Township Council - Regular Meeting

It's probably as

Good evening. Good evening. I'd like to call the January 6th, 2026 reorganization meeting to order. Please stand for the flag salute.

United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

A moment of silence to remember the service and sacrifices of the armed service members who protect our nation and the first responders who protect our neighborhoods. Thank you. This meeting was advertised in the daily record and the official newspaper for the township of Rockaway. Notice was posted on the official bulletin boards of Rockaway Township, the township website, and notice was filed in the office of the township clerk. Rabbi Asher Herson to present the invocation there. [snorts] Good evening, mayor, dignitaries, members of council, township officials and staff, and fellow residents of Raway Township. A happy and healthy year to all. Almighty creator, maker of heaven and earth. We live in a world that is consumed by turbulence globally, nationally, and often personally. As always, we turn to you for direction and strength. So we can play a major part in bringing stability to our world. We do know that every act of kindness and that all spiritual activity has a cosmic effect

and will result in bringing more stability, light and hope to our country and to our world. However, one may question, can our humble efforts truly suffice and make that kind of a difference? But in your scriptures, Almighty God, you tell us yes, you instruct us to do everything in our power with great effort and toil to bring light to this world and promise that you will supplement the rest. So the ball is truly in our court. And we find this message shared in no less of a source than the great seal of the United States of America. And it's also printed on the back of the dollar bill. Our founding fathers knew that the establishment of the United States of America was not only against all odds, but it was contrary to society at large. They expressed their vision, their hope and their trust with a partially built pyramid [snorts] with the omniscient seeing eye of you almighty filling in the uncompleted part. It's a fascinating depiction. The eye representing the allseeing eye, the omniscience of of the almighty is not overlooking the pyramid, but it's the very top. It's the integral and uppermost part of the pyramid. We can only do so much. They said,

and we will do what we can, but without your father in heaven, it will never happen. And this becomes our daily guide as we put every effort that we have into turning darkness into light. It is so important to see our personal role in the above and to connect as with any inspiration such a perspective with action. One such action is consistent and easy but its impact is immeasurable and that is giving charity every day regardless of quantity. It's tangible. It helps others in need but serves as a clear reminder as to what we are doing here in this world every single day. A charity box can be obtained from any organization or a person can just use a cup or a container and disperse its contents at their convenience as they wish. What's most important is that it's something physically done every day and hopefully at the day's outset. Charity makes a huge impact on its recipients, but the impact upon the giver is even much greater. This does not require a lifestyle change, but it does change lives in the most dramatic way. Giving charity daily is a godly act and it reminds us of our daily mission to make this world into a gentle, loving and godly place.

Help us dear God to absorb this message, the message of building, the message of light, the message of charity, love and caring for all people. And starting right here in our beloved township and please always give us the spiritual and moral clarity to pursue your charge every day of the coming year and beyond. May God Almighty bless the sacred assembly, the reorganization of our township's government. May God Almighty bless Rakaway Township and all of its residents. And may God bless the United States of America. Amen. And thank you. Thank you, Rabbi Herson. Roll call. Council member Salberg

here. Council member Otovich here. Council member Morrison here. [clears throat] The record will reflect that we have three members present. While this is not a quorum for the transaction of business, we will proceed with the certification and swearing in of the council elect to qualify the body. It's time to administer the oaths of office. Council member elect Roy, please come forward. [clears throat]

Sorry. I state your name. I, Susan Royak, do you solemnly swear

do solemnly swear that I will faithfully that I will faithfully impartially and justly impartially and injustly perform all the duties perform all the duties of the office of of the office of Rockaway Township Rockaway Township W one council member w one council member to the best of my ability to the best of my ability and that I will support the constitution that I will support the Constitution of the United States of the United States and the Constitution and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey of the state of New Jersey. And that I will bear true faith and that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. and allegiance to the same. And to the governments established and to the government established in the United States in the United States and in this state and in this state under the authority under the authority of the people of the people.

Congratulations.

Thank you. Thank you. Councilwoman, please feel free to Councilwoman Roy, feel free if you want to take pictures or something now. We can do that. State your name. Perfect. [snorts] [laughter] Perfect.

[clears throat]

Council member elect Friier, please come forward. [clears throat] I state your name. I, Sophia Freda, do solemnly swear do solemnly swear that I will faithfully that I will faithfully impartially and justly and impartially and justly perform all duties perform all the duties of the office of the office of Rockaway Township W 3 council member of Rockaway Township W 3 council member to the best of my ability

to the best of my ability I will support the constitution and I will support the constitution the United States of the United States and the constitution of the state of New Jersey and the constitution of the state of New Jersey. And I will bear true faith. And I will bear true true faith. And allegiance to the same. And allegiance to the same. And to the governments established and to the governments established in the United States. In the United States. And in this state and in this state under the under the authority of the people under the authority of the people. Congratulations.

[applause]

Council member elect Kelly, please come forward. I want you to know. I faithfully

and justly duty

to the best of my ability. I was America also

authority. [applause]

Council member Quinn, please come forward. It's this new camera. I do swear solemnly swear

that I will faithfully that I will faithfully and impartially and justly and justly perform all the duties perform all the duties of the office of the office of Rockway Township Council Ward three two two Rockaway Township Council Ward two my glass on I apologize That's all right. [laughter] To the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. And I will support the Constitution of the United States. I will support the Constitution of the United States. Constitution of the State of New Jersey. And the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. And that I will bear true faith and allegiance. And I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same to the same. and to the governments established

and to the governments established in the United States in the United States and in this state and in this state under the authority of the people under the authority of the people. So help me God. So help me God. Amen. Thank you for

Thank you Mike. Love you. Jeez.

Thank you. All right.

Council member Sacket, please step forward. Happy birthday. Thank you. But this [snorts]

I state your name. I state your name. I Jonathan Sack do solemnly swear do solemnly swear that I will faithfully that I will faithfully impartially and justly partially and justly perform all the duties perform all the duties of the office of the office of Rockway Township Ward 4 council member of Rockway Township Ward 4 council member to the best of my ability to the best of my ability and that I will support the Constitution and I will support the Constitution of the United States of the United States and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey, and that I will bear true faith. Now, bear true faith and allegiance to the same. and allegiance to the same and to the governments established and to the governments established in the United States in the United States.

And in this state and in this state under the authority of the people under authority of the people. So help me God.

Congratulations. [applause] [applause] Turn this way. Sorry. [applause] Thank you.

Council member Freedellander, please come forward. left hand. Raise your right hand. I state your name. I, Emanuel Manny Freedellander, do solemnly swear do solemnly swear that I will faithfully that I will faithfully impartially and justly impartially and justly perform all the duties perform all the duties of the office

of the office of Rockaway Township Ward 5 council member of Rockaway Township Ward 5 Councilman to the best of my ability to the best of my ability and that I will support and I will support the Constitution the Constitution of the United States of the United States and the Constitution and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey of the state of New Jersey and that I will bear true faith and I will bear true faith and allegiance and allegiance to the same to the same and to the governments and to the governments established established in the United States in the United States and in this state and in this state under the authority of the people under the authority of the people. So help me God. Congratulations. Congratulations.

[applause]

I know.

We will now take a roll call. Council member Salberg here. Council member Wovich here. Council member Freelander here. Council member Sacket here. Council member Royek here. Council member Frieri here. Council member Quinn here. Council member Morrison here. Council member Kelly the record now reflects a full quorum of nine members present and qualified. The council is now legally constituted to conduct the business of the 2026 reorganization. Item number nine, nominations for election of council president. I'd like to make a motion. Do I have a second?

Second. Second. You have to make the motion. The motion. Could I have a motion to appoint uh Councilman Morrison to the council president? I'll second that. Council member Salberg. Yes. Council member Wovich. Yes. Council member Freelander. Yes. Council member Sackett, yes. Council member Roy, yes. Council member Frieri, yes. Council member Quinn, yes. Council member Morrison, yes. Council member Kelly, no. That is eight yeses. Motion carries.

Congratulations to the president. Um, we will now administer the oath for council president.

[snorts] I, Howard Morrison, I, Howard Morrison, do solemnly swear do solemnly swear I will faithfully that I will faithfully impartially and partially and justly and justly perform all the duties perform all the duties of the office of Rockway Township Council President of the Office of Rockway Township Council President to the best of my abilities to the best of my abilities. And I will support the Constitution of the United States. I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. And I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. And to the government established to the government established in the United States. In the United States and in this state and in this state under the authority of people under the authority of the people. So help me God. So help me God. Congratulations. Thank you. [applause]

[snorts] [clears throat] Thank you. Um, just real quick, this this is one of the most diverse uh councils that we have had in a long time. Um, I think it it very well represents the township of Rockaway. Um, I've had a chance to speak to everybody. I am looking forward to really good things and working together. So, thank you everybody for serving and u looking forward to a very productive year. Uh, with that being said, I'd like to make a motion to uh elect Jonathan Sackett as council vice president. Can I have a second? Second. Clerk, please take the role. Council member Salberg. Yes. Council member Voytovich, yes. Council member Freelander,

yes. Council member Sacket, yes. Council member Roy, yes. Council member Friier, yes. Council member Quinn, yes. Council member Morrison, yes. Council member Kelly, yes. That is nine yeses. Motion carries. Congratulations. [applause]

[snorts]

That's the kids. [snorts] [snorts] Mr. Sec, you should know what to do by now. I John I sack do solemnly swear do solemnly swear I will faithfully that I will faithfully impartially and justly perform all the duties perform all the duties the office of Rockway Township the office of Rockway Township council vice president council vice president the best of my abilities to the best of my abilities and I will support the constitution and I will support the constitution of the United States of the United States the constitution and the constitution of the state of New Jersey

and I will bear true faith and allegiance. I'll bear true faith and allegiance to the same to the same into the government established and to the governments established in the United States in the United States and in this state and in this state under the authority of people under the authority of the people. So help me God. So help me God. All right. [applause] God bless you brother. Congratulations.

Congratulations. I just want to say thank you. It's um it's been a while since I've been up back up here um in a leadership position in the town. it being my third term and I'm honored to be up here in front of so many people, friends, family. Being here tonight, it means a lot to me. Thank you so much. [applause]

At this point, I'm going to turn the meeting over to the mayor for his address. Thank you, Council President. Um, before I start, I'd like to recognize um our county clerk, Anne Graci, is here. I think county commissioner uh Smith left. Um, I didn't see I don't have my glass on if you recall from what I was reading earlier. So, those are the only um two dignitaries here. But I also did get a letter from uh Senator Buco I wanted to read. Um he was unable to attend tonight. said, "Although I'm unable to be there today, I want to share my best wishes for this municipal reorganization meeting and to acknowledge the importance of the occasion. Reorganization meetings are meaningful moments for a municipality, marking both continuity and new beginnings to local leadership. They reflect the ongoing commitment of individuals who are willing to step forward and serve their neighbors and communities. The municipalities that make up New Jersey's 25th district are strengthened by this dedication. And I truly appreciate the time, effort, and care um that go into public service at the local level. Why am I able to be there with you tonight? I extend my best wishes to those being sworn in and my appreciation to everyone continuing to service as you begin to the year ahead. I remain dedicated to the district's needs and the priorities of Rockway Township and I value the work you do on behalf of your residents. Please let please know that my office is always here as a resource and I'm happy to assist or stay engaged in any way that may be helpful. Thank you understanding. I wish you a successful reorganization. Senator Anthony Buco. So Senator Buco is a big supporter um of our community and very appreciative of him. Um, so I wanted to just reflect, um, I would say briefly, but I have like six pages on on 2025 and some accomplishments we've had. Um, some great things we've done, but I'd be remiss um, you know, we're able to

accomplish these things um, because of the great employees we have, but also the council members that are returning like Mr. Sacket, Mr. Morrison, and Mr. Freedellander, Mr. Quinn, who contributed to making the things happen. like it's not uh an effort just by me or my administration or by it's everybody working together and that's what you see here tonight people working together wherever they're from whatever their background is they're working together to get things done for our community. Um so I want to thank them for that. So from uh 2025 I want to highlight some things. So first in our first responders um our fire department um the township if you don't know provides funding to our five firehouses uh throughout the township. uh they had 700 over 700 calls of service this year. Um there there's been I think three or four in the past two weeks. So they're very busy. Um we partnered with the American Red Cross on the sound the alarm initiative. Um they went out uh our fire director went out and spoke to the RT public schools during fire uh fire prevention month. Our new um Rosenberg ladder truck was placed into servicing company too. And if you haven't seen it, it's beautiful. Um it's it's a incredible truck. Um we signed uh finalized a lease agreement with the Pond View Fire Annex for those who don't know. Uh we have a annex that Pond View the developer built for us where we're storing some of our fire equipment. Um so that that's a a really great agreement. Um we have five full uh new full members to the firehouse which is also good news. And our very own Ed Nun earned recognition as a certified fire investigator uh for our police department. So, in 2025, we had 57 officers. They answered over 40,000 calls to service last year. Um, they achieved the NJSA cop department accreditation. All of our police officers participate in over general uh 15 general training programs. And just let you know, put in perspective, like

our officers are constantly being trained. Um it's something that really just started the past two years and it's been great for our organization and then a population and police officers participated in five targeted specific um law enforcement training courses. Um they held their first annual junior police academy. They hosted the uh second national night out in Rockway Township. They initiated a drone certification program. They managed the hometown hero flag program which would raised uh 28 flags um to date. and we thank um uh Tilcon for their donations to make that happen. Um they participate in pride support to over a dozen community events uh throughout the year and they c celebrated the retirement of two police officers and promotion of five police officers and we hired five new officers that just uh recently completed the academy. Um from our next category of first responders are water utility. They pumped over 600 million gallons of water this year. Um they re they rehabilitated lowflow pumps one and two. They rehabilitated old Miltown Road and Eerie booster station. Well 10 went into service. They replaced isolation valves in North Lakeshore. New controls and stored in well 7. Um improvements in well 8. They upgraded the scatter control system and added controls for all six sewer lift locations. And they put new hydro evacuation sewer jetting truck into service. Um again, first responders, the Department of Public Works participated in the following major projects. Telmart Park renovation, Eric Lake improvement, um new water operations building, um McVey recycling center improvements, multiple pipeline rehabilitations, resurfaced more than 4.5 miles of roadway in Rockway Township, installed three new catch basins, and repaired and rebuilt over 120 of them. They inspected and cleaned over 300 catch basins. They swept and cleaned 2,000 miles of roadway and supported multiple community events. So,

needless to say, they're busy. Um, in our engineering and planning and construction department, um, almost 250 zoning permits were issued. 19 applications were submitted to the board of adjustments. 12 applications to the planning board. These are all increases from the prior year. Um, almost 3,000 UCCC applications were filed. They oversaw the construction of the new municipal water building utility building. And for those of you who live in White Metal Lake by the Afield, if you've seen it, it's a beautiful building. Um, it it it's a nice addition to the community. Um, they replaced the foot bridge at Eggbert's Lake. Um, and then the Richard Mine Road improvements. Um, they've received a grant to make improvements to Midway Road and Circle Drive. Um, a grant to improve water quality. And they completed their open space recreation plan. They also helped to reserve a 120 acre Heler track um piece of property and Neil Neil, you're familiar with that property on Green Pond Road. Um we were able to work and and made sure that got protected. Um they helped the RTPD manage the safety concerns created by the sinkholes. Yes, I said it sink holes. Um they successfully settled the fourth round of affordable housing um obligations [clears throat] in our department of uh health division of health. They generated almost $200,000 in shared services revenue obtained and managed over a million dollars in grant funding. Um they expanded and I'm very proud of this um the mayor's wellness campaign to include several new programs to help with physical, financial, and mental health of our residents. And that's really being driven by Britney Bernstein, our community outreach coordinator. Um, they offered numerous screenings and clinics and health programs, including a skin cancer screening, a flu clinic, two rabies clinics, healthy bones and chair yoga, several financial seminars, uh, a d-stress December program. There's several more, but that's just to name a few. So, um, we've really stepped up

through Britney and offered a lot of services to help our our residents in parks and recreation. We received and managed a grant for over $125,000 for a Ford face house improvements. We participate in a renovation at Tumblr Park. Um actually um the other thing was the the naming and rehabilitation of the Art Seate Scout Cabin um in Mount Hope Pond. [clears throat] They oversaw the summer recreation program which this year had over 400 campers. So that's a nice thing. We issued over 1300 member pond badges and almost a thousand guest badges at Mount Hope Pond. Um so it was widely used this year. Um again they offer numerous exercise program for seniors. They made over 6,500 dialeride trips. Um worked with every recreation program as it relates to field maintenance and scheduling. So this year we had um several new I think six new community events. So I'd like to talk about some of them that our event coordinator Shannon coordinated. So, we had a f family scavenger hunt at the Rockway Town Skirmore was a new event. Um, and that was a lot of families participating. That was a really nice event. Um, Emily Coleman senior prom we we hosted. That was a Emily's idea that we executed on and it was uh attended very well. Everybody's in their dresses. I think I wore a tuxedo and all. It was very nice. Um, we we stepped up our game with the schools and the month of Military Child and some events we did there. We always do the Easter festival. Um we had an Earth Day event at KDM for those you don't know. Um we worked with the board of ed and had students come out and help plant trees um at out on the other side I think where the old girl scout camp used to be. Um it was a really nice event. So that was something new we did this year. Um we kept doing the National Day of Prayer. We had our Memorial Day parade. Um Rockway Township Day. Um our 911 memorial, our senior picnic. Uh the Dark Lake Spooktacular. Um

uh we also had a senior Halloween party. That was something we did this year. We we work a lot with the uh uh veterans [clears throat] on Veterans Day, uh our tree lighting, manure lighting. In 2026, we have a several other new events planned. We're really going to expand uh Rockway Day and offer different things there, but we're also going to be celebrating the 250th anniversary of our country. Um, along with that, Shannon was able to secure, for those of you have ever seen it, the Moving Vietnam War Memorial is going to be in Rockway Township on the Fourth July weekend. So, it's going to be a really cool thing. We're really excited about that and, uh, I think it's going to be great for our community. Um, from a personnel perspective, um, we hired 38 new team members. We had nine retirements. Um, and I want to indicate too that both our acting clerk and our deputy clerk completed all their training classes. They're going to be sitting for their exam in April. So, we're excited about that opportunity. Um, so before I get into the finance piece of it, why do I say all those things? Like, why do I want to highlight all the things we're doing? So, 22% of your tax bill roughly goes to fund our municipal budget. So that 22% is what's driving all the things that we're doing, all the things I just talked about, um, and all the events we're doing. So I think it's money well spent. So from a, uh, finance area, we renegotiated the rate with our merchant card processors, resulting over $10,000 in annual savings. Um, Steven Tartaglia passed the state administered CMFO exam. um from our tax assessor's office, county appeals are at all-time low with only 14 appeals filed and we provided and I'm proud of this property tax relief to 15 disabled veterans. Um while the values of our homes and Rockway rate uh continue to increase, the B budget that was presented and approved by this council uh the previous

council um actually resulted in a reduction of the mult uh municipal tax rate. And what that means is your municipal portion of your tax bill for the average taxpayer did not go up this past year even with all the new things you got. And we're going to continue to try and do that um with this new council. So, um, I really did want to highlight some of these things and I wanted to thank people specifically like Jack and Manny who have served in this community for so long and have given up, you know, time with their families to be here and do these things and participate in events and and people like Jonathan, his family who just come out here and are always here to support the community. He doesn't miss many events in the township. And I know you're saying you're in a leadership role again. you've always been in a leadership role on this council since you've been on the council and we appreciate that and I look forward to working with everybody um on the council. So, have a good night. [laughter]

We will take a we'll take a quick fivem minute break should anybody wish to escape.

Okay. Item number 15, the mayor's appointments. Although this does not require a vote of the council, I'd like to read them nonetheless. Clean Communities Coordinator, one-year term ending 12312026. Cara Selenino, Recycling Coordinator, one-year term ending 12312026. Al-Nath, Community Develop and Revenue Sharing Committee, one-year term ending 12312026. Regular meeting regular member Peter Tabet, alternate member Allison Ferrante. Planning board, class 4 member, four-year term ending 12312029. Jack Elco, class 4 member, four-year term ending 12312029. Jennifer Meyers, alternate one-year term ending 12312026. Steve Kafone, alternate 2-year term ending 12312027. Mary Noon, Municipal Alliance Committee, one-year term ending 12312026. Brenda Bud and Susan Gabe. Emergency management two-year term expiring 12312027. Coordinator Chief Robert Sher. First deputy Captain Michael Dacerson. Second deputy Bert Parks. Library Board of Trustees 5-year term expiring 1231 2028. Ray Ferman and Joanne Claps.

Make a motion. Go ahead. Uh to approve the mayor's appointments. It does not require a motion. Sorry. Thank you, council president. Thank you. Uh item 16, council president appointments. We are going to put this off until the next meeting. Item number 17, appointments, R2602, mayor's appointments with advice and consent of the township council. Can I have a motion? So move. Second. Clerk, please take the role. Can we have a discussion on that? that uh on a resolution. Yes,

Mr. Yachphano. Is it appropriate to have a discussion on a resolution? It's appropriate if the motion is seconded and voted on by the council. Okay. If I may, I I don't know if there's actually a statute that requires a motion, Mr. Atafono. I think it's just a request from a city member on the council. that discussion about a particular motion in this case 26-02. Can you just please make a motion to open it for discussion?

Uh if it's required yes uh but in this case uh I'll make a motion to open for discussion R-262. Do we have a second? The motion does not have a second. R2602 mayor's appointments with advice and consent of the township council. Can I have a motion? So moved. I'll make the second. Council President, if I may be recognized. Yes. On this particular motion, the reason why I asked for a discussion that there are um appointments on this resolution that I would not support.

Let me just I I appreciate it, but let me just stop you. We we did open it for discussion and that motion did not get a second. So, I appreciate that, Mr. Morrison, but it's not a requirement to make a motion to open for discussion of a resolution. Okay. Okay. I just want to make that for the record as well. Understood. Right. Thank you. Clerk, please proceed with the role. Council member Salberg. Yes. Council member Votovich. Yes. Council member Freellander. Yes. Council member Roy. Yes. Council member Freed. Yes. Council member Quinn. Yes. Council member Kelly. Abstain. Council member Sacket. Yes, council member Morrison.

Yes, that is eight yeses, one abstension. Motion passes. R2603, Township Council appointments. Can I have a motion? So move. I'll second. Clerk, please take the role. Council member Salberg, yes. Council member Witovich, yes. Council member Freelander, yes. Council member Royek, yes. Council member Freeday, yes. Council member Quinn, yes. Council member Kelly, yes. Council member Sacket, yes. Council member Morrison,

yes. That's nine yeses. Motion carries. Approval of the minutes from the December 9th, 2025 Township Council regular meeting. Can I have a motion? So moved. Second that. Clerk, please take the role. Council member Salberg, yes. Council member Votovich, yes. Council member Freelander, yes. Council member Roy, abstain since I wasn't here. Council member Freight, [clears throat] abstain. Council member Quinn, yes. Council member Kelly, abstain. Council member Sacket, yes. Council member Morrison,

yes. Six yeses, three abstensions. Motion passes. Uh consent agenda. Uh before I read off the consent agenda, I'd like to make a motion to pull R 2633 and R 2635 for a separate vote. Can I have a second? Second. Cler, please take the role. Council member Freellander, here. Council member Sacket, yes. Council member Quinn, yes. Council member Morrison, yes. Council member Freed, yes. Councilwoman Royick, yes. Council member Salberg, yes. Council member Vuittovich, yes.

Council member [clears throat] Kelly, yes. That is nine yeses. Motion passes. Uh clerk, just for the future votes, if we can go to the other order with Councilman Sack, then myself at the end. Yes. Thank you, Mr. Mr. Morrison, if I may be recognized. Yes. Uh, I also would like to have um R 26-17 removed for discussion in a separate vote. Just 17. Yeah, you already I had actually uh uh 1733 and 35, but you addressed the two last ones. Okay. Is there a second? Second. Clerk, please take the role.

Council member Sberg. Yes. Council member Voitvich. Yes. Council member Freelander. Yes. Council member Roy. Yes. Council member Freeday. Yes. Council member Quinn. Yes. Council member Kelly. Yes. Council member Sacket. Yes. Council member Morrison.

Yes. It's nine yeses. Motion passes. Okay. Consent agenda items R2601. R2604 through and including R2616, R 2618 through and including R2632 and R 2634. Can I have a motion? So move second. Cler, please take the role. Council member Salberg, yes. Council member Votovich, yes. Council member Freellander, yes. Council member Royek, yes. Council member Freeday, yes. Council member Quinn, yes.

Council member Kelly, yes. Council member Sacket, yes. Council member Morrison, yes. It's nine yeses. Motion passes. Okay. Um, opening up discussion on R 2617. Councilman Kelly.

Uh, yes. First, uh, Council President, thank you for recognizing me. Um, we have uh what the uh acting municipal clerk needs to follow or follows is a uh clerk desk uh reference and I just want to make a note to the record on uh section um chapter 3 subsection 2 C of agendas and it would be line item four. If any discussion is requested on the consent agenda item, it is removed from the consent agenda to the regular agenda. So again, it's not a requirement to make a motion and have a second of a motion to remove something to have discussion for a separate vote. I just want to put that for the record and this is um what the clerks follow and it's also something you can easily get online uh in the state of New Jersey. Um what we have on this uh resolution 26-17 we had a um uh trying to find it here. [snorts]

[clears throat] Oh, I'm sorry. Uh, Yachafano and Peron Esquire um per attorney for uh a contract not to exceed a half a million dollars. Um since some of these individuals that are on here that we're going to vote on on this resolution, there are some that I don't support. So I would remove uh I would ask to remove the Peron for a separate vote and then do a vote for all of the um others um in one sweep on that resolution.

Understood. You're making the motion. I I just want to call out um local government ethics law NJSA4A 9225D. No local government official shall act in his official capacity in any matter where he, a member of his immediate family or a business organization in which he has an interest as a direct or indirect financial or personal involvement that might reasonably be expected to impair his objectivity or independence from judgment. Um there is a clear conflict of interest uh with yourself and and the uh Yachano and Peron. Um, if you decide to vote, you're going to create circumstances requiring me as council president uh to forward a complaint to the state local finance board, which is jurisdiction over ethical violations committed by public officials. Additionally, if you vote on this appointment or any business uh relative to Yachono and Peron, you're potentially creating a situation which could be prejuditial to the entire council.

That being I'm sorry. That being said, do you wish to continue with your motion? I do and I also want to respond to what you said and I appreciate that.

Um, which I don't think Mr. Morrison you you were aware of but under docket under PAS 1922-18 Mr. Yatrafano through his client actually addressed that issue in a filing. Unfortunately for Mr. Yatrafano that filing was dismissed without with prejudice and could not be uh refiled again. However, Mr. Trafano under docket number MRSL 378-9 filed something similar through another client specifically of a motion addressing conflict with Mr. Kelly in voting on his contract with anything that's there. So again, I don't believe that you have any knowledge of this, but on July 12th, honorable Judge Minkowitz in the Superior Court actually reviewed that specific motion, which is on page eight of the 20page decision addressing that particular matter and I was not in conflict and I can participate in a vote. Mr. Yatrafano is aware of that. Mr. Fatfano fought that. Mr. Fatafano lost that. So, here we are again getting false information from our town attorney through our council president when Mr. Yatrafano didn't file a 20-day for uh the judge to actually review and reconsider. Mr. Yatrafano did not file an appeal within 40 days of that. So, it stands as it states today. However, Mr. Yatrafano was found in conflict. So, I am not in conflict with Mr. theatrafano participating in any vote dealing with his contract or appointment. However, he is in contract dealing with anything with me. So therefore, I'm going to continue based on the decision by honorable judge Minkowitz in his order dated July 12th of 2019 and it is accessible and I can give it to you if you wish.

It's okay. Mr. Yachtano did recuse himself from any proceedings relative to you um that occurred before you became on the council. I would urge you to do the same. Um, understood, my statement is on the record. Should there be any vote, I I will be filing the complaint with the ethics board. And I will inform you though, if you do a frivolous complaint against me, I will file the same against you. Okay? So, you can do as you wish, but I would guide you accordingly to review that order by Judge Minkowitz.

Okay? Mr. Um, and I understood most of what Mr. Kelly was saying, including the veiled references to some prior proceedings. Uh, I would have a more detailed comment. However, I would say to the council, if that u address by Mr. Kelly indicated nothing else. You all have eyes and ears and brains. It indicated an absolute prejudice to me, my partner Carl Peron, and my firm, which is exactly what I submit respectfully to the council president was trying to address and caution Mr. Kelly about. That's all I have to say.

Okay, moving forward. Resolution R2617. I make a motion for R2617. Can I have a second? Second. Clerk, please take the role. Mr. Mr. I'm I'm sorry, but you we did not address removing Mr. Yatrafon for a separate vote, which I will participate in. make the motion just uh to have uh approve all of the professionals that are on R 2617 uh for one vote and then have a separate vote for Yachafano and Peron um uh for a second vote. Council President, you already had a motion and second. Yes. And I don't believe it would create a conflict as it would not have its own resolution number. Correct.

No. Okay. So, we are No problem. Well, no problem to continue with the resolution as a whole. You're not going to separate it. I I can't vote on Mr. Yakfano. Even if even if we wanted to address a conflict, y you're still making me vote on something and voting a negative against the other professionals. Understood. That I would support. And because of your lack of um willingness to separate the vote of the others and the one, you are compromising my vote for the people that I represent in my six board. Yes. So that's that's kind of difficult and I don't there's no harm in doing it.

I understand what you're saying but I gentlemen I I can't set the precedent to start uh diving up resolutions in the future. I I understand where you're coming from but the resolution should and will be voted on as a whole. Your objection is noted. I I just got a this is open to discussion on Mr. Right. So I got a question is I I I assume you want to vote on him separately because maybe you don't want to support him for the appointment. Correct. U well Mr. I I I'm not supporting one the threshold of a half a million dollars in building for legal. Okay.

Two, I don't support Mr. Yatrafano as a potential town attorney uh in Rockway Township. And what we're doing is we're putting a contract before we even approve the actual vendor or professional. We're doing it backwards. We're putting the cart in front of the horse. We should be voting on resolution 33 and 35, making appointing them or not appointing them. And then we would then uh make a uh a motion to approve or not approve the contracts. We're approving a contract before we even approve the vendor. Understood. But if I mean we're doing it backwards.

Is there anything you point to to disqualify me Mr. A to be an attorney for the township? He's been here for over a decade, I believe. Correct. Is that fairly accurate? I've participated in in meetings and and there's nothing that I could tell that he somehow pushed litigation. So, he's going to, you know, get extra money or anything like that. Every single time he gave advice to this council, to the mayor, to the administration was making sure that the taxpayers money spent well, the his I think uh win record is in the 90s 98%. I mean, that's extraordinary, I think. I mean, unless you could point to something specific to disqualify him from him being an attorney for this township, I I don't see any reason to vote on it separately and and u I I would vote against the motion like that.

Well, I I mean I and I appreciate your your efforts there and and to be I I'm not sure if you're accurately prepared about the 90% as far as success rate. I apologize for not I'm going to put a stop to this and yeah, but I will look at it though discussions just one section um to address. Hold on. I mean I I I have the floor and I I don't want to and I'm answer I'm rescending your time but Mr. You got your final gave advice where we actually were found guilty recently of retal retaliating against. I'm rescending your time. That's that to me in its own is horrible to go against our PBA 287.

Council President, some comments for the good of the council, especially since we have two new council members who were entitled to the respect of some explanation about what's going on. The resolution that Mr. Kelly has moved to extract from the consent agenda is what we commonly call the professional services resolution. The professional services resolution is a resolution that essentially enables our CFO to pay the various professionals who work for the township. uh if a prof any and this is not just lawyers, engineers, uh auditors, uh every licensed professional that works for the township is on that resolution. Now, the members of the council need to be aware that this is a repetition of something that Mr. Kelly and his cohorts did. I think it was in 2018 when he was council president. The effect of removing a professional from the professional services resolution is to make it impossible to pay that professional. Back in 2018 or 19 when the then unfortunate council majority who made Rockaway Township the laughingtock of New Jersey passed that resolution. it ultimately then they also of course voted negatively on our appointment. Uh the net effect was that we remained for two years as holdover appointees as township attorneys. uh they didn't try to challenge a professional services resolution inclusion the first time

around, but they remembered the next year. Uh when that was done, we worked as township attorneys without pay for approximately 6 months because it took that time to first attempt to resolve this dilemma peacefully and cooperatively with Mr. Kelly's council majority, which was a wasted effort. and ultimately the township taxpayers were forced to pay for a lawsuit to take them to court whereupon in June of that year, Judge Minkowitz uh ruled that if you are the township attorney, you are paid and ordered our inclusion in the professional services resolution. Now before we start out and it's unfortunate that we have to start out our reorganizational meeting with such confusion and as some of you know from your past experience. This confusion could cause cause chaos and cause the council to make mistakes which is of course one purpose of this application [clears throat] to begin with. The application the motion pending is a motion to extract the professional services resolution for individual discussion. The council I'm telling you should vote on that motion. Okay. If the motion passes the professional services that that portion of the professional services res professional services resolution will be up for individual vote. But I've told you what the purpose of that is. But I suggest that to avoid procedural defects, the council permit the extraction of the professional

services resolution from the consent agenda and vote on it. Okay. Uh we will come to another resolution which has been requested to be extracted from the consent agenda as a whole. that should be handled in the same way. The council should decide by motion whether they want to extract it. Okay? And if so, we can consider that. But let's consider one thing at a time so we all don't get led astray and we wind up having a closer personal relationship with Judge Mitz than we already have.

Okay. So those I'm sorry you're not recognized that um resolution R2617 33 and 35 have all been pulled for a separate vote. And just to clarify, you are you are recommending that this resolution be voted on as a whole or we allow the motion to split up the resolution. What harm is it splitting it up? Hang on, please, Mr. Kelly. Well, you should ask question. Council's preference. Okay. As long as you allow discussion on all of them really doesn't matter. Okay. All right. So, at this point, I am making a motion for R2617 in its entirety. Do I have a second? Second. Clerk, please take the role.

Council member Salberg, yes. Council member Votovich, yes. Council member Freelander, yes. Council member Royek, yes. Council member Freay, yes. [clears throat] Council member Quinn, yes. Council member Kelly, I'm Mr. Yachafan on Peron's portion. I vote no. the rest. Yes. Council member Sacket. Yes. Council member Morrison. Yes. That's eight yeses, one no. Motion carries. I did not vote no on that motion. You cannot vote on half of a resolution. I It's for the record, Mr. If you If you were to separate it, we would have had no problem and minimize discussion by We did not separate it. So I didn't vote no in the motion. I voted no, Mr. Yatafano. And I I voted yes.

Somebody has been on the council before, you should understand that that is not allowed. Moving on. R 2633 opening up for discussion. I have a discussion to be recognized. Go ahead. Have we received the pay for play from this attorney in the contract and notice that in resolution 26-17 that you voted on uh that individual firm is not posted in here for a year of service as conflicts council. Do we have uh the pay to play under title 19 as well as 40? Those are mandatory requirements. I'm sorry. Are we going back to 2617 or we're voting? No, we're on 17 passed. We're on 33.

Okay. But the individuals not approved as far as a contract for service in Rockway Township. and and this is the fifth amendment to this agenda since Friday and uh names taken off. It was on here originally, then it was taken off. It was on for 80,000. Now it's taken off for that. I would assume that the names that were taken off was because they did not meet or uh the required pay for play under 40A and title 19. So, how do we approve a conflicts council for the year of 2026 that handles matters that Mr. Yachafano is in conflict under the administrative code 2-63 without a contract? Mr. Yachano.

Thank you, Council President. Clarification again for the council for your voting on this matter and on subsequent matters. This resolution concerned the employment of conflicts council, particularly concerning a matter in which I was prosecuting Mr. Kelly for a code violation in a municipal court. Recognizing my ethical obligations, when Mr. Kelly won the election and became a council member elect. I applied to the judge sitting in this particular municipal court to be able to recuse myself because my responsibility is to the council as a whole as you know. Okay. I felt it was an untenable position for me to be in as a matter of the ethics to control my profession. I made the application to the judge. The judge recognized that I was in conflict and then it became necessary to appoint another lawyer to continue with the case. That's exactly the with the prosecution of Mr. Kelly. So, the attorney in question, Gregory Behringer, uh is employed by a large law firm in Morristown. Uh we left the matter of obtaining and filing all necessary paperwork uh with the people who normally handle that stuff. Uh

council president, you can defer to Mr. coward about the paperwork we have for that. Okay. Um be before you get to Mr. Coward, there's one more thing I'd like to point out. Um now what you have is Mr. Kelly attempting to disqualify an attorney who was hired specifically to prosecute him. If that isn't a conflict in your official position as a member of this council, I don't know what is. I and that's why I read that uh statute before the ethics law and again this is a prime example. There is a uh what's the benefit?

There is a clear and apparent uh conflict of interest and you understand that Mr. Coward. Uh Mr. Behringer's firm did submit paytoplay. There's a 10-day waiting period from when we receive pay-to-play paperwork before we can put it on for council award. We submitted it, I believe, on the 29th on that Monday before New Year's, which is not meeting the 10day uh requirement, and that's why it's not on the professional services resolution. It will be on in two weeks. Okay. Appreciate that. If I can respond just for I'm sorry. Very simple. No, your time has rescended. We are going to vote. We have been we we have gone over this enough. Making a motion for R 2633. Can I have a motion? So move. Second. Clerk, please take the role. Council member Salberg, yes. Council member Royovich,

yes. Council member Freelander, yes. Council member Royek, yes. Council member Freed, yes. Council member Quinn, yes. Council member Kelly, no. Council member Sacket, yes. Council member Morrison,

yes. It's eight yeses, one no. Motion passes. Uh, opening up R 2635 to discussion. Mr. Kelly, I would caution you on on making the same argument as again there was a clear conflict of interest. Is there any discussion on R 2635? Uh yes. Um we uh I haven't got an answer in regards to Miss Yetano and Peron even though they're on this list. Have these attorneys uh provided uh what's required under 4A and also title 19 for pay to play? Mr. Mr. Coward, is all the paperwork in order for Yachafano and Peron? Yes. Thank you. When was that submitted, Mr. Coward?

Before the 26th. It was submitted in the appropriate time frame. Before the 26th of Mr. Coward, is everything in order as far as that's required? Yes. Thank you. I'd like to make a motion for R2635. Can I have a second? Second. Clerk, please take the role. Council member Salberg. Yes. Council member Vovich. Yes. Council member Freelander. Yes. Council member Roy. Abstain. Council member Freed. Abstain. Council member Quinn. Yes. Council member Kelly. No. Council Vice President Sackett. No. Council President Marson.

Yes. It's five yeses, two abstensions, two nos. Motion carries.

Okay. Uh before opening the public portion of this meeting, I want to remind everybody of the rules that apply to anyone who wants to address the council. Any member of the public wishing to address the council will have three minutes to do so. While an extension of time may be requested, it should not be assumed that an extension of time will be granted. While addressing the council, members of the public may not address or question any individual council member. If anyone addressing the council violates these rules or conducts themselves inappropriately, their speaking opportunity will be terminated and they will be instructed to return to their seat. A refusal to comply will result in removal from the room. Members of the public in attendance may not make comments from the audience without recognition by the chair. Persons doing so will be subject to removal from the room. As council president, I have tremendous respect for my fellow council members and the public who take the time and effort to attend council meetings. These rules are necessary to protect and respect, but also to permit the council to do its business in an orderly and professional manner. Michael Uh, good evening everybody. Michael Orardi, 19 North Brookside Drive. I'd like to welcome everyone and congratulate you on your election. Um, this might be a little late, but uh, I hope everyone can work together, no matter who presents the idea or question. I hope we can continue the progress this council has made over the last few years being respectful and putting the town first. Um, during the reports, I'd like to know what the discussion would have been about regarding the mayor's appointments. That wasn't allowed for

discussion. Maybe during reports, the comments could be made so the people in the audience could be aware of what the questions might have been. Thank you. Thank you. Is there anybody from the public who did not fill out the sheet that wishes to speak? Okay. Um, Rabbi, thank you for your patience. At this point, I'd like to uh call you up for the benediction.

Thank you. Life is full of challenges. That is not new. However, by divine providence, our beloved United States of America, indeed, a nation of great divine benevolence and justice, has an official and only one official motto. In God we trust. And you will find that motto on all of our coinage, paper currency, and beyond. This foundational principle is a cornerstone of American life and daily life. The tenant that impacts our lives so greatly is a guiding principle that will never let us down regardless of a challenge or something that seems insurmountable. Trust is different than faith. Unlike faith, trust can only be developed in a time of significant challenge. Trust is when you fully give over the matter at hand to the one you trust, the one above with p full peace of mind and absolutely no worries, just luminous action. So a difficult circumstance is actually a key opportunity in developing a trust and inner bond which we may have never experienced before. So when we face a dilemma we can always pull out guidance and inspiration even from our wallet literally. God Almighty, our father in heaven, in summation we trust and know that we are all endowed with the power to bring light to this world and that is why we're here.

And as we passionately pursue our critical mission, we remember the biblical verse which states, "Even a little light dispels a lot of darkness and without any resistance." Almighty God, you have instructed us vigorously to pursue real solutions to obstacles and challenge and have promised that good and light will always prevail. We re also realize that our efforts are only channels through which we funnel your blessings. Sol solutions comes through our endeavors, not from them. This is why we never worship our efforts and accomplishments. We just humbly recognize them for what they are, conduits for your blessings. May you, our heavenly father, bless and guide our elected officials, administrators, and staff of our remarkable township with the wisdom and insight to lead, inspire, and guide all of our residents so that we can dedicate ourselves wholly and as an integrated entity to enhancing life in our township, through fulfilling our civic and godly duties, whether it be embracing a neighbor unconditionally, never passing judgment on another, giving charity daily as a for mentioned and taking personal responsibility for the people in need whatever the needs may be financial, emotional, spiritual etc. And through working together as one united entity, we will fulfill the divine design with which you created us all. God Almighty bless the sacred assembly. May God bless Rakaway Township. May God bless the United States of America.

I wish you all a happy and productive new year. Thank you for listening. Good night and with God's help a year filled with light and productivity. Thank you. Amen. Rabbi, thank you for your consistent support of the community and all you do. Thank you. Okay. Uh we are going to move on to reports. Um I would let make sure the council administration understands there is a threeinut time limit on reports. Um should you approach a three minutes I will let you know. We will start with Councilman Clint.

Thank you. I want to wish everybody a happy new year. God's blessings and health for everybody. Um, other than that, I'm looking forward to our next meeting where committees are assigned. And that is the end of my report. How Councilman Freedellander.

Thank you, Council President. Well, this is going to be the first time I'm not doing any committee reports, but you'll hear from me next next meeting. Uh just this is the time to thank people. Uh it's beginning of the year and a lot of times I don't thank her m as much as I should, but I want to thank my wife Lynn and my family for allowing me to continue my mission in this town to help everybody. I want to thank the people of the Fifth Wood that trusted me for another term. Uh it's been a long ride. I just want to say when I started in government for the town and I was active in other other projects, but I was the youngest on the council at the time. [laughter] You still are. And now now I'm the oldest. Honestly, I'm looking. Yeah, I'm the oldest. [clears throat] And uh I still have some work to do with these great people up up here. And this year is going to be better than the last one. And I'm telling you, I'm guaranteeing it. And thank you for all your support from the council, the administration, and don't forget the people that work in this town because without them, we can't do a thing. Thank you. I'd just like to point out that between Councilman Quinn and Councilman Freellander, apologies, but I think we have almost 50 years of service to the town.

Sure. 45 by Mr. Quinn and five. you [laughter] you can be replaced. I know. Um I I just think it's very noteworthy and you know it's a significant portion of your life and and we appreciate your your time. Thank you,

Councilman Selberg. Thank you. I do have a commissioner's report since it did fall in 2025. Um, I I mentioned this a few meetings ago when it was introduced, but it was uh voted on and approved resolution 20251073 that the county of Mars hereby awards a grant not to exceed $62,000 $880 from the Mars County Open Space Recreation Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund to the Township of Rockaway for design of the project entitled Eggert Lake Greenway phase one. So again, um knew it was, you know, hopefully it was coming. It was passed, so we will see just wonderful improvements to uh Edgar's Lake. Uh really beautiful u feature of uh the township. If you've have not gone up there, it really is a a true gem. Um it's really all I have on uh the commission. January 2nd was their reorg meeting. Uh but I just want to uh welcome our our new council u members. Um you know, I've been on the council now for just about uh six years going on seven. And one thing I'll always say over the last few years, um, I always welcome differing views. I always, uh, look for healthy discussion, but always with professionalism, respect, and ultimately for the good of the township of Rockaway and no other reason. And again, I look forward to doing that again in 2026. Thank you.

Thank you, Councilman Kelly.

Uh, thank you, Council President. Uh, first and foremost, I wanted to thank uh, three most important women in my life. my mother, my wife, and my daughter uh for their support during this election as well as those in my board that supported me as well. Um attended the the reorg fire department. Congratulations to all those that were put in their positions of officials. They do an amazing job. I also wanted to thank Mr. Nth and DPW for all of the hard work that you did with the snow removal uh since I think our first storm might have been December 14th leading out to where we're at right now. And um you and the county collectively do an unbelievable job all the time. Uh so thank you for that. Um one thing uh Chief Shear I'd like to address uh I know it's beginning of uh my uh my seat here now. Um uh on Toron and Whipper uh leading into the intersection of uh Lake Telmark Road there's no stop signs there and the biggest problem that we have are like uh uh Amazon Prime uh FedEx up excuse me UPS Door Dash. Now since COVID and you know during COVID and after COVID a lot of people are working at home and they utilize these services they don't know the community very well and on the intersection of Whipper Willil and Telmark is a playground and a bus stop that's there. Uh and I was just recently working uh on Toron uh the last several weeks and they just blow right through that section that's there. So maybe if we can address that, put together a uh an ordinance that we can actually then enforce uh any uh uh enforcement for blowing through a stop sign in those sections that would be wonderful. um DPW and Mrs. Ferrante. Um Van Dy Road, Green Pond. Um up in the northern end, we don't have really many amenities. We rely on recycling and uh plowing and Van Dy Road that's been there forever in the community in Green Pond Corp. has always been plowed. And the last two different times, uh the residents there, which aren't many, but one uh does have a medical condition, another one is uh in their um 90s. and

the road have not been plowed where they contact the police department to get uh plows up there to plow them out. So, um if we are choosing not to do that anymore, I think a notice should be to those residents as well as the corporation um explaining why if that's the case or if they can get back on that that route scheduling to have their uh drive uh plowed. It's right off of Johnson. It's the first road on the right where they're doing that massive construction over there and and many people use that uh going forward. Um Mayor Jackson moving memorial uh with with Vietnam. You know how I feel with all that stuff and uh that's a great thing. Um I appreciate your address as well. Uh that was there uh really from the heart and um I think it will take uh this council and the administration moving forward to some positive levels that are that are there and um uh I'll leave it at that. So everybody, thank you.

Councilman Wovich, uh I just like to congratulate all the uh newly sworn in council members and I'm hoping for a productive 2026. Councilwoman Freddy. Uh, hello. I'd like to thank my family who left early, but that's okay. [laughter] I also like to thank my good friends who stuck around. Thank you so much for your support. I'd like to thank the people of W 3 for having faith in me and I promise I will work very hard to be worthy of that trust. And I look forward to working with all of you to make our little corner of the world a little bit cleaner.

Councilwoman Royer. Yeah, I would like to thank the people of Ward One who voted for me and supported me. It's greatly appreciated. Um, I'm humbled and honored that they voted for me. I I just want to do right by them. I also want to thank my family and my friends who helped me. Um, sorry. Um, [snorts] your dad's watching and my dad. Thank you. Yep. Your dad's watching. Just my daughters aren't here, but thank you. Sorry. Follow that. Councilman Sacket. I'll Yeah, I'll try. Um, I'm half Italian. [laughter] Yeah,

I think the comment of the night was from the town attorney that thought I had three daughters, so uh um it is my wife's birthday tomorrow, so she didn't leave. So, I want to wish her happy birthday. And my son is currently in Israel, so I'm just uh couldn't make it tonight. So, uh sending some love and support to my son who's over there on a little bit of a a trip with a bunch of people. And I know he wanted to be here. And my dad looking looking above. Yes. He was here for the first time. We got sworn in back in, you know, 2018. You know, this is my ninth year, my third term in Ward 4. I appreciate all the residents. I think I know all of them by now. And uh looking forward for a great great year. Thank you so much. I

I just wanted to recognize our our two new councilman and our one returning councilman. all uh good public servants and and expect everybody to bring uh a fresh new viewpoint to this council and I'm really looking forward to things that we can do. Mr. Ashana, [snorts]

thank you council president. Uh my best to everybody on the council uh as I think I start my 24th year or somewhere in there in Mars Township or Mars Township. Yeah, you see what happens when you get old. Uh, Rockway Township. Um, I appreciate your consideration of the issues tonight in regards to our appointment of professional service resolution. Uh, Manny, thank you. Uh, Jonathan, best no vote I ever got. [laughter]

Mr. Mayor, thank you, Council President. Um, it's excited to work with this council. Councilman Kelly said, "I think we have a lot of potential and I think we're going to do a lot of great things together and I'm looking forward to it." Um, I wanted to just bring up a couple things. Our own Britney Bernstein, I mentioned her earlier, uh, local health outreach coordinator, um, energized Rockway Township with 20 new wellness programs. Her mayor's walking challenge drew over 100 residents and her Rockway Connect newsletter keeps the community inspired and engaged. So, she was a runner up for the uh campaign of health uh uh person. So, she was uh recognized for that. I want to recognize that. Also, um Detective Brock uh wanted to give an accommodation to Dan McDonald for his exceptional accident and professionalism during uh an incident involving a dog that fell through the ice in White Metal Lake. Um

for those who you don't know, uh Dan McDonald, our animal control officer, he's also a volunteer firefighter. Um uh from the moment uh he arrived on the scene, Dan demonstrated an impressive level of patience and expertise under stressful conditions. His steady demeanor helped ensure the situation was managed safely and efficiently while his genuine care and compassion for the animals were evident throughout the entire response. Dan treated the situation with urgency while remaining thoughtful and composed, clearly prioritizing the well-being of the dog at every step. Thanks in large part to Dan's skill, attentiveness, and compassion at handling. The dog was safely transported to the animal hospital and ultimately made a full recovery. His actions reflect not only technical competence, but also a deep empathy and dedication that goes well beyond what is required. Dan is a true asset to Rockway Township, and I thought it was important to um recognize his efforts and character.

Is isn't Dan the longest employee in Rockaway? I mean, I'm being serious, too. No, I think he is. And I I noticed Detective Brock didn't say how Dan was doing after the incident. I'm hoping he's okay. Right. The dog was good. I don't know how Dan is. Yeah. [laughter]

So, um yeah, Dan Dan's, you know, his compassion for animals and for the community. Uh said a local uh volunteer firefighter is second to none. So, um then uh we got a uh a letter from the Rockway Food Closet. Um thank you for your recent donation to the food um Rockway Food Closet. We appreciate being the recipient of a generous gift. We have seen increase in people turning to the food closet for help in the past year is because of the increase in food prices we see at the grocery store. Many families who were just making it simply can't just anymore. They need the assistance of the food closet provides. Thank you again for your support. Um and then I wanted to point out that um January is uh uh human trafficking prevention month. Um, and it's important to know. Um, and in the next couple of days, you you know, as as 2026 comes about, the FIFA World Cup is coming to um, you know, Northern New Jersey. Um, there's eight Super Bowls um, in Northern New Jersey with eight matches including the final held in Metife Stadium. Um, six matches at the Lynx Stadium in Philadelphia. So, 14 major sporting events over 39 days in the summer. And there's, you know, definitely concern um about the potential for human trafficking at these events. So, uh if you see something, you should say something. Um and you can go um uh we I'll put a link on the website to the the page for human trafficking. Uh it's called safe safer New Jersey, safer NJ.org. Um and you can go to that website and get more information on this. So, I want to note that and and that's all I have.

Thank you. Miss Palm Mary, no report tonight, but I just want to wish everyone a happy new year and I look forward to working with all of you in uh 2026. Thank you, Miss Fonte. Same for me. No report. Um, happy new year and uh congratulations to the new members and the returning members. Look forward to working with you, Mr. Tabet. Thank you, Council President. Just to confirm, Dan is alive and well, and he continues to save the world one feather and paw at a time. Excellent. Um, no report from me, but congratulations to our our newly elected council members with whom I look forward to working and happy new year to all. Chief,

thank you, Council President. Uh, again, I would just like to welcome everybody here to the council and their service here for 2026. Uh, as well, I would just like to say that the Rockway Township Police Department and the officers who serve are looking to serve this community with excellence. Uh we also appreciate and recognize all of our partners, whether that's the council, the administration, uh all of our town employees, uh all of the departments that we have within the township and all of our volunteers, including all of our volunteer firemen. We we appreciate and recognize their importance uh being successful here and keeping us rock away strong.

Mr. Hanselman. Thank you, Council President. Uh, no report for tonight. Welcome aboard to the new members of council and the returning uh, council members. I look forward to working with you again. Happy new year. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Coward. Congratulations to the members of the new members of the governing body and happy new year, Mr. Knoff. Uh, happy new year to everyone. Congratulations to all the new members. And, uh, our salt bombs are getting filled with salt. That's all I got. There you go, Mr. Dyer. Uh, no report. Welcome everybody. I think you're going to learn a lot about the township and uh welcome aboard. Thank you. Thank you. Uh I'd like to make a motion to adjourn my consensus. All in favor?

Meeting adjourned. Next meeting will be January 20th.