through his experience, Sergeant Bulter Zor was involved in numerous
[7:06] criminal and narcotics investigations. He was involved in numerous aspects of
[7:11] community policing and has always eager to be involved in our community. He is the
[7:16] ten-time recipient of the Mullers Against Front Driving Award. In 2020, he was
[7:21] recognized as Union County's top cop for his efforts in DIY enforcement. He was
[7:26] currently employed as a drug recognition expert for the township. Again, we were very
[7:31] lucky to get Mike from home that was a smaller department that luckily for us one of the
[7:38] basically close-in up shop and back in the day there was a thing called the rice list
[7:42] where out-of-work police officers went on to a list and department such as ours can draw
[7:49] from that list and we were able to get him. It was such a small police department back
[7:53] then that Michael Joe, he was like the captain lieutenant, the traffic sergeant and the dispatcher,
[8:00] all wrapped into one which seems funny. But what it did for us when Mike came here is he was
[8:06] involved in things, he brought experience to this police department that traditionally only
[8:12] supervisors in this police department would have. Whether it was the attack officer which is responsible
[8:19] for the entering of stolen property and removing stuff and you need different qualifications to
[8:25] the state police to have to obviously his efforts in combating driving while intoxicated, a 10
[8:34] time recipient. He's led this department every year since he's here and he hasn't been here for 10
[8:39] years so it tells you what he was doing in his previous police department. Again, very lucky to get
[8:45] he brought over a wealth of experience and we're already seeing that you know in his new rule is sergeant.
[8:52] Michael Balthazar.
[9:16] Please raise your right hand and repeat it. I Michael Balthazar.
[9:20] I'm Michael Balthazar. You're all these where?
[9:22] You're all these where?
[9:23] I was the support of the Constitution of the United States.
[9:25] I was the support of the Constitution of the United States.
[9:27] And the Constitution of the state of New Jersey?
[9:29] And the Constitution of the state of New Jersey?
[9:31] And then I will bear true faith.
[9:33] And I will bear true faith.
[9:34] And allegiance to the same.
[9:35] the agents of the same and to the governments and to the governments established in the United States and in the state and in the state under the authority of the people and then I will faithfully and that I will faithfully impartially and partially and justly perform and justly perform all the duties of all the duties of
[9:54] Sergeant of the Township of Scotch Plains. Sergeant of the Township of Scotch Plains, according
[9:59] to the best mind ability, so I hope you got it.
[10:01] Congratulations.
[10:03] Alright,
[10:24] next up, Lieutenant Stan Pearson. Lieutenant Stan Pearson, Stan grew up in Scotch Plains
[10:30] and graduated high school in 2000. He joined United States Marine Corps in January of 2002
[10:36] and deployed to Iraq in 2003 and again in 2005. When he got back from his last appointment,
[10:43] and he attended the Morris County Police Academy in January of 2006, it was initially
[10:48] employed by Port Sippening. In 2007, we pulled some fast ones and we were able to steal
[10:54] them from Port Sippening and he came to us in July of 2007. He was assigned to the Union
[11:01] County Emergency Response Team after only being here a year in 2008 and in 2009, he was selected
[11:07] to the Union County SWAT team.
[11:10] He worked in patrol as a patrol officer
[11:14] until 2013 where he was assigned to the Detective Bureau
[11:17] where he remained until December of 2016
[11:21] when he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
[11:23] Upon that promotion, he reported back
[11:25] to the Patrol Division where he was
[11:28] until we assigned them back into the Detective Bureau
[11:32] in December of 19 as a Detective Sergeant.
[11:35] He was assigned as a provisional lieutenant, we were kind of had some internal stuff going
[11:40] on right now and we usually operate a civil service list but in lieu of an active list
[11:46] and if we need to make promotions there'll be a provisional status.
[11:50] So that's where he worked as a provisional lieutenant assigned to the detective bureau
[11:55] from February of 2021 until May of 2022.
[11:59] to.
[12:00] Unfortunately, at that time, we made some promotions, and the provisional rent that he held
[12:07] was removed, and he went back to a detective sergeant in the Bureau, where he actually
[12:13] spent a lot of time alone in there.
[12:16] We had a couple of lieutenants in there kind of short-lived, but he did that job as a sergeant
[12:23] without a lieutenant in there for quite some time.
[12:26] He's a firearms instructor and a range master for our department, getting everybody qualified
[12:32] from handgun, shotguns, MP5s, and now Caribbean rifles.
[12:37] He's assisted in developing, instituting the Scotch claims police act of shooter team
[12:42] as well as the protocol that follows that.
[12:45] He's been a member of the SWAT team, like I said, going back to 2009, and in March of 2023
[12:51] 23 he was promoted again inside the SWAT team as to a SWAT leader, which is actually part
[13:01] of the command staff of that SWAT team.
[13:05] Very well-rounded officer, humble, humble guy, doesn't ask for much even when he should,
[13:10] when he needs help, he won't, and a valued part of my inner circle and inner team.
[13:55] I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of
[14:05] that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same and to the governments established
[14:13] in the United States and in this state under the authority of the people and then I will
[14:21] faithfully and partially and justly perform all the duties of detective lieutenant of the
[14:30] the township of Scotch Plains.
[14:31] Effectively township of Scotch Plains,
[14:34] important for the best of my abilities,
[14:36] so I'll be there.
[14:37] I'll be there.
[14:38] I'll be there.
[14:54] I'll be there.
[14:55] I'll be there.
[14:55] I'll be there.
[14:56] I'll be there.
[15:00] Okay, good, good, guys, good afternoon. Yes, right here.
[15:04] I've been looking forward to that.
[15:07] Sure.
[15:08] Yes.
[15:11] Oh, stay right here.
[15:13] You must hang out.
[15:15] Okay, that's all right.
[15:21] Okay,
[15:35] thank you all for this.
[15:56] That's always special when we get to do that and we're honored to be partners with
[16:03] you in working and serving this town chief especially when you were reading
[16:07] Not reading and sharing your own personal thoughts of these three officers.
[16:12] I was very touching and it's clear we're department ever on the rise.
[16:18] Congratulations everyone, hope you celebrate tonight and have a great party.
[16:22] I see some officers from other towns here as well to join in celebration.
[16:25] Have a lot of fun.
[16:26] Thank you.
[16:38] Anyone have any?
[16:42] Moving on to resolutions and proclamations.
[16:44] August is, oh my God, I forgot that all the people
[16:54] don't come to see us.
[16:56] Thank you.
[17:00] Congratulations, everybody.
[17:04] It's also always a nice showing.
[17:06] Seeing so many friends and family come out to support their friends.
[17:10] We'll
[17:15] just give it a little time to clear the room.
[17:38] Moving on to resolutions and proclamations.
[17:42] August is, I'm sorry, chief,
[17:53] August is Appendix Awareness Month.
[17:55] This is a time where we increase awareness of this rare cancer, and the need to do more research so that we hopefully one day find a cure.
[18:05] Town Hall you may have noticed is lit amber in recognition of appendix awareness month.
[18:10] And some additional information will be shared by my colleague, Deputy Mayor Zimmerman.
[18:15] Thank you, Mayor.
[18:15] and thank you to Ms. Harris for joining us to receive this
[18:22] proclamation and once I've read it please join us and if you have any comments
[18:26] because this is so important and important to raise awareness. Whereas Appendix
[18:32] Cancer is a highly complex disease with numerous specific pathologies and
[18:38] associated outcomes. It is a rare and poorly understood cancer that is estimated
[18:43] affected to affect approximately fewer than 10 persons per million in the United States.
[18:49] Yet there has been significant increase in appendix cancer in recent years.
[18:54] And whereas the diagnosis of appendix cancer is often missed in the early stages, when
[19:00] still confined to the appendix and is only detected when it has progressed to stage four with
[19:06] limited treatment options.
[19:07] And whereas, women with appendix cancer are often misdiagnosed with and treated for
[19:13] ovarian cancer, thus further adversely affected, affecting their chances of survival once
[19:21] properly diagnosed with appendix cancer.
[19:24] Where misdiagnosis and the delayed diagnosis of appendix cancer increases, not only the burden
[19:30] on patients and their families, but also increases the economic burden across the healthcare system.
[19:36] And whereas the causes of appendix cancer remain largely unknown and an area in which
[19:43] awareness and research are in critical need, increased awareness by physicians of appendix
[19:49] cancer and appropriate screening could increase the chances of favorable outcomes and significantly
[19:55] reduce the overall economic burden to the healthcare system.
[19:59] And whereas there are often no noticeable symptoms of appendix cancer in the early stages, making
[20:05] making physician awareness and appropriate screening critical.
[20:10] Ongoing research promises further improvements in appendix cancer prevention, early detection
[20:17] and treatment, and whereas educating people in the United States including health care providers
[20:23] about appendix cancer and timely detection strategies is critical to saving the lives of men and
[20:30] women with appendix cancer and preserving and protecting families.
[20:34] Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Mayor and Township Council of the Township of
[20:39] Scotch Plains designates August 2023 as a National Appendix Cancer Awareness Month.
[20:46] We will be lighting the Municipal Building Amber on August 1st in recognition of the
[20:50] Pendix Cancer Awareness Month to support patients, increase awareness, and ultimately find cure
[20:56] for all.
[20:57] The Mayor and Township Council of the Township of Scotch Plains promotes awareness and
[21:02] and encourage research for ways to improve access to
[21:05] and the quality of healthcare services
[21:07] for detecting and treating appendants' cancer.
[21:11] Thank you.
[21:20] Please have a seat.
[21:20] You have to freeze a chair while you're here.
[21:23] We'll have this personal to you and then our Debbie May
[21:26] will deliver it to you.
[21:27] Whatever you like.
[21:28] Yeah, that's easy.
[21:30] Thank you for having me.
[21:31] My name is Carla Harris.
[21:32] I was diagnosed with appendix cancer on,
[21:35] actually I was kayaking with RWA at Veterans Group.
[21:39] I would have been in the military 25 years.
[21:42] I was a commission officer in 1998.
[21:45] I was actually attached to an engineering battalion in Iowa.
[21:49] We were supposed to be at home working because of COVID.
[21:52] I went kayaking for my physical fitness and thought I had
[21:55] pulled a muscle in my back.
[21:57] So I went to the hospital and was told I had a 3.5 centimeter
[22:01] mass on my appendix, which I thought was a kidney stone.
[22:06] And I was told that I had had no carcinoma of my appendix, and so I had that removed,
[22:13] and had a right hemiccollectomy, which is just removing part of my colon.
[22:18] And it was a low grade muousinous appendix neoplasm.
[22:23] I had several opinions, but I wound up finding a very good specialist.
[22:29] I will shout out his name Timothy Kennedy.
[22:31] He's an appendix cancer specialist at the Cancer Institute of New Jersey.
[22:36] I happened to work for Barnabas Health, and that's how I got his name.
[22:42] So July 29th, I call that my anniversary, because July 29th is what I had my appendectomy.
[22:50] In 2020, I started cycling October of 2023, month's post-op, and I will say July 29th, 2023.
[22:59] I rode my first metric's century, which is bike speak for 65 miles.
[23:06] So basically that was my birthday ride plus five.
[23:09] And I'm getting stronger.
[23:11] Yes, appendix cancer is very rare.
[23:14] I was initially ignored by two specialists.
[23:17] Luckily I am a surgical position assistant and
[23:20] I took some matters into my own hands.
[23:22] And basically been fighting on my own.
[23:27] My husband Kevin Armstrong's been at my side like I said it was during COVID, so I basically had no visitors
[23:33] Unfortunately, but I struggled through I kept the dumbbell by my bedside
[23:38] Because I was a collegiate all-American power lifter, so I had to do something and
[23:43] To this day, I wear a dumbbell around my neck every day to remind me of the strength. I've had to
[23:49] Continue to have during this struggle. I will say I continue to be very fatigued, but I still work out
[23:56] I swear on the belt. I swim. I'm doing a triathlon in New York.
[23:58] I just completed a women's triathlon in Philadelphia, and I'm just going to keep going.
[24:03] It's not about blending. It's about finishing So I'm finished.ping
[24:08] impact
[24:26] from
[24:28] international
[24:28] personal story that I hope you're doing exactly what this is about raising awareness
[24:34] people here watching your own reading may go to the same thing and inspiring the
[24:40] story that you're still amazing. I like that dumbbell.
[24:40] 23
[24:58] Thank
[25:14] you very much.
[25:29] Very
[25:34] touching story.
[25:36] We're also very grateful you're doing so well.
[25:40] Finally tonight we have a good fortune of honoring our Scotchlands fanwit futures, 11 new
[25:46] Baseball team, I call upon my colleague Councilman Adams to share some information about their success
[25:52] And then if the coaches and and team will come up when when the Councilman Adams calls your name
[26:00] We look forward to honoring you to know
[26:01] Thank you mayor and that's a tough act to follow
[26:05] So for those of you like myself would have a ball player or two in the house
[26:10] You know that the season is finally winding down for the spring and summer, but
[26:16] We have another group of exceptional young athletes
[26:19] that's before us tonight.
[26:21] And as I was brushing up on their successes,
[26:24] I was struck by the fact that they
[26:26] are a group representing our Scotch Planes
[26:29] Fanwood baseball club.
[26:30] It's a town baseball club comprised
[26:34] of residents of Scotch Planes in Fanwood.
[26:36] But when they went to the finals in their league,
[26:39] they beat a club that really draws from all over.
[26:41] So that was really a compelling piece of the narrative.
[26:44] So we have a resolution to present, if you'll indulge, I'll read it.
[26:49] Whereas the SPF Futures 11U team won their third U.S.A.V.L. Springley Championship on Sunday,
[26:58] July 9, 2023 against full count, which is that private quo.
[27:05] Whereas the SPF Futures 11U team has previously won the U.S.A.V.L. Springley Championship two
[27:11] years ago, and the New Providence Green League championship two years ago, and the USAVL tournament
[27:18] one year ago, whereas during this year's spring playoff run, the SPF Futures 11 U team battled
[27:26] and defeated Kramford 2-1 in the first round, followed by an 8-0 win in the second round against
[27:34] North Hunternand, and whereas the stage was set for the ultimate showdown, a town team playing
[27:41] a club team for the championship. Led by great pitching by three rater arms, timely hitting,
[27:48] great fielding and bass running, the SPF Futures 11U team was able to hold the full count
[27:54] baseball team at arms length throughout the afternoon, whereas when the dust settled,
[28:00] SPF Futures 11U earned the victory and the championship. The celebration and the pitch at the pitcher's
[28:08] and other players explained it all.
[28:10] Whereas the SPF Futures 11U team
[28:12] was led by head coaches, Todd Simo, Chris Bates,
[28:17] and assistant coaches, Guy Veretta, Rod Klotz,
[28:20] and Max vonheimer.
[28:22] And whereas the championship winning SPF Futures 11U
[28:26] roster consisted of, Marko Veretta, Declan Bastable,
[28:31] Braden Bates, Lucas Blake, Austin Brea Monty,
[28:35] Colin Craig, Brendan Klotz, Joey Lano, Anthony Mignetti, Will Siketti, Ash K-Shaw, and Cooper Simo.
[28:46] Now, therefore, be it resolved for the reason set forth above that the Township Council,
[28:51] the Township Scotch Plains, congratulates the SPF Futures 11U baseball team on their USADL
[28:57] Spring League Championship victory. We look forward to watching this team grow their skills on the
[29:03] baseball field over the years to come. Congratulations, boys.
[29:34] Congratulations, team and coaches.
[30:10] And colleagues, I've said it before, and I'll say it again. It's successes like this is why we have to keep our foot on the gas when it comes to remaking our parks and recreation facilities in Scotia Point. Thank you, ma'am. Well, thank you, Councilman. Congratulations to the team and their families. Thank you all for coming. We always love supporting everybody.
[30:35] Now we're up to the public.
[30:36] public comment portion of our meeting, if you can make any comment on any matter that you wish.
[30:44] However, I'd like to point out that if you're here regarding the redevelopment plan for
[30:50] Plainfield Avenue, there will be separately a public hearing, where everyone will have an opportunity to be heard during that public hearing.
[30:57] And it may be easier to address comments and questions that are posed related to that building.
[31:02] in following during the public hearing on that plan and let me take a step back.
[31:09] What we plan to do tonight is have a presentation, spelling out what this is all about.
[31:15] It's likely that questions will be answered in that presentation.
[31:19] Following the presentation, we will have, we will open public hearing and open up to anyone
[31:23] in which is to participate and ask questions or comments and we're going to do our best to address them.
[31:29] But even so, you can make any comments that you wish at this time, which is remind everyone we have up to three minutes to speak.
[31:38] And unfortunately, yesterday our timer broke in the storm, so our clerk is using a stopwatch instead, so you won't see the timer.
[31:50] After we've finished public comment in Chambers, no one else wishes to speak, we're going to open the telephone line.
[31:59] You may call in in a few minutes at 908-322-2076.
[32:05] Finally, I'll share if your comments will be about the Plainfield Avenue plan at this time.
[32:10] I would urge my colleagues to join me in not responding and instead waiting until the presentation is completed.
[32:17] Thank you.
[32:18] If you'll please start with your name and address for the record.
[32:20] David Burrush, 2333, Evergreen Avenue, here for the redevelopment plan.
[32:25] You probably recognize me.
[32:26] You've been here for less three years, saying the same thing.
[32:29] Not sure if I can make the next meeting, so I'd like to make my comments now.
[32:34] I wasn't aware of the next meeting here.
[32:35] It's the night.
[32:36] Sorry.
[32:38] It's the scene if you please.
[32:39] I'll start over.
[32:40] If I wasn't clear, this is a public comment portion of our meeting, and when public comment is
[32:45] finished. We'll be moving on to public hearing and final adoption of three ordinances.
[32:50] The final ordinance is related to the redevelopment plan and there will be a public hearing.
[32:54] My best guess, depending on public comment and how long it goes, we're talking 5-10 minutes
[32:58] from now.
[32:59] Yes.
[33:00] Sorry, I was in clear.
[33:01] I was trying to be clear, but I apologize.
[33:04] And the presentation is also tonight.
[33:05] The presentation is tonight.
[33:06] The presentation is also tonight.
[33:08] No, just a few minutes.
[33:09] No, it'll be next.
[33:11] No, it'll be next.
[33:12] Thank you for understanding, I'm sorry if I wasn't clear.
[33:15] Name and address for the record.
[33:16] Frank, Relosa, 17, Marion Lane.
[33:20] Okay, sorry, 45 in the lead reading classes.
[33:26] So mayor, council members, manager and neighbors, sorry, I'm reading, but it is a great pleasure.
[33:32] We present this second payment from the Scotch Plains Fan with Soccer Club to the town as part of a success.
[33:37] partnering on the returfing of Southside Soccer Field. We take great honor
[33:42] exemplifying the public-private partnership that is possible to achieve our
[33:46] common goals and we even take more delight when visiting teams come to play at
[33:50] Southside Soccer Field and are in awe of the beautiful facilities we provide. This
[33:55] is only outmatched when we see the smiles on the faces of our younger, youngest
[34:00] players about their excitement the first time they get to play on the turf field.
[34:06] SPSC still struggles to meet the growing demands of our blossoming community, access to
[34:10] county fields like Ponderosa are limited at best, and some of the grass fields we have
[34:15] access to from all entities we partner with are often less an ideal for proper play, but
[34:20] we appreciate all of you in the effort that you undertake to ensure not just all our children,
[34:24] but anyone from 2 to 99 with an interest in playing soccer has the facilities to achieve that.
[34:30] But on behalf of the SPF's SC Executive Committee, I can tell you that we are extremely proud of our beautiful facilities.
[34:38] We have its outside soccer field, and our ability to call that home.
[34:42] It is not loss of us, the thousands of families we represent, or the vast majority of the members of the committee that our other sports organizations and our community are not as fortunate.
[34:53] Thank you.
[34:54] Matt Rosenthal would be here, but he's on vacation, but thank you for your human speech.
[34:57] Thank you very much for representing the check and if you've delivered to Miss Lassina or clerk and sharing those comments, thank you very much.
[35:07] Thank you.
[35:09] Thank you.
[35:11] Please start with your name and address for the record.
[35:14] John Boyle, 1490 Terror Road.
[35:17] So today, Mr. Adams asked me to talk about the park at Brookside Park.
[35:24] So I'm an athlete at Scotch Plainsford High School. I've played baseball in the
[35:30] little leagues. I've done the soccer here. I've done football here. So I've always
[35:35] believed in keeping kids active. So one of the best ways to keep kids active is
[35:40] obviously through sports. Baseball and soccer, two of the biggest sports that we
[35:44] play here. So I've looked at the Brookside field and I played there. I didn't, I
[35:50] just wouldn't really want to play there. So in my personal preference, I've
[35:54] always preferred playing on turf.
[35:56] Mainly, it's more consistent.
[35:58] It's not, it's usually not wet to play on,
[36:01] even after it rains.
[36:03] It's, I think it's easier to play on.
[36:05] It's easier to fall on.
[36:09] So one of the best ways that I think
[36:11] keeping players safe is consistency.
[36:13] Most feel, most towns now do use turf fields.
[36:17] So if it involves switching from one field to another,
[36:21] it could often cause more injuries
[36:22] that not having it switched. Most of our soccer fields here like Southside Field, which I do believe is a great field to play on, is Turf, both the high school fields that are used for soccer or Turf. If we can keep it consistent through the town, I think it'll make heap injuries down. Thank you.
[36:40] Thank you for sharing your comments.
[36:44] My name is Sue Boygan, and I'm a 24-18-part police.
[36:48] A couple of things I want to touch on, number one.
[36:50] In regards to the noise, the trucks, the 18-wheelers,
[36:55] it's rolling down, playing Phil Avenue, doing 45-50 miles an hour,
[36:59] on the 25-minute mile zone.
[37:03] Just last week, last Wednesday, in fact, there was an accident.
[37:07] You had a tow truck that was carrying a truck
[37:10] that literally the truck fell off the toll truck
[37:13] and dug a deep gravel hole in the middle of the street.
[37:18] We hear noise from 5.30 in the morning to 9 o'clock,
[37:23] almost seven days a week.
[37:25] Now this is addressed to you, Mr. Alexander Maribel.
[37:29] How could you sign off on these 18 willers
[37:34] that's going around in that area?
[37:36] You talking pollution and noise.
[37:38] And this is infecting causes people to have cancer from the pollution, respiratory problems,
[37:46] and also it has things to do with the air quality that we in the community has to endure.
[37:54] I also want to address the noise.
[37:57] I'm talking about the speakers that some of these houses literally put loud speakers in
[38:02] the backyard as if they had an aligisco club.
[38:06] Why should we have to endure that noise?
[38:08] We shouldn't. That need to be banned in regarding putting those big speakers in your backyard where the whole neighborhood has to hear that.
[38:16] There's people that work seven days a week and work in different hours.
[38:20] Okay, lastly, what I want to touch on is that I think in regards to the recognition awards that you have on during the council meeting, it need to be assigned to another day.
[38:31] Our country is in trouble.
[38:34] our country is really in trouble. In regards to council meeting, it should be assigned strictly,
[38:41] we should be handling our business in the council meeting. And instead of three minutes,
[38:45] each speaker should have at least seven. Thank you. Thank you for sharing your comments.
[38:58] Hi, Camille Gassicki, Westfield Road, here with the Alliance for Scotch Plains.
[39:09] With the Alliance for Scotch Plains family and I wanted to bring up the speed limit on
[39:17] Westfield Road that we've talked about many times.
[39:22] It's supposed to be 25 miles an hour.
[39:25] it's been 25 miles forever and they're still speeding especially after like between four and
[39:32] eight at night they're like zooming down the street and we have only two 25 mile an hour
[39:41] signs one right up north they have in here and one before west field roads and nothing between it or
[39:49] after it. Also, I had mentioned to you about perhaps putting up one of those signs we could
[39:56] push the button to force where the evergreen where the park is because there's constantly
[40:05] people coursing in the cause don't pay attention. There is one of those yield signs. It's never
[40:11] working. It doesn't flash and those flashing signs aren't any good unless, you know, if
[40:17] constantly spread it to have the ones that you push the button and you need to
[40:21] cross. They might pay more attention. I think I spoke to you at same thoughts about
[40:26] that. You're going to pass it along. But this has been like the years that we're
[40:32] asking for more science and for something to do with the speeding. Thank you.
[40:38] Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
[40:57] Carolyn Perkins, 861 Westfield Road. First of all, it was great to hear the
[41:02] lady's story about appendix cancer is very, very touching and it's something that most
[41:09] of us are not aware of, including myself as a nurse.
[41:13] So many people have contacted me that Verizon hasn't worked for a month.
[41:18] They could not watch channel 22.
[41:21] I talked to the man when he was at one of the concerts and he said, oh, they were just
[41:27] here today.
[41:28] They left at 4.30 and it's fixed.
[41:29] know it's not been fixed and if your channel is not working it should be an
[41:36] alert to the people to that because in an emergency federal law requires that
[41:42] that channel should be working it should be working.
[41:48] As I said before 25% of the
[41:50] students in our school district have an IEP they are special needs and we need to
[41:56] to do more about people who are on special needs.
[42:00] Westfield has just developed a blue envelope.
[42:04] And it's for the police department.
[42:07] This blue envelope tells the police officer,
[42:10] and I have several, I've gotten them.
[42:12] You hand it to the police officer so he knows
[42:15] that you may not look at him.
[42:18] You may get anxious and it tells them
[42:22] where your registration is, your driver's license
[42:25] and who to contact. This is very important for people who are autistic, who are driving because
[42:32] most police officers are really not aware on how to handle these people. And I have to say that
[42:42] the town flowers throughout the town are just beautiful. I think it's the prettiest town that I've
[42:48] through. Now my last two questions are on Resolution 2023 143. You're
[42:58] authorizing a contract for a construction manager for municipal and
[43:03] emergency services. Is this a new position with a new salary? My other question
[43:11] is a resolution on 2023-145 authorizing the award of contract for conflict, redevelopment, counsel to McMinion, Scotland, and
[43:25] Bowman. Could you please explain that to me? Thank you very much for your time.
[43:30] Thank you. Is there anyone else here in the gallery that wishes to participate in public comment?
[43:47] Susan Dazza, 1202 Woodside Road Scotch Plains.
[43:52] I just want to say how much I appreciate the Recreation Department holding the yoga sessions on Saturday mornings at Brookside Park.
[44:04] I've been enjoying them when I've been in town.
[44:07] It's a beautiful thing to do on a Saturday morning, out in nature, lying in the grass, lying on the asphalt.
[44:16] looking up at the trees, hearing the birds, hearing the frogs, hearing the
[44:21] pickleball players looking out over the grass field. It's a beautiful thing
[44:25] surrounded by nature. I look forward to continuing to do that at Brookside Park. I
[44:34] also want to say that the presentation about Pendex Cancer Awareness was admirable.
[44:40] As a community, we should do everything in our power to prevent causes of cancer.
[44:48] Cause of appendix cancer is unknown.
[44:53] There are a lot of unknowns in the various products we use.
[45:00] In our lives and we should do what we can to prevent introducing more into the environment. Thank you. Thank you, Mrs. Dazzle.
[45:11] Is there anyone else here? Otherwise we'll close public comment in chambers and open up the phone line. Three, two, one. All right. We'll open up the phone if you would call. If you wish to call in and share public comments 908-322-2076. And we'll just give the
[45:29] the phone at moment, see if it rings, while because there's a little delay, I'll just
[45:37] address some of the comments that I heard.
[45:41] I think it's Mrs. Boykin, it's my understanding that our manager has no discretion on what
[45:49] types of trucks drive on that road, and I don't think that was a correct accusation
[45:56] And to make, of course, the cars shouldn't be speeding.
[46:00] Our deputy chief and our chief of police are here, and I know that they're regularly
[46:04] patrolling the areas and we'll continue to do so.
[46:08] And with regards to noise, I think I know I've spoken with you before and perhaps my colleagues
[46:13] as well, if there's a resident's playing music too loud, and you should call the non-emergency
[46:20] number, and the police will respond.
[46:22] We have noise ordinances that prohibit noise I think it's after 10 p.m., but before that
[46:29] people are entitled to play music in their backyard.
[46:32] It shouldn't interfere with you, and you're enjoying men of your backyard though, and
[46:35] call the non-emergency number.
[46:36] And I would encourage every resident to do so.
[46:42] And Mrs. Rosigui with the speed limits the same with the police are here and they're patrolling.
[46:48] I know previously signs were delayed in being provided to the town, but as the signs are
[46:58] procured, they'll be posted and with regards to the button, the idea that's been thought of,
[47:06] the chief and the deputy chief work every year on budget recommendations.
[47:09] That's not an inexpensive item.
[47:12] If the police department deems it appropriate, they'll make a recommendation to have that funded.
[47:18] and next year, that would be the time.
[47:22] Oh, it's already been purgated.
[47:23] This is part of this.
[47:24] This budget.
[47:25] I forgive me, I didn't know this forever, Green.
[47:29] Thank you, Chief.
[47:30] Thank you, Chief.
[47:31] And there were you brought up, but also the exit
[47:35] from the ice hole at the mantra for when there were also.
[47:38] And what just went up on both of them
[47:40] in any second, you know.
[47:41] And I'm just double checking that the phones were working.
[47:44] And there's a flashing sign now
[47:52] We can't give a take, I'm sorry, but if you weren't able to hear the chief because the microphone was too far and you're watching, the chief was reminding me that what was asked for was actually just written purchase a couple weeks ago and when it's obtained will be installed.
[48:09] And finally, Ms. Perkins asking some questions about the recommendation for police.
[48:17] A few meetings ago, we had a presentation where the police officers were given bags with a lot of the materials that exactly what you proposed.
[48:26] And we'll continue to do what we can to educate our police, make sure they have the tools available to help residents in need.
[48:34] I think the bags just not to interrupt the bags went to all of the armors and see responders so at that meeting so they were put together by
[48:43] Adrian and her committee and
[48:51] We'll look at
[48:53] Sorry no back and forth if we can help it, but we all wrote it down. Thank you. We'll look at it
[48:59] Regarding Verizon. I said at the outset of the meeting that the channel the the
[49:04] High definition channel is working on channel 21-22.
[49:08] I don't know why Verizon has been unable to fix the other channel, but
[49:13] I'm told I saw an email today where they were coming.
[49:15] I think tomorrow to continue working on that endeavor.
[49:19] Resolution 143 is a, it should be 143, is regarding the retaining of the hiring of a construction
[49:30] action manager to assist the township as we look to develop the emergency services building on Plainfield Avenue and in downtown our library and town hall.
[49:40] It's someone with the expertise to help navigate all of the steps for us and I anticipate the adoption of that resolution tonight.
[49:49] And finally, our redevelopment attorney, Michael Baker, whom we have been working with for a very long time.
[49:56] Unfortunately, his firm has a conflict with Woodmont Properties, the redeveloper that we
[50:02] recently, that we named in June as the conditional developer, tonight there's a resolution
[50:07] appointing a new attorney in his place.
[50:11] And seeing the phone ringing, we're going to close public comment.
[50:20] Moving on to public hearing and final adoption.
[50:24] The first is Ordinance 2023-11, Ms. Lucina.
[50:29] An ordinance amending to revise general ordinances of the Township of Scotch Plains, Chapter 7, entitled to traffic, Section 7-6.2, Stop Intersections, and Chapter 7-A, Traffic Schedules, Schedule 8.
[50:44] I move that the public hearing on this ordinance be opened.
[50:47] May I have a second?
[50:48] Second.
[50:49] All in favour?
[50:50] Aye.
[50:50] Aye.
[50:51] Would anyone like to address the council with reference to this ordinance?
[50:54] It relates to placing stop signs on Parkwood Drive and at Brookside Drive and in that area
[51:00] of town seeing done.
[51:04] I move that the public hearing be closed.
[51:06] May the second.
[51:07] Second.
[51:08] All in favour?
[51:08] Aye.
[51:09] I move that this ordinance be adopted on second and final reading and advertised according
[51:14] to law.
[51:15] May the second.
[51:16] Second.
[51:17] Miss LaCena.
[51:18] Mr. Adams? Yes. Mr. Tamler? Yes. Mr. White? Yes. Mr. Zimmerman? Yes. Mayor
[51:23] Lissardo? Yes. Thank you, Mr. Lissina. Ordinance 2023-12. I'm Mr. Lissina.
[51:28] In ordinance to repeal section 7-3.10 permit parking for residents and
[51:33] replacing with a new section 7-3.10 permit parking to designate permit parking
[51:40] in chapter 7 traffic of the revised general ordinances of the township of
[51:44] I move that the public hearing on this ordinance be opened.
[51:48] May I have a second?
[51:49] Second.
[51:50] Hold on favor.
[51:50] Hi.
[51:51] Would anyone like to address the council with reference to this ordinance?
[51:54] If so, please state your name and address for the record at the mic.
[51:58] This is an ordinance that will modify parking at the memorial field.
[52:05] Oh, sorry.
[52:06] Wait, was that?
[52:07] Oh, okay.
[52:09] Anyone else?
[52:10] Seeing no one?
[52:11] I move that the public hearing be closed.
[52:16] I move that this ordinance be adopted on second and final reading and advertised according to law.
[52:22] I have a second. Mr. Adams? Yes. Mr. White? Yes. Mr. Zimmerman? Yes. Mayor Lissardo. Yes, thank you, Miss Lissina.
[52:33] Moving on to ordinance 2023-13, this is the ordinance related to the redevelopment plan for Plainfield Avenue. Miss Lissina?
[52:39] An ordinance authorizing redevelopment plan for 2406 and 2416 Plainfield Avenue, consisting
[52:47] of Block 30401, Lot 1.01, and Block 30401, Lot 1.02, as shown on the tax map of the
[52:55] township of Scotch Plains, in accordance with NJSA 48 colon 12A-7, and supplementing and
[53:09] And by the addition of a new subsection entitled redevelopment plan for
[53:13] 2406 and 2416 Plainfield Avenue, block 3401, lot 1.01, and block 3401, lot 1.02.
[53:25] Thank you, Ms. Lucina.
[53:28] I want to say at the outset, we were hopeful to start this presentation a little earlier,
[53:32] especially to accommodate Dan Sullivan and Enfielder from the Rescue Squad,
[53:37] who I know wanted to be here for the presentation and answer questions or make comments if necessary.
[53:43] They both told me they have a rescue squad meeting this evening and may need to leave in
[53:47] a few minutes.
[53:48] So I thank you for being here today and I apologize that we started a little, I got to this
[53:53] little late.
[53:54] Before we open public comment, our director of redevelopment, Tom Stroh, is going to run
[53:59] a presentation and thereafter the deputy mayor will open public comment and anyone that wishes
[54:05] just to ask questions or make comments,
[54:08] we'll can do so.
[54:10] Director Strobe.
[54:12] Thank you, Mayor, appreciate it.
[54:13] Yes, for the Council and the benefit of the public,
[54:15] I wanted to run through a couple slides tonight
[54:17] on the 24th, 6th, 24th, 16th, Plainfield Avenue
[54:20] redevelopment plan.
[54:22] I'm gonna say it a few times in this presentation,
[54:24] but what this plan is doing,
[54:25] and it's on the website, there's nothing in these slides,
[54:27] I'm gonna talk about that isn't already there,
[54:29] but what we're doing tonight is,
[54:32] if this plan is adopted, it's gonna put the zoning
[54:34] in place for this project. This is not a site plan meeting. These are not construction
[54:39] drawings. The adoption of this plan does not mean that this project is going to be built
[54:43] tomorrow. There's a process that we still have to go through. I'm going to touch on some
[54:47] of that process here tonight, and more details can be found on the plan. But before I get into
[54:52] that, and I'm not going to read all this, but this is just the history of this redevelopment
[54:56] plan. We've been talking about at least the concept of this, moving the emergency services
[55:01] to this location all the way back since 2018, which predates every member of this governing
[55:06] body. And since 2018, these are just the highlights of the official actions we've
[55:12] taken, but this doesn't even consider all the downtown redevelopment meetings that we've
[55:16] had in between all of this. But since 2018, what we've done is we've done a preliminary investigation
[55:21] report, we've done a redevelopment study, which is a redevelopment study of the properties,
[55:25] which we determined to meet the redevelopment criteria, which we eventually got a confirmation.
[55:30] When we declare these areas need a redevelopment, we sent that to the Department of Community Affairs
[55:35] who reviews that and we received a letter in August of, August 16, 2022 where the Department
[55:40] of Community Affairs reviewed that and said that this redevelopment area situated where
[55:45] development and redevelopment are encouraged pursuant to state law and regulation.
[55:49] So once we did all that background, what the council did in July was introduce this redevelopment
[55:55] plan, which like all redevelopment plans was then sent to our planning board, which we
[55:59] We had a master plan consistency review here on July 24th, where this plan was determined
[56:04] to be consistent with our master plan.
[56:06] I know that you've all received a copy of that resolution and a memo indicating that.
[56:10] And so then what happens after that is that ordinance then gets it back to the council for
[56:14] a public hearing and final adoption and that's where we are today.
[56:19] Again, not going to read all this, it's all in there, but the goals and objectives of this
[56:23] plan, there's a lot going on here.
[56:25] But as we know, this is, again, putting the zoning in place to relocation of the town's emergency services.
[56:31] Police fire, OEM, Office of Emergency Management, and Rescue Squad EMS to 24-6 and 24-16
[56:39] in Plainfield Avenue.
[56:40] What we're doing is, look, we've talked about this since 2018.
[56:45] Our emergency services are a need of an updated, modern facility that will provide better efficiency
[56:50] and communication and service to our residents.
[56:53] Through all the needs, studies, and all the analysis that we've conducted with the architects
[56:56] over the years, our first responders, the buildings they're operating in now are not
[57:02] meeting what they should be for our community, going in the future.
[57:05] And what we're designing here is a building that's not just going to address scotch claims
[57:09] today, but for the next century, this building is going to be designed to service our residents
[57:14] for the foreseeable future.
[57:16] And so that's what we're doing here.
[57:17] where it's also allowing is by relocating the services out of the downtown where from
[57:25] older buildings that have our act capacity and relocating to a more centrally located
[57:31] area in a centralized building is allowing us to address our affordable housing obligations
[57:36] in the downtown where the density belongs so that we can protect our residential areas from
[57:41] over development and focus on bringing the density and the foot traffic and everything
[57:46] in our downtown. I'll talk about this again later. Obviously, we want to protect the
[57:50] conservation zone as much as possible. That's a requirement of this redevelopment plan.
[57:54] I'll touch on that a little bit more. We want to make sure that was also a goal that was
[57:57] highlighted from the beginning. Here's a development summary. We worked, you know, over the years
[58:02] since 2018 with police fire and rescue on the need studies, meeting with them multiple times,
[58:08] having conversations about the space needs and requirements for this building. And this is
[58:13] the farthest that we've gotten to this point,
[58:16] it's about a 70,000 square foot building
[58:19] that kind of gives you a breakdown of the needs
[58:21] of each of the various user's groups.
[58:24] This is all subject to change.
[58:26] This is just conceptual at this stage.
[58:28] There's gonna be further refinement and discussion
[58:30] as the construction drawings are prepared.
[58:32] So if there's still efficiencies and space
[58:35] that can be shared, we will try and do that.
[58:38] But this provides information now as a preliminary program
[58:41] for the benefit of the council and the public to have an idea of what the
[58:44] spatial needs are for these departments.
[58:49] The parking requirements.
[58:50] Again, there's going to be some flexibility in that because
[58:54] these are, this is a conceptual plan at this stage.
[58:57] You notice I have a maximum that we put there of 130 parking spaces.
[59:01] I don't think we're going to need 130.
[59:03] I'm hoping that it's a lot less than that.
[59:05] But we have to have flexibility in this plan because we have to account for
[59:09] all of our emergency vehicles, personal vehicles, et cetera,
[59:13] that we're keeping tabs on for this new building.
[59:16] If we put a maximum, you'll see there,
[59:18] we're talking about Memorial Field earlier,
[59:21] we're gonna try and share parking across the street
[59:23] as much as possible to reduce the amount of parking
[59:25] that needs to be constructed on the site.
[59:27] So hopefully that 130 number goes down.
[59:29] That's the goal, but again, at this stage,
[59:32] we need the flexibility to make sure
[59:33] that we capture the parking correctly.
[59:35] But we're gonna take a deeper dive in that
[59:36] in the amount of spaces that we need
[59:38] as we go into the next stages. Traffic study, okay. I know a lot of people have asked about this.
[59:44] This redevelopment plan requires a traffic report, traffic study, as part of this process
[59:49] before anything is constructed. What we, you know, we talked a little bit before about some
[59:54] resolutions. We're allocating existing dollars, not adding to the budget, but taking money
[59:59] that we've all done.
[1:00:00] We've already appropriated and now appropriating it to various professionals to now support the next steps of this process, which includes a traffic study. I've already talked to our engineer this morning. I know some people have got hung up on it. It's a plainfield avenue and people have talked about Westfield Avenue. Westfield Avenue and plainfield Avenue are the same road. It just says that because this property is mainly on plainfield avenue, but we're going to look at the surrounding area. We're going to do it during peak time. We're going to do it during the school year. We're not going to do it now.
[1:00:29] And we're going to have us further sit down in conversation with our engineers to get the traffic
[1:00:34] study right.
[1:00:36] But there will be a traffic study that is part of this plan.
[1:00:38] It's going to look at the turning radius of all the vehicles.
[1:00:41] And we're going to gather all that data.
[1:00:42] And depending on what we get, that may shift some of these plans a bit.
[1:00:45] That's why they're conceptual at this time.
[1:00:47] But there is a traffic report that will be required before we move forward.
[1:00:52] The open space, the landscape buffer and amenities.
[1:00:55] Obviously, we're going to get further into that.
[1:00:57] There's a lot more of this.
[1:00:58] I just wanted to highlight now the conservation zone, which is very important, what we've been hearing about since 2018.
[1:01:05] I'm going to show some drawings and kind of give you an idea of how much of the conservation zone we think is being used at this time,
[1:01:12] but we've talked about, this council's talked about numerous times, that what we don't use, we're going to look to further protect.
[1:01:17] So we're not, we can't say that tonight for sure how much it's going to be.
[1:01:21] I want to give you an illustration based upon the information we have today, but as I've been saying,
[1:01:26] it's concepts we have to go through the next steps of the process before we have full
[1:01:30] construction drawings where we can make that determination. But we're making the commitment tonight
[1:01:33] that we either green acres or deed restriction or some combination that we're going to protect the
[1:01:38] rest of that land that we don't use that's part of this redevelopment point.
[1:01:43] Environmental analysis
[1:01:44] reports obviously there's environmental work that needs to be done we have phase one we have geo-technical
[1:01:49] work that's got to be done again using that money that we're allocating now we're going to begin that
[1:01:54] process that is also going to influence the direction these drawings go in.
[1:01:59] With regard to utilities and stormwater management, all of that is going to, again, there's
[1:02:04] going to be a plan for that that's going to be developed by our professionals.
[1:02:07] That's going to meet all the DEP new rules and best practices.
[1:02:11] It's going to comply with our stormwater control ordinances.
[1:02:14] Flood management system.
[1:02:15] We're going to talk about flood storage, detention basins, retaining walls, all of that.
[1:02:20] We need to have a very deep conversation about all that and it's a requirement in this plan.
[1:02:24] We're going to do it. We don't have it now
[1:02:26] That's part of the process after tonight
[1:02:28] But that will be required and that will be discussed and that will influence the these drawings
[1:02:34] Here's a here's a conceptual site plan exhibit
[1:02:38] That's in the redevelopment plan
[1:02:41] Showing the layout of the building and the parking on the site now you can see
[1:02:45] It's primarily predominantly on the existing DPW are there's some parking that's going into the conservation zone a bit
[1:02:52] again as I said earlier we're going to still take a look at this we're going to try and if we can reduce that
[1:02:57] parking even more so hopefully we won't have to do that but to be transparent for the benefit of
[1:03:03] the public I wanted to show where we are right now and what that possibly could be we would try the best
[1:03:08] we can to to address that but that's likely as it stands today where what the impact would be and
[1:03:14] then we did is actually harbor consultants put this together they showed us at the planning where
[1:03:19] There's a red line there, might be hard to see how pointed out here, which is based on
[1:03:25] the partner that showed that we added about 20-25 feet just to be an extra conservative
[1:03:30] as to where that line may be as it stands today.
[1:03:33] But that's what we're expecting to be, the maximum impact up there at the top with the vast
[1:03:39] majority of it still protected, but again, that line may shift depending on the next part
[1:03:44] of this process and how the construction drawings are shaped.
[1:03:48] There's this is a can contemplate to be a two story building I'm not going to walk
[1:03:52] through all this people can download and look at it but this is just an exercise that
[1:03:57] we went through with our first responders to make sure that we captured the needs requirements
[1:04:02] and the spatial requirements for each of the departments.
[1:04:05] Again this is going to be looked at we didn't identify each room yet you know we might tweak
[1:04:09] some of the walls and stuff like that but what we were able to determine is that the needs
[1:04:15] studies, the needs of our departments are met with the size of this building.
[1:04:18] So, we may tweak this internally as we go into the construction drawings, but this should
[1:04:22] be, this should be the amount of space that we have, and we went through as I said before,
[1:04:27] very rigorous discussions, not everybody got everything that they wanted, there was hard
[1:04:31] decisions that had to be made, but we know that our first responders are going to be covered
[1:04:35] in terms of what they need to service us for the future in this building.
[1:04:39] So, we've got a first floor, you've got a second floor where you can see there's a legend
[1:04:44] here that people can take a closer look at but there's a lot of shared space in this building,
[1:04:47] there's a lot of common space in this building, we're looking to share space that's the benefit
[1:04:52] of putting it all in one building is we'd have to build all these multiple rooms for each department,
[1:04:56] we can share these services, so that's helped us reduce this footprint, so if we can increase
[1:05:00] the amount of common space, we can incorporate more of that we will and we'll have that conversation.
[1:05:06] We have some conceptual elevations that our architects worked on and I have some more detailed
[1:05:11] renderings I'll show as an illustration but what we tried to do with this is try to soften the
[1:05:17] look of this building make it look a little more residential we didn't want it to look industrial
[1:05:20] we didn't want it to look you know we wanted to have a softer residential feel within the neighborhood
[1:05:26] by incorporating brick and a lot of design elements that you kind of see in the neighborhood so
[1:05:32] again this is just a concept these drawings will be further defined but it gives you it's a starting
[1:05:37] point for where we're going to take this. And I think that our professional did a good job
[1:05:41] taking into consideration, kind of look and feel this building and making sure that it's something
[1:05:46] that fits in. Obviously, class is a big part of ultimately the materials that are going to be used,
[1:05:52] but having a softer residential look is what we're trying to do here. I have some existing photos here
[1:05:58] like if you were driving down, because if you were coming down playing field avenue kind of around
[1:06:02] the bend of what it looks like there today is you know the fence the DPW yard and then an
[1:06:08] illustration of what the building could look like with with the brick and all the design elements
[1:06:12] like I talked about you can see the fire department there over on the left side here for me the the
[1:06:18] bays in the begin in the middle and the rescue squad over there at the end on the bend. Here's
[1:06:23] Plainfield Avenue from the other way where it looks like now and an illustration of what you can see
[1:06:28] fire department now, you can see architecturally kind of the look and feel that we've tried
[1:06:33] to create for this building. And you know, we'll have a licensed landscape architect take
[1:06:37] a look further at the plant things and the trees and all that. I thought it was important
[1:06:40] to show the buildings so you can see what it would look like for tonight. And again, this
[1:06:46] is conceptual. It's an illustration. It starts the process. And you know, we'll sit down and
[1:06:51] we'll have further conversations about this building. But I wanted to show, we wanted to show
[1:06:55] something tonight to give you an idea of what the building may look like in the area.
[1:06:59] We do have a rear shot of the building from behind.
[1:07:04] Obviously, we're going to try to plough for that.
[1:07:07] Shield that as much as possible, but again, I want you to see the building, I want to see
[1:07:10] what it looks like, what's behind it, for the purposes of tonight to give you an idea of
[1:07:14] it.
[1:07:15] There's going to be more conversation about that as we get through the process.
[1:07:18] So, what the next steps are, so what we're doing tonight is we're pointing an architect,
[1:07:24] plan we already have engineer and construction manager with dollars within the
[1:07:29] budget that we already have that we're allocating to them to begin some of the
[1:07:33] steps that I just discussed now. There's many more steps than that those are
[1:07:38] to highlight those are the most common questions we've heard but if you read that
[1:07:41] redevelopment plan you'll read all the steps that have to be done so our
[1:07:45] professionals now we have to sit down come up with a roadmap of how we're going
[1:07:49] to address all these and then we're going to prepare construction drawings,
[1:07:53] construction documents that we will eventually go out to bid for and there will be a planning
[1:07:57] board hearing at some time after the professionals do this review but we'll have a public hearing
[1:08:01] and we'll specifically have discussed traffic study school just like any other redevelopment
[1:08:07] plan that we've had. Any planning board meeting you've been to, the process that we go through,
[1:08:11] we're going through the same process here, it's the same thing. So at a future date, we'll
[1:08:14] have a lot more detail to share on all of those, on all of those points that I've made
[1:08:20] we'll have even more information to share with the public.
[1:08:22] Now, we're putting the zoning in place and tasking our professionals
[1:08:26] to review the redevelopment plan,
[1:08:29] go through all the requirements,
[1:08:30] and come back to us with more refined plans
[1:08:33] and any questions, concerns, comments that we need to report with.
[1:08:37] In the meantime, if people have questions,
[1:08:39] you could call me or email me at any time, absolutely.
[1:08:42] The redevelopment plan, I'll put the PowerPoint on the website too.
[1:08:46] The redevelopment plan is on the website.
[1:08:47] You can download it and go through it.
[1:08:48] This is all the information that we have right now.
[1:08:51] This is as far as we've gotten, which is a big step forward,
[1:08:54] but there's a lot more that has to be done.
[1:08:56] I want people to understand and counsel the public
[1:08:58] that there's a lot more analysis that has to be done here.
[1:09:01] This is a step forward, but it's not the end of this.
[1:09:04] So that redevelopment plan, these exhibits,
[1:09:06] everything I've talked about tonight
[1:09:07] is all the information we have at this stage.
[1:09:10] As we go through the process,
[1:09:11] we'll be able to share more with the public more details.
[1:09:14] This is just conceptual at the stage
[1:09:15] and putting the zoning in to begin these discussions.
[1:09:18] And we have a lot more discussions to have, so.
[1:09:20] Thank you, director Strill.
[1:09:23] Any of my colleagues, any questions for our director before we open the public comment?
[1:09:28] And just a second, I neglected to say that we're also joined tonight by the leadership of our police department and fire department.
[1:09:37] And we had asked Chief Lostard check, Chief Brio, Deputy Chief Selinger, to be here to address any questions related to.
[1:09:47] their relocation to this site in the DPW, the art of Plainfield Avenue.
[1:09:54] If you've been following along, as Director Stroke said, this has been a plan that's
[1:09:58] been in place since before.
[1:10:00] We got here and has always had the support of our emergency responders.
[1:10:06] Deputy Mayor.
[1:10:07] With that, I move that the public hearing on this ordinance be opened.
[1:10:14] I know there are people here in the chambers that wish to participate so I'm glad to appreciate you waiting before and so I wasn't clear if you please start with your name and address for our record as always you have up to three minutes to ask any questions or comments and if we're going to try to do it this way if you would please.
[1:10:41] Make any comments, ask any questions that you wish, up to three minutes.
[1:10:45] And most respectfully, if you then go and take a seat back back in here in Chambers,
[1:10:52] either some of my colleagues or manager of myself or director will try our best to address those questions and
[1:10:58] comments one at a time.
[1:11:00] We're going to try to do it that way.
[1:11:02] If questions become repetitive, we'll point that out, you know, already answered.
[1:11:06] And if this process seems to cause some confusion, then we'll go back and listen to everyone and try to hit everyone on the end.
[1:11:17] But what our goal is, is to be as transparent as possible and address the questions as each person participating public comment concludes their comments.
[1:11:29] All right, thank you.
[1:11:30] Please start with the name and address for the record.
[1:11:36] I'm glad I waited Mr. Mayor because they'd answer a lot of my questions in particular about the green acres trying to keep some of the conservation zone as much as possible green acres.
[1:11:48] My other concern was the environmental study.
[1:11:51] I don't know if you come across contamination, do you have a plan to remediate and that could be pretty expensive.
[1:11:59] But I'm glad to see that the plan has developed over the years a lot better than initial plan
[1:12:05] seemed to be.
[1:12:06] But that being the case, I still have to say it's a bad location.
[1:12:11] I still think it's a dangerous location and I know you can have a traffic study done
[1:12:16] and my question is after the traffic study is done will be available to the public that
[1:12:23] we could respond with any inconsistencies that we as residents know.
[1:12:28] without having to make an Oprah request that could probably be posted or readily available.
[1:12:34] And my other concern is, I still say, it's the egress for these emergency vehicles,
[1:12:43] especially during school hours and school events, creates a dangerous situation.
[1:12:48] And it also makes it a longer time for emergency vehicles to get to that destination.
[1:12:57] Every road there is 25 miles an hour.
[1:13:00] So emergency vehicles obviously have to go faster than 25 miles an hour.
[1:13:05] And you're doing so in school zones where this evergreen does the high school, this
[1:13:12] brown or this same bars.
[1:13:14] And when those schools are getting out, and if there's an emergency, that could be dangerous
[1:13:20] to our children and to anybody who is on the other end of the emergency, trying to get there on time.
[1:13:28] So, I still have concerns about that, and my last question is, well we have a time to respond to,
[1:13:37] after we review the traffic study, will we be able to respond to it before it's rubber stamped?
[1:13:46] Not that you would rubber stamp it, but before it gets approved.
[1:13:52] Thank you.
[1:13:52] Thank you.
[1:13:53] If you've concluded public comment, thank you.
[1:13:56] Director Strodo, do you want to address,
[1:13:58] Mr. Baruch?
[1:13:59] Yeah.
[1:14:00] So with regards to the traffic study, like any,
[1:14:03] again, like any application that, you know, like for example,
[1:14:06] we just did a traffic study.
[1:14:07] Leo had to do a traffic study.
[1:14:09] Quick check had to do a traffic study.
[1:14:10] That traffic study becomes a public document that gets uploaded
[1:14:14] with all the application documents with that are part
[1:14:17] of a site plan application.
[1:14:19] And notice goes out to the public with at least within 200 feet.
[1:14:23] They get it.
[1:14:23] They find out when the date of the meeting is, and you have a chance to look at all that.
[1:14:27] And then you can come to that site plan here and you can speak based upon what's in the traffic
[1:14:31] study.
[1:14:31] And our board does it too.
[1:14:32] Our board members have questions.
[1:14:34] We tweak right there on the spot.
[1:14:37] We've given comments to legal, for example, about turning and different things like that that
[1:14:41] resulted from that traffic study.
[1:14:42] So, you know, we can discuss maybe, maybe we make things available sooner or that sort of thing.
[1:14:49] In this case, because it's a unique situation, but those traffic reports all become part of the application
[1:14:55] and become a public document that gets uploaded to our website in an app.
[1:15:10] So, there will definitely be opportunities for you to look at that and for comments during the process. So, we can talk more about that, but at least initially, we can say that, you know, that becomes part of the application that becomes publicly available. And then with the environmental look, I agree. There can be things that could come up that could, as I'm saying, these are concepts.
[1:15:29] they could shift. So that's part of the work that our engineers have to do. If you look at our
[1:15:34] preliminary investigation report and the documents that we've, you know, the reports we've already
[1:15:38] pulled, we've searched DEP records, we've looked at things, we haven't found any records of any sort
[1:15:44] of contamination that have been documented to this point. But with that, there's still phase one
[1:15:50] environmental and geotechnicals that have to be done that will get reported back to us that we will
[1:15:55] have to look at. So I agree that this is part of the process that's
[1:15:59] be done. We haven't found any records of anything to this point, searching
[1:16:03] our own records and state records. But we're going to take a much deeper
[1:16:06] dive in that after this process as that is a requirement of the redevelopment
[1:16:10] plan. But thank you, Director Stroh. I saw the manager was not in early when
[1:16:18] the question was posed. I would think at a minimum when the application is
[1:16:21] complete and ready to be served on the planning board members.
[1:16:26] We can make the entire application, we can upload it to our website and make everything available to the public at that time.
[1:16:35] And it gave me a reason to remind everyone.
[1:16:42] Originally, the proposal was to relocate Town Hall and our court to this site.
[1:16:47] And we're at this moment, the manager, and I just this morning had a good meeting with Mayor Mar discussing, and we already have a handshake deal on it, to chair court services with van Wood.
[1:17:03] So we will no longer need to have an actual courtroom in the structure.
[1:17:09] And if you're following along, a redevelopment plan for District B, where we're sitting now,
[1:17:16] Well, actually, it's not a done deal where we'll go, but our library in town hall will stay in the downtown.
[1:17:22] Most likely in districts, in district A or B, which is where the library is now, and where town hall is now.
[1:17:30] It's still a little bit of an open dialogue.
[1:17:34] And with regards to emergency responders and how they respond, the police are already patrolling the town and the cars are out.
[1:17:43] The fire department has repeatedly explained that this location is more centrally located to most of the town than the existing building is, and that their response time will be an improvement over where we are now, and I'll leave it there.
[1:18:04] Before we continue, we want to be a productive, efficient, respectful meeting.
[1:18:11] We are working on these issues every day since we got here.
[1:18:18] Director Stroh, our managers and us with our professionals are working tirelessly to make
[1:18:25] this project work for Scotch Plains, and we know that everyone will be happy with the outcome.
[1:18:32] But we want to get this as right as we can be, and I think we're always respectful and I just hope we'll get the same.
[1:18:41] Thank you.
[1:18:45] Connie Baruch, also 2333 Evergreen Avenue, Scotch Plains.
[1:18:51] As my husband stated, safety is number one, and all of this being on the corner of Evergreen and high school and the high school puts our children in danger.
[1:19:01] I've personally seen cars trying to go around my stopped car while children were walking
[1:19:06] their bikes across Westfield Avenue and we showed the last council because I've been
[1:19:10] here since the 2018-19 and the 18 beginning of 19 footage of a car going around the
[1:19:16] crossing guard who had their hands up to beat the kids that were going through the crossing
[1:19:22] the street.
[1:19:23] We showed this film to the former council, and this is just not a good place to add fuel to the fire.
[1:19:33] The people living behind the redevelopment area, now we're going to have all those parking lots in their backyards.
[1:19:40] I'm glad that you're looking at having flood studies done and maybe retaining walls and things like that.
[1:19:47] And as for the egress, I know you've just addressed that, but Jerusalem,
[1:19:52] I mean, I've said this 9,000 times,
[1:19:54] but Jerusalem is a winding, bumpy road,
[1:19:56] not great for quick emergency.
[1:19:59] Egress, Henry has the much needed speed bumps
[1:20:02] that the residents spent much time getting
[1:20:05] because of various accidents on that block.
[1:20:07] Belvedere leads right back to Henry.
[1:20:09] The next block, I believe, is a cul-de-sac.
[1:20:12] You might need to go all the way up to Westville Road
[1:20:15] to that light, to Egress, to get into certain parts
[1:20:20] of the town.
[1:20:20] the other way that you're going, you're right on the border of Westfield.
[1:20:24] I can't see how that would be central, more central than where you are now.
[1:20:29] How about getting to the other side of town?
[1:20:30] How many schools are you going to pass?
[1:20:32] And how long is that going to take?
[1:20:34] Clearly placing all of this on the border of Westfield does not seem right to me.
[1:20:39] I know Representative Tom Keane was here.
[1:20:41] That's wonderful.
[1:20:43] Did you tell him that before COVID, the Township Meeting Room was overflowed,
[1:20:50] Overflowing people outside the emergency exits,
[1:20:53] over 200 people here, concerned citizens
[1:20:56] who were vehemently opposed to this move.
[1:21:00] Did you share the reality of the congestion of foot
[1:21:04] and car traffic going to and from the schools
[1:21:06] and school events, like the Halloween party?
[1:21:09] You got to come and see that sometime.
[1:21:11] And if there's an emergency at that time.
[1:21:14] Although the council told him as per the statement
[1:21:17] that we got in our email that you were 100% behind these plans. Obviously, you did not have
[1:21:23] anyone there to represent the people who live here and love that neighborhood and love their
[1:21:29] children. Oh, but wait a minute. We elected you to represent us who live there. You know,
[1:21:37] and we've been coming for years and years and COVID did a job on us that we couldn't get people to
[1:21:42] come into the courts anymore.
[1:21:44] And now people are on vacations.
[1:21:46] David and I are both on the neighborhood alliance.
[1:21:49] It was one actually of our members who suggested
[1:21:52] the town hall go on top of the library.
[1:21:55] And so I just wanted to get all that in.
[1:21:57] Thank you for your comments.
[1:22:03] And before we move on, I'll share the manager
[1:22:05] and I met with Congressman Kane last week.
[1:22:07] It was a terrific meeting.
[1:22:09] We did share.
[1:22:10] I don't think it needed to even be shared that not everybody is supportive of a plan.
[1:22:16] Congressman Kane pointed that out, that sometimes when you're doing the town's business,
[1:22:27] you're doing work that serves the town.
[1:22:30] And by doing that there are individuals that may not be agreed.
[1:22:33] Usually those are the individuals most directly affected by what you're doing.
[1:22:39] But the congressman remains supportive and is doing what he can to that we hope federal
[1:22:48] grant money towards the construction of the building and I'll remind everyone the fire
[1:22:54] department is behind this building in or downtown close to schools and needs to navigate
[1:23:00] Park Avenue in order to respond to an emergency in this part of town.
[1:23:04] Their leadership has consistently said, again and again, and again, that those trucks are driven very carefully and that they are confident that they'll be able to appropriately and responsibly respond to emergencies.
[1:23:19] And finally, you gave me a reason to remind me of this.
[1:23:23] Since day one, we've looked at, we've been open to alternative sites for emergency services building, but
[1:23:32] But the DPW yard is property that the township owns and as Director Strobe pointed out,
[1:23:40] it fits what we're trying to do.
[1:23:42] So it makes all the sense in the world to the governing body to relocate our emergency
[1:23:47] responders there as we redevelop our downtown.
[1:23:52] Hi.
[1:23:52] Thank you.
[1:23:53] Please.
[1:23:55] Hi.
[1:23:55] My name is Alexis Rosenberg, 432 Pine Grove Circle off of Westfield Avenue.
[1:24:00] First and foremost, I'm a mom.
[1:24:02] I have a seven-year-old that goes to Evergreen Elementary
[1:24:04] and I have a 10-year-old that just finished Evergreen
[1:24:08] and we'll be starting at Nettingham Middle next month.
[1:24:11] I think that this plan is dangerous.
[1:24:13] I think moving the emergency services,
[1:24:15] one block from Evergreen Elementary School in a town
[1:24:19] in a district that has no busing,
[1:24:21] that is all walking is dangerous.
[1:24:24] You have hundreds of people starting brand new babies
[1:24:29] in strollers with their parents taking their siblings to the elementary school.
[1:24:34] There are hundreds of kids in the elementary school plus their parents, often both parents,
[1:24:38] plus their younger siblings a lot of times in strollers.
[1:24:43] I challenge you to please watch from 7.15 in the morning until 7.35 in the morning on a school
[1:24:50] day and see up to 500 people from age two months old to age 100 years old as the grandparents
[1:24:58] are also taking these elementary school kids to like everyone is walking.
[1:25:04] I personally for the last five years have done drop-off in front of the
[1:25:07] elementary school and then continued to drive up to Westfield and made a
[1:25:13] right where where the redevelopment is so I can go to work right after I do
[1:25:17] school drop-off it takes over ten minutes because there are so many people they
[1:25:23] let the bell out and it's just kids running like you have to go so slow I know
[1:25:27] that there are crossing guards and I think that's great but every parent is doing drop-off
[1:25:33] as well as walking and it's just hundreds of people it takes so long and there's also
[1:25:38] people rushing for trains, rushing for work to add emergency services where they have
[1:25:43] to get to an emergency in a timely manner does not make sense a block from an elementary school
[1:25:50] that is all working. We have world class, world class emergency services here. I have used the police,
[1:25:57] the fire and the emergency services and they are unbelievable and to put children in harm's
[1:26:05] way and also to slow down them being able to get to an emergency. I have called them because
[1:26:11] I smelled gas. I have called them because I thought someone was breaking into my house. They have
[1:26:14] been there in a minute from Park Avenue. I am worried that people will not get the level of service
[1:26:21] that they need in this town and it's not fair to the emergency services. You say it's closer,
[1:26:26] I have so many friends that are on the south side, you'd have to pass right by the old building to get to their house.
[1:26:33] And if not, you're going right past the elementary school.
[1:26:36] I don't understand why we can't move something safer like the library to that field and
[1:26:40] then keep the emergency services in a new building to this area.
[1:26:45] Thank you.
[1:26:49] Thank you for your comments, Dr. Stro, anything, I think most of that we addressed already.
[1:26:56] The idea of putting the library there in the fire, keeping the fire woman here, I don't think it's feasible with our plan, but our planner is in the audience and heard that and as we negotiate downtown redevelopment, if there's an option that will work it, and I'll just ask the leadership of our emergency services or in the back if at any time you want to participate, please come on up, but I won't put you on the spot.
[1:27:22] Thank you for your comments.
[1:27:24] Hi, my name is Lauren L. Perez. I own the property on 23, 20 A. Evergreen Avenue
[1:27:29] Scotchplain. And so my husband and I purchased the house in Evergreen about two
[1:27:35] months ago, and one of sort of the big attractions that we have was because
[1:27:39] it was next to this sort of like gluel forest that we see. We are planning on
[1:27:45] having children, we're planning to stay in Scotchplain for hopefully a very
[1:27:49] a long time, however, had I knew that there was going to be sort of a police department
[1:27:55] and emergency vehicles and a fire department right, essentially next to where I lived, I would
[1:28:01] absolutely choose another house or another town altogether. I've shared concerns and comments
[1:28:06] with my friends and relatives and sort of they all know they would never move to a place
[1:28:11] where it's right next to sort of all of these services that you're mentioning. I don't see
[1:28:17] how I would have sort of a one-year-old that potentially could run out industry where
[1:28:22] there will be police cars or fire trucks sort of running around town to get to where they
[1:28:27] need to.
[1:28:28] It seems dangerous.
[1:28:29] It doesn't seem like it's the right place to put these submersion services.
[1:28:33] Not only that, that sort of throughout the country, the president and different states and
[1:28:39] organizations always talk about the importance of the environment and the importance of keeping
[1:28:43] been trees and forests and all of these development that you go through different towns where you
[1:28:49] barely see any parks and if you see parks it's grass there's barely any trees. So we're talking
[1:28:54] about sort of removing a number of trees and big sort of forests that I don't know where else in
[1:29:01] scotch plains that exist. There are parks but not as many trees as they are right next to where I live.
[1:29:08] And considering sort of just quoting them all down, just to make a far-the-paramony seems
[1:29:15] insensitive to the environment.
[1:29:17] And I think this initiative from sort of the entire country has been going on for a
[1:29:23] long time.
[1:29:24] I think that whatever decision is, I think first we should try to put this emergency services
[1:29:32] where there isn't like a forest, where there is just another building there and sort of
[1:29:37] but some put it there somehow.
[1:29:40] And two, if the decision is to move forward with this plan,
[1:29:43] whatever forest is left, I think that it should be sort of
[1:29:47] some mandate so that it can ever be touched
[1:29:49] because I can see how right now your plans are
[1:29:52] to only take part of it, but how that could lead to
[1:29:55] more and more of the forest being taken down.
[1:29:58] Thank you.
[1:30:00] Thank you very much for your comments.
[1:30:03] Mr. Stroke, the idea of a deed restriction for green acres for the remainder of the conservation zone is part of the plan. Right. It comes part of the zoning, correct. It's just like any other green acres facing in town that we have today. It becomes part of your green acres. You go through the state, you designated, you can't touch it unless you went through a various rigorous process to change that which really doesn't happen.
[1:30:29] For example, you know, as we've been developing our downtown plan, some people talk about what's happening in the village green.
[1:30:36] Well, the village green state, number one, we're keeping the village green because it's a great asset to our town, and we're going to enhance it.
[1:30:41] But I can't touch it if I wanted to. It's green acres. It's protected. You can't build on it.
[1:30:45] So I think we addressed that in the comments. It's in the plan you're voting on that tonight that what's left over is going to get that protection.
[1:30:52] It's right now, there's no protection of this concert.
[1:30:55] It's called the Conservation Zone, but there's no sort of deed restriction that's on it.
[1:30:59] What we're going to do is after we go through this process, change that and actually go take that step on what land is left.
[1:31:06] So I think I agree with the comments we're going to try and protect as much we can.
[1:31:10] We said that and add that extra layer of protection that we don't have now and add it to that so that it protects us going forward.
[1:31:18] Thank you.
[1:31:20] Yes.
[1:31:21] Thank you.
[1:31:25] I sympathize if a home was purchased without knowing that this has been the town's plan for
[1:31:31] many years.
[1:31:33] At the same time, I know many residents have shared with me how they wish they lived closer to
[1:31:41] an emergency to the police and or fire, so it's like every way you can look at it.
[1:31:46] I'll share this.
[1:31:48] The comment was about trees and the environment and finding another location.
[1:31:53] If anyone in the public can find space in Scotch Plains that will fit the emergency services building and cost nothing to procure will consider it.
[1:32:06] But the fact is the DPW yard is a perfect location for many reasons.
[1:32:12] and I just summed them up right there.
[1:32:17] It's a suitable location for the emergency services and
[1:32:22] has the support of our emergency responders who will do as they do right now.
[1:32:27] Drive very carefully when they respond to emergencies.
[1:32:31] We don't want to do anything that's unsafe.
[1:32:34] Thank you.
[1:32:35] With that being said, I have another question.
[1:32:37] If you said we're getting so much money to sell this place, couldn't you purchase something
[1:32:47] else you haven't given us a course for rebuilding everything that's got to probably be a fortune
[1:32:52] too, even though we have the land as you say.
[1:32:56] So what's the cost of it to us to read, to redo all this and the fact of the schools that
[1:33:04] That will be needing where there's no land to build the schools for the children that will be moving into this area.
[1:33:12] But my question originally was, have you notified the people that live right where that's being built?
[1:33:20] Publicly notified them, not just on the internet, have they received letters?
[1:33:26] Because there's not that many people here and there's a lot of houses that that building would affect,
[1:33:31] which would, when they built Taylor's way, we weren't notified until it was
[1:33:39] already planned, and there was nothing to do with it about it, and we ended up
[1:33:44] flooded because of it. So isn't that going to create a flood area, which I believe
[1:33:51] that area is already a flood zone, and what's going to happen with the leaves and
[1:33:56] And all public works if you're taking over that, where are you putting them and what money is that in the course?
[1:34:06] Thank you for your comments.
[1:34:08] That's some new questions, Director Strohwed.
[1:34:11] We want to address that.
[1:34:11] So, with regard to the notice, as I said before, when the site plan and application is put together, like I said, we're not at that stage.
[1:34:17] But there is a notice that is mandated that has to be sent.
[1:34:20] that within 200 feet, if you're outside of the 200 foot,
[1:34:24] I mean, that's the state law doesn't require a notice,
[1:34:26] but we can, you know, we can have a conversation about
[1:34:29] if we adjust that, but there's a 200 foot requirement
[1:34:31] that will, people will be noticed of a meeting,
[1:34:34] of a site plan application where all these details
[1:34:36] are going to be discussed and people will get that notice.
[1:34:41] With regards to, you know, the economics of the plan,
[1:34:44] this is a zoning, this is a redevelopment plan,
[1:34:47] it's a zoning document, it's not a financial plan.
[1:34:49] That's also part of the next step, so what we have to discuss, but we've touched on some of it in the meetings, yes, there's the sale of the land that we're on, there's financial agreements, ones that we have existing with developments now, and ones that we will have on top of what will go here, so between the grants, between the sale of the land, between the financial agreements and the revenue that we're going to bring in, we're going to develop an economic plan that will go into detail on all these various aspects.
[1:35:18] So as we continue on negotiations with Woodmont and all the other developers that all gets folded into a plan
[1:35:23] I know at some point we're going to walk through all that entire that entire plan and process
[1:35:29] But look the land that you know the money that we derive from here is going to most likely go to building and making this as
[1:35:35] Cost effective as possible to add a purchase price of land on top of the cost that we're already going to have
[1:35:42] You know we can talk about it, but I just you know
[1:35:45] I don't see it right now, but there has to be a much more in-depth broader conversation
[1:35:50] that we'll have to be discussed with the council on all the economics.
[1:35:53] But we're putting all of the various resources together, having our financial analysts
[1:35:58] and W already take a look at this stuff and then come out.
[1:36:01] But again, I understand the financials are a question.
[1:36:04] This is a zoning document, it's not a financial plan.
[1:36:07] That's going to be a financial agreement, that's going to master financial agreement, that's
[1:36:11] going to govern this whole thing that we will walk through and discuss, and that's, I
[1:36:17] mean, I think that's where we are right now with that, but we have various funding and
[1:36:21] sale and grants and other things that we're getting to offset this as much as possible.
[1:36:25] Right, right.
[1:36:25] Thank you, Director Schroess.
[1:36:28] As you heard, what we're building, this is what is proposed to be built on Plainfield
[1:36:34] Avenue at the DPW site, but it's changing.
[1:36:37] It's evolving.
[1:36:37] And there's no cost associated right now with this project, because we don't know what the finished project was going to be.
[1:36:45] But I certainly won't support the acquisition of land to increase the cost of this structure when the DPW yard is available.
[1:36:54] A manager, Mirabella, could address the question about leaves and
[1:37:00] and explain that we're talking about one side of plane, so that we're not the other, so the DW building will say that say there.
[1:37:07] Yeah, thanks, Mayor.
[1:37:08] So you and I had a chance, actually, to tour the DPW front yard
[1:37:13] and there can certainly be some reconfiguration of that land
[1:37:17] and repurposing some of that area.
[1:37:20] We also have, and work very well with the attachment of Westfield
[1:37:24] and have in play, we already have a shared service agreement
[1:37:28] to put yards and leaves in their yard.
[1:37:31] And we've opened up that conversation and have met
[1:37:34] that with a very receptive ear about putting more leaves there if that is what it turns out to be.
[1:37:40] So I feel very comfortable that we have a plan to replace the equipment and find a place for it and also with the leave disposed of.
[1:37:50] Thank you very much.
[1:37:54] My name is Cindy Newman.
[1:37:56] I'm a 40 year resident.
[1:37:57] I live on Westfield Ave.
[1:37:58] I'm also the co-chair of the Scotch Plains neighborhood Alliance.
[1:38:01] We have approximately a hundred households and the first I want to thank Tom. He's entertained many calls for me with my
[1:38:09] ongoing questions and I appreciate that although I don't agree with plan
[1:38:14] One of the main things I'm concerned about that's already been raised is the last safe routes to school
[1:38:22] Plan was done from 2015
[1:38:25] We have multiple children has been said
[1:38:28] walking to schools, evergreen,
[1:38:31] runner, same parts, the middle school,
[1:38:36] and the high school.
[1:38:37] That's a lot of kids.
[1:38:38] We have 35 crosswalks that I've counted several times.
[1:38:42] The kids are crossing are all times of the day for school.
[1:38:46] They're our crossing guards, that's great.
[1:38:48] But they're not there at other times when kids
[1:38:51] are going to playgrounds to visit friends
[1:38:53] for a bike ride to jog.
[1:38:56] One of the other things is,
[1:38:57] is you all live on the other side of town.
[1:38:59] That's not the way.
[1:39:01] Please, if you'll stop the timer, that is not true.
[1:39:04] Well, who lives by us?
[1:39:05] Councilman White, do you live on the south side of town?
[1:39:08] No, I do not.
[1:39:09] Councilman Samard, do you live on the south side of town?
[1:39:11] No.
[1:39:12] And I have said many times that I don't consider there
[1:39:14] to be a north side and south side of town.
[1:39:17] I think of the town of Scott's Plank.
[1:39:18] I just wanted to address that because you've said
[1:39:20] that several times.
[1:39:22] And we have directly used several times.
[1:39:24] And you continue to say it.
[1:39:26] All right. All right. Well, check out where they live.
[1:39:28] Thank you. We'll see if you please resume the clock.
[1:39:30] All right. So anyway, our concern is that relocating all these services
[1:39:36] will be gentle metal because they will be traveling on high rates of speed.
[1:39:40] There are also two curves. As you come around, playing field
[1:39:44] app on to west field app, there's one curve and there's one later.
[1:39:47] In years past, of course have gone on people's properties.
[1:39:51] Maybe not recently, but that's happened.
[1:39:54] We're requesting a safe route to school study now to look at all this before we move forward.
[1:40:00] We want to ensure the safety and health of our children.
[1:40:03] This is really important.
[1:40:05] It's not just a little thing.
[1:40:07] I mean, I was a week or two ago coming by the golf course,
[1:40:12] and there was a police car in front of me.
[1:40:14] He was going fast, and he had his lights on, but he didn't have his siren.
[1:40:17] There were two little girls coming across by Westfield Boulevard.
[1:40:22] They didn't know which way to go.
[1:40:23] And I was like, oh, go back on the Westfield side.
[1:40:27] No, they ran the other, luckily they didn't get hit.
[1:40:29] But you could see the panic on their faces.
[1:40:31] The police have to respond to things in a timely manner.
[1:40:35] They can't do that when you have kids riding bikes and whatever.
[1:40:38] It doesn't.
[1:40:39] If there's no common sense to it, we're concerned about the health and safety of our children.
[1:40:43] the 35 crosswalks, the cost of taxpayers to build this
[1:40:48] vast of thing is that all going to be covered with selling the
[1:40:51] downtown area. I don't know that. The quality of life for those of us that
[1:40:55] live in the neighborhood, the traffic, the noise, the lighting, the pollution, all
[1:41:00] those houses that back up on there have very nice trees and back. That's all going
[1:41:05] to be taken away. It's not going to be, you know, 30, 40-foot trees anymore.
[1:41:12] Their
[1:41:13] So my understanding is that it is partially a flood zone and that area does already flood the concern about the conservation areas and the wildlife we have, the wildlife isn't going to want to stay there with all of this noise and whatever. It's just not going to happen.
[1:41:27] I feel that there's been a lack of transparency at some level and a lack of taxpayer involvement as well.
[1:41:33] Thank you, Mrs. Newman.
[1:41:35] Mr. Newman and the prior person in the participated public comment asked a question about the flood zone.
[1:41:42] I think there's some falsehood out there about where we're locating, where we're proposing to locate the emergency services.
[1:41:51] Could you shed some light on that please?
[1:41:55] I think everything else we've addressed already except for the safe routes to school, which I'll address.
[1:42:01] Thank you for the suggestion, I know our managers will keep it under consideration and if they think it's worthwhile they'll make a proposal to the council, but just regarding the flood zones.
[1:42:11] Yeah, no, I mean, if you look at the FEMA maps, I mean, the areas within the 500-year flood zone, it's not in a flood zone that you can't build in.
[1:42:22] As I said before, we have a letter from the DCA that says this is situated where redevelopment should occur.
[1:42:28] So it's not in a prohibited flood zone that you can't build.
[1:42:31] By the way, all the whole neighborhoods in the 500 year,
[1:42:34] which is the lowest regulated flood plane that there is.
[1:42:38] So look, I know that we've identified within the studies,
[1:42:41] two isolated pockets of wetlands that have to be addressed
[1:42:44] with the DEP.
[1:42:46] But other than that, there's not, you know,
[1:42:47] if people think that there's, you know,
[1:42:50] our engineers are going to take a look at this.
[1:42:51] As I said, we're going to talk about storm water management,
[1:42:53] retaining walls, and that's all part of this.
[1:42:57] But we're going to go by the FEMA maps and the DEP and what the regulations are that they're requiring and so we've already looked at all that
[1:43:03] This is not a flood zone that you can't build in. This is you know, there's there's a there's a process here like anywhere
[1:43:09] But but the regulations here are different than say the downtown
[1:43:12] so
[1:43:14] It's not you know
[1:43:15] We're going to work through the the process on stormwater management flooding but
[1:43:20] You know, and that's why look if you look if you look at the concept plans we talk about the parking is the permeable pavement
[1:43:25] We're trying to incorporate green, green standards as much as possible into this plan to reduce any of that.
[1:43:32] We're trying to reduce the impervious coverage right now.
[1:43:35] I mean, it's all disturbed land that's operating right now today.
[1:43:38] We're not going into anybody's yards where we've actually done this by even reducing the parking to this stage.
[1:43:45] Back that up further from the property lines that we had at one point, we looked at it and we said, wow, this looks pretty close.
[1:43:51] And then through conversations, we moved that back further.
[1:43:53] Maybe we'll get to move it further than I agree it's look tight spot and there's a lot going on here
[1:43:57] I understand but this is all part of the additional conversations and based upon what the stormwater management reports say and the
[1:44:05] Environmental Zona that can change this thing could still go 15 different ways. So it's premature to comment all that now we have a process that we have to follow. So
[1:44:14] I understand I agree that we need to have a lot of these answers and we're going to get it that's required. We're stating that tonight we're doing this.
[1:44:23] So we'll be able to work that, and we'll have, you know, I'm going to trust our professionals to guide us on this.
[1:44:29] Thank you, Director Stroke.
[1:44:31] Thank you.
[1:44:33] Waze Wong, 23-28 evergreen out.
[1:44:37] Definitely want to express my discontent about the redevelopment plan.
[1:44:41] Obviously, you know, I didn't know about it, but that's fair.
[1:44:43] Like, I think towns need to be redeveloped, but I think just, again,
[1:44:48] stress in the fact that the EML service is placed right in between you know
[1:44:54] downtown and in the school I think it doesn't really make sense overall
[1:45:00] I plan to have family here. I wouldn't want my children to be, you know, kind of in the middle of all that noise. And, you know, we're even thinking about moving out due to this plan. And I think it's a really terrible decision overall. I think, secondly, I want to address that I give putting a library in downtown versus not putting it into the actual area where the kids are. I don't know what adult year 20 to 40 will
[1:45:29] actually go to a library, mostly you're on Zoom or you're in some sort of, you know, website
[1:45:36] reading material. I think there's a need to have a library in downtown.
[1:45:42] Secondly, I think having lived in cities where there's a lot of EMS services around,
[1:45:50] I've lived in right next to actually Port Authority, which is probably the worst. And I'm not saying
[1:45:55] and that this is going to be the case here,
[1:45:57] but it is loud.
[1:45:59] I don't want to be woken up at 3 a.m.
[1:46:01] with the fire truck going through Westville Ave.
[1:46:05] That is not something that is conducive to anyone
[1:46:07] in that residential neighborhood.
[1:46:09] And I don't think this is a great idea.
[1:46:12] And I think this is going to trap people
[1:46:14] from coming into Wisconsin.
[1:46:18] And secondarily, I know that, you know,
[1:46:22] if this plan were to go through,
[1:46:24] I would like to see if there's any opportunities in terms of building up sound barriers so that you can at least
[1:46:30] You know kind of shelter people around that area so that it's not as noisy
[1:46:36] I would like to see a plan in place for the M.S. Although I don't think it makes sense to tell the M.S.
[1:46:44] To you know take it slow when you're coming out to a burning house, right?
[1:46:53] So
[1:46:54] and place that doesn't just really pollute the native of it with noise.
[1:47:00] So, thank you Mr. Wong.
[1:47:02] I appreciate your comments.
[1:47:08] I appreciate your comments and this is a good opportunity to remind everyone our fire
[1:47:14] department to serve five volunteers who live in Scotch Plains, they live all over Scotch Plains.
[1:47:18] That means when they're responding to a fire and they're leaving home to respond at this time,
[1:47:28] they only use the sirens when it's necessary.
[1:47:31] They don't exit the firehouse with the sirens blaring.
[1:47:34] They certainly don't exit the firehouse at full speed, because they watch where they're going,
[1:47:39] and they need to travel safely.
[1:47:42] But the sound barrier's idea, I think, with buffering and so forth,
[1:47:46] if wherever possible, that will be done through it.
[1:47:51] And otherwise, I appreciate your comments.
[1:47:53] Mayor, if I can just, yeah, because I've been listening
[1:47:57] and I understand where everybody is coming from,
[1:48:00] and when I was first elected, we had been talking about this
[1:48:03] because I remember shortly after being elected,
[1:48:06] meeting with many of the leaders of our emergency responders,
[1:48:10] many of who are in this room tonight,
[1:48:13] to understand this project because it was being talked
[1:48:16] about and I know the mayor and I had heard a lot about it when we were meeting with community
[1:48:20] members throughout the town. So I have heard a lot about it and I understand the reservations.
[1:48:27] But it does, I do have to say, it doesn't matter what part of town you live on. There is
[1:48:31] traffic on every street now in Scotch Plains. You can go down Martin. You can go down Tarrell.
[1:48:35] You can go down West Broad and sometimes you sit. I also think I just keep hearing that we're
[1:48:43] we're putting it within a block of a school,
[1:48:45] but it already is within a block of a school.
[1:48:49] Right now, it is St. Farts, Nettingham and School One.
[1:48:56] So right now, it already is near within a block
[1:49:00] of three schools.
[1:49:02] And right now, all of our emergency responders
[1:49:06] take the precautions that they need to take,
[1:49:09] that they've been trained to make,
[1:49:12] to ensure the safety of our community, but also exit their facilities in a timely way
[1:49:20] that they have been trained to do. And I don't know what that is because I haven't been trained
[1:49:23] to do that. But they have all been trained to do this in the middle of areas that there
[1:49:28] are children walking and schools and just regular everybody going about their business.
[1:49:35] it is what they're trained to do.
[1:49:38] So I understand that, but I think we've already been doing it.
[1:49:43] And as far, I mean, as the fire too, I keep hearing about,
[1:49:45] there is a fire department on the South Side.
[1:49:48] So the fire department is not going to necessarily,
[1:49:52] from my understanding and the conversations
[1:49:53] I have with the chief when I first started,
[1:49:56] was they're not going to be going through the center of town
[1:49:59] to get over to the other side of town,
[1:50:01] because the South Side Fire Department
[1:50:03] is going to be over there. The police are already on our streets. So they might
[1:50:09] not be pulling out of the police station because they're already out
[1:50:13] patrolling our streets. So all these things that we're talking about, I know they
[1:50:19] are so important, we are all parents or most of us are half families and go to
[1:50:24] school, we walk in the neighborhoods, we want the safest thing for our
[1:50:30] our communities. All of these things we're talking about are already currently happening in the current location.
[1:50:37] Thank you.
[1:50:38] Thank you.
[1:50:39] Okay. I'd like to speak.
[1:50:42] Ms. Zimmerman, this is nothing in your backyard. It's in arts. That's number one.
[1:50:48] Number two, in regards to, you know, doing some investigation in regards to seeing,
[1:50:56] If you know about the traffic, environment, I don't trust you guys because if you take
[1:51:03] a look at part, if you take a look at plain philanthropy, whoever approved for those
[1:51:08] 18-wills chemical trucks, when they get to plain philanthropy and Jerusalem, they blow
[1:51:14] going forward as if they want to, as if they want to need Jersey term by this is supposed
[1:51:22] to be a community. It was very quiet around it. Who approved that? Somebody had to approve.
[1:51:30] There's so many in our town. The New Jersey Department. You know what? I'll be honest with you.
[1:51:35] Everyone gets on this panel. It had to be some type of agreement for that to take place.
[1:51:42] Never once did you think about the people that lived in that community?
[1:51:45] In my community? You don't think about the quietness I can tell you?
[1:51:48] Those trucks, it's going to be a disaster.
[1:51:51] They allow chemical trucks throwing up and down on a plain fill out of you.
[1:51:55] Like I said, it was an accident Wednesday.
[1:51:57] They were going so fast the man tried to put on brakes in the whole street.
[1:52:02] He couldn't even put on brakes because this is a tow truck that was going so fast.
[1:52:08] He literally, the vehicle could not stop.
[1:52:11] It almost hit a building in one of those houses.
[1:52:14] People would take children, walking, they'd be jogging.
[1:52:19] This is a horrible idea.
[1:52:20] Next, I think the library should be combined it with family.
[1:52:24] The courthouse should be combined it with family.
[1:52:26] That's the action in that idea.
[1:52:28] We need to combine some of these services.
[1:52:31] But in regards to other things, it need to be made down
[1:52:34] of stats.
[1:52:34] I think we need to get this one more.
[1:52:37] We need to scrap this plane and start it all over again.
[1:52:41] Maybe bring up some houses up here, okay?
[1:52:44] Leave the emergency downtown, okay?
[1:52:48] And had Mr. King come back up here and listen at the community.
[1:52:53] All this Mr. King, I'm sorry, Mr. King Wednesday.
[1:52:59] No, he should be up here listening at the community.
[1:53:02] Because this is a horrible idea.
[1:53:03] our kids' life is at stake. Thank you.
[1:53:08] Thank you for your comments.
[1:53:12] Just may I have just this question?
[1:53:14] The speaker's out of order.
[1:53:15] Yeah, I've just already been allocated
[1:53:16] her three minutes a time.
[1:53:17] Yeah, I'm sorry, just once.
[1:53:19] But if, as always, please reach out.
[1:53:22] But it's just a procedure.
[1:53:24] Because those streets, those streets, you can go on.
[1:53:26] Yeah, we've heard the comments.
[1:53:28] And the attorney Mr. Trillese is here.
[1:53:30] Thank you.
[1:53:31] Thank you for your comments.
[1:53:31] Good evening,
[1:53:40] everybody.
[1:53:41] So I'm John Lestaricic, I live at 2520 Birchwood Court in Scotch Plains, which is in the neighborhoods that you're talking about.
[1:53:48] I'm right off of Jerusalem Road, a little dead in there.
[1:53:52] I've a third generation in Scotch Plains, I'll live here my whole life.
[1:53:55] You might recognize the name from that.
[1:53:58] I have 38 years service on the fire department.
[1:54:02] I have a good fortune to work for Mr. Maribel in this council and this leadership team.
[1:54:10] I couldn't be prouder.
[1:54:12] I'm very passionate about this township and about my job and about these people.
[1:54:17] And I'm very passionate and I'm very happy to serve because the towns people are passionate.
[1:54:25] You all love this town.
[1:54:26] I've been to so many of these redevelopment meetings where you all spoke so
[1:54:29] wonderfully and you're so concerned about the well-being of your neighbor, which is phenomenal.
[1:54:35] I volunteered here, like I said, for 38 years, and that's all part of that culture and
[1:54:40] that heritage.
[1:54:41] So what I wanted to say was we built a leadership team here that is phenomenal.
[1:54:49] These people work time, they put in so many hours worrying about exactly what you're telling
[1:54:56] them.
[1:54:57] This is not going on deaf ears.
[1:54:58] They worked tirelessly on this, this morning it was a frenzy here knowing we were coming into this meaning we wanted to come in prepared.
[1:55:05] We wanted to make sure that we can relay all the information to everyone to explain what we're trying to do here.
[1:55:14] I don't have the answers, I can assure you that this leadership team is doing to the best of their ability what needs to be done with the professionals.
[1:55:25] Tom Strow's the best in the business.
[1:55:27] There's nobody in Union County that I know of that has a plan like Scotch Plains where it has teeth.
[1:55:34] We are telling the developers, we want this style brick and we want this style construction.
[1:55:40] We're not going over this height.
[1:55:42] We tried to limit all of the units to as minimal as possible.
[1:55:48] But a lot of this stuff is state mandated, and our hands are tied with this property usage and affordable housing and all of that, which is dictating this.
[1:55:58] This isn't something we drop up and said, we want to make all these changes.
[1:56:02] This has kind of been brought to us through legislator and we're doing the best we can with it.
[1:56:12] Myself, the police chief, 32 year service, the chief of the rescue squad who had to leave early.
[1:56:17] It probably has 40 some odd year service.
[1:56:20] We've never had a better rapport amongst our chief officers of our emergency response services.
[1:56:30] It just makes everything flow easier when there's no conflict there.
[1:56:36] So we're in a good place.
[1:56:38] I assure you everyone is working for the best of their ability to do the job that needs to get done here.
[1:56:43] where our council sits here and they take the brunt of this.
[1:56:50] They know that's what they signed up for but I got to give them kudos, they've always
[1:56:54] supplied us with everything that we needed as far as equipment and training and whatever
[1:56:59] we ask for, we figure it out and we get it done.
[1:57:03] And I work around the county, I'm a union county fire mutual aid coordinator so I work
[1:57:10] with all the chiefs and all the fire chiefs in Union County, and I can tell you, when I hear all the complaints from my peers, we don't have that here.
[1:57:18] So we're very fortunate.
[1:57:20] I want to thank them at this time for all your support.
[1:57:24] If anybody ever has any questions, you can reach out to us at the fire department.
[1:57:27] It would be more than happy to answer any of your questions, but when I tell you we're on it, and we're on it on the fire side through fire prevention, and we have big asks for
[1:57:37] the contractors that are building to make these buildings as safe as possible, and to make sure we can protect them properly.
[1:57:44] So be assured, this is a good group, this is a good team.
[1:57:49] I understand that everyone has a lot of questions, and there's a lot of insecurities around this, but they are trying their best.
[1:57:55] So thank you for your time.
[1:57:57] Thank you, Chief.
[1:58:01] Is there anyone else who wishes to participate in this public hearing?
[1:58:09] I just want to, I'm not sure if I said this earlier.
[1:58:13] Tonight with us is our architect and our town planner.
[1:58:19] And they were here to address questions if necessary.
[1:58:23] But I know it's significant that they were here because they're listening to everything that's being said.
[1:58:29] Much of it, things that have already been brought up over the years and
[1:58:34] we're doing what we can to address these concerns.
[1:58:37] But they're here to help us get this project as good as it can be, and I look forward to supporting it.
[1:58:45] And as the last slide says, what we're doing tonight is putting the zoning in place.
[1:58:50] It will allow this plan to move forward to find a developer to build this plan.
[1:58:57] We're going to pivot along the way as needs arise.
[1:59:00] When we have a finished product, there will be another public hearing that will have all of the studies completed by then and so forth.
[1:59:13] I don't want to say this is the beginning because we were doing this since 2018, but it's a new beginning towards the construction of this project.
[1:59:23] Thank you, Deputy Mayor.
[1:59:24] Before I do close, can I just clarify one thing, Director Strobe, with this putting this zoning in place, as the mayor just described, allows us, and I'm not asking it as a question, it is kind of a question, though, this is what allows us to move to the next step and do all these steps so that we can learn if this is and the right way to do this.
[1:59:48] Right.
[1:59:49] Just sort of think of it as like a-
[1:59:50] Following us to get this traffic, so these-
[1:59:52] It's kind of like a mini master plan for the property of what needs to be done.
[1:59:55] Okay.
[1:59:55] It's focused on these properties as to what we want to see and at the steps you want to-
[2:00:00] Okay, that's exactly right. Thank you. If you've already participated in public comment, I'm afraid you can't, but you can email me, or if you want to stay, happy to discuss, excuse me, Director Stroke. Thank you. Then I moved that the public hearing be closed. All in favor? All right. I moved that this ordinance be adopted on second and final reading and advertised according to law. Do you have a second? Second.
[2:00:30] Ms. LaCena.
[2:00:31] Mr. Adams?
[2:00:32] Yes.
[2:00:32] Ms. Danler?
[2:00:33] Yes.
[2:00:33] Mr. White?
[2:00:34] Yes.
[2:00:34] Ms. Zimmerman?
[2:00:35] Yes.
[2:00:36] Mayor LaSardom?
[2:00:37] Yes.
[2:00:37] Thank you, Ms. LaCena.
[2:00:39] Deputy Mayor.
[2:00:39] I move to approve the conference.
[2:00:41] Business meeting minutes of July 11, 2023.
[2:00:45] Second.
[2:00:46] All in favor?
[2:00:46] All right.
[2:00:48] Thank you.
[2:00:48] Moving on to our manager's report.
[2:00:50] Mr. Mayor.
[2:00:50] Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
[2:00:53] Quick shout out to the Recreation Department for a very successful summer camp program.
[2:00:59] Hundreds of kids participating in camp, whether it's at Brookside or small fry camp, and I want to congratulate, thank you Tom, for their good work this summer keep our kids safe and enjoying great programming.
[2:01:14] Street paving continues to be ongoing throughout the community, getting a lot of streets done, and the public works department is working very hard towards that in preparation for end of summer and school system.
[2:01:28] I owed Mrs. Perkins an update on the covered bridge.
[2:01:32] So I wanted to make sure I gave her that update.
[2:01:35] We've been in touch with our engineering department.
[2:01:38] They are involved right now with an environmental assessment,
[2:01:42] which should take about another four weeks or so.
[2:01:46] Then a survey then permitting.
[2:01:48] But that project is on track.
[2:01:51] We have actually the mayor and I spoke with Congress
[2:01:56] to talk about the funding that Congressman Malan asking before Congressman came actually put in place, but that is moving forward, it's not stagnant, just unfortunately takes time when you deal with bridges and replacing bridges.
[2:02:11] It's not an easy thing but I can assure you progress is being made.
[2:02:15] The concerts with a great concert season here with no rain outs for a change, it was a one
[2:02:21] summer when every, every concert was rained out.
[2:02:25] And just to leave with one last Don't Mr. Mayor and Council, another commercial to lock
[2:02:32] your cars, lock your house, click your car, we just make sure you are taking that extra two
[2:02:40] Two minutes when you park to make sure things lock, there's still a rash of break-ins and burglaries in the whole area and want to make sure people are doing, at least what they can do to lock their car and their homes to protect their property.
[2:02:55] All right, without a conclude my comments, Mr. Chair.
[2:02:57] Thank you, Mr. Mayor Valla.
[2:02:58] Thank you.
[2:02:58] Any questions for Magger?
[2:03:00] No, no, sure.
[2:03:01] Thank you, Mr. Mayor Valla.
[2:03:03] Moving on to the report of special committees, Councilwoman, those are the same.
[2:03:06] I don't have anything from green team or the Veterans Advisory Board.
[2:03:12] I'm sure someone also mentioned August, right?
[2:03:15] You mentioned it.
[2:03:16] Oh, okay.
[2:03:17] Well our universal dog birthday celebration is this Saturday at 10 a.m. at Jersey
[2:03:24] Land Park.
[2:03:24] You do have to register online just so we know that you that your animals got your
[2:03:30] rabies vaccine, not you.
[2:03:33] In addition,
[2:03:36] we are starting to offer our CPR certification class every month because
[2:03:42] there has been such great interest in it.
[2:03:44] So our next one is August 30th, 6.30 to 9 p.m. at Shady Rest.
[2:03:50] This is geared towards lay rescuers and not healthcare providers.
[2:03:54] You can register on community pass through our website or of course call the Department
[2:04:00] of Portion Rec.
[2:04:00] And also save the date for our, this will be our third free cycle market, which has been successful thus far.
[2:04:12] You can bring items that you no longer use that are still usable, but instead of throwing them in the trash,
[2:04:19] you bring them to Brookside Park on September 9th.
[2:04:23] You do have to register and it is only for Scotch Plains residents to drop off and then anyone is welcome to shop.
[2:04:29] We have categories such as books, children's toys, holiday decor, small appliances, sports equipment.
[2:04:37] So of course you can check out the website for more information on that too.
[2:04:41] Thank you, Councilman.
[2:04:43] That Councilman Mike?
[2:04:44] Yes, I got something from the Fire Department.
[2:04:46] We have two members starting the Fire Academy in September.
[2:04:50] And some outstanding news is the new ambulance is expected to be delivered at the end of this month.
[2:04:55] Yes, sir.
[2:04:56] We cited about that.
[2:04:57] Great.
[2:04:58] Thank you, Councilor, that's good news.
[2:05:01] Councilor Madden.
[2:05:02] From the police department, we had some great promotions
[2:05:05] here this evening and just a reminder
[2:05:07] of the speaking that you've read all about some
[2:05:09] of the break-ins with respect to cars and things like that,
[2:05:13] just bears repeating, make a party, your routine,
[2:05:16] lock-in-car, lock-in-house.
[2:05:19] We don't want to make ourselves attractive
[2:05:21] to that type of behavior.
[2:05:24] Our police are doing a fabulous job with increased patrols,
[2:05:27] making us feel safe and we really appreciate their work from the recreation department there's
[2:05:33] just so many things going on from the recreation department that we'd be here all night but please
[2:05:38] do me a favor go to the website check it out there's everything from hip hop to field hockey to yoga
[2:05:45] the line dancing whatever you're into there's something for you the programming coming out of the
[2:05:51] recreation department is just fantastic including but not limited to the stars program which is going
[2:05:56] and be putting on their second performance
[2:06:00] of the year of the summer, this weekend,
[2:06:03] the 11th, 12th, and 13th, that's next weekend.
[2:06:06] This weekend, this weekend, the 11th, 12th, and 13th,
[2:06:11] if you saw coming in tonight, some of our young people
[2:06:14] are out there practicing right now.
[2:06:16] They do such great performances.
[2:06:18] They're doing legally blonde and musical.
[2:06:20] I'm gonna try to get out there and check it out.
[2:06:22] It's free of mission, just bring a chair.
[2:06:24] And then finally, a couple of park project updates.
[2:06:29] I know we talked last time about green side.
[2:06:32] We're back on track.
[2:06:33] Construction's back going on there now.
[2:06:35] There was a little hiccup along the way.
[2:06:37] We overcame it.
[2:06:38] And now things are back on track.
[2:06:41] I'm not going to give a date by when that's completed
[2:06:44] because it's going to be wrong.
[2:06:46] Because it always is when construction happens.
[2:06:48] But it's going to be gorgeous and it's going to be awesome.
[2:06:50] So stay tuned.
[2:06:51] And good news on Green Forest Park is construction actually began ahead of schedule in connection
[2:06:58] with that.
[2:06:59] Those old tennis courts have been dismantled.
[2:07:02] And those things are ancient, the Smithsonian might want some of them out there.
[2:07:08] But they've been dismantled and that project is actually ahead of schedule and began late
[2:07:15] last month.
[2:07:15] Also, you're going to start seeing a lot more pet waste stations popping up all over
[2:07:20] the community and in our public spaces and that's a byproduct of this year's budgeting
[2:07:26] process and desire to make our township a pet-friendly community.
[2:07:33] It's all there.
[2:07:34] Thank you.
[2:07:34] Excellent.
[2:07:34] Thank you, Council.
[2:07:35] Happy Mayor.
[2:07:36] Yes.
[2:07:36] So, continuing while you're on the website, looking at the many offerings for the fall that
[2:07:43] are many senior program offerings as well,
[2:07:46] so be sure to check those out.
[2:07:48] There's yoga, zumba, mini golf Mondays is returning.
[2:07:52] That was very popular, so check that out.
[2:07:55] And our annual Senior Appreciation Day
[2:07:59] will be on Wednesday, September 27th at Shady Rest.
[2:08:04] It will include lunch with a variety of other activities.
[2:08:07] It's free to all seniors ages 55 and over,
[2:08:11] But registration is required on our website, so thank you, Mayor.
[2:08:16] Thank you, and for thank you, especially for reminding me that I'll qualify in just a few brief years.
[2:08:22] Thank you, I'm before you.
[2:08:24] Just one, the red department is very busy and providing events for the town over and over again.
[2:08:32] One that we missed is our eSecond Street Block Party will be held on September 9th,
[2:08:36] 9th, rain date, September 10th, and we're looking forward to celebrating the businesses along the Secondary in September.
[2:08:46] And I don't have any other report special committees tonight.
[2:08:49] So moving on to the new business and our consent agenda.
[2:08:52] I make a motion to adopt the bill list in the amount of $8,705,857 of which $7,491,138 will be transferred to the Board of Education.
[2:09:07] And they consent the consent agenda, including resolutions number 2023-140 through 2023-147.
[2:09:19] May I have a second?
[2:09:21] Sorry.
[2:09:21] Ms. Lucina.
[2:09:22] Mr. Adams?
[2:09:23] Yes.
[2:09:24] Ms. Tamler?
[2:09:24] Yes.
[2:09:25] Mr. White?
[2:09:26] Yes.
[2:09:26] Ms. Zimmerman?
[2:09:27] Yes.
[2:09:27] Mayor Lissardo?
[2:09:28] Yes.
[2:09:28] Thank you, Ms. Lucina.
[2:09:30] Moving on to other new business.
[2:09:33] Ordinance 2023-14, Ms. LaCena.
[2:09:36] An ordinance supplementing and amending the revised general ordinances of the Township
[2:09:40] of Scotch Plains, Chapter 7, entitled to traffic section 7-6.2, stop intersections,
[2:09:48] and Chapter 7-8, traffic schedules, schedule 8, Highlander, Drive, and Heather Lane.
[2:09:54] I move this ordinance be passed on first reading, published according to law for
[2:09:59] further consideration and public hearing set down for September 12th, 2023 at 7pm at 430 park avenue scotch
[2:10:06] police. This is an introduction of an ordinance that will allow the
[2:10:13] installment of a stop sign on Highlander and Heather Lane. May I have a second?
[2:10:19] Second. Miss Lissina. Mr. Adams? Yes. Miss Damler? Yes. Mr. White? Yes.
[2:10:26] Miss
[2:10:27] Ms. Lissina, ordinance 2020-23-15, Ms. Lissina.
[2:10:32] In order to supplementing and amending the revised general ordinances of the Township of
[2:10:36] Scotch Planes, Chapter 7a, entitled Traffic Schedules, Subsection 7a-1, Schedule 1, Prohibited
[2:10:45] Parking.
[2:10:47] I move this ordinance be passed on first reading, published according to law for further consideration,
[2:10:52] and public hearings set down for September 12th, 2023 at 7 p.m. at 4.30 park avenue's
[2:10:58] touch place.
[2:11:00] And this is also an introduction of an ordinance that will modify parking on E Second Street
[2:11:06] and a portion of E Second Street and a portion of Front Street.
[2:11:11] May I have a second?
[2:11:12] Second.
[2:11:13] Ms. LaCena.
[2:11:14] Mr. Adams?
[2:11:15] Yes.
[2:11:15] Ms. Tamler?
[2:11:16] Yes, Mr. White?
[2:11:17] Yes.
[2:11:18] Ms. Zimmerman?
[2:11:18] Yes.
[2:11:19] Thank you, Ms. Lucina.
[2:11:21] Finally, ordinance 23-16, Ms. Lucina.
[2:11:25] An ordinance amending section 2-25 fees for service at subsection 2-25.5 fees for police service of the code of the township of Scotch Plains.
[2:11:37] I move this ordinance we passed on first reading, published according to law for further consideration, and public hearing set down for September 12, 2023 at 7 p.m.
[2:11:47] at 430 Park Avenue Scotch Blains.
[2:11:50] This is an introduction of an ordinance that will modify the rates for extra duty, police
[2:11:55] assignments and administrative ordinance.
[2:11:58] May I have a second?
[2:11:59] Sorry.
[2:11:59] Ms. LaCena.
[2:12:01] Mr. Adams?
[2:12:02] Yes.
[2:12:02] Mr. Stamler?
[2:12:03] Yes.
[2:12:03] Mr. White?
[2:12:04] Yes.
[2:12:04] Mr. Zimmerman?
[2:12:05] Yes.
[2:12:05] Mayor Lissardo?
[2:12:06] Yes.
[2:12:06] Thank you, Ms. LaCena.
[2:12:09] Finally, thank you.
[2:12:10] Council comments?
[2:12:12] Councilman Stamler?
[2:12:18] Okay,
[2:12:22] I just want to say that I do support the movement of emergency services to Plain
[2:12:28] Field Ave.
[2:12:29] I live on the north side, off of Mountain Ave, closer to Mountainside, but I personally
[2:12:35] feel better that they would be located closer to me.
[2:12:39] I do understand all the residents' concerns, but I just feel like I should put that on the record too.
[2:12:46] All right, thank you, Councilwoman Stanley.
[2:12:49] I've got a Councilman White.
[2:12:50] I have nothing.
[2:12:51] I think Councilman Adams?
[2:12:53] I'm just happy that we've taken another set of incremental steps along the road to much needed progress
[2:13:00] in some of these really important issues that we've been working on for a long time.
[2:13:05] And so I'm really happy.
[2:13:10] I'll close with some brief comments, expressing the condolences of the township to the family of Lieutenant
[2:13:18] Governor Sheila Oliver, who passed away last week.
[2:13:22] I read several obituaries about the Lieutenant Governor, and the one struck me, which read this,
[2:13:31] The writer knew the lieutenant governor and said she was not bombastic, and that surprised
[2:13:40] the author given how high a level in politics she reached, and that she overall was a kind
[2:13:47] and decent person who never forgot she was a public servant.
[2:13:52] That touched me, and I wanted to express the township's condolences to her family at this
[2:13:58] time.
[2:13:59] with that Deputy Mayor.
[2:14:01] I make a motion to adjourn.
[2:14:03] I say it.
[2:14:04] All in favor?
[2:14:04] All right.
[2:14:05] Meeting adjourned.
[2:14:06] Thank you.