BOROUGH OF RARITAN
2011 REORGANIZATION MEETING
The Reorganization Meeting of the Borough of Raritan Council was held on January 2, 2011 in the Municipal Building,
22 First Street, Raritan, NJ 08869 at 12:00 pm.
The presentation of the Colors was performed by the Raritan Fire Department and piper, Jessica Marzocca.
Deacon Conrad Paulus of Pastor, St. Ann’s Church gave the invocation.
Daniel Jaxel stated: Notice of this meeting has been made by advising The Courier News and the Star Ledger of
the time, date and place of this meeting, posting a notice on the official bulletin board, on the
Raritan Borough website, filing a copy in the Borough Clerk’s office and including this statement in the minutes.
The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Gabrielle Frangione the 2010 Basilone Parade Grand Marshall.
The Star Spangled Banner sung by Lisa Simonetti.
The Oath of Office was administered to Paul Giraldi by Mayor Liptak.
The Oath of Office was administered to Anthony Soriano, Jr. by Mayor Liptak.
ROLL CALL
Present: Denise Carra, Stefanie Gara, Paul Giraldi, Victor Laggini, Greg Lobell, Anthony Soriano and
Mayor Jo-Ann Liptak
Also Present: Mayor Jo-Ann Liptak; Daniel Jaxel, Borough Administrator; Mark Anderson, Borough Attorney,
Stanley J. Schrek, Borough Engineer and Rayna E. Harris, Borough Clerk
Motion was made by Councilwoman Gara to approve, seconded by Councilman Paul Giraldi to nominate Greg Lobell
as Council President. Motion carried on the following roll call vote.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
X Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
STATE OF THE BOROUG H SPEECH BY MAYOR JO-ANN LIPTAK
Welcome to the Borough of Raritan’s 63rd Annual Reorganization Meeting. Reorganization used as a noun is
defined by the Encarta World English Dictionary as “a change in something” or “restructuring of an organization”.
As we proceed with our meeting this afternoon, I hope that you will be able to realize how many positive
changes have occurred in our community this past year.
In Roman mythology, Janus is the god of gates, doors, beginnings and endings and is the namesake of the
month of January. He is often portrayed as having two heads facing opposite directions; one looking back
at the old year and one looking forward to the New Year. So, it is quite appropriate that we look back at
a very tumultuous year for the Borough and also look forward to what awaits us in 2011.
Once again this year as in past years our tax collection rate is at almost 99% as of the December 6th.
We are very fortunate in this depressed economic climate to be able to make this statement. It certainly
speaks to the integrity of our taxpayers and their sense of responsibility to our borough.
Our Engineering department completed improvements to Baslione Place, North Gaston Avenue, and
Danbury Avenue during this past year. This is in keeping with the schedule stipulated Borough’s Infrastructure
Assessment Plan. In June, we repaired a major failure of the sanitary trunk sewer located on Canal Street.
The repair was mostly funded through a county Community Development Block Grant. We applied for and received
a County CDBG grant for improvements to Third Street. We also applied for and received a NJDOT grant for
improvements to Johnson Drive. Both projects will be in construction this year. The Raritan Borough Environmental
Commission is working on the development of a Master Plan Sustainability Element. This study is funded through
a Somerset County Planning Grant. The Master Plan element will provide guidance to the Borough’s
Planning Board and Board of Adjustment, developers and property owners in designing environmentally friendly
and sustainability project within the Borough.
Our Construction Office issued 364 new and up-dated construction permits with a total value of $8,618,663.00.
Two hundred ninety-three certificates of occupancy and approvals were issued with a total value of $8,056,861.00.
One hundred forty-six thousand seven hundred fifty-four dollars in fees were collected for permits and
certificates. Notable construction projects in 2010 were:
• Tenant fit out for a new AT&T store at the Levin Shopping Center at the circle
• Installation of new Solar Energy systems at Ortho Pharmaceutical and Johnson and Johnson ITS facilities
on Route 202 North.
• Many other solar systems have been completed this year on residential structures in the borough and also
at The Learning Gate Daycare Center on Old York Road.
Tenant fit out for Sebco Corporation Headquarters, a commercial laundry service company formerly located
in Manhattan, at the Raritan Industrial Park on Johnson Drive.
• Reconstruction of the former Hannon Funeral Home on Somerset Street that was damaged by fire. A piano
store recently moved into the vacant ground floor commercial space.
Our Tax office held the 2010 Tax Sale in October and had only one property sold. In January 2010, Lisa Simonetti
was appointed Tax Collector by the council. The Tax Office continues to send out quarterly late notices and
the residents who receive them seem to appreciate them.
The $1,074,590 Bond Anticipation Note was sold to TD Securities in March at an interest rate of 1.50%.
The $573,325 BAN was sold to Skylands Bank in June at an interest rate of 1.30%. These two Bans’ will be
combined in March 2011. Skylands Bank has recently called to inform us that our interest rate with them has
dropped from .50 to .30
The ongoing normal function of the Tax Assessor’s Office included interaction with the Borough Council members,
continuous property market analysis, sales studies, subdivisions, tax map revisions, compliance with OPRA requests,
affordable housing issues, questions, concerns and complaints from residents, real estate professionals and the
general public. Approximately 316 building permits and certificates of occupancy/approval were outstanding for
this year. The office accomplished 42 inspections, which included new houses, additions, decks, pools, patios and
renovations. These inspections translated into 17 added assessments that have a total assessment value of
$1,601,600. The added assessment billing for this year is $23,223.09 of which approximately $19,545.00 will
come to the municipality and the remaining portion of approximately $3,677.00 shall go to Somerset County.
At the County Tax Board level, 14 tax appeals were filed this year. Due to the current economic environment,
8 of these cases were settled prior to the County Tax Board hearing with appropriate reductions awarded.
Five of these cases were adjourned to the State Tax Court and one was awarded a minor reduction by
County Tax Board decision. At the State Tax Court level 10 appeals were filed. We motioned for and received an
order dismissing one case. One hundred-six deeds from property transactions were processed, 67 record changes
including the addition or subtraction of veteran/widow of veteran deduction, veteran exemptions and senior
citizen property tax deductions were done.
The Department of Public works had a very busy winter plowing and salting the roads during and after the
snow storms. They also put up and took down the banners on Somerset Street. One of the major projects this
summer was the cleaning of the Gaston Avenue Brook which was completed with the help of “weekend warriors”
from the Somerset County Jail. The pool houses at Basilone and Frelinghuysen Parks were painted. Catch basins
were repaired and cracks in roads were sealed. As usual, the Department did an outstanding job preparing the
Borough for the Basilone Parade in September. They also took possession of a new sanitation truck this fall.
The Registrar of Vital Statistics processed 87 marriage certificates, 1,337 death certificates, 143 burial
certificates, and 37 marriage licenses. As of June 21st the fees for a certified copy of a birth, death,
marriage/civil union certificate was changed from $10 to $20 per copy. Rayna Harris was appointed Deputy Registrar.
Our Property Maintenance Department made a significant impact on our community this year. 266 home inspections
and 289 re-inspections were performed. 269 complaints that were called in to the office or that came from
someone personally speaking to the Inspector were investigated. In performing his job, he realized that the
town was losing revenue since rental registration fee notices were not always followed up on and some rental
properties had “fallen through the cracks”. A more thorough process has been instituted and in doing so we have
been able to collect approximately $8,850.00 in rental registration fees some of which were delinquent for years.
Several cases were brought to Municipal Court resulting in additional $1,000 fines with at least 2 cases still
pending which should result in another $2,700 in fees. The current computer system program has been upgraded so
that the office can work more efficiently. Individual files for property violations and reports giving correct
contact information of rental property owners, contact persons and phone numbers have been established. With
the new system in place, Property Maintenance is working toward having all the rental property information in
a database and consistently updated as properties change hands and when inspections and fees are due thus
eliminating the manual records now kept
The municipal court continues to run efficiently. First appearance cases begin at 3 PM and second appearances
begin at 4 PM. This system works extremely well. The total revenues collected through November 30, 2010 equaled
$199, 210. The revenues sent to the Borough totaled $105, 084.
One can always find a particular phrase from one of the Shakespearean plays that fits a particular moment in
time and when I look back at 2010 the line from Julius Caesar jumps out at me…beware the ides of March. On
March 12th the purging of the Raritan Police Department began and by Wednesday, March 17th the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office had taken over the day to day operation of the Raritan PD with a complete operational audit
done by their office. In mid June control of the department was returned to the Borough and Lt. Mark Ciesla
was appointed Acting Chief. On July 20th new police administrators were promoted to take on the running of the
department. Lt. Ciesla was promoted from Lieutenant to Chief of Police; Sgt. Kenneth McCormick was promoted to
second in command of the Department at the rank of Administrative Lieutenant and Sgt. Robert Ludwig was promoted
to the rank of Patrol Lieutenant. Two new probationary officers, Kenneth Drews and Anthony DeGraziano were
hired in September. Both compliment the department with their abilities and strong professional traits they
bring with them. Two patrol officers, Dale Johnson and Thomas Fisher, moved up in rank to the position of Sergeant.
Under Chief Ciesla’s leadership the PD has become more community oriented. Foot patrols AKA “walking the beat”
were reinstated. The bicycle patrol was also reinstated and numerous patrols on bicycles were completed during
the warmer months. Sgt. Thomas Fisher and Officer Robert Jones received training in bike patrol from the Somerset
County Police Academy. Raritan Police held a Bicycle Rodeo in July at the Municipal Building for the youth of
the community. During this event anyone’s bicycle was registered with the RPD. National Night Out was held on
Tuesday, August 3rd at Washington School and it was a tremendous success. Issues were discovered within the
police department that needed addressing during the last 6 month. Most were based on outdated policy or lack
of policy. With hard work and professionalism, changes were made and yet some issues are still being addressed.
Some areas that were of concern were: Rules and Regulations, Evidence Management, Response to an
Active Shooter, Internal Affairs, and Domestic Violence. During this year the PD responded to 12,232 calls
for service, 792 MVA or hit and run reports, 311 arrests, completed 644 investigations and issued 1556 moving
motor vehicle summonses, 109 radar summonses and 4323 parking summonses. 36 individuals were arrested for
operation a motor vehicle while under the influence of either alcohol or drugs.
Other significant events during the year included the Planning Board’s unanimous refusal to lift the age
restriction on the Willow Walk planned development. The Developer brought suit against the Planning Board and
the Borough. We were able to reach a mediated settlement with ATA Developers to allow the construction of
363 residential units at the Former Federal Steel site. The developer will provide off-track improvements to
enable safe pedestrian route to the train station. These improvements include new sidewalks on Tillman Street
and participation in the Third Street improvement projects. ATA also agreed to construct a specially
designed building to accommodate the needs of disabled American veterans which is, to the best of my knowledge,
will be the only such facility in New Jersey. The Planning Board also designated a subcommittee to investigate
the redevelopment of the Somerville Circle specifically the former Denny’s and Popeye’s properties.
The Gannett Newspaper’s suit concerning OPRA records was overturned. They have, however, decided to appeal the
judge’s decision.
As we embark on 2011 we are keenly aware of the extremely difficult financial times ahead for the borough and the
State of New Jersey. Governor Christie has imposed a 2% cap on municipalities and the general public may think that
their real estate taxes can only rise by that percentage; if only that were accurate. The Boroughs pension
contributions to Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) will be $155,000 this year which is a $20,500 or
13.2% increase over 2010. The Police Pension is $538,000 and increase of $180,000 or 33.5% over 2010. Both of
those items are outside the 2% cap. Another cost outside our control is the school tax which accounts for more
than fifty cents of every one of your tax dollars. We are at a time like no other in our 63 year history as
a borough. Going forward we need to discern the difference between a need and a want for the Borough. Quite often,
thanks to the advertisements we are deluged with on a daily basis, we have lost sight of the difference.
A need is a necessity; something we cannot live without such as food and water. A want is a desire or wish.
Is it convenient to have bulk refuse pick-up once a month? Of course, but is it s need or a want?
The Mayor and Council will be examining everything and doing whatever is in our power to reduce our expenditures
this year and determine whether it’s a want that we as a community have become accustomed to or a need that we
must have to survive. Therefore, I will be requiring each department for a justification for every item they
have in their proposed budget for 2011, and I do not want to hear “but we’ve always done it that way”
ever again. The last scene from Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid comes to mind when I think about our
financial situation with the State and the 2% cap. Butch and Sundance are at the edge of a cliff overlooking
a river. They have the posse bearing down on them from the rear ready to shoot them and collect the bounty
placed on their heads; while their other option is to jump into the river beneath and take their chances that
they will survive the fall. They chose to hold hands and jump. We are asking you to hold our hand and jump
with us.
There has been much talk about “shared services” and we do share services with many municipalities. However,
Raritan will only enter into a shared service agreement with another community if and only if, it is
fiscally prudent for us to do so, and only if we can in the future, when it is no longer prudent, be able to
dissolve the agreement. We have also formed a committee to investigate the proposed county-wide police merger.
During last year’s State of the Borough Address I discussed various committees that were going to be formed
such as the Grants Acquisition Committee, Economic Development Committee, and the Cultural and Historic Committee.
I am pleased to report that they are all up and running. Thanks to the Grants Acquisition Committee grant money
was received for us to hold our National Night Out that I spoke of earlier. The Cultural and Historic Committee
is embarking on videotaping oral histories from our older residents. The Economic Development Committee is
exploring ways to make Raritan a more attractive place to do business. We have an energetic group of high school
aged residents who are our Youth on Main Street or YOMS who have been making a significant impact on our
business district washing windows of businesses, helping out with the Halloween Parade,
Santa Claus Comes to Town, and decorating the foot bridge for the holidays. I am pleased to report that the
minutes from our Council meetings are now posted on our website and beginning in January the agendas for our
Council meetings will also be posted on line. Thanks go to former Councilman Jim Foohey for taking over the helm
of our Borough Newsletter. I will be asking all department heads to submit a five year operational plan for their
department including but not limited to budget projections, special equipment, and capital expenditures.
All of our committees, commissions and board are volunteers and, as you well know, no community can function
without them. Each year one person is chosen to be our Nicholas Esposito Volunteer of the Year and our honoree
for 2010 was Frank Forte, Sr. Frank was a 25 year member of our Board of Health and is a very deserving honoree.
We wish Frank the very best and thank him for his commitment to our town. The Borough government will be
undergoing some other changes. We have revised our Standing Committees and will now have four: Engineering and
Public Works, Finance and Administration, Human Resources, and Public Safety. Each committee will have three
council people assigned to them. This will create a positive problem solving atmosphere with better interaction
between council members. We will continue to have two Council meetings each month on the second and fourth
Tuesdays. We will now be having the “Agenda Session” or a work session, if you will, on the second Tuesday.
This will afford us more time for in depth discussions about issues facing the borough. It will also afford us
more time in Executive Sessions where contracts, personnel, and negotiations are discussed. The fourth Tuesday
will be the regular council meeting. We are anticipating that we will be able to start our meetings later
thereby giving more people an opportunity to attend.
I will also be starting on a trial basis “Lunch with the Mayor”. This will be held on the third Saturday of
each month from 11AM until 1PM in the Community Room of Borough Hall. You are invited to bring a brown bag
lunch and sit with me and discuss things of concern to you or perhaps there will be a specific topic for
discussion. The first Lunch with the Mayor will be on January 15th. Check the borough website for further
information.
We welcome Rayna Harris, who was appointed Borough Clerk in July and assumed the duties on August 9th. Since
being appointed she has performed the statutory duties of the Office of Municipal Clerk; worked on the
re-codification of the Borough Code, issued parking permits, dog license, cat licenses, Tower/Wrecker, Taxi,
Amusement games and liquor licenses. She keeps minutes of meetings, resolutions and ordinances and is,
I have found, the quintessential Borough Clerk Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandies said, “The most important
political office is that of the private citizen.” Participation of our citizenry is vital to our government
to keep it effective and efficient. You, as members of our community, need to keep the Mayor and Council
focused and accountable. Attend Council meetings, find out the issues concerning our town and your neighborhoods;
ask questions and demand excellence from those you elected. Volunteer for boards and committees.
A “Volunteer’s Needed” form is on the borough website. Fill one out and send it in or email it back to us.
Effective government represents diverse opinions and works toward informed, conscientious compromises.
As we move forward let us not forget that we work for you and never let us lose sight that our ultimate goal
is to make Raritan, as Ronald Reagan said, “a shining city on the hill”. Let us work together to make
Raritan the finest community in Somerset County and in the State of New Jersey. We welcome our two newest
councilmen, Paul Giraldi and Anthony Soriano, Jr. I am excited about working with them. I welcome back
Councilwomen Denise Carra and Stefanie Gara, and Councilmen Victor Laggini and Greg Lobell and look forward
to continuing our work together this year.
Thank you all for being part of our program today. May you and your loved ones enjoy good health, happiness,
and peace in this New Year. May God’s bless all our service men and women wherever they may be; keep them
safe and bring them home quickly to their families.
REMARKS BY COUNCIL
Council President Lobell wished everyone a Happy and prosperous New Year and welcomed Anthony Soriano and
Paul Giraldi to Council. He also thanked his wife and daughter for their continued support.
Councilman Soriano thanked the Raritan residents for the opportunity to be on Council for the next three years.
Councilwoman Carra delivered the following remarks:
Good afternoon!
I would like to congratulate Councilman Soriano, Jr. and Councilman Giraldi on their election victory.
I look forward to working with them on the Council and wish them all the best as they begin serving the
people of Raritan.
It was an honor serving as Council President this past year and it is with great pride and confidence that
I pass on the reigns to Council President Lobell.
I would like to thank Mayor Liptak for re-appointing me to the Finance and Administration subcommittee this year.
This year may be the most challenging time for the public sector at all levels because of the loss of state
aid and the 2% tax levy cap imposed by the Governor. The only exemptions allowed (outside the cap), are for
pensions, health benefits, capital expenditures and emergencies.
In a time of financial stress, the Mayor and Council must be responsible for delivering municipal services
efficiently with no room for waste.
Some municipalities have tried every conceivable methods their budgets. Local government officials have been
forced to make painful choices, often involving layoffs, services cuts or both. Producing financially
responsible budgets has helped Raritan Borough avoid these drastic measures.
The most popular solution by far, for cutting costs and balancing budgets is shared Services. Many towns
share everything possible including municipal courts, purchasing, animal control, emergency dispatch services,
or in some cases consolidate services, such as dispatch and tax collection with the County.
As a part of the Governor’s toolkit, employees are being asked to contribute 1.5% of their gross salary toward
healthcare costs. This contribution is seen as a monumental first step for management in order to offset
the raising cost of health benefits.
As we end the year, I would like to share with you the Borough’s tax collection rate of 98.87% which is
excellent considering the financial hardships many families are facing at this time.
I will be serving on the Public Safety subcommittee. I look forward to working with the Police Department,
(Chief Ciesla),Fire Department ( Carl Memoli) and Somerville Rescue Squad (Chief Weinman).
In December, the Mayor and Council were asked to review the Freeholder’s proposal of consolidating all the
police departments in Somerset County under a County Police Force. Two representatives from each town were
selected to sit on the Review Task force. Ron Rispoli and Tom Brown will be Raritan’s rep.
During the early implementation stages of this feasibility study, a public forum will be held to discuss
progress and receive input from the Citizens of Raritan.
A full police merger with the 19 municipalities would potentially save local towns nearly $18 million annually.
I will continue to serve as liaison to the Environmental Commission. The Commission currently serving as the
Steering Committee for the Sustainability Master Plan Element. The element will provide a coherent vision and
description of what sustainability means to Raritan and will assemble a variety of potential “green” strategies
to improve the quality of life for all Community members.
The Borough anticipates that this element will lay the ground work for its participation in the
“Sustainable Jersey Program”. More than half of NJ’s municipalities are working toward achieving certification.
At the local level this means that towns are actively working to improve energy efficiency, develop smart land
use and transportation plans, reduce waste, protect natural resources and address diversity and equity issues.
This progress in New Jersey sets us apart from the rest of the Country. We are proud to have a comprehensive
sustainability program.
Before closing, I would like to thank all the men, woman and children that volunteer their time for
Raritan Borough (firefighters, rescue squad members, board and committee members, John Basilone Parade Committee,
Youth on Main Street, etc. your service and dedication is truly appreciated.
I would like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe New Year.
Councilwoman Gara delivered the following remarks:
I would like to welcome everyone to our annual reorganization meeting. I am looking forward to working with our
new council members, Paul Giraldi and Anthony Soriano, Jr. as well as continuing to work with Mayor Jo-Ann Liptak,
Councilwoman Carra, Councilman Laggini and our new Council President Greg Lobell.
2010 was an unprecedented year for our community and many communities throughout the State. We where faced with
many new challenges including those put forth by our government in Trenton. I am proud to say we came away
stronger, better structured and a more organized governing body to meet the present and future needs of this
Borough. Your Council will continue to work to improve our quality of life, the efficiency of our many Borough
departments and of course to provide services all the while keeping our taxes at there lowest possible rate.
I have had an extremely active first year serving our Borough and have come away realizing the importance
of having once been elected representing everybody in this community. I am eager to continue to serve.
My duties in 2011 will include Public Safety and Human Resources. I will also be liaison to Regional Center
and Grants Acquisition Committee. I am readily available to all of you and of course I welcome communication
from you. Entering my second year of service to our Borough, I am optimistic with the new members on our Council
that Raritan is truly in good hands.
I hope everyone enjoyed this holiday season despite the heavy snowfall and I wish you all a happy, healthy
and prosperous New Year.
Councilman Laggini congratulated and welcomed Anthony Soriano and Paul Giraldi to Council. He also congratulated
Greg Lobell for being named Council President. He thanked the volunteers. Councilman Laggini also thanked
John Lamaestra and Maureen Wilson for their combined 30 years service while on Council. He welcomed residents
to call him with concerns and wished everyone a Happy New Year.
Councilman Giraldi he thanked the people of Raritan for his and Anthony Soriano’s election and stated that he
hopes to translate his 35 years of business experience to Raritan.
ADOPTION OF NEW GENERAL RULES OF ORDER
Motion was made by Council President Greg Lobell to approve, seconded by Councilman Anthony Soriano to adopt
the 2011 Rules of Order. Motion carried on the following vote.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
X Soriano X
APPOINTMENTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Mayor Liptak noted the following appointments:
• ENGINEERING AND PUBLIC WORKS
COUNCILMAN GIRALDI
COUNCILMAN LAGGINI
COUNCILMAN LOBELL
• FINANCE/ADMINISTRATION
COUNCILWOMAN CARRA
COUNCILMAN GIRALDI
COUNCILMAN SORIANO
• HUMAN RESOURCES
COUNCIL WOMAN GARA
COUNCILMAN LOBELL
COUNCILMAN LAGGINI
• PUBLIC SAFETY
COUNCILWOMAN CARRA
COUNCILMAN SORIANO
COUNCILWOMAN GARA
2011 COUNCIL LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS
Mayor Liptak noted the following appointments:
COUNCILWOMAN DENISE CARRA
Environmental Commission
Economic Development Committee
COUNCILWOMAN STEFANIE GARA
Regional Center
Grants Acquisition Committee
COUNCILMAN PAUL GIRALDI
Basilone Parade Committee
Library Board of Trustees
COUNCILMAN VICTOR LAGGINI
Board of Education/Schools
Board of Health
COUNCILMAN GREG LOBELL
Senior Citizens
Cultural and Historic
COUNCILMAN ANTHONY SORIANO
Recreation Commission
Youth on Main Street
APPOINTMENTS BY MAYOR WITHOUT CONSENT OF COUNCIL
Mayor Liptak made the following appointments:
PLANNING BOARD
Richard Miller (IV) 4 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/14
Jeffrey Bray (IV) (unexpired term) 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
Brian Appezzato 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11 (Alternate #1)
Erica Patente 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11 (Alternate #2)
Deborah Thomas 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11 (Secretary)
Mayor Liptak (I) 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
APPOINTMENT OF PLANNING BOARD MEMBER BY COUNCIL:
Motion was made by Council President Greg Lobell to approve, seconded by Councilwoman Stefanie Gara to
appoint Councilman Soriano (II) 1 year term from1/1/11 to 12/31/11. Motion carried on the following vote.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RECREATION COMMISSION:
Mayor Liptak made the following appointments:
Jason Andreychak 5 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/15
Al Bartocci 5 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/15
Nicole Patente 5 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/15
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSIONS MEMBERS
Mayor Liptak made the following appointments:
John Gausz 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
Stephen McDonald unexpired term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
Diane McDonald 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
CULTURAL AND HISTORIC COMMITTEE
Mayor Liptak made the following appointments:
Karen Eastlund 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
Gregory Lobell 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
James Fidecaro 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
Daniel Soriano 2 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/12
Jane Fidecaro 2 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/12
Deborah Thomas 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
Alphonse Capetta 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
REGIONAL CENTER BOARD
Mayor Liptak made the following appointments:
Mayor Liptak 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
Councilwoman Gara 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
Dave Maski 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
Michael DiBianco 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR
Mayor Liptak made the following appointment:
Robert Lisa 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
APPOINTMENTS BY MAYOR WITH CONSENT OF COUNCIL:
Motion was made by Councilman Anthony Soriano to approve, seconded by Councilwoman Stefanie Gara the following appointments.
Motion carried on the following vote.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
X Soriano X
• ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
Michael Patente 4 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/14
Frank Lapadulla 4 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/14
• LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Meredith Hoyer 5 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/ 15
• BOARD OF HEALTH
Paula Machala 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
Theresa Bray 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
Katherine Mastice 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
• SOMERSET COUNTY CULTURAL & HERITAGE COMMISSION ADVISORY BOARD
Jane Fidecaro 1 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/11
• CONSTABLE
Camillo DeRado 3 year term 1/1/11 to 12/31/13
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION 2011-01-001
BOROUGH ATTORNEY
WHEREAS, the Mayor of the Borough of Raritan has nominated and the Raritan Borough Council has appointed
Mark Anderson of Woolson, Sutphen and Anderson as Borough Attorney;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Mark Anderson shall serve as Borough Attorney for a term of one year,
commencing January 1, 2011 and terminating December 31, 2011 at a retainer fee of $8,400.00 per year.
The Mayor and Council of the Borough of Raritan have entered into an agreement with Mark Anderson pertaining to
compensation of fees without competitive bidding.
The Mayor and Clerk of the Borough of Raritan are hereby authorized and directed to execute said agreement
on behalf of the Borough of Raritan. The Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of this appointment in
the Courier News and The Star Ledger within ten (10) days of the adoption of this resolution as required by law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-002
BOROUGH ENGINEER
WHEREAS, the Mayor of the Borough of Raritan has nominated and the Raritan Borough Council has
appointed Stanley J. Schrek of Van Cleef Engineering Associates, 755 Memorial Park, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865,
as Borough Engineer; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Stanley J. Schrek shall serve as Borough Engineer for a term of
three years commencing January 1, 2011 and terminating December 31, 2013 at an annual retainer fee of $20,000.
The Mayor and Council of the Borough of Raritan have entered into an agreement with Stanley J. Schrek of
Van Cleef Engineering Associates pertaining to compensation of fees without competitive bidding.
The Mayor and Clerk of the Borough of Raritan are hereby authorized and directed to execute said
agreement on behalf of the Borough of Raritan. The Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of this appointment
in the Courier News and Star Ledger within ten (l0) days of the adoption of this resolution as required by law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-003
BOND COUNSEL
WHEREAS, the Mayor of the Borough of Raritan has nominated and the Raritan Borough Council has
appointed Gibbons PC, One Gateway Center, Newark, NJ 07102 as Bond Counsel:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Gibbons, PC shall serve as Bond Counsel for a term of one year
commencing January 1, 2011, and terminating December 31, 2011. The Mayor and Council of the Borough of
Raritan have entered into an agreement with the Bond Counsel pertaining to compensation of fees without
competitive bidding.
The Mayor and Clerk of the Borough of the Raritan are hereby authorized and directed to execute
said agreement on behalf of the Borough of Raritan. The Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of
this appointment in the Courier News and Star Ledger within ten (10) days of the adoption of this resolution
as required by law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
Gara X
X Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-004
PROSECUTOR
WHEREAS, the Mayor of the Borough of Raritan has nominated and the Raritan Borough Council has appointed as
Municipal Prosecutor;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Steven Rothblatt, Esq. shall serve as Municipal Prosecutor for a term of
one year, commencing January 1, 2011 and terminating December 31, 2011 at an annual base salary of
$7,843.00 per year. It is agreed that Steven Rothblatt, Esq. shall be responsible to prosecute any and all cases
wherein the complainant is the Borough of Raritan, but that he shall not be responsible to prosecute cases
wherein the complainant is the New Jersey State Police or a private citizen.
The Mayor and Clerk of the Borough of Raritan are hereby authorized and directed to execute said agreement on
behalf of the Borough of Raritan. The Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of this appointment in
the Courier News or The Star Ledger within ten (10) days of the adoption of the resolution as required by law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
Gara X
Giraldi X
X Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-005 Appointing Alternate Prosecutor – REMOVED
RESOLUTION 2011-01-006
PUBLIC DEFENDER
BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor of the Borough of Raritan has nominated and the Borough Council of the Borough
of Raritan has appointed Frank Taddeo, 25 West High Street, Somerville, NJ 08876 as Public Defender for a
term of one year, commencing January 1, 2011 and terminating December 31, 2011 at a retainer fee
of $3,922.00 per year.
The Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of this appointment in the Courier News or Star Ledger within
ten (10) days of the adoption of this resolution as required by law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
X Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-007
ALTERNATE PUBLIC DEFENDER
WHEREAS, the office of the Municipal Court Administrator has advised the Mayor and Council of a need to
appoint an alternate Public Defender for the Borough to represent defendants in the Municipal Court on such
occasions when the appointed Public Defender cannot represent such defendants as a result of a legal or
ethical conflict; and
WHEREAS, that James Loewen, Esq. 38 North Gaston Avenue, Somerville, NJ 08876 possesses the appropriate
qualifications, and has expressed a willingness to accept such position.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan, County of Somerset,
State of New Jersey, that James Loewen shall be and is hereby appointed Alternate Public Defender for the
Borough of Raritan to be compensated on a per case basis as may be authorized by the Council upon notice
from the Administrator of the Municipal Court of the necessity to appoint the Alternate Public Defender
in any particular case.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-008
INSURANCE AGENT
WHEREAS, there is a need for an insurance agent for the Borough of Raritan for 2011; and
WHEREAS, the Local Public Contract Law requires that a notice of an award for professional services without
competitive bidding must be publicly advertised;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan that Willis of
New Jersey, Inc., 14 Commerce Drive,
Cranford NJ, 07016 be appointed insurance agent for 2011.
The Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of this appointment in the Courier News or Star Ledger
within ten (10) days of the adoption of this resolution as required by law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-009
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICIALS
BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor of the Borough of Raritan has nominated and the Raritan Borough Council has
appointed the following administrative officials:
Office Name Term
Housing Official Lou Gara 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
Administrative Officer Lou Gara 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
Zoning Officer Lou Gara 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
Fire Official Frank D’Amore 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
Property Maint.Code Inspector Frank Taddeo 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
Assessment Search Officer Rayna E. Harris 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
Tax Search Officer Lisa Simonetti 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
Court Administrator Linda Lella 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
Deputy Court Administrator Marina Balogh 01/01/2011 to 12/31/2011
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
X Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-010
AUDITOR
WHEREAS, that the Mayor of the Borough of Raritan has nominated and the Raritan Borough Council has appointed
Suplee, Clooney & Company, as Registered Municipal Accountant;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Suplee, Clooney & Company shall serve as Borough Auditor for a term of
one year, commencing January 1, 2011 and terminating December 31, 2011. The Mayor and Council of the
Borough of Raritan have entered into an agreement with Suplee, Clooney & Company pertaining to compensation
of fees without competitive bidding.
BE IT RESOLVED that the audit shall be performed in accordance with requirements as prescribed by the
Division of Local Government and applicable statutes.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the compensation shall be provided for in the Annual Adopted Budget.
The Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of this appointment in the Courier News or Star Ledger within
ten (10) days of the adoption of this resolution as required by law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-011
FIRE CHIEF AND ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF
WHEREAS, the two-year tem of office for Fire Chief Carl Memoli expired as of December 31, 2010; and
WHEREAS, the two-year term of office for Assistant Fire Chief Steve Krachun expired as of December 31, 2010; and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Raritan has been notified by Relief Hose Company No.2 Fire Department that they have held
their elections and submitted their results to the Mayor and Borough Council for approval;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Borough Council approve of the actions of the members of
Relief Hose Company No. 2 by concurring with the appointment of Carl Memoli as Fire Chief for a two-year term
of office, commencing January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2012.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and Borough Council approve of the actions of the members of
Relief Hose Company No. 2 by concurring with the appointment of Steve Krachun as Assistant Fire chief for a
two-year term of office, commencing January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2012.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
X Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-012
DOG WARDEN
WHEREAS, the Borough of Raritan has designated the St. Hubert’s Giralda, 575 Woodland Avenue, PO Box 159, Madison,
NJ07840-0159 as Dog Warden in 2011.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan that the 2011 and 2012 contract between
the Borough and St. Hubert’s Giralda at an annual fee of $16,850 for 2011 and $22,700 for 2012 is approved.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
Gara X
Giraldi X
X Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-013
DEPOSITORIES/FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan that pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:5-14, the following
financial institutions be designated as depositories for Borough monies, said banks or trust companies having their
place of business in New Jersey, organized under the laws of the United States or New Jersey:
1. TD Bank, 34 W. Somerset Street, Raritan, NJ 08869
2. PNC Bank, 555 Route 28 West, Raritan, NJ 08869
3. Skylands Community Bank, 91 N. Gaston Avenue, Somerville, NJ 08876
4. Peapack-Gladstone Bank, 190 Main Street, Gladstone, NJ 07934
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that prior to the deposit of any municipal funds in the above mentioned depositories, said bank
shall file with the Chief Financial Officer a statement indicating that the bank is covered under the government
Units Deposit Protection Act (R.S. 17:9-41).
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
Gara X
X Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-014
RATE OF INTEREST ON DELINQUENT TAXES
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 54:4-67 permits the governing body of each municipality to fix the rate of interest to be
charged for non-payment of taxes or assessments subject to any abatement or discount for the late payment of taxes as
provided by law; and
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 54:4-67 has been amended to permit the fixing of said rate at 8% per annum on the
first $1,500.00 of the delinquency and 18% per annum on any amount in excess of $1,500.00 and allows an additional
penalty of 6% be collected against a delinquency in excess of $10,000.00 on properties that fail to pay the
delinquency prior to the end of the calendar year. The rate of interest to be charged for delinquent sewer fees
will be 12%.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Raritan, County of Somerset,
State of New Jersey as follows:
l. The Tax Collector is hereby authorized and directed to charge 8% per annum on the first $1,500.00 of
taxes becoming delinquent after due date and 18% per annum on any amount of taxes in excess of $l,500.00 becoming
delinquent after due date and if a delinquency is in excess of $l0,000.00 and remains in arrears on December 31,
an additional penalty of 6% shall be charged against the delinquency. Furthermore, the Collector is directed to
charge 12% interest for delinquent sewer fees.
2. Effective January 1, 2011 there will be a ten (10) day grace period on quarterly tax payments.
3. Any payments not made in accordance with paragraph two of this resolution shall be charged interest
from the due date as set forth in paragraph one of this resolution.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-015 Designating Paid Holidays – REMOVED
RESOLUTION 2011-01-016
TEMPORARY BUDGET
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-19 of the Local Budget Act provides that temporary appropriations shall be made for the
purpose and amounts required in the manner and time therein provided:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following temporary appropriations be made for the year 2011:
APPROPRIATIONS EXPENSES SALARIES AND WAGES OTHER
Administrative and Executive $ 62,200.00 $ 11,000.00
Borough Clerk 19,000.00 5,000.00
Financial Administration 22,700.00 15,000.00
Assessment of Taxes 18,000.00
Collection of Taxes 13,700.00 3,000.00
Legal Services and Costs 30,000.00
Municipal Court 35,000.00 3,500.00
Public Defender 1,400.00
Municipal Prosecutor 2,614.00
Engineering Services and Cost 12,000.00
Public Buildings 8,500.00 20,000.00
Public Grounds 800.00
Planning Board 830.00 4,000.00
Board of Adjustment 830.00 2,000.00
Environment Commission 340.00 500.00
Insurance
Group Insurance Plan Employees 150,000.00
Surety Bond Premiums 1,300.00
Other Insurance 140,000.00
Workers’ Compensation Insurance 70,000.00
Elections 1,000.00
Uniform Fire Safety Act 7,700.00 4,000.00
Fire 11,000.00
Police 300.000.00 40,000.00
Construction Official (inside Cap) 38,000.00 5,000.00
Interlocal Agreement Somerville
Electric Subcode 5,000.00
Property Maintenance 8,000.00 1,000.00
Emergency Management 500.00
Road Repairs and Maintenance 82,000.00 15,000.00
Snow Removal 15,000.00 4,000.00
Garbage and Trash Removal 147,000.00 110,000.00
Sewerage Authority Share of costs $200,000.00
Board of Health $500.00 18,000.00
Dog Regulation 3,000.00
Vital Statistics 3 ,700.00 1,000.00
Parks and Playgrounds 20,000.00 25,000.00
Celebration of Public Events 4,000.00
Maintenance of Public Library 120,000.00
Utilities:
Gasoline 23,000.00
Electricity 23,000.00
Telephone and Telegraph 14,000.00
Natural Gas 7,000.00
Heating Oil 20,000.00
Street Lighting 40,000.00
Fire Hydrant Service 36,000.00
Water 3,000.00
Contingent 3,000.00
Capital Improvement Fund 20,000.00
Social Security System 48,000.00
Payment of Bond Principal 300,000.00
Interest on Bonds 70,312.50
NJ Transit Lease 27,500.00
Due from Assessment Trust 20,000.00
Interest on Notes 21,563.84
TOTALS $789,014.00 $1,729.976.34
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION – 2011-01-017
CUSTODIANS OF ACCOUNTS
BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan that the following Borough Officials are
hereby authorized as custodians of the following financial accounts:
Fund Accounts Custodian Name
1. Current Chief Finance Officer Karin Kneafsey
2. Capital Chief Finance Officer Karin Kneafsey
3. Dog Chief Finance Officer Karin Kneafsey
4. Trust Chief Finance Officer Karin Kneafsey
5. Construction Account Chief Finance Officer Karin Kneafsey
6. Payroll Chief Finance Officer Karin Kneafsey
7. Payroll Agency Chief Finance Officer Karin Kneafsey
8. Magistrate Court Court Administrator Linda Lella
9. Court/Bail Court Administrator Linda Lella
10.Vital Statistics Registrar of Vital Statistics Constance DelRocco
11.Tax Collector TrustTax Collector Lisa Simonetti
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-018
OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER
WHEREAS, all legal notices, ordinances, and resolutions must be advertised so as to inform the
public of all happenings and events;
WHEREAS, Notices shall be mailed, telephoned, telegraphed or hand delivered to at least two (2) newspapers;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Mayor and Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan gives notice that
The Courier News and The Star Ledger are the official newspapers of the Borough for 2011 and are designated by
the public body to receive legal notices.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
Gara X
Giraldi X
X Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-019
ANNUAL MEETING SCHEDULE
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED on the 2nd day of January 2011 by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Raritan,
County of Somerset and State of New Jersey, that the meeting schedule for the period January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011
will be Agenda-Workshop Meetings at 7:00 PM with an Executive (Closed) Session listed on the meeting agenda on the
2nd Tuesday of the month, official action may be taken. All meetings shall be held at 22 First Street, Raritan, NJ 08869.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Regular Meetings at 7:00 PM with an Executive (Closed) Session listed on the
meeting agenda will be on the 4th Tuesday of the month, official action will be taken. All meetings shall be held
at 22 First Street, Raritan, NJ 08869 on the following dates:
AGENDA-WORKSHOP MEETING REGULAR MEETING
January 11, 2011 January 25, 2011
February 8, 2011 February 22, 2011
March 8, 2011 March 22, 2011
April 12, 2011 April 26, 2011
May 10, 2011 May 24, 2011
June 14, 2011 June 28, 2011
July 12, 2011 July 26, 2011
August 9, 2011 August 23, 2011
September 13, 2011 September 27, 2011
October 11, 2011 October 25, 2011
November 1, 2011 November 22, 2011
December 6, 2011 December 20, 2011
The Clerk is hereby directed to publish notice of this appointment in the Courier News or Star Ledger within
ten (10) days of the adoption of this resolution as required by law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-020
CALLING ON THE STATE LEGISLALTURE AND THE GOVERNOR
TO EXEMPT THE RESERVE FOR UNCOLLECTED TAXES FROM
THE 2% CAP
WHEREAS, on July 13, 2010, Governor Christie signed into law P.L. 2010, c. 44, which reduced the cap on the property
tax levy from 4% to 2% and limited the number of exemptions; and
WHEREAS, when the property tax levy was reduced, the exemption for the Reserve for Uncollected Taxes was removed; and
WHEREAS, in addition to collecting property taxes for its own operations, the municipality also serves as the
collection agent for the county, school districts, fire districts and other special local entities; and
WHEREAS, the municipality must provide those entities with the full amount they deem necessary for their operations,
regardless of the actual collection rate; and
especially during an economic downturn, when unemployment soars and property values plummet, causing an increase
in tax appeals, which the municipality must defend and which subject the municipal budget to further losses,
when successful; and
WHEREAS, to account for the shortfall and potential losses, State law requires the municipality to budget an
appropriation in a line item known as the Reserve for Uncollected Taxes, which is generally determined through
a formula driven calculation in which the variables change year to year; and
WHEREAS, without a levy cap exemption, municipalities will be forced to further cut their own operations,
in order to meet the 2% tax levy cap to provide the county, school districts, fire districts and other special
local entities the full amount they deem necessary for their operations; and
WHEREAS, those other local entities, which do not have to budget for collection rate short-falls or the impact
of declining property values, have been granted levy cap exceptions to address factors beyond their control; and
WHEREAS, Assemblymen McKeon and Burzichelli has recently introduced A-3603, which excludes increases in
appropriations to the Reserve for Uncollected Taxes in excess of two percent, from calculations of the municipal
adjusted tax levy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan hereby urges the swift
passage and signing of A-3603;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that consideration also be given to providing a levy cap exception to account for the
impact of tax appeals on local operations; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this Resolution be forwarded to New Jersey Governor Christopher Christie,
to Senate President Stephen Sweeney, to Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver, to our State Senator, to our two
Representatives in the General Assembly, and to the New Jersey League of Municipalities.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-021
REJECTION OF BID FOR A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATION SITE LEASE OF THE RARITAN BOROUGH DEPARTMENT OF
PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY
WHEREAS, in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S. 40A: 11-1 et seq. (the “Local Public Contracts Law”),
the Borough of Raritan solicited bids for a wireless telecommunications site lease of the
Borough’s Department of Public Works Facility; and
WHEREAS, one bid was received, from T-Mobile Northeast LLC (“T-Mobile”); and
WHEREAS, T-Mobile has taken what it has described as seven “exceptions” to the bid specifications; and
WHEREAS, T-Mobile’s seven exceptions are fundamentally inconsistent with the bid specifications; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Attorney and the Borough Administrator have examined T-Mobile’s bid and have determined
that the bid is not equivalent to the bid specifications; and
WHEREAS, the Borough Council therefore finds that T-Mobile’s bid does not conform to the requirements
described in the bid specifications;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan that the Borough Council hereby
rejects the bid submitted by T-Mobile Northeast LLC for the reasons stated above; and
BE IT FUTHER RESOLVED by the Borough Council of the Borough of Raritan that the Borough Administrator is hereby
authorized and directed to again advertise in order to solicit bids for a wireless telecommunications site
lease of the Borough’s Department of Public Works Facility in accordance with the provisions of the
Local Public Contracts Law.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
Giraldi X
Laggini X
X Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-022
TO CANCEL 2010 OPEN BALANCES LESS THAN $10.00
FOR PROPERTY TAX
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:5-17-1 allows the Tax Collector to cancel all property tax open balances in the amount
of $10.00 or less at the close of the fiscal year, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Raritan, County of Somerset,
State of New Jersey that the Tax Collector is hereby authorized to cancel all property tax open balances
in the amount of $10.00 or less for the year 2010.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
X Carra X
Gara X
Giraldi X
X Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
RESOLUTION 2011-01-023
APPROVING PARTICIPATION WITH THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY DIVISION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is responsible for administering the Office of
Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) State Block Grant Program Enforcing the
Underage Drinking laws; and
WHEREAS, Raritan Borough Police Department wishes to apply to ABC for funds in connection with a
project entitled Cops in Shops; and
WHEREAS, the Borough of Raritan has reviewed said application and finds approval thereof to be in the best
interest of the municipality/county; and
WHEREAS, said project is a joint project between the State of New Jersey (ABC) and the Borough of Raritan
for the purposes therein described;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Raritan that as a matter of
public policy, the Borough of Raritan Police Department wishes to participate with the State of
New Jersey (ABC) be requested to accept said application on behalf of the municipality/county; and that
the appropriate fiscal officer will accept the funds in connection with said project form the ABC and
make disbursements in accordance with said application.
MOTION SECOND NAME YEAS NAYS ABSTAIN ABSENT
Carra X
X Gara X
X Giraldi X
Laggini X
Lobell X
Soriano X
PUBLIC COMMENT
Anthony De Cicco, 10 Anderson Street: He asked for a moment of silence in honor of Mr. Minetti.
Jim Foohey, 710 Rhine Blvd.: He stated that he is very optimistic for the 2011 Borough Council.
Lisa Simonetti sang God Bless America.
The Reverend Dr. Ronald W. Jones, Pastor of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church,
Raritan, New Jersey gave the benediction.
ADJOURNMENT
Councilwoman Gara moved to adjourn the meeting and seconded by Councilman Lobell. Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 1:02 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Rayna E. Harris, RMC
Borough Clerk