Referendum for EMS Building March 14
By Sharyn Walz
Roosevelt residents will go to the polls on March 14 to vote yes or no on a referendum to build a four-bay Emergency Services Building. The referendum will appropriate a total of $600,000 and authorize the issuance of $571,400 in bonds and notes. It is estimated that the actual cost of the building structure will be between$140,000 and $160,000, with the rest of the bond covering costs for ventilation, electrical service, and so on, as needed to make the building a fully functional EMS building. Additional costs for the ongoing maintenance of the building are not included in the referendum.
The EMS building has been the subject of two previous votes—in December 2015 a tie vote prevented the approval of a bond to support construction; in a related public question in November 2016, voters expressed their preference for a four-bay building over a two-bay building, in effect instructing the Borough Council to seek a bond for the larger building. A four-bay building could accommodate both Fire Department and First Aid Squad vehicles and equipment.
Opinion about construction of the building—and, by extension, the future of emergency services in Roosevelt—has been sharply divided, with strongly opposing views expressed in public meetings. Many residents have expressed dismay at the harsh tone of much of the discourse and the apparent inability of community leaders to cultivate a more civil public discourse.
Borough officials themselves are divided on the issue of the current referendum, with the Mayor publicly disputing the recent report issued by the Council’s Safety Committee at the most recent Council meeting, which was authored by Councilman Joe Trammell. (An edited version of the report and the Mayor’s response are both included in this issue. The full version of the report is available at Borough Hall.)
Roosevelt Borough has two options for securing fire protection: maintain its own fire department or secure a fire protection contract with a department in another municipality. The Borough is located within the range of several neighboring EMS services: Hightstown is 5.3 miles (approximately 10 minutes) away; Monroe is 6 miles (also 10 minutes) away; Millstone is 3 miles (about 5 minutes) away. The Council’s Safety Committee is reportedly expecting a draft fire protection contract from the Applegarth Fire Department (Monroe Township) in which they would charge the Borough $30,000 per year for the next three years. Chief Carbin, from Applegarth, is expected to attend the next Council meeting.
Discussion of the upcoming referendum and the EMS controversy dominated the February 27 Council meeting. Questions remain about the long term cost and comparative safety of relying on more distant services, as well as insurance implications for the Borough and its residents. Councilwoman Malkin pointed out that insurance companies weigh multiple factors when writing policies—distance, response time, proximity to hydrants, and volunteer vs. professional firefighters. She also stated that costs may go down in Roosevelt if this contract is approved.
Councilman Trammell stated that a three-year contract will buy planning time for Roosevelt. Mayor Ellentuck stated that if the Borough enters into a three-year contract, there will be no Roosevelt Fire Department, as the members will quit. Mayor Ellentuck expressed concern about what the Applegarth rate might be long term and stated that they may well be more expensive than Millstone in the long run.
Mayor Ellentuck asked what the plan for the First Aid Squad was if the Borough were to contract with Monroe. Councilwoman Malkin stated that the town can keep our own First Aid by renovating our first aid building or can contract with Monroe. The Safety Committee spoke to many public officials and were told that the $600,000 allocated for the Emergency Services Building is not nearly enough; it would take millions of dollars to build an EMS Building, plus ongoing costs to maintain gear. Councilwoman Malkin said that the State has been encouraging consolidation of EMS services, rather than having small towns maintain their own. However, there are no government subsidies available for that purpose. Councilwoman Malkin stated that, following with referendum, a decision would need to be made whether to renovate the current facilities or contract out to Monroe.
If residents vote NO on March 14, the bond for construction of an EMS building will not be approved. According to Mayor Ellentuck, the Borough’s agreements with the New Jersey Public Employee Occupational Safety and Health department (PEOSH) and the State will cease, and the State could re-institute daily fines that resulted from the Borough’s substandard facilities. The Mayor indicated that the Borough would probably proceed to contract with Millstone for fire protection services and that it is not clear what would happen to First Aid Squad at that point.
While the PEOSH inspection reports cite numerous violations (some of which were not directly related to the building and have been abated) and cite thousands of dollars in potential fines, they do not cite specific conditions under which the current deferral of fines would be canceled. Nor do they directly address what happens if the Borough contracts with another local fire department and ceases use of the fire house. Additionally, it may be possible to repair the First Aid Squad facility separately and sustain that service in Roosevelt.
If residents vote YES on March 14, the town will build a four-bay EMS building.
Creative Team Recognized
The Borough passed a resolution to recognize a Creative Team, with that team being made up of the Board of the Roosevelt Arts Project, a school representative (Larisa Bondy) and a member of the Green Team (Councilmember Stacey Bonna). Having an officially recognized Creative Team allows that Borough to gain points towards Bronze Certification with Sustainable Jersey, a non-profit agency that works with NJ towns to improve their towns in several categories: arts, environment, sustainability, etc. Being certified by Sustainable Jersey will make the Borough eligible for additional grants.
Committee Reports
Councilmember Hamilton, for the Public Works Committee—not present. Kelly Tyers of Public Works reported a tree hazard on Farm Lane, that will take down a shed and fence if it falls. Allen’s Tree Service has provided a quote of $900. Motion to have Allen’s remove the tree hazard was approved.
Councilmember Ticktin reported for the Community Development and Code Enforcement Committee. He had attended a meeting with the Monmouth County Community Development Block Grant Committee, and was named Vice Chairman, after determining that Roosevelt would not qualify for CDBG funding for the EMS building because it would not serve a population that is predominantly low income. Mayor Ellentuck confirmed that there is no new information on the medical marijuana facility. Regarding Seniors: there is a Monmouth County Department of Health program available that addresses senior groups and distributes emergency readiness kits. Arrangements are being made for a representative of the program to meet with the Roosevelt Senior Citizens organization within the next few months. Progress is being made in addressing the problem of abandoned houses, with 37 Homestead Lane having been foreclosed and currently for sale.
Councilmember Bonna for the Administration Committee and the Environmental Commission: There was some vandalism along the Roosevelt Woodland Trail: someone tore down the “Caution: Slippery” signs that were placed along the new bridges and threw them into the woods. They were re-posted thanks to Nick Murray of the Environmental Commission. Mayor Ellentuck suggested the use of a camera. In addition, the section of the Woodland Trail that was covered last year when the new entrance was built near the Roosevelt Memorial had been cleared. This area had purposely been covered so that it would be safer to enter the trail on the side near the school path, rather than the road. Eitan and Nick from the Environmental Commission re-covered the area with woody debris. This trail entrance was intentionally re-routed for everyone’s safety.
Councilmember Malkin for the Finance and Planning Board Committee: the Planning Board must meet to review the town’s Master Plan every 10 years. Only minor changes to the current plan have been suggested, and the Master plan is due at end of March. March 7th is final Planning Board meeting for master plan discussion, and is open to the public.
Councilmember Lipoti for the Utilities Committee: will be attending a League of Municipalities training on Saturday for budgeting for Municipal officials, and will report out at the next Council meeting.
Councilmember Trammell: Environmental, Health, and Safety: Eitan Grunwald, Chair of the Environmental Commission, received a complaint about gunshots near houses. Neighbors on Pine Drive also heard shots, and hunters were seen in the field near the sewer plant. Councilmember Trammell met with law enforcement at Assunpink to discuss. Safety zones are 450 feet from houses. The map shows that as well, but also shows that a lot of our trails are in the active hunting zones. Mayor Ellentuck noted that the Borough has an ordinance that prohibits discharge within the Borough; however, Assunpink owns the area where the trails are near the sewer plant, also behind Solar Village up to the cemetery. Kids often hide the painted Roosevelt rocks on those trails, and Councilmember Trammell wants to raise awareness. Safety Zone posters are available from Law Enforcement and new Safety Zone posters were posted in this area shortly following the discussion with Assunpink.
The Zoning Officer, Joe McGrath reported good news: Dexheimer Farm has secured a signed agreement on the value of property, with closing coming in the future. There are still a few issues on site, for example, 21 vehicles will need to be removed. This is a Pre-Jersey Homestead house.
Rental Property Requirements and Recommendations
There are three homeowners who have filed applications to rent out their properties. There is an ordinance that requires Council approval for rentals, subject to recommendations made by the Zoning Officer. One property has their Certificate of Occupancy, and was approved for renters. One of the homes is not ready for renters yet and the third property is the space above the deli. There is an ordinance that restricts rental of the space above the deli to relatives of the owners or employees of the deli. Since the deli is not up and running, no renters are allowed there at this time. Work on the Deli has recently been re-started.
The Zoning Officer encouraged and renters and landlords to register as a rental property as a safety precaution. It is helpful for EMS to know who is living where and how many people reside in the home.
Stream Monitoring Training April 29
The Roosevelt Environmental Commission will be utilizing the Borough Hall to conduct a new training for residents who would like to learn stream monitoring techniques on April 29th. Residents will learn how to locate and identify macroinvertebrates and how their presence, or lack thereof, relates to the health of the stream.
Tree Trimming Tabled
Routine tree trimming throughout the borough is needed and a quote of $700 was received by Allen’s Tree Service. Action on this item will be tabled until next meeting to give time to prepare a resolution and ensure finances are available. A second agenda item regarding specifications for the Borough’s mowing contract was also tabled as Michael Hamilton, Chair of the Public Works Committee was not present.
Bulk Garbage Pickup
There is a Bulk pickup approved for May 1 through May 2. These dates were chosen as they follow the April 29 town-wide yard sale.
A Branch pickup will be scheduled soon. Quotes need to be obtained.
Public Comment
John Vo: Thanked the Millstone First Aid Squad for supporting the Roosevelt First Aid Squad and noted that several Millstone Squad members were in attendance. Last year, RFAS responded to 260 calls. This year, one of the Roosevelt calls were for a one-year old infant who was unresponsive, so distance makes a difference. Roosevelt EMS are trained professionals, who offer professional care from a familiar face, patients often relax when they see someone from their own community. No matter what happens with negotiations, Roosevelt and Millstone FAS work well with each other and help each other out. Mr. Vo pointed out that Monroe/Applegarth “hard-bill”, which means that they bill the insurance company and residents are responsible for any remaining balance. An ambulance ride can cost between $600-900. Why was Roosevelt FAS not consulted with the discussion with other first aid squads in the area? They would like to be involved as they have expertise. Councilwoman Malkin stated that there has been no discussion with first aid squads in area.
Sam Lopez: When contacting Monroe, did you ask about the mutual aid agreement for Roosevelt? Mayor Ellentuck stated that Millstone will not help Roosevelt if we contract with Monroe.
Ezio Creglia: Expressed concerned that any more raising of water/sewer/taxes will drop property values.
Steve Yeger: Stated that he feels misled, the First Aid Squad and Fire Department never asked for anything beyond a place to house a truck. Roosevelt FAS are trying to make things as easy as possible for this town, and are still working out of the original first aid building. Council should be talking to the Roosevelt FD and FAS as they have information that would provide insight. Volunteers don’t come to Roosevelt for free, we have to help each other through Mutual Aid Agreements. There are benefits to having a volunteer First Aid Squad, and Roosevelt FAS is well respected in the state. Steve encouraged the Council to consult with Squad members.
Sal Darini: Stated that she loves the small town feel of Roosevelt. She is a new resident who can see a clear division in the room, and a bunch of uninformed people. She encouraged Council to better inform the people who are coming to vote.
The Millstone First Aid Captain: stated that the Millstone First Aid Squad has close ties with Roosevelt and rely on Roosevelt volunteers who helped them last year. They have paid people now, but they agreed to come into Roosevelt, and soft bill, (accept insurance payment only). They are very grateful to Roosevelt and support our town. They confirmed that Monroe will hard bill, and residents will be responsible.
David Markunas, Chairman of Board of the Millstone Fire District: Indicated that the idea of contracting with Monroe but expecting Millstone to come out for Roosevelt doesn’t faithfully honor the mutual aid agreement with Roosevelt. It would be necessary to renegotiate if Roosevelt decided to contract with Monroe (Applegarth).
Deb Lenart: Questioned whether the Fire Department was adequately consulted and felt that it didn’t seem like any info had been brought forward for less costly options, only to not have a Fire Department.
Sharon Unger: In talking contracting with a different FD, consider what happened during Superstorm Sandy: we were blocked in for 2 days. Also when they were repaving 571 there were issues getting in and out of town. An outside FD will not able to get to us. Mrs. Unger stated that she was harassed at post office right by front door, with people wanted to know which way she was voting and demanding to know which side of the issue she stands on.
Kurt Muzer: Reported that he was in his yard yesterday, and was approached by Mr. Hamilton and Ms. Parrot, asking if he wanted an absentee ballot. He responded that he didn’t need one, as he intended to be present to vote. They then began asking him what he thought about the issues, and found it unethical as they were pumping him for an answer when he felt that it was none of their business how he wants to vote.
Gary Shiner: Stated that he proud of our firefighters in general, however, found it appalling at the last Council meeting when one of the firefighters did not conduct himself in a professional manner by cursing and ranting. Mr. Shiner expressed dismay that this individual remains a member of the Fire Department after such behavior.
By Sharyn Walz
Roosevelt residents will go to the polls on March 14 to vote yes or no on a referendum to build a four-bay Emergency Services Building. The referendum will appropriate a total of $600,000 and authorize the issuance of $571,400 in bonds and notes. It is estimated that the actual cost of the building structure will be between$140,000 and $160,000, with the rest of the bond covering costs for ventilation, electrical service, and so on, as needed to make the building a fully functional EMS building. Additional costs for the ongoing maintenance of the building are not included in the referendum.
The EMS building has been the subject of two previous votes—in December 2015 a tie vote prevented the approval of a bond to support construction; in a related public question in November 2016, voters expressed their preference for a four-bay building over a two-bay building, in effect instructing the Borough Council to seek a bond for the larger building. A four-bay building could accommodate both Fire Department and First Aid Squad vehicles and equipment.
Opinion about construction of the building—and, by extension, the future of emergency services in Roosevelt—has been sharply divided, with strongly opposing views expressed in public meetings. Many residents have expressed dismay at the harsh tone of much of the discourse and the apparent inability of community leaders to cultivate a more civil public discourse.
Borough officials themselves are divided on the issue of the current referendum, with the Mayor publicly disputing the recent report issued by the Council’s Safety Committee at the most recent Council meeting, which was authored by Councilman Joe Trammell. (An edited version of the report and the Mayor’s response are both included in this issue. The full version of the report is available at Borough Hall.)
Roosevelt Borough has two options for securing fire protection: maintain its own fire department or secure a fire protection contract with a department in another municipality. The Borough is located within the range of several neighboring EMS services: Hightstown is 5.3 miles (approximately 10 minutes) away; Monroe is 6 miles (also 10 minutes) away; Millstone is 3 miles (about 5 minutes) away. The Council’s Safety Committee is reportedly expecting a draft fire protection contract from the Applegarth Fire Department (Monroe Township) in which they would charge the Borough $30,000 per year for the next three years. Chief Carbin, from Applegarth, is expected to attend the next Council meeting.
Discussion of the upcoming referendum and the EMS controversy dominated the February 27 Council meeting. Questions remain about the long term cost and comparative safety of relying on more distant services, as well as insurance implications for the Borough and its residents. Councilwoman Malkin pointed out that insurance companies weigh multiple factors when writing policies—distance, response time, proximity to hydrants, and volunteer vs. professional firefighters. She also stated that costs may go down in Roosevelt if this contract is approved.
Councilman Trammell stated that a three-year contract will buy planning time for Roosevelt. Mayor Ellentuck stated that if the Borough enters into a three-year contract, there will be no Roosevelt Fire Department, as the members will quit. Mayor Ellentuck expressed concern about what the Applegarth rate might be long term and stated that they may well be more expensive than Millstone in the long run.
Mayor Ellentuck asked what the plan for the First Aid Squad was if the Borough were to contract with Monroe. Councilwoman Malkin stated that the town can keep our own First Aid by renovating our first aid building or can contract with Monroe. The Safety Committee spoke to many public officials and were told that the $600,000 allocated for the Emergency Services Building is not nearly enough; it would take millions of dollars to build an EMS Building, plus ongoing costs to maintain gear. Councilwoman Malkin said that the State has been encouraging consolidation of EMS services, rather than having small towns maintain their own. However, there are no government subsidies available for that purpose. Councilwoman Malkin stated that, following with referendum, a decision would need to be made whether to renovate the current facilities or contract out to Monroe.
If residents vote NO on March 14, the bond for construction of an EMS building will not be approved. According to Mayor Ellentuck, the Borough’s agreements with the New Jersey Public Employee Occupational Safety and Health department (PEOSH) and the State will cease, and the State could re-institute daily fines that resulted from the Borough’s substandard facilities. The Mayor indicated that the Borough would probably proceed to contract with Millstone for fire protection services and that it is not clear what would happen to First Aid Squad at that point.
While the PEOSH inspection reports cite numerous violations (some of which were not directly related to the building and have been abated) and cite thousands of dollars in potential fines, they do not cite specific conditions under which the current deferral of fines would be canceled. Nor do they directly address what happens if the Borough contracts with another local fire department and ceases use of the fire house. Additionally, it may be possible to repair the First Aid Squad facility separately and sustain that service in Roosevelt.
If residents vote YES on March 14, the town will build a four-bay EMS building.
Creative Team Recognized
The Borough passed a resolution to recognize a Creative Team, with that team being made up of the Board of the Roosevelt Arts Project, a school representative (Larisa Bondy) and a member of the Green Team (Councilmember Stacey Bonna). Having an officially recognized Creative Team allows that Borough to gain points towards Bronze Certification with Sustainable Jersey, a non-profit agency that works with NJ towns to improve their towns in several categories: arts, environment, sustainability, etc. Being certified by Sustainable Jersey will make the Borough eligible for additional grants.
Committee Reports
Councilmember Hamilton, for the Public Works Committee—not present. Kelly Tyers of Public Works reported a tree hazard on Farm Lane, that will take down a shed and fence if it falls. Allen’s Tree Service has provided a quote of $900. Motion to have Allen’s remove the tree hazard was approved.
Councilmember Ticktin reported for the Community Development and Code Enforcement Committee. He had attended a meeting with the Monmouth County Community Development Block Grant Committee, and was named Vice Chairman, after determining that Roosevelt would not qualify for CDBG funding for the EMS building because it would not serve a population that is predominantly low income. Mayor Ellentuck confirmed that there is no new information on the medical marijuana facility. Regarding Seniors: there is a Monmouth County Department of Health program available that addresses senior groups and distributes emergency readiness kits. Arrangements are being made for a representative of the program to meet with the Roosevelt Senior Citizens organization within the next few months. Progress is being made in addressing the problem of abandoned houses, with 37 Homestead Lane having been foreclosed and currently for sale.
Councilmember Bonna for the Administration Committee and the Environmental Commission: There was some vandalism along the Roosevelt Woodland Trail: someone tore down the “Caution: Slippery” signs that were placed along the new bridges and threw them into the woods. They were re-posted thanks to Nick Murray of the Environmental Commission. Mayor Ellentuck suggested the use of a camera. In addition, the section of the Woodland Trail that was covered last year when the new entrance was built near the Roosevelt Memorial had been cleared. This area had purposely been covered so that it would be safer to enter the trail on the side near the school path, rather than the road. Eitan and Nick from the Environmental Commission re-covered the area with woody debris. This trail entrance was intentionally re-routed for everyone’s safety.
Councilmember Malkin for the Finance and Planning Board Committee: the Planning Board must meet to review the town’s Master Plan every 10 years. Only minor changes to the current plan have been suggested, and the Master plan is due at end of March. March 7th is final Planning Board meeting for master plan discussion, and is open to the public.
Councilmember Lipoti for the Utilities Committee: will be attending a League of Municipalities training on Saturday for budgeting for Municipal officials, and will report out at the next Council meeting.
Councilmember Trammell: Environmental, Health, and Safety: Eitan Grunwald, Chair of the Environmental Commission, received a complaint about gunshots near houses. Neighbors on Pine Drive also heard shots, and hunters were seen in the field near the sewer plant. Councilmember Trammell met with law enforcement at Assunpink to discuss. Safety zones are 450 feet from houses. The map shows that as well, but also shows that a lot of our trails are in the active hunting zones. Mayor Ellentuck noted that the Borough has an ordinance that prohibits discharge within the Borough; however, Assunpink owns the area where the trails are near the sewer plant, also behind Solar Village up to the cemetery. Kids often hide the painted Roosevelt rocks on those trails, and Councilmember Trammell wants to raise awareness. Safety Zone posters are available from Law Enforcement and new Safety Zone posters were posted in this area shortly following the discussion with Assunpink.
The Zoning Officer, Joe McGrath reported good news: Dexheimer Farm has secured a signed agreement on the value of property, with closing coming in the future. There are still a few issues on site, for example, 21 vehicles will need to be removed. This is a Pre-Jersey Homestead house.
Rental Property Requirements and Recommendations
There are three homeowners who have filed applications to rent out their properties. There is an ordinance that requires Council approval for rentals, subject to recommendations made by the Zoning Officer. One property has their Certificate of Occupancy, and was approved for renters. One of the homes is not ready for renters yet and the third property is the space above the deli. There is an ordinance that restricts rental of the space above the deli to relatives of the owners or employees of the deli. Since the deli is not up and running, no renters are allowed there at this time. Work on the Deli has recently been re-started.
The Zoning Officer encouraged and renters and landlords to register as a rental property as a safety precaution. It is helpful for EMS to know who is living where and how many people reside in the home.
Stream Monitoring Training April 29
The Roosevelt Environmental Commission will be utilizing the Borough Hall to conduct a new training for residents who would like to learn stream monitoring techniques on April 29th. Residents will learn how to locate and identify macroinvertebrates and how their presence, or lack thereof, relates to the health of the stream.
Tree Trimming Tabled
Routine tree trimming throughout the borough is needed and a quote of $700 was received by Allen’s Tree Service. Action on this item will be tabled until next meeting to give time to prepare a resolution and ensure finances are available. A second agenda item regarding specifications for the Borough’s mowing contract was also tabled as Michael Hamilton, Chair of the Public Works Committee was not present.
Bulk Garbage Pickup
There is a Bulk pickup approved for May 1 through May 2. These dates were chosen as they follow the April 29 town-wide yard sale.
A Branch pickup will be scheduled soon. Quotes need to be obtained.
Public Comment
John Vo: Thanked the Millstone First Aid Squad for supporting the Roosevelt First Aid Squad and noted that several Millstone Squad members were in attendance. Last year, RFAS responded to 260 calls. This year, one of the Roosevelt calls were for a one-year old infant who was unresponsive, so distance makes a difference. Roosevelt EMS are trained professionals, who offer professional care from a familiar face, patients often relax when they see someone from their own community. No matter what happens with negotiations, Roosevelt and Millstone FAS work well with each other and help each other out. Mr. Vo pointed out that Monroe/Applegarth “hard-bill”, which means that they bill the insurance company and residents are responsible for any remaining balance. An ambulance ride can cost between $600-900. Why was Roosevelt FAS not consulted with the discussion with other first aid squads in the area? They would like to be involved as they have expertise. Councilwoman Malkin stated that there has been no discussion with first aid squads in area.
Sam Lopez: When contacting Monroe, did you ask about the mutual aid agreement for Roosevelt? Mayor Ellentuck stated that Millstone will not help Roosevelt if we contract with Monroe.
Ezio Creglia: Expressed concerned that any more raising of water/sewer/taxes will drop property values.
Steve Yeger: Stated that he feels misled, the First Aid Squad and Fire Department never asked for anything beyond a place to house a truck. Roosevelt FAS are trying to make things as easy as possible for this town, and are still working out of the original first aid building. Council should be talking to the Roosevelt FD and FAS as they have information that would provide insight. Volunteers don’t come to Roosevelt for free, we have to help each other through Mutual Aid Agreements. There are benefits to having a volunteer First Aid Squad, and Roosevelt FAS is well respected in the state. Steve encouraged the Council to consult with Squad members.
Sal Darini: Stated that she loves the small town feel of Roosevelt. She is a new resident who can see a clear division in the room, and a bunch of uninformed people. She encouraged Council to better inform the people who are coming to vote.
The Millstone First Aid Captain: stated that the Millstone First Aid Squad has close ties with Roosevelt and rely on Roosevelt volunteers who helped them last year. They have paid people now, but they agreed to come into Roosevelt, and soft bill, (accept insurance payment only). They are very grateful to Roosevelt and support our town. They confirmed that Monroe will hard bill, and residents will be responsible.
David Markunas, Chairman of Board of the Millstone Fire District: Indicated that the idea of contracting with Monroe but expecting Millstone to come out for Roosevelt doesn’t faithfully honor the mutual aid agreement with Roosevelt. It would be necessary to renegotiate if Roosevelt decided to contract with Monroe (Applegarth).
Deb Lenart: Questioned whether the Fire Department was adequately consulted and felt that it didn’t seem like any info had been brought forward for less costly options, only to not have a Fire Department.
Sharon Unger: In talking contracting with a different FD, consider what happened during Superstorm Sandy: we were blocked in for 2 days. Also when they were repaving 571 there were issues getting in and out of town. An outside FD will not able to get to us. Mrs. Unger stated that she was harassed at post office right by front door, with people wanted to know which way she was voting and demanding to know which side of the issue she stands on.
Kurt Muzer: Reported that he was in his yard yesterday, and was approached by Mr. Hamilton and Ms. Parrot, asking if he wanted an absentee ballot. He responded that he didn’t need one, as he intended to be present to vote. They then began asking him what he thought about the issues, and found it unethical as they were pumping him for an answer when he felt that it was none of their business how he wants to vote.
Gary Shiner: Stated that he proud of our firefighters in general, however, found it appalling at the last Council meeting when one of the firefighters did not conduct himself in a professional manner by cursing and ranting. Mr. Shiner expressed dismay that this individual remains a member of the Fire Department after such behavior.