In the wake of mid-August resignations by Mayor Jeff Ellentuck and Council members Stacey Bonna, Jill Lipoti, and Michael Ticktin, the Roosevelt Borough Council is no longer able to support the quorum necessary to conduct the Borough’s business. Borough clerk Kathleen Hart has notified the state; it will be up to Governor Christie’s office, in cooperation with Department of Community Affairs, to appoint replacements by September 17. These replacements will serve until new members can be elected. Councilwoman Peggy Malkin will serve as Acting Mayor by virtue of her seniority on the Council, pending an appointment by the reconstituted Council.
Also at the August 14th meeting, Borough employees Debra Thomas and Kelly Tyers resigned their administrative positions in the Clerk’s office, noting that the current atmosphere has made it difficult for them to continue.
The Council breakup comes after many months of controversy over a variety of issues, including emergency services, the water utility, code enforcement, and Borough expenditures. Members have been sharply divided into two factions, mirroring divisions within the Borough itself.
Interim Council Appointments in Process
The application process for interim Council members was not well publicized, and the Borough Clerk received the information on the afternoon of August 30, the very last day for residents interested in serving to fill out the necessary paperwork. This notification was sent to the 26 residents who had previously requested to be included on the list for Borough notices and Council information. Queries to officials at the Department of Community Affairs revealed that a press release had gone out, but upon searching the DCA website for “Roosevelt,” the press release was not readily found. Interviews for remaining councilmembers have been conducted.
August 14th Council Meeting Details
At the Council meeting on August 14th, resolutions that were passed included a water/sewer maintenance agreement, mitigation of invasive species plants on municipal properties, authorization to refund tax court overpayments, a 3-year contract for sludge removal from the sewage treatment plant, roofing for Borough Hall, and a contract for fixing pipes on the chlorine storage tanks. Councilmember Hamilton noted that the $11,600 quote for the Borough Hall roof is complete and inclusive, but it is pending state approval as Roosevelt is on the State Registry of Historic Places in its entirety. Councilmember Hamilton also reported meeting with the Borough Engineer to discuss potential grant money from DOT. Recommendations were made to finish paving Nurko Rd. and possibly Elm Ct. Funding to rehab Homestead Lane is also available, as is Cedar Ct. Mayor Ellentuck noted that the air quality extension from PEOSH expires in August, so quick action is necessary to prevent pending penalties.
Councilmember Ticktin said that he would be attending a conference on the New Deal at Hyde Park involving grandchildren and great-grandchildren of President Roosevelt and members of his administration. He will provide information about obtaining a video of the program.
Councilmember Lipoti discussed the resolution to enter into a maintenance agreement to monitor and repair the utility generators as needed. This is a replacement contract, as the previous contract was expiring.
Councilmember Trammell reported speaking with PEOSHA to clarify the problems and solutions around indoor air quality inside Borough Hall. He completed the paperwork to be the Indoor Air Quality point person, but stated that he believes this role should be given to an employee, rather than a councilmember. Current PEOSHA fines are $245/day; usually they are usually over $1000/day. Councilmember Trammell received a quote around $7,000 for venting the First Aid Squad building and he is current seeking additional quotes. He will meet with Public Works and engineers to discuss.
Councilmember Malkin noted that, at the last council meeting, the mayor and council accepted the resignation of George Vasseur, and she felt that the council was remiss in not addressing the history of Mr. Vasseur’s service to the community. His father opened and owned the gas station, then known as Frenchie’s, and Mr. Vasseur has worked for the good of Roosevelt for most of his life. He was the “go-to” guy for everyone’s cars and anything else residents needed, and provided maintenance for the school as well as the water/sewer utility since he was 17 years old. Mr. Vasseur is in his 80s now, and Councilmember Malkin wanted to officially and publically thank George and pass a resolution to acknowledge his 50+ years of service to our town. Mayor Ellentuck also noted that George stood up for the Roosevelt kids in Allentown high school when they were getting picked on by bullies there.
Councilmember Malkin addressed a complaint that was made by Sharyn Walz at a previous meeting regarding Councilmembers being present in Borough Hall the night prior to the Primary Election. Councilmember Malkin felt that Ms. Walz implied that the finance committee was able to tamper with voting machines, and felt that the statement was “reprehensible and irresponsible.”
Councilmember Ticktin and Mayor Ellentuck clarified that Ms. Walz’s position was that it was inappropriate for anyone to be in the building once the voting machines were set up, and there were no “accusations” of wrongdoing other than that the presence of councilmembers “looked bad.”
Public comment:
Tim Curry asked about the next steps. Councilmember Malkin responded that she thinks the way it works, the Democratic Committee has to choose a mayor and council: they will propose 3 names. There will be an appointment to serve in the meantime. The council has 15 days to pick from those 3. Council has until august 29.
Bert Ellentuck asked if the community gets to vote. Councilmember Malkin said no, the new councilmembers will be decided just by the remaining council members.
Beth Battel thanked the individuals involved for their tremendous hard work and expressed empathy for their frustration.
Shan Ellentuck noted that she has lived here 60 years, and has always been proud of the municipality and its representatives for their work, which takes a great amount of time and effort. The Ellentuck family has served, and there were times of great distress in the town in the past, but everyone managed to come together civilly. The Borough has fought off major developers and the synagogue that would change the town. Mrs. Ellentuck addressed Councilmember Malkin directly, saying, “Peggy, you have been reprehensible, irresponsible, and out of line. I am horrified that the destruction of this town is coming from within.”
Mark Connors expressed that he is both upset and grateful to those who have served. Mr. Connors noted that the problems remain: what is going to happen with the water/sewer? Borough parking lot and sidewalks are unsafe. The town is so beautiful but who will take care of it?
Gus Vuolle, who currently lives in Maine, but noted that he only cares about the betterment of the town. He expressed his “tremendous respect” for the councilmembers and staff that resigned.
Jeff Ellentuck stated that he and the resigning councilmembers were elected to do a job, but when they can’t do the job, or the public changes the council so that their work is ineffective, there is no point in remaining in place. While there has been talk for a long time that there is a “plan” to fix things, they have stepped out of the way to let the “plan” happen. They look forward to letting the remaining council enact their “plan” to fix the various problems.
Nancy Warnick noted that Kelly Tyers has never received any medical benefits or pension, yet recorded many hours off the books. Tax bills show how the tax money is distributed. A good portion of taxes go to the school, some to the county, and very little to running the community. People that throw complaints or insults at the councilmembers “should be ashamed of themselves.”
Diedre Shahn stated that the only person she has seen “attacked” is Councilmember Malkin, and referred to the election signage. She expressed that people need to work together for a solution, as Roosevelt is economically diverse.
Bert Ellentuck stated that, due to the petitions that were filed, referenda had to be held to address the emergency services issues and fix the water and sewer plants, but both were turned down. To the body of members of this council who were opposed: “YOU’RE the problem!” Residents are now going to spend millions of dollars unnecessarily because these individuals opposed the referenda.
Jill Lipoti stated that bonds are tools that spread the costs over time, but her vision is not shared by the majority of the residents and some council members. Now the Borough is committed to contracting for fire services for perpetuity. Problems have not been solved, there are daily issues, one of which is that the valve at base of the water tower is held together with a strap. Ms. Lipoti stated that she will get out of the way of whatever vision other people have for this town.
Sam Lopez addressed Councilmember Malkin directly: “I’ve never seen you move so fast to get in that seat, and it’s the first time I’ve seen you smile. You got what you wanted, now it’s time to strap up your boots. You can’t blame Jeff and Jill and Stacey. I hope you are ready for that responsibility, blame will be on you.”
Stacey Bonna thanked the Borough and council for her time on the council, specifically Councilmember Ticktin, for encouraging her to initially run. She has made new friends, and has had wonderful learning experience, culminating in the opportunity to perform a marriage ceremony.
Tim Curry thanked Kelly for her dedication particularly around snow removal.
After the public portion was closed, Councilmember Malkin stated that she is saddened about the resignations, but the last couple of years have been “upsetting and a debacle.”
Councilmember Ticktin expressed gratitude for serving with resigning members and hope that they will find a way to come together, and try to work for the benefit of the community. Councilmember Hamilton also thanked resigning staff and councilmembers for their hard work, and stated that he has had “shout down matches where it has almost come to fisticuffs.” He hoped the Borough can move forward as a community to find ways to compromise. Councilmember Trammell also thanked all for their services.
July Council Meeting Details
Earlier this summer, repairs were made to the auger at the sewer treatment plant due to damage from disposable wipes clogging the system. A new pH monitor will be installed to provide operators with a warning in real time in order to prevent pH-based water emergencies.
At the meeting of July 24, 2017, there was much discussion regarding payment to R3M for their engineering study. Councilmembers Malkin, Hamilton, and Trammell expressed their unwillingness to approve payment, citing potential litigation. Mayor Ellentuck, Councilmembers Ticktin and Bonna, as well as the Borough attorney, Chief Financial Officer, and Auditor, were satisfied that the Borough has received sound advice to pay the outstanding invoice. Councilmember Lipoti clarified that the reason for the study is to come up with sound options: treat sewage, sell utility, ship sewage somewhere else, or alternative solutions. The cost of the study has been negotiated for less than the original price. As the vote was tied, Mayor Ellentuck voted affirmatively, and the invoice was approved for payment.
Councilmember Hamilton reported there were several outstanding public works issues that have not been addressed: the salt storage at the end of Pine Dr., the millings near the water tower, the stairs at the sewer treatment plant that need to be repaired, residents calling about weeds in the storm drains, and the repairs that PEOSHA requires be done to the First Aid Squad building. Borough staff have been inundated with OPRA requests.
Councilmember Ticktin announced that the Community Forestry Management Plan has been approved by the State.
Councilmember Bonna reported that the Environmental Commission’s application for certification by Sustainable Jersey had undergone preliminary review, and most items were accepted as is. There are a few actions that need more work for the Borough to receive Bronze certification.
Councilmember Malkin reported that 13 children would start camp soon.
Councilmember Lipoti reported no new issues with the water pH since a new pump was installed. The EPA is satisfied with the arrangement and how the past water issues were handled. A new impeller kit will allow the water tower to be filled quickly. George Vasseur has resigned from the utility, and there will be a job description posted to fill his position.
Mayor Ellentuck discussed the need to designate an indoor air quality specialist to implement the newly required Borough Indoor Air Quality Program.
Joe McGrath, Zoning Officer, reported that, although most residents are responsive, there are currently two problem sites where residents are being fined daily for failure to comply. One of the residents was scheduled to appear in court on August 1st and may be penalized for contempt of court, as this is a longstanding issue. Councilmembers Trammell and Malkin expressed their disapproval of “overzealous enforcement” of ordinances and their desire for a “free-spirited” town where neighborhood interventions could work. Joe McGrath responded that he has given the two problem properties many opportunities to comply, but the neighbors are complaining and now it is up to the judge. If zoning issues are not properly addressed, there is a potential for litigation.
Also at the August 14th meeting, Borough employees Debra Thomas and Kelly Tyers resigned their administrative positions in the Clerk’s office, noting that the current atmosphere has made it difficult for them to continue.
The Council breakup comes after many months of controversy over a variety of issues, including emergency services, the water utility, code enforcement, and Borough expenditures. Members have been sharply divided into two factions, mirroring divisions within the Borough itself.
Interim Council Appointments in Process
The application process for interim Council members was not well publicized, and the Borough Clerk received the information on the afternoon of August 30, the very last day for residents interested in serving to fill out the necessary paperwork. This notification was sent to the 26 residents who had previously requested to be included on the list for Borough notices and Council information. Queries to officials at the Department of Community Affairs revealed that a press release had gone out, but upon searching the DCA website for “Roosevelt,” the press release was not readily found. Interviews for remaining councilmembers have been conducted.
August 14th Council Meeting Details
At the Council meeting on August 14th, resolutions that were passed included a water/sewer maintenance agreement, mitigation of invasive species plants on municipal properties, authorization to refund tax court overpayments, a 3-year contract for sludge removal from the sewage treatment plant, roofing for Borough Hall, and a contract for fixing pipes on the chlorine storage tanks. Councilmember Hamilton noted that the $11,600 quote for the Borough Hall roof is complete and inclusive, but it is pending state approval as Roosevelt is on the State Registry of Historic Places in its entirety. Councilmember Hamilton also reported meeting with the Borough Engineer to discuss potential grant money from DOT. Recommendations were made to finish paving Nurko Rd. and possibly Elm Ct. Funding to rehab Homestead Lane is also available, as is Cedar Ct. Mayor Ellentuck noted that the air quality extension from PEOSH expires in August, so quick action is necessary to prevent pending penalties.
Councilmember Ticktin said that he would be attending a conference on the New Deal at Hyde Park involving grandchildren and great-grandchildren of President Roosevelt and members of his administration. He will provide information about obtaining a video of the program.
Councilmember Lipoti discussed the resolution to enter into a maintenance agreement to monitor and repair the utility generators as needed. This is a replacement contract, as the previous contract was expiring.
Councilmember Trammell reported speaking with PEOSHA to clarify the problems and solutions around indoor air quality inside Borough Hall. He completed the paperwork to be the Indoor Air Quality point person, but stated that he believes this role should be given to an employee, rather than a councilmember. Current PEOSHA fines are $245/day; usually they are usually over $1000/day. Councilmember Trammell received a quote around $7,000 for venting the First Aid Squad building and he is current seeking additional quotes. He will meet with Public Works and engineers to discuss.
Councilmember Malkin noted that, at the last council meeting, the mayor and council accepted the resignation of George Vasseur, and she felt that the council was remiss in not addressing the history of Mr. Vasseur’s service to the community. His father opened and owned the gas station, then known as Frenchie’s, and Mr. Vasseur has worked for the good of Roosevelt for most of his life. He was the “go-to” guy for everyone’s cars and anything else residents needed, and provided maintenance for the school as well as the water/sewer utility since he was 17 years old. Mr. Vasseur is in his 80s now, and Councilmember Malkin wanted to officially and publically thank George and pass a resolution to acknowledge his 50+ years of service to our town. Mayor Ellentuck also noted that George stood up for the Roosevelt kids in Allentown high school when they were getting picked on by bullies there.
Councilmember Malkin addressed a complaint that was made by Sharyn Walz at a previous meeting regarding Councilmembers being present in Borough Hall the night prior to the Primary Election. Councilmember Malkin felt that Ms. Walz implied that the finance committee was able to tamper with voting machines, and felt that the statement was “reprehensible and irresponsible.”
Councilmember Ticktin and Mayor Ellentuck clarified that Ms. Walz’s position was that it was inappropriate for anyone to be in the building once the voting machines were set up, and there were no “accusations” of wrongdoing other than that the presence of councilmembers “looked bad.”
Public comment:
Tim Curry asked about the next steps. Councilmember Malkin responded that she thinks the way it works, the Democratic Committee has to choose a mayor and council: they will propose 3 names. There will be an appointment to serve in the meantime. The council has 15 days to pick from those 3. Council has until august 29.
Bert Ellentuck asked if the community gets to vote. Councilmember Malkin said no, the new councilmembers will be decided just by the remaining council members.
Beth Battel thanked the individuals involved for their tremendous hard work and expressed empathy for their frustration.
Shan Ellentuck noted that she has lived here 60 years, and has always been proud of the municipality and its representatives for their work, which takes a great amount of time and effort. The Ellentuck family has served, and there were times of great distress in the town in the past, but everyone managed to come together civilly. The Borough has fought off major developers and the synagogue that would change the town. Mrs. Ellentuck addressed Councilmember Malkin directly, saying, “Peggy, you have been reprehensible, irresponsible, and out of line. I am horrified that the destruction of this town is coming from within.”
Mark Connors expressed that he is both upset and grateful to those who have served. Mr. Connors noted that the problems remain: what is going to happen with the water/sewer? Borough parking lot and sidewalks are unsafe. The town is so beautiful but who will take care of it?
Gus Vuolle, who currently lives in Maine, but noted that he only cares about the betterment of the town. He expressed his “tremendous respect” for the councilmembers and staff that resigned.
Jeff Ellentuck stated that he and the resigning councilmembers were elected to do a job, but when they can’t do the job, or the public changes the council so that their work is ineffective, there is no point in remaining in place. While there has been talk for a long time that there is a “plan” to fix things, they have stepped out of the way to let the “plan” happen. They look forward to letting the remaining council enact their “plan” to fix the various problems.
Nancy Warnick noted that Kelly Tyers has never received any medical benefits or pension, yet recorded many hours off the books. Tax bills show how the tax money is distributed. A good portion of taxes go to the school, some to the county, and very little to running the community. People that throw complaints or insults at the councilmembers “should be ashamed of themselves.”
Diedre Shahn stated that the only person she has seen “attacked” is Councilmember Malkin, and referred to the election signage. She expressed that people need to work together for a solution, as Roosevelt is economically diverse.
Bert Ellentuck stated that, due to the petitions that were filed, referenda had to be held to address the emergency services issues and fix the water and sewer plants, but both were turned down. To the body of members of this council who were opposed: “YOU’RE the problem!” Residents are now going to spend millions of dollars unnecessarily because these individuals opposed the referenda.
Jill Lipoti stated that bonds are tools that spread the costs over time, but her vision is not shared by the majority of the residents and some council members. Now the Borough is committed to contracting for fire services for perpetuity. Problems have not been solved, there are daily issues, one of which is that the valve at base of the water tower is held together with a strap. Ms. Lipoti stated that she will get out of the way of whatever vision other people have for this town.
Sam Lopez addressed Councilmember Malkin directly: “I’ve never seen you move so fast to get in that seat, and it’s the first time I’ve seen you smile. You got what you wanted, now it’s time to strap up your boots. You can’t blame Jeff and Jill and Stacey. I hope you are ready for that responsibility, blame will be on you.”
Stacey Bonna thanked the Borough and council for her time on the council, specifically Councilmember Ticktin, for encouraging her to initially run. She has made new friends, and has had wonderful learning experience, culminating in the opportunity to perform a marriage ceremony.
Tim Curry thanked Kelly for her dedication particularly around snow removal.
After the public portion was closed, Councilmember Malkin stated that she is saddened about the resignations, but the last couple of years have been “upsetting and a debacle.”
Councilmember Ticktin expressed gratitude for serving with resigning members and hope that they will find a way to come together, and try to work for the benefit of the community. Councilmember Hamilton also thanked resigning staff and councilmembers for their hard work, and stated that he has had “shout down matches where it has almost come to fisticuffs.” He hoped the Borough can move forward as a community to find ways to compromise. Councilmember Trammell also thanked all for their services.
July Council Meeting Details
Earlier this summer, repairs were made to the auger at the sewer treatment plant due to damage from disposable wipes clogging the system. A new pH monitor will be installed to provide operators with a warning in real time in order to prevent pH-based water emergencies.
At the meeting of July 24, 2017, there was much discussion regarding payment to R3M for their engineering study. Councilmembers Malkin, Hamilton, and Trammell expressed their unwillingness to approve payment, citing potential litigation. Mayor Ellentuck, Councilmembers Ticktin and Bonna, as well as the Borough attorney, Chief Financial Officer, and Auditor, were satisfied that the Borough has received sound advice to pay the outstanding invoice. Councilmember Lipoti clarified that the reason for the study is to come up with sound options: treat sewage, sell utility, ship sewage somewhere else, or alternative solutions. The cost of the study has been negotiated for less than the original price. As the vote was tied, Mayor Ellentuck voted affirmatively, and the invoice was approved for payment.
Councilmember Hamilton reported there were several outstanding public works issues that have not been addressed: the salt storage at the end of Pine Dr., the millings near the water tower, the stairs at the sewer treatment plant that need to be repaired, residents calling about weeds in the storm drains, and the repairs that PEOSHA requires be done to the First Aid Squad building. Borough staff have been inundated with OPRA requests.
Councilmember Ticktin announced that the Community Forestry Management Plan has been approved by the State.
Councilmember Bonna reported that the Environmental Commission’s application for certification by Sustainable Jersey had undergone preliminary review, and most items were accepted as is. There are a few actions that need more work for the Borough to receive Bronze certification.
Councilmember Malkin reported that 13 children would start camp soon.
Councilmember Lipoti reported no new issues with the water pH since a new pump was installed. The EPA is satisfied with the arrangement and how the past water issues were handled. A new impeller kit will allow the water tower to be filled quickly. George Vasseur has resigned from the utility, and there will be a job description posted to fill his position.
Mayor Ellentuck discussed the need to designate an indoor air quality specialist to implement the newly required Borough Indoor Air Quality Program.
Joe McGrath, Zoning Officer, reported that, although most residents are responsive, there are currently two problem sites where residents are being fined daily for failure to comply. One of the residents was scheduled to appear in court on August 1st and may be penalized for contempt of court, as this is a longstanding issue. Councilmembers Trammell and Malkin expressed their disapproval of “overzealous enforcement” of ordinances and their desire for a “free-spirited” town where neighborhood interventions could work. Joe McGrath responded that he has given the two problem properties many opportunities to comply, but the neighbors are complaining and now it is up to the judge. If zoning issues are not properly addressed, there is a potential for litigation.