City Council - Regular Meeting

I'm trying to see if that worked. No, it didn't. Okay. Is this thing on? My gle. No. All right. Council President Peller Green. I'd like to call to order the regular meeting of the Elwood Park Mayor and Council for March 19th, 2026 to order at 7:01 p.m. On roll call, we have council members Fullo here. Oswald here. Samson present. Sheridan here. Troy here. Council President Peline here. Mayor Kleti absent. We have a quorum. Can everyone please rise for the prayer and flag salute.

Oh God our father, we ask you to bless our meeting which we entrust in your fatherly care and pro protection. Please remove all selfishness and pre prejudice from our hearts and implant there a keen sense of justice and a greater love for you and our neighbor. Guide us in our deliberation so that our decisions will always please you and bring you peace and happiness to our community. Amen. 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. At this time, I will be reading the state of compliance. Whereas, chapter 231 of the public laws of the state of New Jersey requires that the commencement of every meeting, a statement of compliance be read by the presiding officer. Now therefore be advised that the meeting requirements for this meeting have been met by publishing a special meeting notice in the record and Herald News and by posting such notice in the office of the burough clo clerk as well as the public place within the municipal building and by notifying interested citizens. Said notice was posted and transmitted on January 2nd, 2026 and published on January 8, 2026. Okay, first up we have approval of minutes. We have the January 8th, 2026 work session meeting, January 8th, 2026 executive session, and the January 22nd, 2026 regular meeting. May I have a motion to approve the minutes?

So move. Second. Any discussion? Call the role, please. First by Councilman Folo, second by Councilwoman Sheridan. On roll call, we have council members Foso. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Green.

Yes. Motion carries. At this time, I would just like to make some opening remarks. I would just like to say good evening to everybody here. There's a lot to celebrate this evening. First, I'd like to say Mayor Kleti is recovering from his surgery and he's doing very well and he should be back at our April meeting. So, please keep him in his in our prayers because prayers really help and he's been doing very good. He's been through a lot, but again, I spoke to him on the phone the other day. He sounds good, sounds strong, and he can't wait to be back with all of us. So, that's the first good news of the evening. We will be recognizing EP Crew soccer for all the success. We will be honoring several individuals for Black History Month and Women's History Month. Black History Month is celebrated in February. This year, due to special circumstances, we combined the two celebrations. Each year, different individuals will be recognized from our burrow celebrating their achievements to our great community. Chennai. Okay. At this time, we have the EP crew soccer presentation. I'm going to turn the meeting over to Helina and call forward Chief Michael Felgno, Council President Pel Green, Council Leazison, Councilwoman Troy, Okay, welcome everyone. I would like to introduce our EP crew uh U11 Lizards team, U12 Volk and U15 EP crew uh Eagles as our Morris County Youth Soccer Association champions for the fall of 2025. Last fall we had six teams competing in Moraurice County League and one in EDP league. Three teams finished in first

place. U1 Lizards firsttime champions fought to their uh to their top place until the last minute of their final game. U12 Wolfpack and U15 Eagles have earned their championship titles as they competed with clubs from towns like Dover, East Hanover, Livingston, Madison, Morristown, Hacketttown, Bridgewater, Woodland Park, uh, Linkl Park, and Walke Valley. The first champion, U1 Lizards, led by Code Zenon. Last fall, they had scored 52 goals during their eight games and conceded only 16 goals. Our welldeserved champions U12 Wolfpack team led by coach Francisco Brendan and Lewis were undefeated and scored a total of 49 goals during their eight games and conceded only seven goals. they work very hard to earn that uh championship. Now, U15 Eagles led by coach Lewis and coach Diego, our repeated champions con um competed at the flight one level and have earned learn uh have scored 47 goals and conceded only four goals. they were able to uh to enter we were able to enter them into the higher league EDP league for this spring season. So congratulations to all of them boys and the families. Your success was very was possible to to the team effort. Your hard work, dedication coming to practices, training sessions and uh practices with coaches and your

parents' commitment to bring you to the practices and to the games earn you that great success last fall. Thank you all for your continued support and for your commitment to our to the sport that you love. And we would would like to also uh thank you uh to the town, to the mayor, the council, uh to recreation department, to the director Dell and the workers of the EP uh recreation office for their uh work with us and for all the support. Thank you so much. Very appreciated.

Yes. Hi everyone. So we just want to say on behalf of the mayor and the whole council, we are so proud of all of you, all the players, the coaches with all their hard work, the parents for always helping and being there for the children, giving them rides, supporting them, mentoring them. So, we just want to say we're always happy to see you each year. You're such a successful group and we look forward to seeing you again next year and we can't wait to give you your awards and celebrate all of you tonight. So, thank you all for coming. So, first I want to call EP crew lizards. Uh we have uh first one Victor Furick. You want to give the trophies here? Here, here. Tell the kids to come through this way so we can shake their hands and then line up.

Santiago. Santiago Gomez. No. Cavani,

Daniel Guerrero, Ivan Hernandez,

congratulations. Wait, wait, wait. You got two more people. Yeah. Here you go. Hey, shake the hands. Nicholas Kosachvski.

Congrats. Congratulations, Jay Len Franco. Oliver Pleva.

Congrats. Congrats. Danielle Perez. Kumal Rahimi,

you're stuck in traffic. Yeah, it's Gabriel Rinski.

Anthony. Anthony.

Anthony played up. He was very brave. He's younger. He played up with us. Santiago, Michael Molina. Same with Michael. He's younger, but he played for this team. Here you go. All right. And Santiago here. Okay. Very good.

Hey I think I'm missing. Yeah.

Jace. No. Danielle, you go. This pump Daniel Kum Justin Justin Come on Justin. Come on Justin. Yes. Justin played on two teams as well. Yeah. Don't you remember what you guys did at the end of the last game? The fist.

Okay, Julian Chupac.

Congrats. Good job. And we have Cold Zenon. Oh. Congratulations.

Thank you, Kumal. And Kumal just came in. Kumal, come up here.

Here you go. Come on. Come on. Come on. Congratulations.

And Damian. Damian. Hi, Of course. I'm the last one cuz my last name. Are we missing it? We give them give them one. Yeah. Give a fist. Congratulations. Okay. All right. Now, we're going to do Let's take a quick picture. Want a picture with this teacher? Yeah. Picture.

Yeah. All right, guys. Good.

Okay. Now we need to need number uh U12 team Omar Ali come up. Congratulations John Rachuk. Here you go John. Congrats Maxim Burak. Maxim

Benjamin Gonzalez

Nicola Ilov. No Nicola. Nicola, come on. You sleeping. Aiden Martinez. Congrats, Chase Martinez. There you go. Congratulations, Aiden Navaro. Anthony Ortega, Anthony,

congratulations. Good job, Anthony. Liam Nikote.

Congrats. Congratulations. Good work, Nicholas Paluknyak. travel. Congratulations, Jonathan Pena. Congrat Jonathan. Good job. Arianoski,

good job. Sebastian Velasquez. Yeah. Congrats, Sebastian. Congratulations. Safe. Is safe here? No. I know. Is Max him? Maxim here?

No. Okay. Now we have coaches. Coach Francisco Velasquez. Congrats. Good job. Coach Brendan Brendan Rivera. and coach Lewis Torres not here. There's coffee for you guys. Okay. All right. So, now we can do the picture. Picture. Yes. All right. Come on, guys.

Picture with you. 12. Why?

What? What? Okay. So, who's coming up? Those are coming up. Okay. Okay.

All right. Always in trouble. All right. So now we have third team. Some of the players could not make it here, but we have probably six or seven here. All right. So Alexandra uh Animov, Alexa, congrats.

Eden Hernandez. Congrats Dominicoski, Stefan Marosski, Brendo Pereira Congrats. Arasu Aras, come here. Congrats.

Dominic Shantonovski. Okay, we also have uh Zlatco that couldn't come here. Hassan, Gabrielle Romani, Ramirez, uh Paul Mosicho, Filipe Gabriel Morani, Antonio Cabrera, Brian Drazzek,

Nathan, and Mustafa. They couldn't come here, but congrats to them. And then we have two coaches. Coach Lewis Cabrera. Congrats. This is for you. Thank you so much, Louis, for everything. Everything you've done for us. Thank you. And coach Diego Candelari. Thank you. Want to say anything?

Coach, does he want to say anything? Hi everyone. How you doing? Thank you everyone for coming out. I just have a few words to say cuz this is our last fall together. I've had these kids and we you've watched them from this big grow to way taller than me. And I just want to say thank you. Thanks for the parents. Thank you Helena for everything you do. Thanks for the wreck. Thanks. Thanks, chief. Thank you very much. Thanks for the mayor, but I'm going to miss him. You guys, I've had you forever. Sorry, I don't want to get sentimental, but I had you since little kids. I remember you not even knowing how to kick a ball. And now look at you guys. Very proud of you. Happy. I'm proud of all the high schools you guys are going to. And just keep the journey going, man. That's it. Thank you. I'll start crying. All of you should come back for spring. Fall is high school, but spring is still here until you're 19.

Okay. Do you want a picture, Helena? A picture. Picture. Come on, council.

I'm telling you, man. Paparazzi be paparazzi. Come on. Please. Come on. Come on. Let's go.

How did you get up? Well, not well. Okay. Right. I think we should do everybody and then

Okay, that's I just don't think

Excuse me everyone. We're going to be resuming our meeting in 2 minutes. So if you're staying, please have a seat if you're leaving. Thank you for coming. We appreciate it. I'm calling.

Yeah, it's the same thing. You ready?

I know. At this time, we will have our Black History Month recognition and I will turn the meeting over to our burough administrator and police chief, Michael Felikno.

Thank you, Chennai. Good evening, everybody. Tonight, in honor of Black History Month, we recognize and appreciate officers from our police department and our new senior center director for their selfless dedication and contributions to our community. Just 10 years ago, our workforce was not very diverse, despite the fact that we serve a very diverse community. Through the cons uh conscious efforts of our administration and leadership, we have changed that for the better by assembling a workforce of different cultures, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds, allowing us to gain trust, respect, and mutual understanding of the community. we proudly serve and protect. Thank you all for your commitment, dedication, and professionalism to serving the community of Elwood Park. Uh Ramona, we just met. So far so good. You're doing awesome. You're a breath of fresh air, and we welcome you. And uh to our police officers, not only the ones that are being honored tonight, but the the entire department. I don't get an opportunity to see everybody at, you know, this many at one time. But I just want to echo my sentiments to you guys as well. And gals, great job. Keep up the good work. I'm proud to say we have the best police department in the state of New Jersey. So, thank you. I'll now turn it over to Councilman Fisolo for the first uh recipient. Thank you, Chief. Uh, Black History Month is a time to honor the strength, resilience, and lasting contributions of black Americans who have helped shape our nation's history and continue to inspire progress today. It's not only a reflection on the past, but a call to recognize the leaders, innovators, and everyday individuals whose impact is felt in our communities every day. As we celebrate this month, it's my honor to recognize senior center Director Ramona Thompson for her unwavering dedication to service and community. With over 25 years in the human services field, Miss Thompson has devoted her life to uplifting others, particularly our senior residents, ensuring they're supported, valued, and connected. Her work is not just a profession, but a calling rooted in compassion,

leadership, and a deep commitment to making a difference. Her journey from earning her degree in social work at Bennett College to obtaining her obtaining her MSW from University of Pittsburgh reflects a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and service. Every day she brings that experience and heart to the burrow, strengthening the fabric of our community. As Martin L as Martin Luther King Jr. once said, life's most persistent and urgent question is, "What are you doing for others?" Ramona Thompson has answered that question every single day through her work, her leadership, and her impact. We thank her, we honor her, and we are proud to have her service in our community. I'll now turn it over to Councilwoman Troy for the police officers.

Thank you. Um, tonight we're celebrating uh five uh police officers here in Elmo Park. I'm going to start with um telling you a little bit about Officer Joe Pride. Officer Pride was born in Harlem in Manhattan, New York, and later moved to West New York, New Jersey, where he was raised. He has dedicated over two decades to public service, including 19 years as a police officer and prior service as an EMT in Newark, New Jersey. From an early age, Officer Pride had a strong and instinctive interest in law enforcement, which led him to pursue a career in policing. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional courage, professionalism, and commitment to the safety of others. Among his most notable accomplishments, Officer Pride was awarded the Hudson County Sheriff's Officer Valor Award and was inducted into the New Jersey Police Honor Legion for his heroic actions during a devastating fire. He made two entries into a burning building to rescue a family of five, including a pregnant mother, father, and three children. In 2021, while serving with the Elma Park Police Department, he received the life-saving award for providing critical aid to an individual suffering from severe self-inflicted injuries following a domestic incident. Officer Pride currently serves in multiple specialized roles, including traffic officer, motorcycle officer, and instructor at the Bergen County Police Academy. He also oversees the department's Alcatest program and serves as the Bergen County representative for

the New Jersey Police Traffic Officers Association Region One. Please join me in congratulating Officer Joe Pride. Next, we'd like to honor Detective Bernardet Griffith. Born Bernardet Yates on February 19th, 1988 in Newark, New Jersey. Detective Griffith spent her childhood between Newark and Portsouth, Virginia. She graduated from Westside High School and began her college education at Es Essex County College before pursuing a career in law enforcement. At just 20 years old, she joined the Newark Police Department in 2008. Following a historic layoff in 2011, she remained determined in her commitment to public service and was later appointed as a sheriff's officer in the Middle Sex County Sheriff's Office in 2012. In May 2015, she joined the Elma Park Police Department as its first African-American female officer. Her dedication and leadership led her to the position of detective in September 2020, making history once again as the first African-Amean and first female to hold that position within the department. Detective Griffith continues to serve with distinction, overseeing firearms and coordinating the Burough's crossing guard program. She is also a devoted mother of three, Cameron, Madison, and Christian, and is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree, demonstrating her

ongoing commitment to growth and excellence. Please join me in congratulating Detective Griffith. Next, we'd like to honor Officer Jerel Harris. Officer Jerel Harris grew up in Bergenfield, New Jersey, and has proudly served as a police officer for the past three years. He chose a career in law enforcement out of strong desire to make meaningful differences in the lives of others and to be someone his community can rely on. and in times of need. Each day, Officer Harris works to build trust within the community while representing his department with integrity and professionalism. One of his most meaningful person personal accomplishments has been deepening his faith and receiving his sacraments, including baptism at St. Leo's Church in Elma Park. His faith continues to guide him both personally and professionally. He remains grateful for the unwavering support of his family and loved ones who have encouraged him throughout this journey. Please join me in congratulating Officer Harris. Next, we'd like to recognize Officer Kevin Wilin. Officer Wilin was born in Hackinack, New Jersey and raised in Sparta. He attended Donbosco Preparatory High School before transferring to St. Joseph's Reg Regional High School where he excelled in both football and wrestling. He continued his athletic

career at Ruckers University where he played football for the Scarlet Knights. Following his college success, he went on to play in the National Football League with the Philadelphia Eagles. In addition to his football career, Officer Wilin is an accomplished mixed martial artist who now competes professionally and remains undefeated. Driven by a passion for helping others and keeping his community safe, he pursued a career in law enforcement. Today, he brings dedication, discipline, and resilience to his role as a police officer, continuing to serve as a role model both on and off duty. Please join me in congratulating Officer Wilkins. Now, I'd like to uh honor officer Christian Gil. Christian was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, and raised in Anglewood in Tene. He graduated from Dwight Marorrow High School and went on to earn his associates degree from Lacawana College, followed by a bachelor's degree in cyber security and computer science from Monroe College. He began his career as a lifeguard and later became a certified instructor. His passion for helping others also led him to coach basketball in Elwood Park where he mentored young athletes. His service with Anglewood Volunteer Ambulance Corpse along with inspiration from his sister guided him towards a career in public service. He later served as a corrections police officer where he witnessed firsthand the impact that a lack lack of guidance can have on

individuals. Motivated by these experiences, Officer Gil became a police officer to positively influence others, especially young people, and to serve as a trusted source of support, guidance, and leadership within his community. Please join me in congratulating Officer Christian Gill. I'm going to uh turn the meeting over to Council President.

Thank you, Councilwoman. Happy International Women's Month celebration. This month, we celebrate our strength, our resilience, and our unique voices that shape the world. Believe in your power to achieve anything. Keep breaking down barriers to support one another and keep shining brightly. Remember, there is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise. Remember, you're appreciated, valued, and unstoppable. We thank you for all the the strongness you show, the loving, hardworking, and incredible women who make this world a better place each and every day. God bless you all. One of those amazing women is Jeanie Fry Tag. She is being recognized tonight and I would like to share a little bit about her. Jeannie Fry Tag has served our community for several years. She has been a resident of our Alen Park community since 1977. Here are some of her contributions to our community. Jeanie was very active in little league baseball, Cub Scouts, and many school and church organizations and committees. Jeannie served on our board of education from 2012 to 2018. She was vice president in 2015 and she served as president in 2016 and 2017. She was recognized in 2016 for women of great achievement by Senator Nelly Poe, who is now our congresswoman for district 35. Her current activities include Epic. She's the recording secretary. ARP, she is the treasurer. St. Leo's Eucharistic Eucharistic minister, library board secretary, Republican Club secretary. In November

2025, Jeanie, I believe, received her best title ever, grandma, to a beautiful grandson, Connor. As you can see, Jeanie has done so much for our community over the last five decades. She is someone that we can all look up to. Thank you, Jeanie, for all your service and dedication to our community.

We'll go down for solo. At this time, I would like to ask all of the presenters to go down to present the certificates to the honores. All right. In honor of Black History Month, the Elwood Park Mayor and Council recognizes Ramona Thompson for your outstanding contributions, leadership, and enduring impact in advancing our community. Congratulations. In honor of Black History Month, the Elmwood Park Mayor and Council recognizes Officer Joe Pride. You're welcome. Officer Kevin Wilkins, Officer Christian Gill. I had a blank one. Uh

oh,

I took that out. Officer Jerel Harris. I think I just got an extra one. See? See that? And Detective Bernardet Griffith. Okay. In honor of Women's History Month 2026, Alwood Park mayor and council is proud to recognize Genie Pride Tag for the many years of unwavering service and dedication to our community. Congratulations. Like everybody that just received a certificate to please come up for a picture with our council. And I just want to say again, we thank all of you from the bottom of our hearts. You all stand out and go above and beyond. And we're proud to do this tonight. We're going to honor different people from the community every year.

You want to come down inside a nice uniform. I'm going to come by Jamie. Come down. Everybody come down. It's better. I'm going to squeeze somebody. Squeeze it. Come on. No. You're right. That is my favorite.

Thanks, Ken. I hope I did your cry. He deserved that. Right. Right.

Yes. Yes. This council comments on You going to say it? At this time, we're going to have council comments. Guys, just stand by for one minute. Oh, I never uh first we're going to have comments from Councilman Oswald. just on just recog.

Yes. Yeah, of course. Um I am so happy to be here today. This is my first time sitting up with the council. Um and I guess that means this will be the first year every year or every month that I get to experience um any particular cultural um or recognition month. Um I've had the opportunity to meet you guys several times and um I've seen you more often than I've seen my own family this week actually. And um I really just I really appreciate from the bottom of my heart everything you guys do outside of this month or any month. It's a year- round job. Um your badge like the chief says uh does give you authority, but it's you know it's how you conduct yourself that really gives you the respect that everyone in this room is uh giving you today. Um so I just want you to know that it's not just February or March where we believe in you and where we support you. It is 365. It is every day. Uh, and as soon as as the mayor gets back, I'm sure um he would probably like to uh avail you of of all these things that he's missed uh saying because um it is true that everybody up here, it's a nonpartisan thing. Our love and respect for the men and women in uniform, the people that hold our DPW together, the women that coach, the women that run our sports teams, the women that run our council, the women that run our homeowners association, the women that run our families and everything that we do. They are the backbone of our community, of our families, and I am internally grateful for everything you guys do. So, thank you so much for everything,

Councilman Samson.

Thank you. So, all the um all the recognition that we had tonight from the kids on up, the the soccer players, that shows the the future from Elmo Park and they're not all from Elma Park. for for society also. I can see a good strong future moving forward. Um to the police department, of course, you know how I feel about you guys. You're the best. Good, strong work. Thank you very much. Excuse me. And uh Jeanie, you're one of the anchors of Elmer Park. When you think of when you think of Elma Park, you think of the Jeanie and and the Fry Tag family. You're always here. you're always helping whatever whatever is needed and thank you from the bottom of my heart. So, um, everyone else, Ramona, welcome aboard. I know, uh, you're the newest comer, but I see you, uh, we were flipping pancakes. We were working at breakfast the other day, and I see once again your heart in it. You know, you you're very, uh, focused on the senior center and the senior citizens that attend there, and I appreciate that. and um to everyone involved. Thank you and God bless America.

Councilman Facello,

thank you. Um I want to start by congratulating I know they're all gone, but the the soccer champions uh for their hard work all season long and and bringing uh pride to Elwood Park and and we're so proud of them and their coaches and their families for all they accomplish. Um, I want to extend a great appreciation for the police officers, not only the the the five that we uh, you know, talked about today, but the entire police department. You uh, serve everybody no matter what their religion, their color, uh, their background. Um, and we appreciate that every day and thank you for your service. Uh, Ramona, I I had the honor of uh, presenting you with with your recognition. Uh, and you have a great resume. Um you're extremely educated, went to great colleges, and um you know, to to pursue a a career in public service, it takes a lot of heart because to to do something like that day in and day out. I'm a teacher and we don't make enough, but but what we have in our heart is is more than we make. So, I want to thank you for your your service to our community and thank and appreciate you uh every day. Thank you,

Councilwoman Chroyce.

Um, I also would like to congratulate all the EP crew teams. It's um, always a proud sports moment to have them here again in council chambers. Congratulations to all the men and women who were recognized tonight for both Black History Month and Women's History Month. Your stories remind us that history isn't just a reflection. It's something that we are living every day through leadership, um, courage, dedication. So, we thank you for your service, for the examples that you set, and for the positive impact that you have on our community. Thank you, Councilwoman Shardan. Thank you. Um, first to the EP crew. Um, the kids, the kids are great. Congratulations to everyone. Um, our police department, congratulations. I was here a couple years ago when, um, Mr. Officer Harris came up. I mean, it was a proud moment then and it's even prouder now. Congratulations. Stay safe and anything you guys need, we're here for you. Uh, Mrs. Fry Tag, Miss Thompson, Miss Thompson, welcome aboard. Mrs. Fry Tag, you've been here a while from when I was young. So, thank you for your service, your family. Mrs. Thompson, welcome aboard. And, um, I hope you stay for a long, long time. Thank you,

Council President Peligine. Yes. To the EP crew, congratulations again on all their success. The players, hard work pays off and we're very proud of all your success. To the coaches for all you do for our youth to teach and mentor our children and to instill teamwork and respect to the sport. To the parents who support and encourage them all. We thank them. It's a way it's a way of life to make your children understand and to grow as a team and be absolutely amazing. to all our recipients for Black History Month and Women's History Month. You're all amazing and deserve to be recognized tonight. So, congratulations. On a personal note, to Ramona, I just met you recently, but we've been at a few of the so-called celebrations and parties at the senior center. And what you do with our seniors is unbelievable. They look up to you. You're you're full of love. You're full of kindness. you could see your heart just when with interacting with them and I'm so impressed with you and like everyone's saying I hope you stay here a long time because Christine was very hard to replace but man you're doing a great job and we're happy to have you to our officers. I've been working with a lot of you for a lot of years. There's nothing you can have in a town better than safety. led by Chief Felgno. I see on a daily basis for the last several years. I've been a council woman for 12 years. What you do, the extras you put into this. It's not just a job for you. You're always helping our residents in some way that goes above and beyond your job description. And I've seen this firsthand. So, I am proud of the recipients tonight, but I am proud of all of our police department for all they do on a daily basis. It It's really unbelievable. And like I said, we've seen firsthand the kindness that you

show and the extra that you do. So I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. To Mrs. Fry Tag, I love you, Genie. You had amazing family. Your family was always giving back to our community. You wherever we are at any kind of meeting, a committee, Jeanie's one of the first ones to say, "I'll help. I'll volunteer to do that." and she thinks like she doesn't really deserve this award. You absolutely deserve this award. You're a standup woman who has for five decades given to our community. Yes, Genie. We wanted to honor you tonight and you deserve to be honored. So, thank you for all you do for our community. We really love you and really appreciate you. So, thank you. Yeah, we do recess. At this time we will have a five minute recess. Thank you everybody. Congratulations. At this time I would like to reestablish a quorum for the regular meeting of the Elwood Park Mayor and Council for March 19th, 2026. On roll call. We have council members

here. Oswald here. Samson present. Sheridan here. Choy here. Council president Pellegrine here.

Mayor Kleti absent. We have reestablished a quorum. Next on our agenda we have ordinances on first reading. Resolution R-107-26. Introduce ordinance number 26-10 on first reading. Be it resolved that an ordinance entitled an ordinance amending section 22-6.5 failure to comply penalty for building department enforcement of sidewalk snow removal and related maintenance requirements be passed and adopted on first reading and be it resolved that a final hearing on said ordinance will be heard in the municipal building on Thursday April 16th 2026 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as same can be heard at which time any person's interest in set ordinance can be heard. Be it further resolved that the burough clerk being she is hereby authorized to advertise a notice of introduction and final hearing as required by law.

Okay. Chief, can you break this down for us? Yes. Um this uh we amended the ordinance to allow for the building department to be another agency that can enforce this ordinance. Right now it prior to this it was the police department and DPW and frankly during snow events we're the busiest ones police and DPW. So the building department not not so busy during those times um as other parts of the year. So they can go out and uh and write summones and enforce this um ordinance. Thank you. Thank you. May I have a motion on the ordinance? So move. Second. Any discussion? Call the role, please. First by Councilman Samson. Second by Councilman Folo. On roll calls, we have Council Member Bristool. Yes.

Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Choicey, yes. Council President Pellegrine, yes.

Motion carries. Next, we have ordinances on second reading. I have resolution R-108-26 to introduce ordinance number 26-05 on second reading. Whereas a public notice has been given by the burough clerk that an ordinance entitled bond ordinance to authorize the improvement of Garden Drive in by and for the burrow of Elma Park in the county of Bergen, New Jersey to appropriate the sum of $340,000 to pay the cost thereof to make a down payment to appropriate a federal grant to authorize the issuance of bonds to finance such appropriation and to provide for the issuance of bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance of such bonds was introduced and passed at a meeting held on Thursday, February 19th. 2026 and that further consideration of this ordinance would be taken up at this meeting and whereas all persons interested in said ordinance were given an opportunity to be heard concerning the same. Now therefore, it be resolved by the mayor council of the bur of Elwood Park that an ordinance entitled bond ordinance to authorize the improvement of Garden Drive in buying for the burrow of Elwood Park and the county of Bergen, New Jersey to appropriate the sum of $340,000 to pay the cost thereof to make a down payment to appropriate a federal grant to authorize the issuance of bonds to finance such appropriation and to provide for the issuance of bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance of such bonds. Pass on final reading. May I have a motion to open to the public?

So move. Second. Would anyone from the public at this time like to speak on this ordinance and this ordinance only? If not, I wish to Oh, I didn't see you. Come on up. Give your name and address, please. You have to turn on the mic. You have to press the button on the mic. Chief, you want to take this? uh just burrow uh securing a bond for paving and we're getting reimbursed through uh community development block grant. Yeah. Okay. I wasn't sure what you Yes. paving of Garden Drive. Does anyone else wish to be heard on this ordinance only? May I have a motion to adopt the ordinance?

So move. Second. Call the role, please. First by Councilman Folo. Second by Councilwoman Chroy. On roll call behalf council members Fisolo. Yes. Oswald. Yes. Samson. Yes. Sheridan. Yes. Troy, yes. Council President Pelgine, yes. Motion carries.

Next, we have resolution R-109-26 introduce ordinance number 26-06 on second reading. Whereas a public notice has been given by the burough clerk that an ordinance entitled an ordinance amending section 20-1.4 facility use rules and regulations to further address dogs and parks was introduced and passed at a meeting held on Thursday, February 19th, 2026. and that further consideration of this ordinance will be taken up at this meeting. And whereas all persons interested in said ordinance were given an opportunity to be heard concerning the same. Now therefore be resolved by the mayor and council of the brow of Elwood Park that an ordinance entitled an ordinance amending section 20-1.4 facility use rules and regulations to further address dogs and parks pass on final reading.

May I have a motion to open to the public? So moved. Second. Would anyone from the public like to speak on this ordinance only? If not, we'll close the public hearing. May I have a motion to adopt the ordinance? So move second. Call the role, please. First by Councilman Samson, second by Councilman Folo. On roll call behalf council members, yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Pelligraine, yes.

Motion carries. Resolution R-110-26 introduce ordinance number 26-07 on second reading whereas a public notice has been given by the burough clerk that an ordinance entitled an ordinance amending section 7-11 parking time limited on certain streets to enforce parking restrictions on Route 4 was introduced and passed in a meeting held on Thursday February 19th 2026 and that further consideration of this ordinance will be taken up at this meeting and whereas all persons interested in said ordinance were given the opportunity to be heard concerning in the same. Now, therefore, it be resolved by the mayor and council of Burl Velwood Park that an ordinance entitled an ordinance amending section 7-11 parking time limited on certain streets to enforce parking restrictions on Route 4 pass on final reading. May I have a motion to open to the public?

Second. Would anyone from the public like to speak on this ordinance and this ordinance only? Okay. No one wishes to be heard. I will close the public hearing. May I have a motion to adopt the ordinance? So move second. Call the role, please. First by Councilman Samson, second by Councilman Folo. And roll call we have council members Folo. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Pelgrade, yes.

Motion carries. Resolution R-11-26, introduce Ordinance number 26-08 in second reading. Whereas a public notice has been given by the burough clerk that an ordinance entitled ordinance of the burrow of Elwood Park, county of Bergen, New Jersey, amending the redevelopment plan for rehabilitation of certain properties situated along Market Street in vicinity was introduced and passed in a meeting held on Thursday, March 5th, 2026. And that further consideration of this ordinance would be taken up at this meeting. And whereas all persons interested in said ordinance were given an opportunity to be heard concerning the same. Now therefore be resolved by the mayor and council of the bur of Emwood Park that an ordinance entitled Ordinance of the Burrow of Emwood Park County of Bergen, New Jersey, amending the redevelopment plan for rehabilitation of certain properties situated along Market Street in vicinity. Pass on final reading.

I have a motion to open to the public. So second. Would anyone from the public like to be heard on this ordinance only? If not, I will close the portion of public hearing. We have a motion to adopt the ordinance. So move second. Call the role, please. First by Councilman Samson, second by Councilman Folo. On roll call, we have council members Folo. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Pelligraine, yes.

Motion carries. Resolution R-112-26, introduce ordinance number 26-09 on second reading. Whereas a public notice has been given by the burough clerk that an ordinance entitled an ordinance repealing and replacing chapter 37 affordable housing of the burough code for compliance was introduced and passed in a meeting held on Thursday March 5th 2026 and that further consideration of this ordinance would be taken up at this meeting and whereas all persons interested in a said ordinance were given an opportunity to be heard concerning the same. Now therefore, it be it resolved by the mayor and council of the Bur of Edwood Park that an ordinance entitled an ordinance repealing and replacing chapter 37 affordable housing of the burrow code for compliance pass on final reading. May I have a motion to open to the public?

Second. Would anyone from the public like to speak on this ordinance and this ordinance only? No one wishes to speak. I will close the public hearing. May I have a motion on the ordinance? So moved. Second. Call the roll, please. Second. First by Councilman Oswald. Second by Councilman Folo. On roll call, we have Council Member Brolo. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Pellegrine, yes.

Motion carries. At this time, we have resolutions listed on our consent agenda. Resolution R-13-26, approval of payroll. R-114-26, approval of bills list. R-115-26, 2026, temporary emergency budget appropriations. R-16-26, authorized holiday buyback, police department, Michael Figno, R-17-26, Resolution to refund taxexempt veteran. R-118-26, resolution to refund overpayment. R-119-26 resolution to refund overpayment. R-120-26 award proposal for professional services alignment group for the FY2025 CDBG road improvements garden drive R-121-26 approving consulting contract for veteran affairs services R-122-26 authorized retirement compensation department of public works R-123-26 approve fire department standby compensation R-124-26 appoint part-time seasonal worker building department R-125-26 authorized purchase of equipment R-126-26 approving the memorandum of agreement reached with PBA local 185 on a successor collective negotiations agreement R-127-26 expressing the burough council's intent to provide the funds necessary to satisfy the burough's affordable housing obligations R-128-26 resolution of the committee adopting an affirmative marketing plan for the burrow of Elmwood Park. R-129-26 resolution to enter into a shared service agreement with the township of Rochelle Park. R-130-26 resolution of support for Route 4

parking changes. R-131-26 approved block party requests. R-132-26 hiring employees to staff the Elwood Park Emergency Medical Service Unit. R-133-26 resolution endorsing the March 11th, 2026 first amendment to the fourth round housing element and fair share plan. R-134-26 resolution to approve the consent agenda. May I have a motion on the consent agenda? Before um before we vote, can I just get uh some background on the uh temporary emergency budget appropriations, like where exactly that the those appropriations are going?

I would have to get that from the CFO. Um we're still under temporary budget. So, um sometimes he either underestimates what we might need. Uh the budget will be addressed and adopted next month. So, in order to get specifics, I would have to um speak to him and get back to you on that. Thanks, Chief. He's also coming to the April 4th uh is it April 4th? What is it? Second work meeting and he's going to explain everything. I talked to him the other day. Okay. Any other discussion? Well, we have and we have a mo we need a motion in a second. So move. Okay. Any other discussion on this? Okay. Call the role, please.

First by Councilman Folo, second by Councilman Oswald. On a roll call behalf, council members Folo, I need to recuse on 123-26. Yes to the rest. Okay. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, recusing on R-123-26. Yes to the rest. Council President Pel, yes.

Motion carries. Next, we have departmental reports. We have the board of health meeting minutes from January 12th, 2026. The library board meeting minutes from December 15th, 2025. Zoning board meeting minutes from January 28th, 2026. May I have a motion to accept the departmental reports? So move second. Any discussion? Um, are these included in this packet? Uh it was included in the work session packet and we're just formally accepting them. Any further discussion? All in favor? I.

Okay. At this time, uh Council President Pel Green, this concludes my portion of the meeting. I will turn it over to you for council reports.

Okay. I'm going to start with Councilwoman Chisy tonight. Okay. Thank you. Um, I'll start with my recck department report. Uh, the recck department's hiring for summer jobs, including uh for spray park attendants and camp teachers, counselors, and maintenance workers. Applications are due by April 1st. If interested, you can call 2011-7961457 extension8812 or email Samantha Hebda at sh ebda at Elwood Park New Jersey. us. Enrollment is open for spring mini camp April 6th through the 10th for children in grades uh kindergarten through 8th. The cost is 2.75 per child and you can register on community pass. Registration is now open for Elm Elite Basketball League. That is open to grades 5 through 8. This season will begin March 29th and the championship game will end it on June 7th. Um you can um contact uh Samantha to uh register a team as well. And then um my police update, the annual Easter egg hunt will take place at Burrow Field at 1 p.m. on March 28th. The first 100 children online for photos with the Easter Bunny will receive a pair of bunny ears. And then um for the board of ed in light of the tragic ebike accident in Garfield that left two um children seriously injured, one critically, um the schools are sharing uh ebike safety tips with the students. Um we all

want the kids to be safe. Um we don't want to take away their fun. um we just want them to be safe. So we pray for these um children's full recovery. And um also I uh would just like to uh mention that um Frank Doc Shup's uh service dog um passed away over the weekend. So please keep uh Doc in your thoughts and prayers. And uh congratulations to everyone who is recognized tonight. Thank you.

Thank you, Councilwoman Council.

Thank you, Council President. Um first of all, I'd like to uh give a shout out to um Justin Hunter, De uh Devin Johnson, DeAndre Els um and DJ Smith. um they were not mentioned on our our uh Black History Month, but they are our Elmer Park um volunteer fire department. So, I just want to give a shout out to them to say thank you for your service. Um as council um Chisy said on March 14th um Shadow, which is our um Elwood Park veteran leison on um passed away his service dog. It wasn't just a pet, it was a service dog. I know a lot of people have pets, but if you're in the military and it's very hard when you come home, sometimes you need that little extra pickme up and that's what Shadow was. Um, I just want to put it out there if um you are a veteran and you are trying to get a hold of Doc, he's a little bit under the weather right now. Um he's not ignoring you. He is just trying to piece everything together on what happened. Um me and Councilwoman Pam Choy, we went to the wake on Tuesday. Um it was hard. Um I told him that we're all here for him if he needs anything. We are working with um Bergen County Animal Shelter to try and get him another service dog. But when it comes to a service dog, it has to be that special dog. I mean, we're never going to replace Shadow. But we're

sure going to try. And um I just wanted everybody to know that um the VFW is going to try and plan a memorial service in um May for him. And I will keep everybody updated. And um basically the only other thing I could say is Doc, we love you. We're with you and um God bless our veterans. Thank you, Councilwoman. Councilman Oswell.

Thank you, Council President. Um I I said a good bit of what I wanted to say before during the awards for everything. Um but I just wanted to to mention that um you know, I'm also looking forward to my son playing Little League. I'm very happy that we have such active sports teams um in this town and that um in the beginning of the year Councilman Po uh had led the way to doubling the excitement for a lot of our school sports teams. So we're really excited about that. I can't wait for my son to play. Um I know that uh Council Peline, our leon for the chamber, will have some updates about the chamber. Um, but I just wanted people to know that if you have any questions, if you want to contact either myself, uh, the president of the chamber, or our leazison, um, you're welcome to do so. You can get in touch with us directly. Got a lot of ribbon cuties coming up, uh, 5K, job fairs, lots of things to talk about, um, including at the end of the month our women's apprec I call it the weekend of our women warriors uh, at the rec center. So, um, she'll give you a little update on that, but I encourage everybody, no matter what event you see, please try to come out. to support everyone, whether it's the veterans, whether it's a school sport. Um, our community only keeps going forward when we show up for each other. Um, and it's very important for people to see that we all care about each other in that manner. Um, and of course, anybody celebrating Passover or recognizing Passover and Lum starts April 1st, which is the day before our next board session. So, um, I just wanted to make sure that everybody knows I am available. I'm happy to work with anybody for anything and um I'm really excited again to get started with the rest of this year. So, thank you very much, Council President.

Thank you, Councilman. Councilman Oswalt, I'm sorry, Councilman Samson. I'll go again. You can go again. You can go twice.

Thank you, Council President. So, for my committee's um met with uh the chairman of the finance committee, um Councilwoman Troy this afternoon, we paid the bills, so the the burl will keep moving. Also, um my EMS committee. Um I'm very excited and very uh in favor of this uh this work that we're doing. Chief, thank you very much for the dedicated officers and uh staff and also your uh cooperation with this and support of this. Our response times are incredible. I mean uh I know not many people listen to the radio, but I do. And uh you can get an ambulance at your house like in three minutes. So that's that's huge from what it was chief five years ago

when when the police officers were waiting for an ambulance. So um we do about between on the average about eight calls of of service a day what we would call aids. Um that's a significant number. Um, we also were in the process of getting uh bids to replace the weakest ambulance in our fleet, which is very important to keep this level of service of what it is now. So again, thank you, chief, for your cooperation. My outside committees, uh, this Sunday is the Elks breakfast. It's a little different schedule than usual, but May March 22nd is the breakfast at starting at 8 o'clock at the Elks Lodge. Come and join us. It's a great It's the best 10 bucks you could spend. Um, I see Linda back there, the uh the head of our homeowners association. She has a homeowners meeting next Wednesday, the 25th, and it's going to be hand-to-hand uh self-defense, which is a very good skill to learn. And she also has a Wind Creek bus trip coming up on the 27th. There's still seats available. Cinder and myself. looking forward to the Easter egg hunt as Pam had said and um our next ARP meeting will be the second Thursday in April. So, lot lot going on. Council President, uh we're moving in in the right direction, moving forward, and we're getting stronger and stronger. Thank you,

Councilman Folo.

Thank you, Council President. Um, I first want to um thank Councilwoman Troy for bringing up uh the event that happened uh in Garfield. It's a little personal to me. They're both my students in my class. Um so I want to take a moment and ask our Elmo Park community to come together in prayer for the two for two of my 14-year-old students in neighboring Garfield where I teach who were involved in the tragic accident this past Monday. One student is currently stable while the other remains on life support. Our hearts are with both families as they navigate this incredibly difficult time. As a teacher, I also want to recognize the impact that this not only has on their families, but on their classmates and their friends. Our students and staff are hurting. Um they need our support, compassion, and strength just to just as much during this time. This tragedy is a sombering reminder of the serious dangers that ebikes can pose, especially for our young teens. It's critical that we continue to emphasize safety, awareness, and responsible use uh to help prevent something like this from happening again. And I'm happy that the schools are are getting, you know, in front of that and and you know, spreading that information. I ask that you please keep these students, their families, my students, their friends in your thoughts and prayers and join me in hoping for strength, healing, and a full recovery. Thank you.

Thank you, Councilman. Now it's time for my report. My board of health update. The free rabies clinics for dogs and cats will be held on May 13th from 5 to 7:00 p.m. at Firehouse number four on Mola Boulevard. All Bergen County residents are welcome. For more information, call 2011-7961457 extension 8809. Save the dates for these special events. The first annual Elwood Park Cancer Prevention and Wellness event, Saturday, June 6th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Location, Elwood Park Recreation Center. The 6th annual Elwood Park Celebrate Senior event will be on October 10th, Saturday, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Location, our Elwood Park Recreation Center. The next regular meeting will be held on Monday, April 13th at 700 p.m. The new Elwood Park Chamber of Commerce update on March 28th. The chamber will be working with the Elwood Park Latino Association to celebrate Women's History Month. Time 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Location our recreation center. Also on March 29th, there will be an international woman celebration event. There will be it will be Bloom with Strength. Special guest will be the deputy mayor of Belleville, Naomi Deanna. Time 12 PM to 3 PM. Location, Elwood Park Recreation Center. Suggested donation is $30. For more information, call 3472995467. Their next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 21st at 6 p.m. The new location for the chamber to meet is at our burough hall here in the allpurpose room downstairs. and all are welcome to come uh to attend. We had a meeting on Tuesday. Our police officers were were special guests and Spencer Savings Bank hosted the event and right here in

Elwood Park on River Road and it was a great event. President Oswald, he's president of the chamber, does a very good job in getting businesses to join and come and we worked very hard, right, Joe? In the beginning, we uh couldn't get it started again and we wouldn't give up. And Andrew Teslano, Joe, myself, they said we it would never happen again. And and it's happening and it's growing bigger and better. Yep. New members every month. I don't know if you want to add to anything, Joe, about that. Mathnasium just joined yesterday. So, if you have kids that want extra help with their math, keep it on the park. Keep local that way.

So, I just want Yes. So, we have the ribbon cutings on Saturday at 100 p.m. And um I just want to say that this council is very, very hardworking. We're at all events. We really care about the community. While our mayor is recovering, we're taking on all his responsibilities when he can't be there, and we just want him to get well soon, be back in his position. And I just want to thank this team up here. Everybody has made it easy for him to take the time he needs. Everybody's been praying for him and we all really care about him. And Chief, you've been working overload um doing double duty on everything. And we want to thank you also for all that you have done to keep things running and running smoothly. Thank you everyone. And now we are going to May I have a motion on the to open the meeting? The public?

So moved. Okay. If there's anybody from the public that would like to come up at this time, please come up and give your name and address and ask your question and you have less than 10 minutes to do so.

That'll be easy. Uh, am I on or off? Glenn Pedigano, 262 Mhola Boulevard. I'll do it again. Um, I just want to acknowledge uh uh Black History Month. Uh it's a very important issue to me and um I'm just glad that our town did something tonight. It's uh it's a uh issue that's very uh difficult. I wrestle with it a lot. Um but in any case, I'm very happy to see that soccer team. Um also, uh I got some good news. The high school competition cheer team uh became champions this past weekend in Florida, taking first place with a perfect score. So they are basically champions now. It'd be nice to celebrate them and they're they'll do a cheer for you too or throw someone around. Not my granddaughter. Um uh and a couple things. the ebike thing also. Uh I'd like to see us do as much as we can for that. I'm on the boulevard. I see the kids all the time. They're relatively careful. They're well rel they stay on the right side of the road. They, you know, they follow the rules. It's the cars though that is a is a problem. I mean, in the morning it backs up. People are screaming at each other. They're trying to get out of streets. Um, in any case, um, uh, I think, uh, the boulevard is just a racetrack with no obstacles, and I always found that a problem. Um, also, all the new houses going up in town have no trees.

We have a tree ordinance. Not not a little bush, not an ornamental tree, but a real shade tree. Five houses went up around me. No trees. This is a problem to me. It's a big problem. I have one tree on my block. I counted tonight. For every 10 houses, there's one tree. I can't expect everybody to do it, but we could follow our the rules of the town and the ordinances and the things that will make a better quality of life. Um uh and the streetscape with the lights and all kind of getting used to it. Um are we going to do the other half?

Do you know about when that could towards the end of this year? It's going to start. Everything's moving in the right direction. It's just a process because it's federal grant. Okay. So we could be doing it the end of this year possibly. And then we're going to go the other way um the following year. Okay. The other way from Philip to the Philip to Broadway now to 46. Oh, okay. I didn't realize

and before I hit my 10 minutes or what is it five minutes? Um, who do I contact if there's a question, issue, uh, as far as, um, changing the specs of my driveway for this improvement because they're going to tear out all the side. I'm not going to do my apron, not going to do my sidewalk or curbs until I know what's going on because they could rip them all out. They're all horrible. Um, just call me when when it gets closer. chat with you. Okay. Thank you. Um and I think that's it. Um

thank you everybody and uh have a good night. Anyone else wish to be heard? Please come up.

Just please state your name and address for the record. Thank you.

Jean Fry, 35 Hillman Drive. I want to thank the council for the honor you bestowed on me tonight. I am not a person who seeks adelation and I'm a little embarrassed, but I thank you anyway. When I moved to Elwood Park almost 50 years ago, I was very young and I was only newly married and only out of college a couple of years and you want to get involved. I grew up in Jersey City. was different culture there and my husband's family was very involved on things and that's how it happened and if it wasn't for Jeff probably pushing me I probably wouldn't have done as much those of you who remember him he used to go to just about everything so at night he would if there was a meeting planning zoning but even when he wasn't on it he would go to them and I thank you all I love living in Elwood Park I could move but I choose not to the people are wonderful and I never knew how many people I knew and Jeff knew until he passed away because I had to send out over 300 thank yous. I mean, it was like unbelievable. And the people still check on me and want to know how I am and make sure I'm good. And fortunately, my health is good. Let's hope that lasts. And I'm able to still do these things. I enjoy doing them. I thank you all for the confidence you've gave to me and giving me this award. I know there are many people in town who are probably more deserving than I am and maybe next year or year after they will be so honored and I was very encouraged by seeing all the young people tonight. It it really makes me feel good that I think that the future is bright for our town and the police. They're great. They can't say enough about them and it was great to see them honored as well tonight. So, thank you all and everybody have a nice evening. You're very welcome, Jeanie. Come on up, ma'am.

Just please state your name and address. Monica Smith, 169 Carson Court, Franklin Township. First, a brief recap of how your municipal library works. For those of you who may not know, the library is governed by seven trustees, two of whom, the mayor and the superintendent of schools are exeicio. That's the hoytoidy way of saying that they are on the library board by virtue of the fact that they hold those other primary positions. The remaining five are appointed by the mayor. Remember that last bit for light later. The library is also a member of the Bergen County Cooperative Library System, also referred to as Buckles. And right now, of all 78 member libraries in Buckles, Elwood Park has the reputation of being the worst library at which to work. In less than two and a half years, the library has seen turnover of 12 employees, three bookkeepers, three children's librarians, two directors, two children's assistants, an adult services librarian, and a library assistant. Two of these employees lasted three days and five days, respectively, the longest 11 months. The average tenure of the 12 employees was four months. Now, it's been a long time since I've sat in a statistics class. Is it possible that all 12 employees were just that awful? Yes. Is it probable? No. So then for the 12 people who resigned or were fired, the question becomes, if they weren't awful, what happened? Who hired them? and how did they treat

them once employed? The answer is the library board and horribly. Of the five board members appointed by the mayor, two are parent and offspring. While not illegal per the state library, it is most definitely not best practice and gives off an odor of cronyism with a suson of nepotism resulting in a bad aftertaste, a perceived collusion when it comes to voting on matters of library business. I worked with one of the 12 former employees. In my opinion, he had behavior consistent with that of an arrogant jackass. That he literally walked out with zero notice after only three months suggests that he was outjackassed. And that's really saying something. I never thought that would be possible. You will have a very hard time shaking the dismal reputation that the board or more accurately a subset of the board has perpetuated by their micromanaging the day-to-day operations, overreaching their authority, belittling and criticizing staff, and creating a toxic work environment. So much so that 12 people have not even lasted a year. You're not going to be able to attract or keep quality people if this continues. Think of it like this. Sometimes the toothache is just so painful that the only remedy is to extract the moler. Thank you. Anyone else? Please state your name and address for the record.

Yes, ma'am. Hi everybody. My name is Aaron Hughes. I am located at 17 Highfield Lane in Rutherford, New Jersey 07070. Monica is actually one of my colleagues. I have attended at least two Elwood Park Public Library board meetings and I first of all just want to congratulate Jeannie. That's an amazing accomplishment that she had today. That I'm so happy for her. What I've come to speak to you about today though is the mismanagement of the library. There have been multiple employment lawsuits brought against the library which they have had to pay for including not only the lawyers fees but also severance payments as well as health insurance payments. They um terminated their pre their director at the February meeting. They did make a quorum just barely but the vice president was not there for the meeting itself. Uh as Monica mentioned there's nepotism on the board. Um they consistently overreach with vendors. Vendors are directly calling board members instead of library employees to arrange things like facilities monitoring. They have not had a steady bookkeeper in years and by their own admission at the last board meeting their financial documents are in disarray and they don't seem to have any knowledge of document destruction schedules per the state of New Jersey. The board made it clear that the de director was not operating according to their own rules that are stated in the handbook of the board of trustees. They actively pursued and admonished and admonished or advised staff members without the knowledge of the director. They encouraged dissident amongst among staff by outright ignoring their own policies and procedures. They consistently undermined the authority of the previous director as well as the two previous directors before that that had also been terminated.

The staff maintains only one long time long-term employee. Every other employee has a tenure of less than a year. They currently do not have a director. They currently do not have a children's librarian. And they are currently chronically understaffed to the point where there is discussion inside of the board minutes about having to close on certain days of the week. The board barred the directors from attending mandatory Bergen County Cooperative Library System meetings. That means that they were out of compliance with buckles. And if you know anything about the library system, it's a it's a pretty small world for 78 libraries. They directly have asked constituents why they're attending board meetings. This has happened to me twice. The board had again had to pay severance for 4 months to a former director. And the library does not currently have a director of children's librarian and has made no moves to post those those jobs to either civil service or the library community. and they are consistently out of comp compliance with both the civil service in the state of New Jersey and the New Jersey Library Association. I wanted to bring this to your attention because I love libraries. It's part of who I am and for you guys to have such a wonderful township with so many great things going on. But this horrible problem is really unfortunate. It makes your township look bad and it makes Bergen County Library system look bad as well. So, I appreciate your time. I want to thank you guys. Your kids are adorable. How cute were they? Oh my god, the one kid that was like Justin. Very cute. So, and if you'd like any further information or you'd like to speak to me, please come talk to me. I'm happy happy to talk to anybody who would like to to speak on this. Thank you so much for your time. I appreciate it.

I just want to say we heard both of you. We heard what's going on there now and I will u bring this to the attention of the mayor. Like I said, he's been recuperating from surgery. I will have a conversation with him and um we'll we'll see. That's all I can say right now. But we've heard you and we want everything in our town to be great. We want everybody to enjoy the library. I don't know all the specifics. I heard what you said. We're digesting it and we will speak with our mayor and um I really appreciate if you could just leave your contact information contact information paper and the other

and I'd like to just thank you councilwoman for for bringing that up. The mayor I wish him the speediest of recoveries. He seems like such a nice man. He's a wonderful man and and thank you for understanding. Uh it may take a little bit to get to talk to him. He still just had surgery. Absolutely. And if there's any any information that you need, we have been information gathering um through the public the public records that are on the websites. But we did hear you. We heard your comments and we'll see what we can do. Wonderful. Thank you so much for your time. You're very welcome.

Anyone else wish to be heard? Please come up. Hi Kenny. Come on up. 31 31 Mberry Street Emerald Park, New Jersey. Hey, Chief, I want to say thank you. You did something great. I want to tell you, you painted a nice flag on your truck, a 464, man. And that's a nice color, man. You did nice job painting it with the flag. I wanted to tell you I enjoyed this flag very much. Come down one day. We'll take a picture with you next week.

All right. I will like to do that definitely because it's beautiful. And uh you I got to tell you something. Uh March 30th, Liz Morgan's going to be in New York City restaurant. You know that one? I'll reach out. I'll see what I could do. I just tell you that she's going to be nearby. She's not going to be too far from I know her schedule fills up pretty fast, but she know she's the woman's champion right now. Well, it's pretty hard to get the women, but soon she should be here because we want to give something to I agree. I agree. Right.

Right. We should give her something. She's a special woman. Very special. And I want to tell you thank you for everything today. I just want to tell you thank you, Kenny. All right, honey. Does anybody else wish to be heard?

If you could please just give your name and address. Clara Abernathy, 97 Miller Avenue. EP. Um, I'm also like to speak about the the ebikes or the scooters. He's right. They just they need to be taught to drive along with cars along with the same rules. You stop at a stop sign. You don't rush through. Some people don't. The other thing is cars are the problem, too. They don't signal which way they're go. They're going, and they could kill a kid. I think policemen should start giving out tickets to people that don't signal. They don't signal. They don't. Yes, it's true. And the other thing I'm glad how everything's going. It's better to be heard. Okay. If no one else wishes to be heard, I will close the public portion of the meeting. I have a motion to enter into executive session.

So move. All All in favor? Personel and negotiations. Personnel and negotiations. We're going to stay out here, right? Whereas the Open Public Meeting Act, PL1975, chapter 231, permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting of certain circumstances. And whereas this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist, and whereas the governing body wishes to discuss negotiations and personnel, minutes will be kept. And once the matter involving the confidentiality of the above no longer requires that confidentiality, then the minutes can be made public. Now therefore, it resolved that the public be excluded from this meeting. Thank you.

Thank you all for coming everyone. We have to go into executive now.