City Council - Regular Meeting

Okay.

Mayor, I'd like to call to order the regular meeting of the Elwood Park Mayor Council for April 16th, 2026 to order at 7:02 p.m. On roll call, we have council members here. Oswald here, Samson present. Sheridan here. Tracy here. Council President Peline here. Mayor Kleti here. We have a quorum. Thank you. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Looks like we're going to have another party tonight, huh? What do you say? Yeah. No,

just a celebration. Okay. Uh let let us get started uh with our prayer and flag salute. And Chaplain Dan, would you please come forth for a prayer?

Dear God, we thank you for bringing us together today in service to our community. We ask for your guidance as we deliberate, plan, and make decisions that will affect the lives of those we grant us wisdom to discern what is right, courage to pursue adjust, compassion to consider the needs of all, especially vulnerable among us. Help us to listen to open minds, speech, clarity and respect and work together in a spirit of unity and cooperation. May our efforts today promote fairness, integrity, and common good. Bless our community with peace and prosperity and guide our actions so they reflect service. Amen.

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.

Whereas chapter 231 of the public laws of the state of New Jersey require at 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 in Herald News and by posting such notice in the office of the burough clerk as well as in a public place within the municipal building and also by notifying interested citizens. Said notice was posted and transmitted on January 2nd, 2026 and published on January 8th, 2026. Okay, first up we have approval of minutes. We have the February 5th, 2026 work session meeting and executive session and the February 19th, 2026 regular meeting and executive session.

May I have a motion to approve the minutes? So move. Second. Any discussion? Call the roll, please. First by Council President Peline, second by Councilman Folo. On roll call, we have council members Folo. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Peline, yes.

Motion carries. At this time, we will have the proclamation being presented to the Elks Club for Elks Youth Week. I will turn the meeting over to Councilwoman Tracy. Thank you. Um each year the Elks Lodgees throughout the nation celebrate uh youth week, the first week in uh May and they request that the mayor and council uh proclaim the 1st through the 7th youth week. So I'm going to invite up the esteemed lecturing night to tell us a little more about youth week. Come on up, Dan. Good evening everybody.

You got hit the button.

There we go. Okay. Haven't seen you in a while. How you doing? Uh Dan Brazzac, esteemed lecturing night. Uh El Park Patterson lives number 60. Good evening, mayor and council. On behalf of the benevolent and protective order of elks, I want to thank you for recognizing Elks National Youth Week and for your continued support of the young people in our community. For over a century, the Elks have made it a priority to invest in our youth, not just through scholarships and programs, but by encouraging character, leadership, and service to others. Youth week is a time for us to pause and recognize the accomplishments, potential, and positive impact of the next generation. This proclamation is important because it sends a clear message that our community values its young people, believes in them, and is committed to helping them succeed. It reminds our youth that their efforts are seen, appreciated, and worth celebrating. We are proud to partner with our local leaders to uplift and support our junior citizens, and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue that work together. Thank you again to the mayor and council for this recognition and for standing with us in honoring our youth. Thank you.

Thank you, Dan. So, Dan, this tradition has been carried on for how long? Oh, well, we've been doing it here for what, like about four or five years, but it's been with the Elks for a very long time. Does it go back to like the origin of I believe so of the club? So, yes. Yes. The the Elks are very uh involved with the youth uh obviously additional to military service and uh the uh the handicap, the special needs, but uh definitely with with the youth too. They have uh what they call antlers program which uh brings uh young folks into the uh into the Elks and uh you know help to to volunteer and understand what it is to give back to the community. And I think we got the exalted rule with us here tonight also. Am I correct?

Yes, mayor. Thank you. Uh we do. And uh Dan, just to expand on what you were saying. Um a lot of benevolent associations, they focus on a certain group or a certain cause. And as you had said, you you highlighted I believe three, but we we do drug awareness. The burrow helps us with opioid money. We do uh um any anyone in need. Our motto is elks care, elks share. And this is proof of that. And uh it's good to see you here. Thank you. Um I couldn't obviously uh preside with for the Elks today because I'm here, but uh thank you for your time. Absolutely.

Excellent initiative and an excellent organization throughout all the years. And I think the uh town of Elmer Park should get involved and partake. Don't choose or council agree with me and others.

Okay. So, let's get involved. Now therefore being it resolved that the mayor and council of the burrow of Elwood Park, New Jersey, to hereby proclaim the first week in May as youth week and urge all departments of government, civil, fraternity, and patriotic groups in our citizens to participate wholeheartedly in the observance. Dan, on behalf of the mayor and council. Okay, mayor. At this time, we will have the presentation of Detective Badges, and I will turn the meeting over to our burough administrator, Police Chief Michael Felgno.

Thank you, Chené. Good evening, everybody. Uh I'd like to welcome everyone to this uh evening of appointment of four officers to the position of detective and the presentation of their badges. So first and foremost uh it goes without saying I and I may be a little biased but I think we have the best police department uh known to man. Uh but that's because of the ongoing support of our mayor and council. And uh I don't say that you know uh half-heartedly. That's that's a true fact. That's a statement that I I truly believe in. they support us and without their support we we're not as successful as we are. So, mayor and council, thank you so much for your continued support of of the men and women of the police department. Thank you. So, you have uh four four officers here. Separate yourselves a little so people can see you stand out. Shuffle down a little, boys. Uh four four young men. Uh they're they're great police officers. They're great leaders amongst the group. um to to me and uh I've had a few promotions in my career, but something like this is is set apart from a promotion. A promotion, you take a test, you score high, you get promoted. That's great. And it's and it's hard, but these are appointments. So, that's they're selected, right? So, they they stood out amongst their peers and uh and that's an accomplishment in and of itself cuz we got a great great this is a tough group to pick from, man. It's not fun to be me. I know some people are disappointed. Uh but I also know that it gives them an opportunity to work towards something because they see how these guys worked hard, their loyalty, their commitment and and and they finally got something that they desired. So guys, you know, let them be your example. Um and not only that, but they're they're they have beautiful young families. Uh some of them are dads, most of them are dads. One's going to be a dad soon. and uh and and and what stands out to me and I

admire those four guys because they are true true family men and and great fathers man and uh for for whenever they listen to me I I try to mentor them and that's because I made a lot of mistakes so I try to tell them uh you know what road to take and what road not to take so and I and for the most part they listen and and they're doing a great job and they could stand on their own but not in any particular order I'm just going to read some brief stuff about each guy and I'll start out with officer Carlos Castellanos. Carlos uh he began his law enforcement career with NYPD in 2016 where he served for two years before being hired by the Elwood Park Police Department in 2018. Since then, he has served as a patrol officer in the patrol division while taking on additional responsibilities within the department. Officer Castellano serves as a lead instructor teaching the youth about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. He serves as a field training officer, playing an active role in mentoring and developing new officers. He is also in the process of becoming a department chaplain, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting both the community and his fellow officers. And that makes me really happy because that's uh that's that's awesome, Carlos. I love that. He is a resident of Elmo Park and takes great pride in the community he serves. His connection to the town extends beyond his duties as a police officer as he actively volunteers as a basketball coach for the local recreation league. He coaches because he cares about the community and enjoys building relationship with its youth and families. Carlos, stand by. You're going to you're going to get your shield shortly. I'm going to read the next one. Officer Jimmy Rivera. Jimmy was initially hired in 2020 as a dispatcher where he served in the role until 2021 when he attended the police academy and became a police officer. Officer Rivera serves as a lead as the lead defensive tactics instructor for the police department and since 2025 he became the lead defensive tactics instructor for

the Bergen County Police Academy, instructing all recruits in Bergen County. Officer Rivera serves as one of the lead instructors for the police department's youth police academy. Officer Rivera serves as the department's juvenile officer and is assigned to the community policing unit. He takes that role very seriously. He is really into uh mentoring the youth and and leading them down the right paths. In 2021, he received a life-saving award for stopping a young child from running into the traffic on Mhola Boulevard. And that was awesome, Jim. Outside of the police department, Officer Rivera is a highly accomplished professional fighter. as a UFC veteran with a 23 and5 MMA record. He was ranked fourth in the world in the bantamweight division and a top contender in the bare knuckle fighting championships. He's married to his lovely wife Samantha. Sam, say hello. His two beautiful daughters and a third one that we could be having any minute here. So, congratulations Rivera family.

Officer Mike Giuliano. Mike was hired on December 17th, 2020, serves as a field training officer for newly hired officers, and has personally trained and mentored over 10 current Elmo Park Police officers. April of 2024, he was assigned part-time on loan to the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office narcotics task force and was involved in investigations involving high level drug drug trafficking within the county, acquiring valuable investigative experience. July 2025, he was assigned as an as officer in charge, filling a role of a vacant sergeant spot where he led a patrol squad until the promotion of the new sergeants. He was then reassigned to his new role as in the detective bureau. And uh I'm going to say, you know, Mike uh doesn't have a ton of years on and experience, but uh he's mature beyond his years. And to be given uh the opportunity to serve as a officer in charge, uh that's that's a that's a that's a huge thing. and uh he stepped up to that role. He embraced it. He he'll admit it wasn't easy. It was it was quite challenging as we know as we move through the ranks. Uh and he had to do it without the title, which is even more impressive. So, great job on that, Mike. And finally, Officer Steve Arujo. Officer Steve started his law enforcement career as uh at the Juvenile Justice Commission as a corrections officer in 2017 before becoming a police officer with Monontlair State University Police Department from 17 to 21. He was hired by Elwood Park in October of 21. He was assigned to the community policing unit in 22. He is a certified bicycle patrol officer, certified car seat installation specialist. He is certified in crisis intervention, and a certified lead instructor, teaching youth of our community the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Last year, Officer Roujo volunteered to become a certified as a CDL bus driver for the community. And those are hard to come by, man. And we really appreciate that. that helps us

out in a lot of ways with our community events and our our youth police academy because finding a bus driver is like finding a needle in a haststack sometimes. Steve and his lovely wife Alyssa recently welcomed their second child several weeks ago. Congratulations, guys. Beautiful family. And uh Steve is uh quite an unsung hero. He does so many things that I don't even know about. And then I find out through other means where, you know, he helps this person and he bought this old lady uh groceries or he just does things and he's not looking for accolades and and that's so impressive, Steve. I I really admire that and uh keep up the great work and that's why, you know, you haven't been here a ton of years, but that's why you rose to the the the situation you're in. So, great job, guys. I'm going to invite everybody up to get their shields. I would ask the police commissioner Troy and mayor Kleti to join me in giving them their their detective shields.

Guys, come on up. Hello. Congratulations. Come on down there.

You want to stand down there? You like that number? Good job. You got it. All right. Uh, we're going to have the council make some comments on what we just went through. Mr. Folvo. Thank you, Mayor. I want to congratulate all of the detectives receiving their badges this evening. This appointment not only a reflection of your dedication, hard work, and professionalism, but it's also a testament to the trust and confidence that this governing body and Chief Figgno has in each of you to carry out this important role. Under Chief Figno's leadership, our department continues to grow stronger and tonight is a clear example of that strength from within. Our police force remains a vital foundation of Elwood Park, and we thank you and the entire department for your continued service to our community. Um,

I also want to say Mike, uh, I know your dad's looking down on you and, uh, very proud of the man you've become and how how fast you've you've climbed through the ranks. So, God bless and stay safe, guys.

Councilman Oswald, uh, thank you, Mr. Mayor. Um, Chief, you've done a fantastic job of and I would have to agree with you of of h of of holding down the fort with one of the best police departments in America. Um, as I say at almost every chance, every meeting we get when we have a ceremony like this or whenever I bump into you guys, it's an absolute honor to shake each and every one of your hands. um the the kind of respect that you um have earned uh today, not just the four getting their their detective badges, uh but the rest of you, it's an example for the children in this room, for the people that sit up here, for my own kids who look up to you at every event when we come by. Uh for the four that received their badges, um I'm just so proud of you again, too. Just thinking, you know, the old days when you used to be, you could be a gum shoe or you, you know, you're framing Roger Rabbit or something, but now you're out there protecting us and you were selected to do this. It wasn't just you passed a test. you you were chosen for what you've got inside and I'm really very happy and thankful that it's Elmo Park that you're protecting and uh don't go anywhere. So stick with us. Appreciate it.

Councilman Samson,

first off a hearty congratulations fellas. It's uh definitely uh well earned. Chief, what I'd like to say to you is you opened your comments by saying you know you're biased and I don't particularly agree with that because it's based on fact. I don't believe it's absolutely not based on bias. It's based on fact. We have the best police department. Your the bios of you of you gentlemen, they they go beyond speaking for themselves. Uh your commitment to service, your commitment, your dedication to this community is second to none. Thank you for uh for creating those bios. Thank you for committing to us. And um as you know, you'll always have my as well as the rest of the council support whatever you need. I I started my journey as a a special officer in Garfield and my chief had a sign on his on his desk that said, "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice." So, uh that's that's what it comes down to. Um again, God bless, be safe, and thank you. Councilwoman Sheridan. Thank you, Mayor. Um I like to keep it short and sweet, so I'm going to say congratulations. I'm proud to live in Elwood Park. I'm proud of all of our officers. Um, you guys know what you got to do. I don't have to sit here and tell you. So, good luck, be safe, and God bless.

Thank you, Councilwoman C. Councilwoman Tracy.

Congratulations to Detectives Castellanos, Giuliano, Arujo, and Rivera. Your badges are a recognition of your dedication, your instincts, and your commitment to serving and protecting our community. The work of detective requires patience, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of truth. I have no doubt each of you will carry that responsibility with honor. Good luck to all of you and thank you for your service. Council President Pel Green.

Yes. Congratulations to all. Very welld deserved. As we heard about all the success that you have done through your careers, long or short, you always stand out. I know most of you for a long time. And what you do, the extras that you put in and the kindness that you show our residents is second to none. And we really do have the best police force ever. And I say that with my really from my heart. And as I was listening to everything and looking at all of you, I almost had tears in my eyes because I'm just so proud of you. I'm proud of each and every one of you. You're just great people, great officers, but great kind and caring people that always lend a hand to help. And I'm just so proud of you and I'm proud of our whole police department as I look around the room because that's what's different I think about our officers. There's all officers I respect, but what I see, I was police commissioner for 8 years. What I see on a daily basis, the extras that you put in is really second to none. And I'm proud of each and every one of you. Tonight's your night to celebrate. Congratulations to your families also. It's a big moment for all of them. But we just want you to know how proud each and every one of us is of you. And we'll always be here to help you for whatever you need to succeed in your your new roles and your careers. Stay safe and we love you guys and ladies. Thank you.

Thank you, Council President.

Well, gentlemen, I think everything that could be said about this evening has been said. Uh, I just have two comments and you're probably familiar with both of them. They've been around for ages. The cream comes to the top and you reap what you sow. Go. Godspeed. Moving along. Yeah, we're going to take a short recess. Some of the family members might want to take pictures and have a little conversation. And we'll be back very shortly. Okay. Mayor, I'd like to reestablish a quorum for the I want to park regular meeting for April 16, 2026. On roll call, we have council members

here, Oswald here, Samson present, Sheridan here, Choicey here, council president here, Mayor Kleti here. We have reestablished a quorum. At this time, we will have our Bergen County Open Space Grant application public hearing. Mike, can you give us a little background on this?

Uh, yes. Open space grant we applied for, as you are aware, Burough Field. Uh, phase one was the turf that is existing, uh, major league field and the Babe Ruth field. Uh phase two is in the process uh the girls softball field and phase three uh is the amenities that were supposed to be part of phase two which we uh pushed to the back burner because the pressing need was fields for youth sports. Um we applied for 250,000. It's a onetoone match and it has to be used by 2028. So there's no pressing urgency to spend money or bond for it at uh at the present time. Thank you. May I have a motion to open to the public? Some move.

Second. Would anyone from the public care to come up and speak on this ordinance and this ordinance alone?

If not, I will close the public portion. Okay. Moving on to ordinances on first reading. Resolution R-141-26. Introduce ordinance number 26-12 on first reading. Be it resolved that an ordinance entitled an ordinance amending section 7-21 multi-way stop intersections to add intersections on East 55th Street be passed and adopted on first reading. Be it resolved that a finding hearing on said ordinance will be heard in the municipal building on Thursday, May 21st, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard at which time any persons interested in said ordinance can be heard. be it further resolved that the burough clerk be and she is hereby authorized to advertise a notice of introduction and final hearing as required by law.

A little background on this, Mike.

Yes, sir. Uh we got uh numerous complaints from residents of East 55th Street, which runs parallel with East 54th Street. Several years ago, we uh installed stop additional stop signs on East 54th, which seemed to have pushed the traffic to East 55th uh because people don't want to stop. um became a a speeding issue and a and a and a and a volume issue. Traffic department did a study. They concurred with the residents concerns. Uh we are we would like to put two stop signs uh at certain intersections there. Uh council had valid concerns about if it would affect the parking ride. Uh, not only did the traffic division flush that out, but I went out there personally myself and the first one does not come near that uh, parking area. The second one is at the beginning of it, but it there is a telephone pole there that uh, does not take away from a parking space. So, I think I'm comfortable and I think we're good to go on this.

Thank you. May I have a motion on the ordinance? Second. Any discussion? Call the roll, please. First by Council President Peline. Second by Councilman Folo. On roll call, we have council members Folo. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Peller Green, yes.

Motion carries. Next, we have resolution R-142-26. Introduce ordinance number 26-13 on first reading. Be resolved that an ordinance entitled as dated an ordinance to amend the code of the burrow of Elmwood Park, New Jersey, amending the burough code in all general ordinances of the burrow, more specifically section 4-7.3 licensing to permit class 6 cannabis delivery services 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, May 21st, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as same can be heard at which time any persons interested in said ordinance can be heard. Be it further resolved that the burough clerk being and she is hereby authorized to advertise a notice of introduction and final hearing as required by law.

Mr. Figgno, will you break this down for us, please? Mayor, yes. This is to permit our existing retail cannabis uh dispensaries uh the option to uh have delivery services. Um we currently do not did not have that and uh I think we're missing out on some some good revenue there. uh and the council uh wanted the cannabis attorney to uh explore this and now this allows those um dispensaries to get acquire that license and deliver uh within Elwood Park and and outside of Elwood Park and this would keep them competitive. Is that correct, Mike?

Yes. So, currently now ours cannot deliver. So, a resident of Elwood Park uh is not spending their dollars in Elwood Park if they're getting delivery services from an outside dispensary and we are missing out on that. uh revenue. Very good. May I have a motion on the ordinance? Second. Any discussion?

Yeah, mayor. I just want to say um I'm glad that the council revisited this. Um we have multiple businesses uh that are doing well right now. Uh but this will definitely keep them competitive with the other towns as other towns could deliver Twood Park, but we can't deliver anywhere else. The businesses in Elmo Park can't deliver to anywhere else. So, I'm glad that we revisited this and um hopefully, you know, this passes. Good words. Good words. Any further discussion? Call the roll, please. First by Council President Peline. Second by Councilwoman Chrocey. On roll call, we have Council Members Folo. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Choice,

yes. Council President Peline, yes.

Motion carries. Moving on to ordinances on second reading. Resolution R-143-26 reintroduce ordinance number 26-01 on second reading. Whereas a public notice has been given by the burough clerk that an ordinance entitled an ordinance to amend an ordinance entitled an ordinance to establish the water department of the burough of Elwood Park, Bergen County, New Jersey to fix the rates and prices to be charged for the use of water and established rules and regulations for the distribution supply used in protection of said water and penalties for the violation of certain said rules and regulations was reintroduced and passed at a meeting held on Thursday, April 2nd, 2026. and that further consideration of this ordinance will be taken up at this meeting. And whereas all persons interested in the set ordinance were given an opportunity to be heard concerning the same. Now therefore, be it resolved by the mayor council of the bur of Elwood Park that an ordinance entitled an ordinance to amend an ordinance entitled an ordinance to establish the water department of the burrow of Elwood Park, Bergen County, New Jersey to fix the rates and prices to be charged for the use of water and established rules and regulations for the distribution, supply, use, and protection of said water and penalties for the violation of certain said rules and regulations. Pass on final reading. May I have a motion to open to the public?

Second.

Anyone from the public care to speak on this ordinance and this ordinance alone? Yes. Please come up. State your name and address, please. Dan Brazzac, 31 Elma Drive. Um I'm just curious because I know this is the second reading of this ordinance and uh there was one descending vote on this particular ordinance and uh my question is I understand that the rates are not set by the mayor and council. They're set by the Pay Valley Water Commission and so we have two options. We have one where the uh the rates will go up and then the people that use the water uh will be charged accordingly or the other alternative would be for the uh taxes to go up and then that uh rate will be massaged into people who would not be using the water and then people who are would potentially pay less. Uh so my question is what would be the alternative to that? If those are our two choices, why I'm are we expecting that the uh people that don't use the water to pay for those that do? Uh I don't understand uh why uh there would be a question in regard to uh the rates not being set by us. Uh that the people who use the water would be the ones to to pay for the up the increased rate.

Yeah. Well, basically if we don't pass it through, uh the only other place to recoup it for the town to stay within the budget would be out of taxation, right, mayor? I could answer that. Um so Elmo Park runs our own billing. Uh but you're right that Pak Valley does control the rates. However, I was not satisfied with the efforts that we put into um you know, fighting against the the increase. Uh yes, they're a big company, but we also have a voice. We're a governing body. I just wasn't satisfied with the with the um effort that we put into it. That's all. Okay. So So just the the fight against water Pay Valley as opposed to any other alternative solution.

Yes, we I'm fighting against a rate increase. Yes. Very good. All right. Thank you. Anyone else from the public here to speak on this ordinance? If not, I'll close the public portion. May I have a motion to adopt? Some move second. Call the roll, please. First by Council President Peline. Second by Councilwoman Troy. On roll call, we have council members Folo. No. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Pellegrine, yes.

Motion carries. Next, we have resolution R-144-26. introduce ordinance number 26-10 on second reading. Whereas a public notice has been given by the royal clerk 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 was introduced and passed at a meeting held on Thursday, March 19th, 2026. And that further consideration of this ordinance will 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 be it resolved by the mayor and council of the bur ofwood park that an ordinance entitled an ordinance amending section 22-6.5 failure to comply penalty for a building department enforcement of sidewalk snow removal and related maintenance requirements passed on final reading.

May I have a motion to open to the public? Second. Anyone from the public here to speak on this matter? If not, I'll close the public portion. May I have a motion to adopt the ordinance? Second. Call the role, please. First by Council President Pellegine, second by Councilman Troy. On roll call, we have council members. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Peline, yes.

Motion carries. Next we have resolution R-145-26 introduce ordinance number 26-11 on second reading. Whereas a public notice has been given by the burough clerk that an ordinance entitled an ordinance adopting a redevelopment plan for block 902 lots three and four as shown on the tax map of the bure of park, New Jersey pursuant to NJSA4812A-7 was introduced and passed on a meeting held on Thursday, April 2nd, 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 it resolved by the mayor and council of the Burough of Edward Park that an ordinance entitled an ordinance adopting a redevelopment plan for block 902 lots three and four as shown on the tax map of the Burrow of Elwood Park, New Jersey pursuant to NJSA482A-7 pass on final reading.

May I have a motion to open to the public? So moved. Anyone from the public care to speak on this matter? If not, I'll close the public portion. May I have a motion to adopt the ordinance? So, sorry. Call the role, please. First by Council President Peline, second by Councilman Folo. And roll call, we have council members Folo. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, yes. Sheridan, yes. Troy, yes. Council President Peline, yes.

Motion carries. Moving on to our consent agenda, we have the following resolutions. Resolution R-146-26, approval of payroll. R-147-26 approval of bills list R-148-26 Resolution to redeem municipal tax lean R-149-26 authorizing a grant application Bergen County Trust Fund FY2026 R-150-26 appointment of recreation department staff R-151-26 approved Elwood Park Fire Department stipen program first quarter compensation R-152-26 authorizing adoption of the 2020 26 recreation camp fees. R-153-26 resolution to enter into a shared service agreement with the township of Little Falls. R-154-26 appointing guards for the 2025 2026 school year police department. R-155-26 a resolution of the mayor and council of the burrow of Ela Park in the county of Bergen State of New Jersey adopting amended fourth round affordable housing spinning plan R-156-26 resolution for contract with the Elwood Park homeowners association R-157-26 resolution for contract with the AARP of Elwood Park chapter 3864 R-158-26 authorized online auction of surplus property R-159-26 resolution authorizing the execution of a shared service agreement with the county of Bergen for the use of county owned equipment. R-160-26 authorized coin toss event defender company number four and R-161-26 resolution to approve the consent agenda.

May I have a motion on the consent agenda? So move. Second. Any discussion? Yes, mayor. Um, I'd like to motion to make a motion to table 156 and 157 from the consent agenda. I have uh I just have uh concerns and um I'd like them to be discussed in a executive. There's a motion to u table these two items. Is there a second to it? Yes, mayor. Second. We have a second. Okay. Okay. We'll put that to a vote, Mr. Attorney. Yeah. Yes. Correct. Yes. Yeah. So, this is a vote to table

table. Yes. At this time, we will have we will remove resolutions R-156-26 and R-157-26 from the consent agenda as standalone resolutions. At this time, we have a motion to table resolution R-156-26. Motion by Councilman Fiso, second by Councilman Oswald. On roll call, we have council members Folo. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, no. Sheridan, no. Troy, no. Council President Peline, no. Motion carries. These resolutions. Well, motion. Motion does not carry.

Does not carry. Next we have resolution R-157-26. A motion to table by Councilman Folo and second by Councilman Oswald. A roll call we have council members. Yes. Oswald, yes. Samson, no. Sheridan, no. Troy, no. Council President Pel Green, no. Motion does not carry. These resolutions will now be voted on to Yes. will be added back to the consent agenda. Discussion request. Okay. Except there's any more the motions. No, both of them do not pass and we're moving along.

Yes. So, at this time I have a motion on the consent agenda by Council President Pel Green, a second by Councilman Samson. Any further discussion?

Yes. Um, since I didn't get the opportunity to say this in executive, um, I wanted to be to ensure before passing these contracts and spending $10,000, uh, of taxpayer money for these organizations that these organizations are complying with the requirements of the uh, contracts that we have set with them. I need to be sure as a as an elected official that everything that we are passing and money that we're giving away um is spent and I'm I'm not saying for or against the money going to these organizations, but we need to be in to ensure that they're in compliance with the ordinance that we're passing. We can't just pass money along without ensuring that this is being followed. So that's why that was my concern. Uh there's also a concern with the budget. We are have discussed as a council uh different spending uh methods and and not spending methods and cuts um you know not as a council but you know um and we're just passing this along. So you know that's my concern for that. um it wasn't a for or against the the the organization or whatever, but it is uh a concern when I'm not sure if these organizations are complying with the requirements of the contract.

Well, Mr. Folo, there are safeguards in place for both of these organizations. They have to reach a certain point before the money is distributed. Uh so, uh you can rest your your u that your mind assured that they have to show the receipts and where they spent the money from. Correct. This is a this is kind of a discussion that I would love to have in executive but um you know I didn't get that opportunity because the council uh did not afford me that opportunity. Right. But we're not giving any money away without uh the full requirements. How do you know? How do you know? I know just to reach this point. That's definitely not the fact.

Well, how do you know different? Do you you will you're making an accusation now? I am not making any accusation. I said I wanted to check before dishing out more money, but that's fine. You guys could. But but before you would bring it out publicly here, why why didn't you check and see if there was anything abnormal about the procedure? Can I say something? Yes. Go ahead. Thank you, mayor. First of all, we did discuss this in the microphone, please. F

First of all, we did discuss this. And second of all, I'm sure these two um these two would love to turn around and give you receipts if that's what you would like. Not me, the CFO. What's in the contract? They could give it to the CFO. I mean, that's fine. Well, how do we know that they did? That's what I'm asking. I'm not saying they did or they didn't. I'm asking how do we know? But we don't.

Can I Can I please say something? We've had this conversation before when we called them in to speak about what they're going to do. We told them what was required of them. I don't know. I I can't recall the date we had this, but we've talked about this last year. They know what they had to do with receipts and everything else. This is not something new that we've had discussions on this. So, if you don't recall it, that's one thing. That's okay. But to say that we never discussed it and they don't know what the requirements that they have to do to receive this money, that's an untruth because they do know what's expected of them and what they have to do. And that's why I voted yes for this. We've discussed it before.

I did not say that they didn't know of the requirements, but I said, are they complying? I know a lot of things. A lot of people know a lot of things, but sometimes they don't. They might miss it. they might not be complying with it. So, you know, they know. I'm sure they know there's a contract. I know that my mortgage is due on a certain date. So, then a question could have been to our CFO. I'm just double-checking this is on our agenda. Are they Have they been compliant all year? When was this So, when was this discussed in a work session before this meeting? Last year. Last year. Oh. So when was this put on the agenda and presented before us at a work session to be able to discuss in executive or at a work session table?

Well, Mr. Let me ask you I'm asking a simple question. When was this on a work session public? Because this was not at a work session. Mayor Mayor, I can I can clear this up. So I asked to put this on because finance reached out to me and said that they had the checks ready and that the uh receipts were turned in. So, I asked the clerk uh to put it on. Mayor, you give me authority to put items on the agenda and that's why it was put on the agenda tonight. So, so now wait a minute. Can I say something? Correct. So, I I knew this wasn't on a work session. One time I Hold on. I knew this was on wasn't on a work session agenda. So, where else am I supposed to express my concern?

I have a I Let me say something. Our No, I got it. Our burough attorney just clarified your question and that was the receipts were provided. Reiterate that. Nobody said that. The burrow administrator just indicated the receipts were received by us and that's why the checks were cut. So we got the receipts and everything everything appeared in order. Correct, Mr. Mr. Felino? I don't think Felino said the receipts were received. Yes, he did.

Finance said to me that the checks were ready to go. um they they received what they needed per the resolutions uh and the agreements and they wanted to give the checks out, but they recognized that the check shouldn't be given out until the resolution is passed. So, I emailed the clerk and I believe the attorney today about this and and uh asked the clerk to put it on because the finance department wanted to issue the checks to the organizations and they received the supporting documentation. Say that again. they received the supporting documentation.

That's what I was told. I didn't verify that, but um they don't they don't issue. They've been very stingy with these. They don't want to get themselves in trouble. So, they don't issue until they get it. And I think they've given these organizations a hard time to the point where they're doing their job. And uh and I believe that was done. So, I just Thank you. Are are any of our governing body members um on boards of these two uh organizations? No, I'm not. I'm not. No. Okay. Just give me one second, mayor. I'm the uh I guess the I'm the leazison to homeowners. I'm the leazison. How about your u immediate families?

I my husband is on one of the boards. That is nothing to do with my decision. My wife is also, but it has nothing to do with my decision. Okay. I would just suggest Mr. facil going forward that if I had a question like this before a public meeting I would have called the BA up and said is everything in order with this dispersement of these U checks we didn't we got this agenda a day ago like this is this isn't this isn't even normal like you put something on the agenda we didn't even discuss it go ahead

well what you should have brought it to the VA's attention before the meeting then not and then bring it out like as if we're showboating here. Okay. I'm not at work during the day. I'm not, you know, retired. So, any any further discussion? Call the role, please. First by Council President Peline, second by Councilman Samson. On roll call, we have Council Members Folo. I'm going to recuse on 151-26. I'm going to recuse on 160-26. And I'm going to vote no on 156 and 157-26. Yes to the rest. Okay. Oswald,

I'm going to abstain from 156 and 157. Yes to the rest. Samson, recuse from 157. Yes for the rest. Sheridan. Yes to all of them. Tracy, I'm going to recuse from R-151-26 and R-160-26 and yes to the rest. Council President Peline, yes.

Motion carries. At this time, we have departmental reports. We have the board of health meeting minutes from February 9th, 2026 and the zoning board meeting minutes from February 25th, 2026. Motion to accept. Any discussion? All in favor? I. Yes. I I Okay. Departmental reports have been accepted. At this time, I will turn the meeting over to you, mayor, for council reports. Council reports. Mr. Folo, we'll we'll start with you. My my favorite start off.

Uh I'm going to say progress, mayor. I'm actually I'm very happy at the um the the opening days that were this weekend. Very the amount of members that both softball and baseball have is incredible. Uh both leagues did an incredible job with their opening days. Um and I'm glad to see the the good weather and everybody utilizing the fields. Uh so it was all all good things this weekend.

Excellent. I I totally agree with you. It was u outstanding. both organizations are prospering and uh the fields look great. Um the ceremonies were were moving and uh I agree 100% with you. Moving along here, Councilman Oswald. Uh thank you, Mr. Mayor. Um I appreciate the opportunity to speak real quick. Um I just wanted to say I had a wonderful time at the opening day. My son, his first year, he's very much into playing uh sports. So I'm really glad that he gets to play sports in a town like Elwood Park. Um, it's clear every single day that this town cares a lot about our students, our athletes, and everybody in between. Um, I appreciate that at our last work session, we decided to create or to reestablish our green team. Uh, I'm really looking forward to working with uh my fellow council members on finding different ways for the burrow and our residents to save money and be environmentally aware. Um, and I had on my own tried to do a little bit of a something for Earth Day, but then I saw that the burrow was also doing something with much better resources. So, I just want to encourage everybody April 22nd. Um, if you can find some time to clean up your neighborhood, I suggest uh knocking on each of your neighbors doors left and right and just going down your block. It's 0.1 mile uh and pick up some trash uh something like that or come down to the burrow hall and celebrate with us. I believe the chief um if you want any more information about that can explain further uh about our Earth celebration. Um and besides that I just want to say it's been beautiful weather and we're glad to have the full mayor and counsel here and uh progress mayor.

Thank you Councilman Councilman Samson.

So for my committee's um let me see our EMS is uh as strong as ever. Uh yesterday they answered six calls in six hours. they're they're uh we're answering calls in in less than an hour and we didn't have to call go for mutual aid during a day. So uh it continues to be a very strong program. We answer over 10 calls a day and uh the chief the chief and his uh staff are truly really uh truly committed to that. Um uh so also for my outside activities, I am the exalted ruler of the Elks and things are going well there. Thank you very much for the support from the bureau. Mayor, thank you for your your comments and your support. I appreciate that. Um, homeowners association lenders here. So, next Wednesday is the homeowners meeting and her guest her her program will include the Bergen County K9 uh Bergen County Sheriff's K9 Division and there will there will be a dog at least a dog there and I'll do some demonstrations and stuff and it's that's always a very interesting night. And then the the Friday after that, Friday the 24th, is the Wind Creek trip. And you can see me or Linda for tickets. She still has tickets available. The ARP meeting met uh last Thursday. Janette's here, but there was I was I was away. Um but it will be again the second Thursday of uh May. And I just I want to make a comment. The we had we had a comment from a a resident about the water increase. And I just want to I want to reiterate it and make it perfectly clear that a no vote for that for that increase that the pass through increase that we have no control over. Pake Valley has no no oversight. It's a commission. Uh most of us understand what a commission is in New Jersey. So a no vote for that increase is a yes vote for higher taxes. Thank you, Mayor.

Thank you, Councilman. Councilwoman Sheridan.

Thank you, Mayor. Um, I just want to um give a um reach out to the Elwood Park um police department, Elwood Park Fire Department, DPW for um a great weekend for girls softball opening and the baseball opening. Um I'm sure you guys could have been doing something else on a beautiful weekend, but I just wanted to say thank you. Um I also want to bring up Yeah, it was a great weekend. Um the kids had fun. There was over three maybe 400 kids all weekend on the field. But I had a fire meeting on Monday and um we definitely have to do something about the parking over by the firehouse. Um there was an accident. Um a car got hit. Okay, it doesn't really matter whose car got hit, but what happens if that would have been a child? Okay. Um maybe I can talk to someone about this. I don't know how to go about it. I guess I have to go through the attorney or through the bureau administrator.

We're um expanding that there. Uh council solo had brought it up and and I think we all think it's a good idea. I have to meet the engineer out there. They're aware of it. They want to see it where we can bring the parking a little closer to the field without walkways and stuff which will allow cars to back up safer and not hit the cars and not create a problem. So, I think we can that'll fix most of it and then we can re-evaluate uh it with the

Well, I was out there on Saturday with Councilman Fizzola and um the fire chief Greg Thompson and um we kind of put our heads together and if we can make if we can give the way the three of us figured it out, we can give the field three spots and still have about 14 for the fire department. Because when the fire department on Good Friday got a phone, got a call, there was nowhere to park. The parents, I mean, I'm not blaming totally the parents. I know they're in a rush. They work 9 to5. Their kids got to be at the field at 5, but you can't park where there's no parking. There's signs up. There's yellow lines. I mean, we're talking lives here between children's lives. If your house burns down, I mean, come on. We have to do something here. So, just to add to that, it's not only the the park that's the problem, um, but it's also the VFW parking, too. So, like their their parking lot fills to the brim, right? Like you have cars being blocked in, plus they park on the street and in the parking lot. So, that's what also gets in the way of the fire calls as well.

Um, my car was actually hit on Sunday uh on Monday, um, by somebody trying to make that turn and he just hit my whole bumper off. Um, so I'm going through that right now, but um, and it was it was crazy because we were just talking about it, too. But yeah, we were talking Saturday afternoon after Yeah, it's it's it's a it's a problem, but I think like what the chief said, if we move that if we could talk to the engineer engineer and move those parking spots up at least 4 feet, uh, you'll get a lot more room on the street there. And if we can move it maybe a little bit closer to where the sewer is where the boxes are for people to donate. If you can move them back a little bit, the fire department can actually have like two or three spots there.

Yeah, we can do that. We'll maximize what's there. Unfortunately, we have to provide parking for the sports, right? Yeah. We have to provide parking for the firefighters. Exactly. We have to help with the DFW overflow. So, it's kind of like very difficult. We'll figure it out. We'll do the best and just let the When I had the fire meeting Monday, I literally parked by a VFW and walked in. I mean, the only thing I'm just thinking out loud is maybe we can I know on the if you're looking at the firehouse on the right, there's a big grass area. I don't know that they need that. I don't like to take grass away, but we may be able to pick up some firefighter spots there.

Well, that's me and me and uh Councilman Priscilla and Greg were out there and where the big yellow the big yellow square is. If we could turn around and give the baseball or whoever goes to the park, give them three spots, but yet go we I know we can't go up to the sidewalk, but there's a sewer right there if And that's you got to make for the water to go down, but you can open up three spots there. Yeah. No, I'm thinking if you're looking at the firehouse straight on by a big grass area that's fenced in,

right? I don't know if that could be repurposed for a few parking spaces for firefighters. And it and if you move the guard rail back about three feet, we'll get more you get more that way, too. We'll look at it. Okay. I I'm just afraid that it's going to be a child mixed. I mean, and this was a tractor trailer. I mean, I have the video if you want to see it. It I mean, can you imagine if that was a child? this would not be a good thing. That's all I have. Mayor, thank you.

Thank you, Councilwoman. Councilwoman Troy, mayor. Um, first I'd like to start by thanking the Elwood Park Patterson um, Elks for their continued uh, support for our young people um, through the programs that they run like youth week that um, it allows us not only to celebrate their uh, their achievements but we're also developing their character and um, I'm just so proud to be part of an organization that supports our youth the way they do. Um we will be holding a youth appreciation lunchon. Mayor and council will be invited. So please look for those invites. Um May 17th is the date if you want to put it on your calendar. Um formal invites will go out. Um, next, um, is my wreck update. Weather permitting, there's going to be a flea market at, uh, Burough Field on Sunday from 9 to 5. Springfest is going to be held on Saturday, May 2nd. Any local groups or vendors that are interested can reach out to uh, JC Promotions at JCPromotions.info. Registration's open for summer camp 2026 on Community Pass. It closes on 65 or when it hits capacity, whichever comes first. Spring soccer training clinic is running from April 18th through June 13th. You can email info@ epcrucc.com for more information. I'd like to thank everyone who helped make the opening days a success. Um, and thank you, Mother Nature, for providing the beautiful weather. Thank you, Chief, to you and your officers. Um to the um

Selma Park uh fire department for providing the truck with the flag. Um and to the wreck department, everybody did so much to help us. We couldn't have done it without you. And so my heartfelt appreciations and I I I very much enjoyed um going to little leagues and getting to be um a spectator. So, I actually got to enjoy that ceremony. Um, and then there lastly, there's been a lot of progress at the garden this week. If nobody has had a chance to drive by there, drive by and check it out. They've installed uh five benches facing in. Um, they've also they got a donation of some annuals that they put in and um we have um the groundbreaking scheduled for Sunday as well. We are watching that weather very closely. Um, I'm really hesitant to make make the call. I want to make sure that it's not going to be a good day. So, probably sometime tomorrow. So, look for that. We'll we'll email and post and stuff. Um,

you'll send an email out.

Yeah. So, stay tuned to that. Mike's going to help me out tomorrow afternoon and we'll make the call. I have about 20 scouts, Girl Scouts scheduled to come. Um, and I was really I was really looking forward to it. So, I'm going to try real hard. Keep my I'm going to do a prayer tonight. Not a rain dance, but I will say a prayer. Um, and we'll make the call tomorrow. Hopefully, it will go on. Um, so that would be at 1:00 if it does. If not, like I said, we will um select a rainy and keep everybody um up to date. And then lastly, I wanted to congratulate the detectives again who received their badges and just wish them, you know, continued success in their career. Um that's all I've got, Mayor. Thank you,

Councilwoman Troy, real quick. Mayor, yes. Um the benches that were installed, have they been have they been dedicated? Are they earmarked? They they have not been dedicated yet. We do have at least one person who's interested. We'll be doing donation plaques for $1,000. Um so for $1,000 donation. So yeah, if anybody is interested, we could do two names. You could put more than one name. Yeah, you can certainly share it. Share the plaque and split it. Yeah, for sure. Thank you. You're welcome. Thank you, Council President Pelgraine.

Yes. A couple things. Residents assistance program update. On Sunday, May 3rd, we will be having our annual town cleanup. The AZEZ volunteers have been working with us for the last eight years on this event. They also do leaf cleanup in the fall for those in need and we truly appreciate all that they do for our community. My board of health update. The free spring rabies clinic for dogs and cats will be held on May 13th from 5:00 p. p.m. to 700 p.m. at Firehouse number four on Mola Boulevard. All Bergen County residents are welcome. For more information, you can call 20117961457 extension 8809. And now, save the dates for these two special events. the first annual Elwood Park Cancer Prevention and Wellness event, Saturday, June 6th from 10:00 a.m. to 2 PM location our recreation center and the 6th annual Elwood Park Celebrate Senior event October 10th from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. location Elwood Park Recreation Center and their next regular meeting will be held on Monday, May 11th at 700 p.m. The new Elwood Park Chamber of Commerce update. Their next event will be working with our Elwood Park PD to host Mother's Day 5K and 10K run. The date is May 10th. The time is 9:30 a.m. Location is Birwood Park. On May 16th, they will be hosting a job fair. Time 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Location American Legion, one Legion Place in Elmwood Park. You will be meeting employers, find job opportunities and internships, and veterans assistance and resources will be available. Join the chamber and the Latinos Association of Elmwood Park for the grand opening and ribbon cutings for these two businesses this Saturday, April 18th. We have the new Peruvian restaurant on 4:30 Market Street. That will be at 12:00 p.m. and TC's Burgers, Wings, and Shrimp on 105 Broadway at 1

p.m. Their next meeting will be on Tuesday, April 21st at 6 p.m. in the all-purpose room at Barrow Hall. For more information on the chamber, you can visit their website at elwoodparkchamber.org. And lastly, I attended the girls um softball opening and little league opening and it was just two great days and I just wish everyone a successful season and we should be very proud. We do all these events and they're just a beautiful thing to see all the children having fun and everybody coming together as a community. And also one last thing, I just want to thank um the Elmwood Park Elks Lodge number 60 for all they do. Uh I'm an Elk now for three years. I can't believe all the things that they do for so many. And the youth program is really big with them. I know Pam heads the youth program and we do honor them every year. I think we you've been doing that for what the last few years. We have like

might be like the board. Yeah. and the council's always invited to go and it's really just a nice event to see what all these young people really achieve and it teaches them teamwork. It teaches them leadership skills and it teaches them that they can be anything that they want to be with hard work and determination. So, it's really a great event and um I'll be happy to be there this year again and thank you Eric. Um, Eric's taken over as exalted ruler and I had the opportunity to go to the last couple meetings when he was in charge and he's doing a wonderful job. Very proud of you, friend. Great job. Progress mayor.

Thank you, council president. I just want to say that also that six of seven of of us on this governing body are Elks. So when you say the mayor and council are invited, we're most of us are elks. Yeah. As we can see, this council don't stop. We had a beautiful weekend between girls softball and baseball. Went went without a hitch. The weather was tolerable on Saturday. Windy and then Sunday was superb. Uh and it all worked out well. And as you can see this weekend, it'll be filled with festivities also. Uh all I could say is that we got a hardworking council here and let's stay the course. May I have a motion to open the floor for public comments? So move

second. Anyone from the public here to make a comment on anything whatsoever?

Are you coming up there? Come on, Bert Drive. Are you leaving or coming up? Oh, okay.

Welcome. Hi. How are you? Hello, mayor, clerk, chief, attorneys, council men and women. I came before you last year, most of you. Sorry. Um, just just for the record, your name and address.

I'm sorry. Oh, I'm Oh, sure. Alicia from Birwood Drive. Uh, I came before most of you last year. I believe it was November. It was the night of the uh we were in the back room with it was very contentious with the halfway house or whatever. So, um I don't know if you remember I gave you all a pamphlet about the size of sheds in the yard and all that. It was never voted on and you guys told me, "Oh, sure. No problem. It it should all you want is one foot more, one foot on each side and you know be able to put more in the yard because it's less than the size of a maximum swimming pool." Everything was great. Nobody voted on it. It's never been passed. So, he said, "Don't do a variance. Don't worry about it. Hang out. I've been hanging out for months. It hasn't been voted on. So, where are we at?

Mike, where can we go with this? So, so I don't I don't know if that was said. If if if that was said, that's not the proper action. So, I spoke to the construction official, uh, Councilman Samson had told me that he ran into you and that you had inquired. Yes. Um, I vaguely remembered you. I spoke to Tony. Uh, he after he broke his wrist, he was home still. Yeah. So, Tony, I'm reading the email now. He said your recourse is to submit a formal application along with a copy of your survey to the zoning officer who if it doesn't fit in with the with the zoning that's there. You would get a denial letter and then you would go to the board for a variance.

But that's not what I'm asking for. Not just for me, it's for the town. I was asking for you guys to change the ordinance so we can have instead of the maximum shed, which makes no sense, is 100 square feet, which you can only do 10 by 10 is 100 square feet. I'm asking for 10 by 12. So the maximum if you wanted to do by the 100 square feet would be 9 by 11. That's 99 square feet. So I want to do 10 by 12 which is 1 foot longer and one foot wider. So that's all I was asking for. And then it also says in the ordinance 34 Hold on a second. I'm sorry. So they would have

you're asking to change the ordinance. So yes, I think this is an item that's board, not just this is an item that's got to come up in a work session. Yeah, you have to discuss it and decide if the body wants to I don't know if any of you still have the handout. I spoke to the I'm sorry, how do you pronounce your name again? Uh Chennai.

Chen. Okay. Because I know it means scarlet in Hebrew, but I just couldn't Everybody pronounces it different. Uh, I had asked for I gave you guys all a pamphlet of exactly what I was asking for, but you guys were you you yourself, mayor, actually said, "That's all you want. No problem. We'll discuss it and pass it." But I don't have it anymore cuz I was like, "You're going to pass it." So, I never saved my copy. So, I hope some of you saved it because I spoke to Chen and she didn't. What we'll do now is we'll put it on the work agenda or I could rewrite it up, but I didn't want to have to do specs. That's No. Could you rewrite it again? I would have to rewrite bring it into the clerk.

Let's put this on for our next work session. See if the council is conducive enough to uh to what the lady's asking for. Yeah. So, basically, just to remind you, for the people who weren't here, if the maximum shed is 100 square feet, you're very limited on 20 more square feet.

Yeah. But not only just for one shed, but with everybody today, we all have smaller homes. And not all of us, but a lot of us have little capes. We don't have these ginormous two family twotory houses, excuse me. So with different people with different hobbies and then you have a large large equipment for your yard or whatever. You know, a maximum pool size is 500 ft² which is approximately 10% of the yard. That's the ordinance. 10% is the max, right? I'm only asking for two sheds that would be 240 ft because the maximum right now is only 200 square ft. Yeah. And it so you would have to change both parts of that ordinance. Yeah, that would have to go in front of the zoning board also. Am I correct, Mike? So I went Yeah.

to one of So the first thing would be the council to initiate it and then goes goes to the zoning board. First thing I would do is talk to the construction official his expertise. Is this something that he's recommending to the council that this this lady is requesting? That's number one. Get his input, right? Get his input. Are you talking about Tony? Yeah. From Yeah, because he was all He said, "Just get the information and talk to you guys again." And then when I ran into Eric, excuse me, Mr. Samson, uh, you know, uh, you know, he reminded me that the meeting was tonight, so that's why I came back.

Okay. So, it's our job to get to the construction official, see where that goes. Let the council make a decision, see where that goes, and if if it is a a go, then it goes to the zoning board and see how that goes. So, we got our hands full. Yeah. So, I have more months to wait. Yeah. Okay. Be patient. It's a long wait. I got a lot to do. Okay. Thank you very much. How's your call, Alicia? Very good. Thank you. Anyone else care to speak on any matter subject whatsoever? Yes, Mrs. Rendezo name and everyone. My name is Janette. Push the button. Push the button. Put the button on. Put the button on. How's that? Is that better?

Much better.

Hi, my name is Janette Renazzo. I am at 102 Franklin Street in Elwood Park. I'd just like to address this to Mr. Pizzola and I just want to reassure him that over the last two years that this town has been generous to our AARP group. Uh and you know what we're doing in our group. Um I have spoken directly to the department that cuts the checks for us. I don't get the check anyway. It goes directly to the vendors. uh we don't get the check with our names on it. It goes right to the vendors. So, I just want to reassure you that I comply with whatever the regulations are for this. And this will be hopefully the third year. And again, our our members are very grateful for the donations, I guess you can call it, that you guys give us. So again, and you know, Councilman Oswald, I know you um didn't vote, but again, I reassure you that we follow and comply with all the regulations that are required by us with this money and it goes to for the people in Elmer Park. Thank you.

Thank you for clearing that up. Appreciate it. Anyone else care to speak on any subject whatsoever? If not, I'll close the public portion. I have a motion, but a quick executive. Motion to go into executive. Second. All in favor? Thank you. Have a nice weekend.

Where's the Open Public Meeting Act PL 1975 chapter 231 permits the exclusion of the public from a meeting in certain circumstances? And whereas this public body is of the opinion that such circumstances presently exist. And whereas the governing body wishes to discuss attorney client privilege information, 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 be resolved that the public be excluded from this meeting. Yes.