by Sharyn Walz
November 11, 2016
Mayor Ellentuck began by reporting the sudden and tragic death of Ron Filepp, husband of Robin Middleman, and longtime Roosevelt resident. Ron was, by all accounts, a good friend and neighbor, a kind and loving man, and a true naturalist. Ron loved the Roosevelt Woodland Trail, and spent many volunteer hours maintaining the trail on his own, without recognition or fanfare. The Borough is currently working on setting up a fund in order to ensure that the Roosevelt Woodland Trail continues to be maintained in Ron’s memory.
Mayor Ellentuck reported that Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health have issued their section of the inspection report from the Department of Health and it states that the firehouse would need a wash station and exhaust systems. The State building inspectors will declare the firehouse an unsafe structure in the very near future.
Local Presidential Election Results:
President
Hillary Clinton
317
President
Donald J. Trump
153
President
Gary Johnson
13
President
Jill Stein
12
President
Roque de La Fuente
1
Local Borough Council Election Results:
Full Term
Peggy Malkin
256
Full Term
Michael Hamilton
288
Full Term
John Impellizzeri
187
Full Term
Write In
107
2 Year Unexpired
Michael Ticktin
298
2 Year Unexpired
Write In
113
1 year Unexpired
Joseph Trammell
216
1 year Unexpired
Alana T. Porter
202
1 year Unexpired
Write In
2
Democrats also won in Roosevelt for Congress and County offices, but, like Clinton, did not win the overall election.
North Jersey Casinos
95
332
Total: 427
Dedication of Gas Tax
226
198
Total: 424
Option 1: 2 bay
Option 2: 4 bay
EMS building
168
270
Total: 338
There were originally two ways in which the Borough could proceed following this vote:
1. The Borough could override the Planning Board, declare the Borough property at 33 North Rochdale a redevelopment zone, and proceed with building a 4 bay EMS building. This path would not be subjected to any challenges by residents.
2. The Borough could authorize building a 4 bay EMS building for a straight bond, which is subject to challenge by petition if residents choose to do so.
Mayor Ellentuck stated that it would be up to the Council to determine the next steps. Councilman Ticktin suggested that the Borough should proceed with Option #2, as it provides an opportunity for residents to express their opposition if they choose to do so. Councilwoman Lipoti clarified the timeline of Option #2: the second reading of the resolution would occur in 2 weeks, and then go to bid, at which point residents would have 20 days to challenge the resolution, which could lead to another referendum. If no challenge occurs, the process of building could begin. If the Council decides on Option #1, the Borough will need to send the resolution to the state, which has up to 30 days to review. A plan would be developed and sent to the Planning Board for approval (45 days) and it would be approximately January by the time the ordinance was drafted. Ultimately, the Council, with the sole exception of Councilwoman Malkin, chose Option #2. Councilwoman Malkin expressed dissatisfaction with the language of the resolution and voted no to Option #2. The Council then approved Bond Ordinance 2016-020, which appropriated the necessary funding for the four bay EMS building. Councilwoman Malkin was the sole dissenter. If the construction of the EMS building runs over budget, the bond would have to be amended for additional funding.
Councilman Impellizzeri, on behalf of Public Works, reported that there have been complaints regarding traffic speeding on School Lane. The portable digital speed sign and some cones have been placed to help remind drivers to slow down. In addition, the school sent letters home to the parents requesting their cooperation with maintaining a safe speed when entering School Lane. The radar-based speed signs placed either end of Rochdale Ave. appear to be working, as traffic has slowed considerably. A permanent sign will be installed near the old gas station. A motion was made by Councilman Impellizzeri and approved by Council for the purchase of an additional portable speed sign ($2,895). Councilman Impellizzeri noted that he had been in touch with Monmouth County regarding the lanes being painted on the newly paved Rochdale Ave. The painted lanes have been narrowed from 12’ to 11’ in an attempt to calm traffic. According to the County Project Manager, 11’ was the narrowest lanes allowable by County regulations. There are currently two trees in town that are presenting a danger, one on the trail behind Farm Lane and one near the water tower. Quotes will be sought for reconciling the situation.
Councilwoman Bonna, on behalf of the Administration and Environmental Committees, reported that she received a letter from Anna Murray, which thanked several residents for another successful Fun Run. Chris Suk of the Roosevelt Volunteer Fire Company was there with John Vo of the First Aid Squad making sure everyone was safe. April Fierro Suk, Lori Ann, Natalie Warner, Diane Hewlett, and Barbara A Rambo were bakers extraordinaire for the concession stand. Kelly Tyers coordinated things for the Borough of Roosevelt. Inez Crismali led the Girls on the Run of New Jersey East Team from Peddie to help with our water stop and cheering. In three years, this little run has raised more than $1,500 for the Breast Cancer Resource Center!
The rabies clinic went well, and approximately 25 animals received their rabies vaccination as required by law. The Environmental Commission has now entered into a contract with Farr Forestry Service in order to create a Community Forest Management Plan for Roosevelt. A small team, made up of a cross-section of residents with a variety of scientific backgrounds and general interests in forestry, will provide input as well. The Invasive Species Committee has been busy removing invasive species from the Roosevelt Woodland Trail, and have planted over 50 redbud trees along the trail. In addition, redbud trees were also planted in the Butterfly Park (Spruce Lane and 571). The Environmental Commission is currently researching options to apply a coating to the new platforms along the trail to make them less slippery.
Councilwoman Malkin, on behalf of the Finance Committee, reported that there is currently a bill for $55,000 that the Borough cannot pay at this time. The bill is part of the $130,000 utility study being done by the engineering firm hired by the Borough, in order to find out where the influx of water is coming from. Currently, the sewer treatment plant receives a lot of rainwater in addition to the town’s sewage, and treating the influx of rainwater is both costly and unnecessary. Councilwoman Malkin stated that the proper procedures for approval of the funding was not followed. Councilwoman Lipoti agreed, but stated that the study is being done at the Council’s request and it was important to begin the study during our recent drought period. In addition, the funding will be submitted to the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust Fund for potential reimbursement.
Councilwoman Lipoti reported that she is meeting with a representative from the USDA to discuss possible grants that may be available to help Roosevelt repair its aging utilities. It was noted that any contractors doing work on behalf of the sewer utility need to notify residents in advance and ensure that they leave the premises in neat condition after their work is done. In addition, the Borough will be looking for a new contractor responsible for maintaining the generator at the sewer treatment plan to help ensure that utilities will be fully operational in the event of an emergency.
Joe McGrath, Zoning Officer, continues to work on encouraging resident compliance with ordinances, as well as working with the Planning Board to adjust language in ordinances as the needs of the town evolve. Several properties previously listed as abandoned have now been processed through Sheriff’s sales and will be available to new residents in the near future.
Public Comment Summary:
*The townspeople have voted and clearly want the 4 bay option for an EMS building.
Councilwoman Malkin’s response: The landslide in votes happened because many people refused to vote since they didn’t have the opportunity to vote for neither the 2 or 4 bay. Other options, such as rehabilitating the present building, may be available. The professionals who advised the town were not impartial. At this time, we do not have viable First Aid and Fire Departments. Within 5-6 years, it is likely that Monmouth County will regionalize services and Roosevelt will have built an EMS building that will not be used.
*What is happening with the gas meter replacements?
Mayor Ellentuck’s response: In some cases, the gas pipes are being relined, and in others, the meters are being replaced altogether. Residents concerned about their gas meter should contact PSE&G.
*Roosevelt has no shortage of volunteers for EMS services. Ten volunteers who left are prepared to return to serve Roosevelt once the working conditions are safe. Roosevelt has been able to increase the number of volunteers even as volunteer numbers have been dropping in surrounding towns. Roosevelt has been “the talk of the County” due to its ability to recruit and retain volunteers.
*Roosevelt experiences ups and downs just like every other town. Our Fire Department has made tremendous strides building up their membership over recent years. Millstone FD has had to resort to a partial-paid department because they lacked the volunteer base to handle calls after 6PM.
*When do the PEOSH fines start? How much will they cost?
Mayor Ellentuck’s response: The Borough has been able to avoid fines by clearing bays and making the immediate changes as required by PEOSH. There will be no fines once the building is officially condemned, and this is imminent
*Several residents offered encouragement to the Council to continue with the plan to build a four bay EMS building, as the residents voted, without any opportunity for residents to further challenge the decision. They expressed wanting to move forward and put this contentious issue behind us.
*Encouragement was offered to the Council to develop a 5-year plan to determine where/what the volunteer system will look like in the future. Many municipalities are following the trend to move toward a paid EMS service base. Volunteerism is dying.
*Personal testimony that Millstone EMS will not always respond, and the wait for an ambulance can be 45 minutes, even with the assistance of a NJ State Trooper.
*Question for Councilwoman Malkin on what she would consider unbiased evidence?
Councilwoman Malkin’s response: The Committee that was formed contained five members who were in favor of building a new EMS building and only one member who was opposed. We would need an unbiased Committee. In addition, the professionals used were handpicked by the Borough and the one Ph.D. –level expert who disagreed with the majority of Committee members was discredited and dismissed. The minority report issued by the Committee was not presented to the Planning Board, and there are available options that have not yet been explored.
*Support for Councilwoman Malkin and agreement that the Committee was biased. Request for information regarding the engineering study of the water and sewer utilities to be posted online.
Councilwoman Lipoti’s response: All available information on the study will be posted.
*Request to invite Monmouth County representatives to a future public meeting to discuss traffic calming measures.
Mayor Ellentuck’s response: Will invite and consider the best format.
*It was noted that the minority report ended with a comment that the members of the Committee dealt with each other openly and respectfully. Also noted that Councilwoman Malkin declined to participate in any of the many meetings held.
*We should remember that we need our Firefighters not just for fighting fires, but also other emergencies, such as when the roads were impassable following Hurricane Sandy. Volunteers should be thanked and cherished.
*Even with engineers and architects, it is difficult to accurately predict costs of building an EMS building until the process is underway.
*Two volunteer fire fighters, one with over 4500 hours of volunteer service, spoke passionately about how much they love helping people, whether it’s saving lives, doing fire prevention activities at the school, or putting on the Fourth of July event. Our volunteers make our town special.
*Regarding First Aid Services, Roosevelt has answered 250 calls so far this year, 70-80% of them have been for Millstone as they have not been answering their calls and Roosevelt responds as part of the Mutual Aid Agreement.
*How much has been spent on this issue since the referendum?
Mayor Ellentuck’s response: Approximately $170,000, and the Council has already been informed that there is a group of residents who are planning to challenge the Bond Ordinance again. If there is a challenge, another special election/referendum will cost approximately $20,000.
*Having our own EMS personnel in Roosevelt provides an additional incentive for people to move to town.
Following the public portion of the meeting, Councilwoman Malkin had the following comments:
The Council has adopted Robert’s Rules of Order, which states that no personal attacks are allowed. Robert’s Rules of Order was not followed tonight. Councilwoman Malkin stated that she chose not to attend the Committee meetings because she felt they were stacked. She reminded attendees that she initially requested to be part of the Mayor’s Committee, but was denied by Mayor Ellentuck. She believes the Borough would be better off contracting EMS services with Millstone, due to our lack of volunteers, and our lack of ability to keep up to date with new mandates and regulations that require expensive upkeep to equipment and gear. Councilwoman Malkin noted that she has always been very clear in her position on the EMS issue, and she is clearly not alone in her line of thinking since over 200 people re-elected her to her Council seat. Councilwoman Malkin has been on the Roosevelt Borough Council longer than any other member.
November 11, 2016
Mayor Ellentuck began by reporting the sudden and tragic death of Ron Filepp, husband of Robin Middleman, and longtime Roosevelt resident. Ron was, by all accounts, a good friend and neighbor, a kind and loving man, and a true naturalist. Ron loved the Roosevelt Woodland Trail, and spent many volunteer hours maintaining the trail on his own, without recognition or fanfare. The Borough is currently working on setting up a fund in order to ensure that the Roosevelt Woodland Trail continues to be maintained in Ron’s memory.
Mayor Ellentuck reported that Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health have issued their section of the inspection report from the Department of Health and it states that the firehouse would need a wash station and exhaust systems. The State building inspectors will declare the firehouse an unsafe structure in the very near future.
Local Presidential Election Results:
President
Hillary Clinton
317
President
Donald J. Trump
153
President
Gary Johnson
13
President
Jill Stein
12
President
Roque de La Fuente
1
Local Borough Council Election Results:
Full Term
Peggy Malkin
256
Full Term
Michael Hamilton
288
Full Term
John Impellizzeri
187
Full Term
Write In
107
2 Year Unexpired
Michael Ticktin
298
2 Year Unexpired
Write In
113
1 year Unexpired
Joseph Trammell
216
1 year Unexpired
Alana T. Porter
202
1 year Unexpired
Write In
2
Democrats also won in Roosevelt for Congress and County offices, but, like Clinton, did not win the overall election.
North Jersey Casinos
95
332
Total: 427
Dedication of Gas Tax
226
198
Total: 424
Option 1: 2 bay
Option 2: 4 bay
EMS building
168
270
Total: 338
There were originally two ways in which the Borough could proceed following this vote:
1. The Borough could override the Planning Board, declare the Borough property at 33 North Rochdale a redevelopment zone, and proceed with building a 4 bay EMS building. This path would not be subjected to any challenges by residents.
2. The Borough could authorize building a 4 bay EMS building for a straight bond, which is subject to challenge by petition if residents choose to do so.
Mayor Ellentuck stated that it would be up to the Council to determine the next steps. Councilman Ticktin suggested that the Borough should proceed with Option #2, as it provides an opportunity for residents to express their opposition if they choose to do so. Councilwoman Lipoti clarified the timeline of Option #2: the second reading of the resolution would occur in 2 weeks, and then go to bid, at which point residents would have 20 days to challenge the resolution, which could lead to another referendum. If no challenge occurs, the process of building could begin. If the Council decides on Option #1, the Borough will need to send the resolution to the state, which has up to 30 days to review. A plan would be developed and sent to the Planning Board for approval (45 days) and it would be approximately January by the time the ordinance was drafted. Ultimately, the Council, with the sole exception of Councilwoman Malkin, chose Option #2. Councilwoman Malkin expressed dissatisfaction with the language of the resolution and voted no to Option #2. The Council then approved Bond Ordinance 2016-020, which appropriated the necessary funding for the four bay EMS building. Councilwoman Malkin was the sole dissenter. If the construction of the EMS building runs over budget, the bond would have to be amended for additional funding.
Councilman Impellizzeri, on behalf of Public Works, reported that there have been complaints regarding traffic speeding on School Lane. The portable digital speed sign and some cones have been placed to help remind drivers to slow down. In addition, the school sent letters home to the parents requesting their cooperation with maintaining a safe speed when entering School Lane. The radar-based speed signs placed either end of Rochdale Ave. appear to be working, as traffic has slowed considerably. A permanent sign will be installed near the old gas station. A motion was made by Councilman Impellizzeri and approved by Council for the purchase of an additional portable speed sign ($2,895). Councilman Impellizzeri noted that he had been in touch with Monmouth County regarding the lanes being painted on the newly paved Rochdale Ave. The painted lanes have been narrowed from 12’ to 11’ in an attempt to calm traffic. According to the County Project Manager, 11’ was the narrowest lanes allowable by County regulations. There are currently two trees in town that are presenting a danger, one on the trail behind Farm Lane and one near the water tower. Quotes will be sought for reconciling the situation.
Councilwoman Bonna, on behalf of the Administration and Environmental Committees, reported that she received a letter from Anna Murray, which thanked several residents for another successful Fun Run. Chris Suk of the Roosevelt Volunteer Fire Company was there with John Vo of the First Aid Squad making sure everyone was safe. April Fierro Suk, Lori Ann, Natalie Warner, Diane Hewlett, and Barbara A Rambo were bakers extraordinaire for the concession stand. Kelly Tyers coordinated things for the Borough of Roosevelt. Inez Crismali led the Girls on the Run of New Jersey East Team from Peddie to help with our water stop and cheering. In three years, this little run has raised more than $1,500 for the Breast Cancer Resource Center!
The rabies clinic went well, and approximately 25 animals received their rabies vaccination as required by law. The Environmental Commission has now entered into a contract with Farr Forestry Service in order to create a Community Forest Management Plan for Roosevelt. A small team, made up of a cross-section of residents with a variety of scientific backgrounds and general interests in forestry, will provide input as well. The Invasive Species Committee has been busy removing invasive species from the Roosevelt Woodland Trail, and have planted over 50 redbud trees along the trail. In addition, redbud trees were also planted in the Butterfly Park (Spruce Lane and 571). The Environmental Commission is currently researching options to apply a coating to the new platforms along the trail to make them less slippery.
Councilwoman Malkin, on behalf of the Finance Committee, reported that there is currently a bill for $55,000 that the Borough cannot pay at this time. The bill is part of the $130,000 utility study being done by the engineering firm hired by the Borough, in order to find out where the influx of water is coming from. Currently, the sewer treatment plant receives a lot of rainwater in addition to the town’s sewage, and treating the influx of rainwater is both costly and unnecessary. Councilwoman Malkin stated that the proper procedures for approval of the funding was not followed. Councilwoman Lipoti agreed, but stated that the study is being done at the Council’s request and it was important to begin the study during our recent drought period. In addition, the funding will be submitted to the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust Fund for potential reimbursement.
Councilwoman Lipoti reported that she is meeting with a representative from the USDA to discuss possible grants that may be available to help Roosevelt repair its aging utilities. It was noted that any contractors doing work on behalf of the sewer utility need to notify residents in advance and ensure that they leave the premises in neat condition after their work is done. In addition, the Borough will be looking for a new contractor responsible for maintaining the generator at the sewer treatment plan to help ensure that utilities will be fully operational in the event of an emergency.
Joe McGrath, Zoning Officer, continues to work on encouraging resident compliance with ordinances, as well as working with the Planning Board to adjust language in ordinances as the needs of the town evolve. Several properties previously listed as abandoned have now been processed through Sheriff’s sales and will be available to new residents in the near future.
Public Comment Summary:
*The townspeople have voted and clearly want the 4 bay option for an EMS building.
Councilwoman Malkin’s response: The landslide in votes happened because many people refused to vote since they didn’t have the opportunity to vote for neither the 2 or 4 bay. Other options, such as rehabilitating the present building, may be available. The professionals who advised the town were not impartial. At this time, we do not have viable First Aid and Fire Departments. Within 5-6 years, it is likely that Monmouth County will regionalize services and Roosevelt will have built an EMS building that will not be used.
*What is happening with the gas meter replacements?
Mayor Ellentuck’s response: In some cases, the gas pipes are being relined, and in others, the meters are being replaced altogether. Residents concerned about their gas meter should contact PSE&G.
*Roosevelt has no shortage of volunteers for EMS services. Ten volunteers who left are prepared to return to serve Roosevelt once the working conditions are safe. Roosevelt has been able to increase the number of volunteers even as volunteer numbers have been dropping in surrounding towns. Roosevelt has been “the talk of the County” due to its ability to recruit and retain volunteers.
*Roosevelt experiences ups and downs just like every other town. Our Fire Department has made tremendous strides building up their membership over recent years. Millstone FD has had to resort to a partial-paid department because they lacked the volunteer base to handle calls after 6PM.
*When do the PEOSH fines start? How much will they cost?
Mayor Ellentuck’s response: The Borough has been able to avoid fines by clearing bays and making the immediate changes as required by PEOSH. There will be no fines once the building is officially condemned, and this is imminent
*Several residents offered encouragement to the Council to continue with the plan to build a four bay EMS building, as the residents voted, without any opportunity for residents to further challenge the decision. They expressed wanting to move forward and put this contentious issue behind us.
*Encouragement was offered to the Council to develop a 5-year plan to determine where/what the volunteer system will look like in the future. Many municipalities are following the trend to move toward a paid EMS service base. Volunteerism is dying.
*Personal testimony that Millstone EMS will not always respond, and the wait for an ambulance can be 45 minutes, even with the assistance of a NJ State Trooper.
*Question for Councilwoman Malkin on what she would consider unbiased evidence?
Councilwoman Malkin’s response: The Committee that was formed contained five members who were in favor of building a new EMS building and only one member who was opposed. We would need an unbiased Committee. In addition, the professionals used were handpicked by the Borough and the one Ph.D. –level expert who disagreed with the majority of Committee members was discredited and dismissed. The minority report issued by the Committee was not presented to the Planning Board, and there are available options that have not yet been explored.
*Support for Councilwoman Malkin and agreement that the Committee was biased. Request for information regarding the engineering study of the water and sewer utilities to be posted online.
Councilwoman Lipoti’s response: All available information on the study will be posted.
*Request to invite Monmouth County representatives to a future public meeting to discuss traffic calming measures.
Mayor Ellentuck’s response: Will invite and consider the best format.
*It was noted that the minority report ended with a comment that the members of the Committee dealt with each other openly and respectfully. Also noted that Councilwoman Malkin declined to participate in any of the many meetings held.
*We should remember that we need our Firefighters not just for fighting fires, but also other emergencies, such as when the roads were impassable following Hurricane Sandy. Volunteers should be thanked and cherished.
*Even with engineers and architects, it is difficult to accurately predict costs of building an EMS building until the process is underway.
*Two volunteer fire fighters, one with over 4500 hours of volunteer service, spoke passionately about how much they love helping people, whether it’s saving lives, doing fire prevention activities at the school, or putting on the Fourth of July event. Our volunteers make our town special.
*Regarding First Aid Services, Roosevelt has answered 250 calls so far this year, 70-80% of them have been for Millstone as they have not been answering their calls and Roosevelt responds as part of the Mutual Aid Agreement.
*How much has been spent on this issue since the referendum?
Mayor Ellentuck’s response: Approximately $170,000, and the Council has already been informed that there is a group of residents who are planning to challenge the Bond Ordinance again. If there is a challenge, another special election/referendum will cost approximately $20,000.
*Having our own EMS personnel in Roosevelt provides an additional incentive for people to move to town.
Following the public portion of the meeting, Councilwoman Malkin had the following comments:
The Council has adopted Robert’s Rules of Order, which states that no personal attacks are allowed. Robert’s Rules of Order was not followed tonight. Councilwoman Malkin stated that she chose not to attend the Committee meetings because she felt they were stacked. She reminded attendees that she initially requested to be part of the Mayor’s Committee, but was denied by Mayor Ellentuck. She believes the Borough would be better off contracting EMS services with Millstone, due to our lack of volunteers, and our lack of ability to keep up to date with new mandates and regulations that require expensive upkeep to equipment and gear. Councilwoman Malkin noted that she has always been very clear in her position on the EMS issue, and she is clearly not alone in her line of thinking since over 200 people re-elected her to her Council seat. Councilwoman Malkin has been on the Roosevelt Borough Council longer than any other member.