[Board of County Commissioners Agenda/Work Meeting on August 26, 2025.]
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>> IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY, ON JANUARY 12, 2025, ADEQUATE NOTICE OF THIS MEETING WAS PROVIDED AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
ADDITIONALLY, IN THIS MEETING IS BEING DIGITALLY RECORDED AND LIVE-STREAMED ON THE SOMERSET COUNTY WEBSITE.
FOR PUBLIC ACCESS, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR QUESTIONS TO COUNTY BOARD MEETING AT CO.SOMERSET.NJ.US.
THE PUBLIC MAY PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING BY CALLING 908-231-7075. DIRECTOR ROBINSON?
>> PLEASE RISE, EVERYONE AS WE RECITE THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TOGETHER AND REMAIN STANDING FOR REFLECTION.
>> MAY WE CONTINUE TO BE THE LEADERS FOR ALL PEOPLE AT ALL TIMES.
MAY WE CONTINUE TO STRIVE TO HAVE GREAT GOVERNANCE HERE IN SOMERSET COUNTY.
WE LIFT UP ALL OUR STAFF AND EMPLOYEES AS THEY CONTINUE TO DO THE GREAT WORK ON BEHALF OF SOMERSET COUNTY RESIDENTS.
>> WELCOME EVERYONE TO THE AUGUST 26, 2025TH MEETING, WORK SESSION OF THE SOMERSET COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS.
THIS AGENDA AND THE ITEMS ON IT ARE FOR DISCUSSION, AND WILL BE CONSIDERED AT THE NEXT MEETING, WHICH IS SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 9.
NO ACTION WILL BE TAKEN AT THIS MEETING UNLESS THE MEASURE AND ITS ADOPTIONS ARE NEEDED IN A MANNER NECESSARY TO CONTINUE COUNTY BUSINESS. ROLL CALL, PLEASE?
>> COMMISSIONER SOOY, DEPUTY DIRECTOR MARANO.
>> HERE. WE WILL GO INTO OUR COMMISSIONER REPORTS TO SEE, WE HAVE A LOT OF GUESTS HERE, SO WE WILL TRY AND MOVE THIS ALONG.
BUT A LOT OF RECOGNITIONS, SO WE WILL DEFINITELY TAKE THE TIME TO RECOGNIZE OUR STAFF AND EMPLOYEES WHO ARE SO DESERVING.
I THINK I'M GOING TO GO BACK TO PAPERLESS.
I HAVE A COUPLE OF PLANNING UPDATES TO PROVIDE.
ON TONIGHT WITH RESOLUTION 251708.
THERE WILL BE A PRESENTATION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING OUR LOCAL SAFETY ACTION PLAN AND VISION ZERO GOAL.
THANK YOU TO THE STAFF FOR PUTTING THIS TOGETHER.
THE ADOPTING OF THIS ACTION PLAN IS ESTABLISHING A FRAMEWORK TO ELIMINATE TRAFFIC DEATHS AND SERIOUS INJURIES BY 2015.
IT IS BUILT ON INPUT FROM THE COUNTY OFFICIALS AND RESIDENTS AND IDENTIFIES KEY LOCATIONS AND STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE SAFETY FOR ALL ROADWAY USERS.
THE PLAN ALSO FOLLOWS THE SAFETY ACTION APPROACH SYSTEM APPROACH ENDORSED BY THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND WAS FUNDED BY THE NORTH JERSEY TRANSPORTATION PLANNING AUTHORITY.
ALSO, WE WERE AT A TOUR OF A PAVILION AT THE HILLSBORO SENIOR WELLNESS CENTER.
WE HAVE CONSTRUCTED AN OPEN-ENDED GABLE PAVILION IN HILLSBORO, AND THIS WILL ALSO HELP TO ENHANCE THE ACCESSIBILITY.
THE COUNTY WILL CONSTRUCT THE 88-COMPLIANT SIDEWALK FROM THE EXISTING SENDER BUILDINGS SIDE DOOR TO THE PAVILION AND PROVIDE ACCESSIBLE ACCESS FROM THE REAR PARKING AREA.
THIS PAVILION WILL ALSO INCLUDE LIGHTING, CEILING FANS, HEATERS, AND A RETRACTABLE OUTDOOR CURTAIN TO EXTEND ITS USABILITY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.
CONSTRUCTION IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN FALL OF THIS YEAR.
THANK YOU TO THE TEAM. EVERYTHING WAS DONE IN-HOUSE.
THIS PROVIDES ADDITIONAL RECREATION AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR SENIORS AT THE HILLSBORO SENIOR WELLNESS CENTER. THANK YOU FOR THAT.
I'M GOING TO YIELD MY TIME TO THE REST OF MY COLLEAGUES.
THERE'S BEEN SO MUCH THAT WE'VE BEEN DOING IN THE PAST 30 DAYS SINCE THE LAST TIME WE MET.
NOT TO BE LABOR THE POINT OR TIME, I HAND THE MIC OVER TO DEPUTY DIRECTOR.
I'LL FIRST SAY PROACTIVELY, THIS WEEKEND IS LABOR DAY WEEKEND.
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR LABORERS HERE, ESPECIALLY OUR SOMERSET COUNTY LABORERS, BUT ALL OF THOSE THAT GO OUT AND LABOR EVERY DAY TO MAKE AMERICA A WONDERFUL, PRODUCTIVE COUNTRY THAT IT IS AND OUR COUNTY, A VERY PRODUCTIVE COUNTY.
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR LABORERS, ESPECIALLY THOSE WHO ARE ORGANISED LABOR.
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IF IT WASN'T FOR ORGANISED LABOR, WE WOULDN'T HAVE A LABOR DAY, AND WE WOULDN'T HAVE THE SAME KIND OF RIGHTS FOR LABOR THAT WE DO RIGHT NOW.I'M GOING TO GIVE YOU THE WHIRLWIND THING AND KEEP THIS AS BRIEF AS POSSIBLE.
FOUR H FAIR WAS THIS PAST CYCLE.
THANK YOU TO ALL THE FOUR H PEOPLE.
IT'S MY FAVORITE WEEK OF THE YEAR IN SOMERSET COUNTY.
WE HAD THE CONCERT SERIES IN THE PARK.
COMMISSIONER GREENER AND I GOT A SNEAK PEEK AT THE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT EXPANSION OVER AT RARITON VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE.
MORE TO COME ON THAT OF ALL THE HIGH-TECH THINGS THAT ARE HAPPENING AT RVCC.
COMMISSIONER DRAKE AND I HAD A BREAKFAST CONVERSATION OVER AT THE NORRIS HILL FARM TO HEAR FROM FARMERS, THEIR CONCERNS OF WHAT'S GOING ON IN THE WORLD OF AGRICULTURE.
COMMISSIONER DIRECTOR, CHANEL ROBINSON, AND I ATTENDED THE SIERRA LEONE COMMUNITY GRADUATION CELEBRATION THIS WEEKEND IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP.
I GOT TO GO TO THE PLAN NJ RIBBON CUTTING.
THEY'RE KEEPING THEIR HEADQUARTERS HERE IN SOMERSET COUNTY, MY HOMETOWN, GREENBOK TOWNSHIP.
IT'S A NICE LITTLE COMMUTE TO GO AROUND THE CORNER FOR THAT ONE.
WE ALSO HAD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TRANSPORTATION WITH JOHN ADAIR FROM OUR TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT WENT VERY WELL REGARDING OUR CASINO FUNDING, AND HOW MUCH PEOPLE REALLY LOVE OUR SERVICES, ESPECIALLY OUR SENIORS AND THOSE USING FOR DISABLED PERSONS.
IT WAS GREAT TO HEAR THAT POSITIVE FEEDBACK AND COMMENTS FROM FOLKS AS TO WHAT THEY'D LIKE TO SEE IN THE FUTURE.
MOSTLY, IT WAS MORE TRIPS TO THE SENIOR CENTER BECAUSE THEY LOVE GOING TO THE SENIOR CENTER.
I DON'T THINK PEOPLE REALIZE HOW MUCH OF A LINK THAT IS FOR FOLKS, LINKING THEM TO ACTIVITY AND COMMUNICATION AND CAMARADERIE.
WHAT WE DO AT OUR SENIOR CENTERS IS SO VALUABLE TO PEOPLE'S LIVES.
IT REALLY IS GREAT TO REINFORCE THAT AND HEAR THAT.
I ALSO WENT TO THE RETIREMENT PARTY FOR OUR FORMER LIBRARY ADMINISTRATOR, BRIAN ALGER.
I WELCOME PETER BROMBERG, OUR NEW ADMINISTRATOR.
HE'S COME BACK TO JERSEY FROM A LOT OF DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE AROUND THE COUNTRY, MOST RECENTLY, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, I BELIEVE.
HE'S BRINGING A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE TO SOMERSET COUNTY, AND WE'RE SO GLAD TO HAVE YOU WITH US.
>> THANK YOU. THE LAST BUT NOT LEAST OUR CULTURAL AND HERITAGE TEAM ORGANIZED A MEETING FOR ALL THE 21 MUNICIPALITIES TO TALK ABOUT COLLABORATION FOR OUR PLANS FOR THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE COUNTRY.
I AM EXTREMELY HAPPY TO REPORT THAT SOMERSET IS THE FIRST COUNTY IN THE STATE TO HAVE EVERY ONE OF OUR 21 MUNICIPALITIES AS PART OF REV NJ.
IT WAS A LITTLE PRODDING ON MY PART, BUT THAT'S OKAY.
WE GOT THE JOB DONE, AND WE ARE THE FIRST COUNTY THERE TO DO THAT.
WE'VE GOT A PLAN. WE ARE IN MOTION.
I'M GOING TO BRAG. I THINK WE'RE DOING A LITTLE BIT BETTER THAN THE OTHER COUNTIES.
BUT I'M USED TO DOING THAT BRAGGING.
GAVE ME THE EXPRESS VERSION, AND I PASS IT OVER TO COMMISSIONER SOOY.
>> I HAD THE PLEASURE OF PASSING OUT THE FIRST DECAL FOR OUR SET IN SOMERSET CAMPAIGN, WHERE WE ARE ABLE, AND THE PURPOSE OF THAT IS TO DISCOVER THE FLAVORS AND TRADITIONS OF SOMERSET COUNTY WITH SEATED IN SOMERSET, WHETHER IT'S VISITING ONE OF OUR FARMS, ENJOYING SEASONAL EVENTS, JOINING A CSA, OR DINING AT A RESTAURANT THAT SOURCES INGREDIENTS IN ONE OF OUR DOWNTOWNS.
THIS INITIATIVE IS AIMED NOT ONLY TO HIGHLIGHT THE AMENITIES THAT SOMERSET COUNTY HAS TO OFFER, BUT ALSO TO HIGHLIGHT THE PEOPLE AND PLACES THAT BRING FRESH LOCAL FOOD TO OUR TABLES.
SEATED IN SOMERSET IS AN INITIATIVE CREATED TO SUPPORT AND STRENGTHEN THE FARMS AND AGRICULTURE HERITAGE OF SOMERSET COUNTY.
IT DOES THIS THROUGH CONNECTING FARMS AND PRODUCERS WITH RESIDENTS AND VISITORS ALIKE, FOSTERING LOCAL PRIDE AND ALL THINGS GROWN AND CEDED IN SOMERSET.
OFFERING MARKETING AND SUPPORT FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES INTERESTED IN WORKING WITH AGRICULTURE AMENITIES.
THIS IS ACTUALLY ONE OF OUR LARGEST KEY INDUSTRY CLUSTERS RIGHT HERE, AND WE ARE CALLED THE GARDEN STATE FOR A REASON, SO WE WANT TO MAKE SURE TO HIGHLIGHT THAT AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.
IF YOU HAVEN'T CHECKED IT OUT, PLEASE GO TO THE GRAIN HOUSE TO SUPPORT THESE BUSINESSES BECAUSE YOU CAN REALLY TASTE THE DIFFERENCE WHEN IT'S HOMEGROWN.
ANYONE WHO LIKE SOME FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, IT'S DIFFERENT IF YOU GO TO A GROCERY STORE FOR SOMETHING THAT'S MASS PRODUCED AND HAVING IT FROM YOUR OWN BACKYARD.
LESS EXCITING, BUT VERY IMPORTANT ON THE NJTPA FRONT OR THE NORTH JERSEY TRANSPORTATION PLANNING AUTHORITY,
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WE HAD OUR FREIGHT INITIATIVES COMMITTEE UPDATE, AND WE HAD ONE OF OUR REPORTS THAT'S UPDATED EVERY FOUR YEARS, AND WE'RE SEEING AN EVEN MORE PRESSING DEMAND FOR FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION WITH GOODS.I KNOW ALL OF US DRIVE ON OUR ROADS OR TRAVEL ON THEM.
THE 18 WHALERS ARE BECOMING MORE AND MORE PREVALENT.
WITH HAVING FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION, IT TAKES AWAY A LOT OF THE 18 WHEELERS AND YOU'RE ABLE TO TRANSPORT MORE GOODS THROUGH THOSE OTHER CORRIDORS.
WE ARE LOOKING TO JUST REINVEST AND TO MAKING SURE THAT THE NORTHERN PARTY EVENTHOUGH WE ARE CENTRAL NEW JERSEY, WE ARE CONNECTED WITH THE THREE BILLION DOLLARS OF FEDERAL FUNDING THAT ARE APPROPRIATED THERE.
WE CONTINUE TO ADVOCATE FOR MORE OF THAT.
OVER AT THE PATRIOT STADIUM, THEY ARE FANTASTIC COMMUNITY PARTNERS BECAUSE WE'RE ABLE TO USE THAT AS A SITE FOR OUR COMMUNITY OUTREACH CANVASSING PROGRAM.
WE HAVE DONE THIS WHETHER IT'S IN SOMERVILLE, BOUND BROOK, AND WE'VE HAD SOME GREAT RESPONSES.
INSTEAD OF HAVING PEOPLE COME TO US, WE'RE GOING TO THEM TO MAKE SURE TO PROVIDE SERVICES AND THE EDUCATION TO HELP AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE WITH COUNTY GOVERNMENT.
OVER AT THE SOMERSET COUNTY BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP, WE HAVE OUR 900 MEMBERS CELEBRATION IN HILLSBORO TOMORROW EVENING AT 5:00 P.M.
IF YOU ARE PART OF THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY AND YOU CAN MAKE IT, PLEASE CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.
>> THANK YOU, COMMISSIONER. I ALSO WANT TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE HARD WORK AND DEDICATION OF THE EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS AT THE SIX WELLNESS CENTER, SENIOR WELLNESS CENTERS ACROSS THE COUNTY.
CERTAINLY, THEIR SUPPORT PROVIDES GATHERING PLACES FOR SENIORS, NUTRITIOUS MEALS, AND RECREATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS, INCLUDING BALANCE STRENGTH AND FLEXIBILITY PROGRAMS LIKE CHAIR YOGA, JERSEY FIT, AND PROJECT HEALTHY BONES.
CAN ALSO PARTICIPATE IN THE DIGNITY DASH, SPONSORED BY ALTERNATIVES INC, WHICH IS PLANNED FOR SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 AT DUKE ISLAND PARK AT 9:00 A.M. A OLD YORK ROAD.
IT'S A 10K OR 5K OR A FUN WALK IN KIDS DASH.
IT'S REALLY INTENDED TO BRING YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND JOIN US FOR A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE PARK AS YOU SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.
DUKE ISLAND HAS FLAT AND A FLAT AND FAST COURSE IS TRAFFIC FREE AND PROVIDES AMPLE AMOUNTS OF SHADE TO CHALLENGE YOURSELF FOR A GREAT CAUSE.
COME ON WE'VE HEARD A LOT ABOUT THE AGRICULTURE, ALONG THE AGRICULTURAL LINES CERTAINLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CSA, PATRONIZE OUR FARM STANDS, AND WATCH OUT FOR FARM EQUIPMENT ON OUR ROADS.
FALL IS ALMOST HERE, AND AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES, CERTAINLY, I LOOK FORWARD TO THE PUMPKIN PICKING, HAY RIDES, AND, OF COURSE, PETTING FARM ANIMALS.
ANYWAY, SO ON SEPTEMBER 6, ABNE FARMS ON EMO ROAD IN HILLSBORO, IS CELEBRATING AGRICULTURE IN ACTION. STARTING AT 10:00 A.M.
IT'S AN ANNUAL GATHERING AND FUN FILLED DAY, ALL ABOUT THE DAILY ACTIVITIES ON WORKING FARMS. COME ON OUT TO AGRICULTURE AND ACTION.
THEN ON SEPTEMBER 12 AND D FARMS IN HILLSBORO, THE COUNTY AG BOARD IS HOSTING A CONFERENCE CALLED AFTER THE HARVEST, AND IT'LL BRING FARMERS, POLICYMAKERS AND THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER TO DISCUSS THE BUSINESS OF AGRICULTURE IN THE COUNTY AND THROUGHOUT THE STATE.
FARM MARKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR THE 2025 FARM MARKET VOUCHERS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR THE 2025 SEASON.
SOMERSET COUNTY SENIORS OVER 60 AND ABOVE, WHO MEET INCOME ELIGIBLE REQUIREMENTS, CAN RECEIVE UP TO $40 VOUCHER TO USE AT LOCAL FARM STANDS TO PURCHASE FRESH FRUITS, VEGETABLES, AND HERBS, AND ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES, INDIVIDUALS WHO RECEIVE THIS BENEFIT ONE TIME THROUGH THE 2025 SEASON.
THE VOUCHERS ARE DISTRIBUTED ON THE FIRST COMFORT SERVE BASIS.
I JUST WANT TO QUICKLY TALK ABOUT A WEBINAR I ATTENDED LAST WEEK HOSTED BY RUTGERS AND THE NEW JERSEY CLIMATE CHANGE RESOURCE CENTER.
REALLY, THE RESEARCHERS AT RUTGERS UNIVERSITY AND THE CLIMATE CHANGE CENTER PUT TOGETHER A REPORT EVERY YEAR.
THIS WEBINAR DISCUSSED THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE STATE OF THE CLIMATE FOR NEW JERSEY FOR 2024.
ALL THIS INFORMATION IS REALLY ABOUT 2024, NOT OUR CURRENT YEAR, BUT THEY PRESENTED DATA THAT SUPPORTED THEIR CURRENT ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE PROJECTIONS.
IT CERTAINLY WAS CONCERNING WHEN YOU HEAR SOME OF THE REPORTS THAT 2024 WAS THE SECOND WARMEST YEAR ON RECORDED HISTORY IN NEW JERSEY AND THE THIRD WARMEST SUMMER ON RECORD IN NEW JERSEY.
THE AVERAGE ANNUAL TEMPERATURE IN NEW JERSEY INCREASED FOUR DEGREES FAHRENHEIT..
TEMPERATURES ARE PROJECTED TO INCREASE BY 3.7-6.2 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT BY 2,100 WITH MODERATE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS,
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AND BY 5.8-8.6 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT BY 2,100 WITH HIGH GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS.JUST AS CONCERNING AS THE SEA LEVEL RISE AS MEASURED AT ATLANTIC CITY ROSE BY 19 INCHES SINCE 1911, MORE THAN DOUBLE THE GLOBAL AVERAGE, AND HAS BEEN RISING ABOUT 2.2 INCHES PER DECADE SINCE 1980.
>> PRECIPITATION, AS WE ALL KNOW, IS ALSO MORE VARIABLE.
THE NORTH-NORTHEAST HAS SEEN A 49% INCREASE IN DAYS WITH MORE THAN TWO INCHES OF RAINFALL.
THERE WAS AN 84% INCREASE IN DAYS WITH MORE THAN FOUR INCHES OF RAIN.
SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER OF 2024 WAS ALSO THE DRIEST TWO MONTH PERIOD ON RECORD.
IT WAS DURING THIS TIME, YOU MAY RECALL THAT 798 WILDFIRES BURNED IN NEW JERSEY AND OVER 4,900 ACRES OF LAND WAS BURNED.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR NEW JERSEY? CERTAINLY THE FORECASTS PREDICT WARMER TEMPERATURES PRODUCING MORE HEAT WAVES, SEA LEVEL RISE, AND HEAVY RAINS CAUSING MORE INTENSE FLOODING.
FOR PUBLIC HEALTH, WE CAN ANTICIPATE INCREASED HEAT RELATED ILLNESS, DEGRADED AIR QUALITY, SPREAD OF VECTOR BOARD DISEASES, AND STORM RELATED INJURIES AND DEATH.
FOR THE ECONOMY, WE CAN ANTICIPATE MORE DAMAGE TO INFRASTRUCTURE AND ASSOCIATED REPAIR COSTS, MORE DAMAGE TO HOMES AND BUSINESSES AND ITS PERSONAL AND ECONOMIC DISRUPTION, AS WELL AS INCREASED DROUGHT AND WILDFIRES AND ALSO POTENTIAL AGRICULTURAL FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN IMPACTS.
I KNOW THESE FORECASTS ARE STAGGERING, BUT IT'S IMPORTANT TO RECOGNIZE THAT AS WE LOOK AT CLIMATE CHANGE AS REALITY TODAY, THIS REPORT WAS FROM 2024.
CERTAINLY IN 2025, WE'RE EXPERIENCING SIMILAR AS WE'VE ALL THE LAST TWO MONTHS OF VERY HOT DAYS IN AUGUST AND JULY.
OBVIOUSLY, THEY'LL BE PUTTING OUT ANOTHER REPORT NEXT YEAR, BUT JUST ENCOURAGE EVERYBODY TO DO WHAT THEY CAN TO CONTROL CLIMATE. THANK YOU.
>> THANK YOU. DURING THIS PAST MONTH, I'VE CONTINUED TO LEARN ABOUT THE GREAT THINGS THAT SOMERSET COUNTY EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS DO TO MAKE OUR COUNTY THE WONDERFUL PLACE THAT IT IS.
AS PART OF THE COUNTY'S EFFORTS TO ADDRESS FOOD AND SECURITY, I MET WITH THE SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE AND HUMAN SERVICES OFFICIALS KATE RUSSO AND MOLLY GREEN TO DISCUSS FOOD SECURITY AS IT PERTAINS TO COUNTY WIDE PARTICIPATION IN FREE AND REDUCED SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAMS. AS SOMERSET COUNTY HAS THE LOWEST LEVELS OF ENROLLMENT IN SCHOOL LUNCH AND OTHER FOOD PROGRAMS, WE WANT TO EXPLORE HOW TO BETTER ENGAGE DISTRICTS AND SCHOOLS.
FOR EXAMPLE, PINE GROVE ELEMENTARY IN FRANKLIN AND SOMERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL, BOTH HAVE PANTRY ITEMS AVAILABLE FOR STUDENTS AT THE SCHOOLS.
SPEAKING OF VALIANT EFFORTS TO COMBAT FOOD AND SECURITY, I TOWARD THE FOOD BANK NETWORK OF SOMERSET COUNTY LOCATION IN BRIDGEWATER AND SAW THE GREAT THINGS HAPPENING UNDER STEVE KATZ'S LEADERSHIP THERE.
THEN LATER JOINED COMMISSIONER DIRECTOR ROBINSON AND COMMISSIONER DRAKE TO SEE THE GREAT THINGS HAPPENING UNDER DERECK SMITH'S LEADERSHIP AT THE FRANKLIN FOOD BANK.
COMMISSIONER DIRECTOR ROBINSON AND I ATTENDED THE FAREWELL CEREMONY HONORING THE 42ND REGIONAL SUPPORT GROUP WHO DEPLOYED TO THE CENTCOM AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY IN THE MIDDLE EAST EARLIER THIS MONTH, OUR PRAYERS AND WELL WISHES ARE WITH THESE BRAVE SOLDIERS AND THEIR FAMILIES.
I WENT TO THE GREEN BROOK FLOOD CONTROL COMMISSION MEMORIAL SERVICE, WHERE WE REMEMBERED TWO NEW LIVES LOST TO FLOODING WITHIN THE BASIN.
I JOINED COMMISSIONER DIRECTOR ROBINSON AT THE NATIONAL HEALTH CENTER WEEK KICKOFF EVENT AT FRANKLIN MIDDLE SCHOOL EARLIER THIS MONTH.
LAST WEEK, I JOINED THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE IN WELCOMING A MULTI AGENCY LAW ENFORCEMENT DELEGATION FROM TAIWAN.
I WAS VERY HAPPY TO TAKE PART IN A FEW NEW BEGINNINGS THIS MONTH.
I CUT MY FIRST RIBBON EVER AT THE 4-H FAIR, OPENING IT.
I ATTENDED TWO GRAND OPENINGS OF LOCAL BUSINESSES, THE LLB LOCATION AT CHIMNEY ROCK AND BRIDGEWATER AND THE CELEBREE SCHOOL OF BRANCHBURG, SOMERVILLE.
I GOT TO LITERALLY BREAK GROUND AT THE BEDMINSTER COMMUNITY GARDEN GROUNDBREAKING ON JULY 30TH.
THIS IS A PROJECT THAT WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY A $300,000 GRANT FROM THE SOMERSET COUNTY OPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
THIS MONTH IS EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AWARENESS MONTH, AND OUR PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY EMPLOYEES HAVE BEEN PREPARING FOR NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH.
COMMISSIONER DIRECTOR ROBINSON AND I ATTENDED THE SOMERSET COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY OPERATION CENTER TRAINING COURSE, EARLIER TODAY, WHERE WE LEARNED ABOUT POLICY, PLANNING, AND PROTOCOL THAT I'LL GO INTO OUR EMERGENCY RESPONSE.
ONE INTERESTING TAKEAWAY IS THAT THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PREDICTION MAPS FOR THE STORM EVENTS IN JULY WERE IDENTICAL ON JULY 14TH AND THE 30TH.
ALTHOUGH THE JULY 30TH STORMS WERE FORTUNATELY NOTHING LIKE WHAT WE SAW EARLIER IN THE MONTH, IT'S BETTER TO HAVE A WELL PLANNED RESPONSE READY AS EVERY INCIDENT IS DIFFERENT.
PAUL GOSAR REPORTS THAT THE GREATER RARITAN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD HAS AN OPPORTUNITY PARTNERSHIP GRANT,
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MANUFACTURING TRAINING PROGRAM FOR PEOPLE INTERESTED IN ENTRY LEVEL MANUFACTURING WORK, AND ARE AIMING TO START THE SECOND COHORT OF AT LEAST 10 PEOPLE ON SEPTEMBER 8TH, THEY HAVE ROOM FOR 30.THEY'RE GOING TO HAVE INFORMATION SESSIONS WITH VIRTUAL AND IN PERSON OPTIONS AT 11:00 AM ON WEDNESDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 2ND.
THEY WILL ALSO HOLD A MULTI EMPLOYER HEALTHCARE RECRUITMENT EVENT ON SEPTEMBER 25TH, AT THE HUNDRED AND COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, AND WILL INCLUDE ONSITE INTERVIEWS FOR ANYONE WHO REGISTERS AND COMES PREPARED WITH A RESUME AS PART OF THE PROCESS.
THE SOMERSET COUNTY VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL SCHOOL IS EXCITED FOR THE GRAND OPENING OF ITS CTE BUILDING AND GYM.
THE DATE IS STILL TBD, SOMETIMES WITH CONSTRUCTION THIS EVENS.
SUPERINTENDENT PRESUTO AND HIS STAFF HAVE HIRED EIGHT NEW STAFF MEMBERS, MOSTLY CTE TEACHERS, AND THE NEW PRINCIPAL, MR. MICHAEL MEYER, WHO COMES WITH OVER 15 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND WAS CHOSEN FROM A FIELD OF OVER 40 APPLICANTS.
HE WAS APPOINTED LAST NIGHT AT THE MEETING.
AT RVCC, FALL CLASSES BEGIN NEXT WEDNESDAY WITH ITS LARGEST COHORT IN AT LEAST FIVE YEARS.
ENROLLMENT IS UP OVER 10% OVER LAST YEAR.
THEY'RE PUTTING THE FINAL TOUCHES ON THE NEW STATE OF THE ART WORKFORCE ADDITION, A FACILITY THAT WILL HOUSE THE ONLY CLEAN ROOM ON A COMMUNITY COLLEGE CAMPUS IN NEW JERSEY.
THEY'RE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION TO THE STATE FOR HEFT FUNDS TO ADDRESS DEFERRED MAINTENANCE AND NEW FACILITY NEEDS.
THE COLLEGE IS ABOUT TO BEGIN CONSTRUCTION ON ITS NEW CENTER FOR COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT, A FACILITY THAT WILL HOST OVER 150 STUDENTS WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES WHO MAKE RVCC THEIR HOME.
RVCC CONTINUES TO OFFER DYNAMIC WORKFORCE TRAINING COURSES IN ASEPTIC AND BIOMANUFACTURING PROCESSES, THE ONLY SUCH COURSES OFFERED ANYWHERE IN NEW JERSEY AND IS CONTINUING TO ENGAGE IN NEW PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE DIVERSE RANGES OF BUSINESSES AND INDUSTRIES, AND THEY'VE ENJOYED THE BEST YEAR EVER FOR THE RVCC FOUNDATION.
THEY'VE RAISED OVER $2 MILLION IN A YEAR FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER.
KUDOS TO DR. MCDONOUGH AND THE BOARD FOR THAT.
AS I SAID, WE ARE GOING TO RECOGNIZE SOME EMPLOYEES AT THIS TIME.
WE WILL START WITH EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH, HUMANITARIAN AWARD, SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS, ERC TEAM RECOGNITION FOR JUNETEENTH FOLLOWED BY ERC TEAM BEING RECOGNIZED AGAIN FOR LED LIGHTING.
I ASK RENA JOHNSON TO STEP FORWARD.
CONGRATULATIONS, YOU ARE EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH.
[APPLAUSE] THIS EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH CERTIFICATE AND RECOGNITION FOR RENA JOHNSON, COORDINATOR OF YOUTH COUNCIL ADVISOR HUMAN SERVICES IN RECOGNITION AND SINCERE APPRECIATION OF YOUR OUTSTANDING EFFORTS IN FURTHERING THE CAUSE OF GOOD GOVERNMENT.
SHE IS DEEPLY RESPECTED AND A VALUED MEMBER OF BOTH THE HUMAN SERVICES TEAM AND THE BROADER SOMERSET COUNTY COMMUNITY THAT WAS RECENTLY FEATURED IN A TAP IN TWO ARTICLE, HIGHLIGHTING HER OUTSTANDING WORK WITH THE SOMERSET COUNTY YOUTH COUNCIL.
SHE ALSO OVERSEES THE SOMERSET COUNTY HELPS MOBILE OUTREACH INITIATIVE.
PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN ORGANIZING LARGE SCALE EVENTS FOR THE COUNTY'S MOST VULNERABLE RESIDENTS AND SKILLFULLY LEADS THE HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY COUNCIL WITH PROFESSIONALISM, EMPATHY, AND POISE, ESPECIALLY DURING PERIODS OF CHALLENGE AND DEBATE WITHIN THE HUMAN SERVICES FIELD.
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RECOGNITION AS EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH.
>> I WASN'T PREPARED. NO, THANK YOU SO MUCH.
I WAS AT AN EVENT RECENTLY, AND SOMETHING THAT STUCK WITH ME WAS THAT YOU NEVER KNOW WHO'S WATCHING YOU.
WHEN I DO THE WORK THAT I DO, I'M NOT DOING IT FOR RECOGNITION.
BUT IT'S NICE TO BE RECOGNIZED.
I THANK MY DIRECTOR, MY SUPERVISOR FOR THINKING OF ME.
I DEFINITELY WANT TO DO A SHOUT OUT TO MY TEAM WHO'S HERE BECAUSE THEY ARE AWESOME.
I CAN'T DO THE WORK WITHOUT THEM.
THEY'RE AMAZING. THANK YOU. [APPLAUSE]
>> AS THE TEAM IS COMING, I'M GOING TO HAVE LISA SAY A FEW WORDS.
>> HI, EVERYONE. GOOD EVENING.
WHEN KATIE AND I DISCUSSED SUBMITTING THIS NOMINATION, THERE WAS NO HESITATION.
AS OUR COMMISSIONER DIRECTOR DESCRIBED, RENA IS AN EXPERT COMMUNITY ORGANIZER.
SHE'S A ROLE MODEL FOR OUR YOUTH COUNCIL, BUT SHE'S SMART AND SHE'S DRIVEN,
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AND SHE'S EXTREMELY ORGANIZED.I HAVE BEEN LUCKY ENOUGH TO WATCH HER GROW AND EVOLVE AND DO INCREDIBLE THINGS OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS.
I DON'T KNOW WHAT SHE THINKS HER FUTURE HOLDS, BUT IF SHE CHOOSES TO STAY IN PUBLIC SERVICE, SHE WILL LEAVE BEHIND A LEGACY THAT NEW JERSEY AND SOMERSET COUNTY WILL BE BETTER OFF FOR.
>> WE ALSO HAVE CRYSTAL COCHRAN, WHO'S JOINING.
SHE IS PART OF COMMISSIONER OF STATUS OF WOMEN, WHERE RENA IS A MEMBER OF THAT BOARD AS WELL.
SHE WEARS MANY HATS, AND SO THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO FOR SOMERSET COUNTY.
>> CONGRATULATIONS. [APPLAUSE] IT'S YOUR TURN.
HOW ARE YOU EVERTON? [INAUDIBLE] WELL, WE HAVE A REALLY EXCITING AWARD FOR EVERTON GORDON.
I WANT TO SAY WHEN I WAS READING THROUGH THIS, I WAS REALLY IMPRESSED AS I KNOW HILLS ROUND TOWNSHIP.
I'M FROM HILLS AROUND. I KNOW AMAL ROAD.
EVERTON THE HUMANITARIAN AWARD BY THE SOMERSET COUNTY COMMISSIONERS EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION COMMITTEE CERTIFICATE TO EVERTON GORDON.
A RECOGNITION AND SINCERE APPRECIATION OF YOUR FURTHER EFFORTS IN FURTHERING THE CAUSE OF GOOD GOVERNMENT.
I WANT TO SAY THAT WE'RE VERY GRATEFUL TO GIVE YOU THIS AWARD.
ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 9TH, 2025, MR. GORDON WAS IN HILLSBORO, PARKED AT THE BUS STOP WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE OPERATOR EXPERIENCED A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, BECOMING UNCONSCIOUS AND RAN INTO MR. GORDON'S COUNTY VEHICLE.
HE CONTACTED EMERGENCY SERVICES, BOTH POLICE AND MEDICAL, WHERE THEY PROVIDED MEDICAL ASSISTANCE TO THE OWNER, OPERATOR, DRIVER, AND LAW ENFORCEMENT CONTACTED OUR OFFICE, STATING IF IT WAS NOT FOR OUR EMPLOYEE, MR. GORDON, THAT HE SAVED THE OTHER DRIVER'S LIFE AND PREVENTED A MAJOR TRAFFIC INCIDENT PREVENTING THE OTHER VEHICLES FROM ENTERING ACTIVE TRAFFIC ON AMAL ROAD.
I WANT TO SAY THAT IT REALLY TOOK A LOT OF HEADS UP CALL AND THANK YOU FOR THAT GREAT SERVICE AND CERTAINLY SAVED THE PERSON'S LIFE.
I WANT TO SAY, CONGRATULATIONS.
WE CAN GIVE YOU THIS HUMANITARIAN AWARD, BUT I THINK CERTAINLY THE PERSON IS, I'M SURE, VERY GRATEFUL AS WELL.
THANK YOU. DO YOU WANT TO SAY SOMETHING? [APPLAUSE]
>> FIRST, I'D LIKE TO THANK MY DIRECTOR, JOHN A DEER. OH, RIGHT THERE.
THANK YOU SO MUCH, SIR. I WANT TO THANK MY TEAM.
I'M JUST GRATEFUL THAT I COULD SAVE THAT PERSON'S LIFE.
>> CONNOR WISE AND ALAN JIMENEZ ALFARO, CAN YOU COME ON UP? ARE THEY HERE OR ARE THEY BOYCOTTING THEIR SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS? I DON'T SEE THEM.
MAYBE THEY'RE REALLY SHY OR ARE THEY HIDING UNDER A PEW.
[00:30:03]
WE'RE GOING TO TABLE THIS ONE.ADMINISTRATOR, CAN I GIVE THESE BACK TO YOU OR MAYBE WE CAN COME BACK TO THAT.
LET'S GO TO THE TEAM AWARD FOR COUNTY LIGHTING FIXTURES, AND I GOT A LOT OF THEM.
HOLD ON. THERE'S A LOT HERE. LIKE I SAID.
HOLD ON. LET ME PUT THIS DOWN.
WHEN I CALL YOUR NAME, CAN YOU COME UP? BRIAN RICKS, CONNOR ROSELIND, NICK CUTHBERT, AJ POZO, JOE WISE.
I'M STARTING TO WORRY NOBODY WAS COMING.
I'M LIKE, ARE THEY BOYCOTTING THIS THING? JUSTIN BIGELOW, DONA SWEENEY.
SCHWARZ. I'M GOING TO GET THIS ONE. ZAGER SUAVE.
DID I GET CLOSE WITH THE LAST NAME?
>> OH, NO. I'M SWEENEY. [LAUGHTER] DREW REYNOLDS, MIKE NAVARRO ARIAS, MATTHEW PLEXIO, CHRIS CARBE.
DID I GET HIM ALL? DID I GET EVERYBODY ON THAT PROJECT? I FEEL LIKE HALF THE AUDIENCE IS HERE.
DOES ANYBODY ELSE WANT TO COME UP AND PRETEND THEY WERE ON THIS PROJECT? [LAUGHTER] DO ME A FAVOR.
[LAUGHTER] ALRIGHT, I DON'T KNOW WHO'S HERE AND WHO'S NOT, BUT I NEED ONE OF THEM.
THIS ONE'S NOT HERE. BRIAN RICKS.
PLEASE. PAUL, I MEAN, GIVE ME THIS GUY, BRIAN'S NUMBER.
I'M GOING TO TALK TO HIM. WHY IS HE MISSING? [LAUGHTER] WE SHOULD CALL HIM NOW AND PUT HIM ON SPEAKER. WHERE ARE YOU, BRIAN? IN ALL SERIOUSNESS, YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU GUYS IN THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT? OUR FNS TEAM, AND YOU KNOW HOW I'M INTO ALL RESOURCE CONSERVATION.
YOU KNOW THIS ONE IS REALLY EXCITING FOR ME, SO THANK YOU.
ALL RIGHT, THE FNS TEAM FACILITIES AND SERVICES.
WE'RE TASKED WITH REPLACING LIGHT FIXTURES WITHIN THE ADMINISTRATION BUILDING TO BETTER ALIGN WITH THE COUNTY'S ENERGY EFFICIENCY POLICY.
SEE THE NICE LIGHTS, THEY'RE BRIGHT, AND THEY'RE MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT.
PHASE ONE OF THIS PROJECT CONSISTED OF 1020 LIGHT FIXTURES, RETROFITTING AN ENTIRE BUILDING, WHICH WAS A HUGE TASK FOR A SMALL GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS, SHOWING THE TRUE SENSE OF TEAMWORK IN ORDERING, RECEIVING, COORDINATING WITH OTHER STAFF, REMOVAL OF OLD INSTALLATION OF NEW FIXTURES, FOLLOW UP TO MAKE SURE ALL WAS COMPLETED AND WORKING PROPERLY.
I'M GOING TO PUT A LITTLE CARROT AND DEALING WITH ALL THE PEOPLE, TELLING YOU THEIR COMMENTS AND FEEDBACK OF WHAT THEY THOUGHT ABOUT THE NEW LIGHTING AND THAT YOU HAD TO GO OH, OKAY.
THANK YOU. YOU DID THAT A GOOD JOB WITH THAT ONE.
IN ADDITION, THE LIGHTS REMOVED WERE RECYCLED.
RECLAIMED GENERATING A RETURN OF OVER $1,800 IN FUNDS TO THE TAXPAYERS OF SOMERSET COUNTY.
THANK YOU. WELL, I THANK BRIAN RICK, BUT HE'S NOT HERE.
[LAUGHTER] BUT I'M THANKING ALL OF YOU GUYS FOR COMING.
IT TOOK A LONG TIME. WELL, HOW LONG DOES THIS TAKE FROM START TO FINISH? STILL ON.
STILL ONGOING. GIVE ME YOUR THING BACK. YOU'RE NOT.
[LAUGHTER] BUT, YEAH, IT'S A HUGE ENDEAVOR.
WHO'S AT LEAST FIVE MONTHS? IT'S BEEN A WHILE.
WHO WANTS TO CHAT ABOUT THIS? BRIAN RICK.
[LAUGHTER] WAY TO LIKE IT, THAT GUY.
ALRIGHT. NO ONE WANTS TO TALK ABOUT THIS? WE TALKED ABOUT IT A LOT. [LAUGHTER] ALL RIGHT. WELL, BIG GROUP HUG FOR EVERYTHING YOU DID, AND CONGRATULATIONS FOR ALL YOU'VE DOING FOR SOMERSET COUNTY.
IS HE A GOOD SPORT? BRIAN RICK, IS HE GOING [LAUGHTER] GOOD.
YES, WOULD YOU? THAT WOULD BE WONDERFUL.
THANK YOU. WE'RE GOING TO GET THE PHOTO.
[00:35:06]
[INAUDIBLE] [LAUGHTER] I THINK MOST OF YOU ARE GETTING THE NEXT AWARD, SO YOU MIGHT AS WELL STAY UP.OH. I FIND IT TOO FAR. IT'S BRIAN RICK [LAUGHTER].
WE HAVE CARNER ROSLYN, BRIAN RICK, NICK CUTHBERT, A J PUZO, JOHN CLARK, BRAD [INAUDIBLE], MIKE NAVARRO ARIAS, DREW REYNOLDS, DONAHUE SWEENEY, JUSTIN BIGELOW, JUSTIN SANTINO, JOHN DIOS, AND DAVE PECO.
I'M GOING TO FOLLOW DEPUTY DIRECTORS LEAD, FIND YOURS AND PASS IT DOWN.
I'M GOING TO KEEP BRIAN RICK'S.
THE TWO FOR WE HAVE THIS GREAT ERC TEAM BEING RECOGNIZED THE SECOND TIME.
IN RECOGNITION AND SINCERE APPRECIATION OF YOUR OUTSTANDING EFFORTS, EXCUSE ME, IN FURTHERING THE CAUSE OF GOOD GOVERNMENT, THE FNS TEAM WORKED TIRELESSLY BEHIND THE SCENES IS INSTRUMENTAL IN THE SUCCESS OF THE COUNTY'S JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION.
THEY METICULOUSLY HANDLED ALL LOGISTICAL ASPECTS FROM THE INITIAL SETUP OF TENTS, TABLES, AND SOUND EQUIPMENT.
THE REMAINING ON SITE FOR THE DURATION OF THE EVENT, READY TO ASSIST WITH ANY NEED.
WHEN I TELL YOU, WHEN IT STARTED RAINING, BEING ABLE TO PIVOT, HAVING THE DRUMMERS UNDER THE TENT, YOU JUST NEVER KNOW.
YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME, BEING ABLE TO DO WHAT YOU STILL NEED TO DO IN SPITE OF EXTERNAL CIRCUMSTANCES.
THEIR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE AND WILLINGNESS TO GO THE EXTRA MILE TRULY EMBODIES OUR VALUES.
WE WANTED TO RECOGNIZE YOU AGAIN.
I KNOW YOU THINK, THIS IS OUR JOB, WE DO THIS ALL THE TIME.
HOWEVER, YOU'RE TRULY APPRECIATED FOR EVERYTHING THAT YOU DO.
IT DOES NOT GO UNNOTICED, AND THAT'S WHY WE'RE RECOGNIZING YOU.
AGAIN, MOST PEOPLE SAY, OH, IT'S MY JOB, THIS IS WHAT I DO, BUT KNOW THAT YOU ARE VALUED PART OF THE TEAM FOR SOMERSET COUNTY.
[APPLAUSE] SOMEBODY WILL TAKE THIS FOR BRIAN RICK.
DOES THE DIRECTOR OR SUPERVISOR WANT TO SAY ANYTHING ABOUT THE TEAM BEFORE WE MOVE ON.
MR. MCCALL, WOULD YOU LIKE TO SAY ANYTHING ABOUT YOUR TEAM BEFORE WE.
FOR THE TV RAN, HE SAYS, THEY'RE GREAT, AND HE HAS NOTHING FURTHER TO ADD.
[LAUGHTER] WE'LL MOVE ON WITH OUR PROGRAM.
COMMUNICATIONS, WE HAVE JCP&L, NOTICE A PUBLIC HEARING FOR A CHANGE IN THE STATEWIDE ELECTRIC AND GAS PERMANENT UNIVERSAL SERVICE FUND PROGRAM.
ANOTHER COMMUNICATION FROM JCP&L, NOTICE A PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE PROVISION OF A BASIC GENERATION SERVICE BEGINNING JUNE 1 OF 2026.
NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF VIRTUAL INFORMATIONAL PRESENTATION AVAILABLE AUGUST 27 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 10, ABOUT THE ROUTE EIGHT EXCUSE ME, ROUTE 28, ROUTE 287 TO CR 525, WHICH IS THOMPSON AVENUE PROJECT IN BOUND BROOK AND BRIDGEWATER.
[00:40:02]
THE BOROUGH OF DANIEL AND MAYOR JASON SELINTO, URGING NEW JERSEY MEMBERS OF CONGRESS TO PUSH THE ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS TO RESUME THE GREEN BROOK FLOOD CONTROL PROJECT CONSTRUCTION, TOWNSHIP OF BRIDGEWATER, NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE 25-16, APPROVING AN APPLICATION FOR A LONG TERM TAX EXEMPTION AND AUTHORIZING A FINANCIAL AGREEMENT WITH AR BRIDGEWATER URBAN RENEWAL, LLC.COUNTY CLERK STE PETER NOTICE OF FEES COLLECTED FOR JULY 2025, IN THE AMOUNT OF $562,494.72.
LUCA MASELLA LETTER RESIGNATION AS CHAIR OF THE SOMERSET COUNTY LGBTQ PLUS ADVISORY BOARD.
AS WE MOVE ON, CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS, COUNTY CLERK, NEW BUSINESS 25-1700 AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY FOR AND ACCEPT JAVA PHYSICAL SECURITY REIMBURSEMENT FUNDING OF THE COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE SIEMENS CARD ACCESS READERS PROJECT FOR UP TO $76,831.
RESOLUTION 25-1701, AMENDING RESOLUTION 25-1060, CORRECTING AND TYPOGRAPHICAL ERROR FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR FORMER GSA, SOMERVILLE DEPOT, HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP.
RESOLUTION 25-1702, APPROVING PLANS AND AUTHORIZING RECEIPT OF BIDS FOR JURY ASSEMBLY, RECONFIGURATION, 20 NORTH BRIDGE STREET, SOMERVILLE BOROUGH.
RESOLUTION 25-1703, APPROVING PLANS AND AUTHORIZING RECEIPT OF BIDS FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE GREEN OLD GOLF COURSE IRRIGATION SYSTEM IN BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP.
RESOLUTION 25-1704, APPROVING PLANS AND AUTHORIZING RECEIPT OF BIDS FOR THE WARRENBROOK GOLF COURSE WASH DOWN BUILDING 500 WARRENVILLE ROAD, WARREN TOWNSHIP.
RESOLUTION 25-1705, APPROVING SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZING RECEIPT OF BIDS FOR MAINTENANCE CONTRACT FOR REPAIRS OF VARIOUS PARK COMMISSION STRUCTURES.
RESOLUTION 25-1706, AUTHORIZING SUPPORT FOR THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, I 78 WESTBOUND OVER I 287 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT IN BEDMINSTER TOWNSHIP.
RESOLUTION 25-1707, AUTHORIZING THE SOMERSET COUNTY CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMISSION TO RECEIVE FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $218,628, FROM THE NEW JERSEY STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS DEPARTMENT OF STATE LOCAL ARTS PROGRAM GRANT FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2026.
GRANT REQUIRES A ONE TO ONE IN KIND MATCH FOR ALL FUNDS USED FOR OPERATING TO BE APPROPRIATED IN CULTURAL HERITAGE HERITAGE'S 2026 SALARY AND WAGE BUDGET.
RESOLUTION 25-1708, APPROVING THE SOMERSET COUNTY LOCAL SAFETY ACTION PLAN, AND VISION ZERO GOAL.
LIKE DIRECTOR ROBINSON MENTIONED EARLIER, THIS PLAN ESTABLISHES A FRAMEWORK FOR ACHIEVING ZERO DEATHS AND SERIOUS INJURIES ON COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL ROADS.
PRIORITY LOCATIONS WERE IDENTIFIED THROUGH A HIGH INJURY NETWORK AND CRASHES WERE ANALYZED BASED ON ROADWAY AND CRASH CHARACTERISTICS, SUCH AS SPEED LIMIT, ROADWAY WIDTH, AND PRESENCE OF VULNERABLE ROAD USERS.
RESOLUTION 25-1709, AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH EPEC POLYMERS FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE HAGGATE DAM AND TOWNSHIPS OF BRIDGEWATER HILLSBOROUGH.
RESOLUTION 25-1010-1710, AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION OF CALENDAR YEAR 2024 HOMELESS TRUST FUND MONIES TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $117,803.
25-1711, AUTHORIZING A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN SOMERSET COUNTY, CONTINUUM OF CARE, AND RPM DEVELOPMENT, LLC TO SET FORTH THE OBLIGATIONS OF THE PARTIES AND TO CREATE FIVE DEDICATED RESIDENTIAL UNITS IN THE PROPERTY FOR INDIVIDUALS OR FAMILIES EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS.
25-1712, AUTHORIZATION TO APPLY FOR AND ACCEPT THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES DIVISION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES RENEWAL CONTRACT 26-540-ADA-0 FOR SOMERSET COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE SERVICES FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 1 THROUGH DECEMBER 30, 2026, AND TO ACCEPT THE FUNDS IF AWARDED.
[00:45:04]
REQUIRED COUNTY CASH MATCH OF $66,360.25-1713, AUTHORIZING THE SOMERSET COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO APPLY TO NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES DIVISION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES FOR THE BIPARTISAN SAFER COMMUNITIES ACT DISASTER RESPONSE COUNSELING COUNTY (DRCC) GRANT FOR THE PERIOD OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 29, 2026.
25-1714, AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION OF FUNDS TO BERNARDS, BOUND BROOK, SOUTH BOUND BROOK, BRIDGEWATER/RARITAN, MANVILLE, AND MONTGOMERY MUNICIPAL YOUTH SERVICES COMMISSIONS FOR THE 2025 COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COMPETITIVE GRANTS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $34,060.
I ASKED MISS MEAGER, AND I THINK SHE DISTRIBUTED TO YOU A DETAILED SUMMARY OF THOSE GRANTS, AND IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THEM, LET ME KNOW WE CAN PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION.
25-1715, AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION OF FUNDS TO THE FOLLOWING MUNICIPAL YOUTH SERVICES COMMISSIONS IN THE AMOUNT OF $6,000, BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, BRIDGEWATER/RARITAN, GREEN BROOK, HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP, MANVILLE, MONTGOMERY /ROCKY HILL, NORTH PLAINFIELD, SOMERVILLE, WARREN, AND WATCHUNG, AND $12,000 TO THE JOINT COMMISSIONS FOR BOUND BOOK/SOUTH BOUND BROOK, AND THE SOMERSET HILLS COMMISSION, INCLUDING BERNARDSVILLE, BEDMINSTER, FAR HILLS, AND PEAPACK GLADSTONE, BY THE SOMERSET COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR THE ANNUAL GRANTS FOR YEAR 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $84,000.
>> RESOLUTION 251716, AUTHORIZING A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE SOMERSET COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT AND ROCHE MOLECULAR SYSTEMS FOR DISPENSING MEDICAL COUNTERMEASURES IN RESPONSE TO LARGE SCALE COMMUNICABLE DISEASE OUTBREAKS, BIO-TERRORISM, OR OTHER PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCIES.
25-1717 IS AUTHORIZING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF SOMERSET AND THE TOWNSHIP OF MONTGOMERY.
THIS IS FOR A HIGH DEFINITION LICENSE PLATE RECOGNITION EQUIPMENT, AND IT'LL BE ON GREAT ROAD.
25-1718 IS AMENDING RESOLUTION R 25-13 OH EIGHT.
WE HAD TO CHANGE THE DATE OR THE YEAR, I'M SORRY, 23-24, AND CORRECT SOME VERBIAGE IN THAT.
THIS IS FOR OUR REA GRANT FOR RECYCLING.
>> RESOLUTION 25-1719 AWARD OF CONTRACT, CY-COM 033-252 TOTAL ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES CORPORATION FOR TAX PREFERRED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PLANS, ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES, INCLUDING FSA, DEPENDENT CARE ASSISTANCE PLAN, AND COMMUTER PARKING, AND MASS TRANSIT BENEFIT PLAN, UTILIZING THE FIRST YEAR OF A FIVE YEAR CONTRACT.
>> 25-1720 IS AWARD OF CONTRACT TO ROYAL PRINT AND SERVICE WEST, NEW YORK FOR PRINTING SERVICES FOR THE 2025 GENERAL ELECTIONS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 1693OO, 25-1721 IS AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF BODY WORN BALLISTIC VESTS FOR THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE FROM ATLANTIC TACTICAL, UTILIZING STATE CONTRACT, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $22,915.20.
FOR THE ELECTION BOARD, 251721.
TWO AWARD OF CONTRACT TO DMT SOLUTIONS, GLOBAL CORP FOR ANNUAL RENEWAL OF ON CALL SERVICE AND SOFTWARE FOR ELECTION EQUIPMENT, SECOND YEAR OF A FOUR YEAR CONTRACT, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 37,336, 1723 AWARD OF CONTRACT TO ELECTION SUPPORT AND SERVICES FOR SETUP TIFICATION OF VOTING MACHINES FOR SEPTEMBER SPECIAL AND GENERAL ELECTION, AND EARLY VOTE IN 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 18,700, AND 1724 IS AN AWARD OF CONTRACT TO ELECTION SYSTEMS AND SOFTWARE, LLC FOR ELECTION GOODS AND SERVICES TO SOMERSET COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS FOR 2025 ELECTIONS, FOR GENERAL AND EARLY VOTING AND EQUIPMENT PARTS AND REPAIRS TOTAL NOT TO $81,838.30.
>> RESOLUTION 25-1725, AWARD OF CONTRACT TO FIRST LINE LOCKSMITH, UTILIZING STATE CONTRACT FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE SOMERSET COUNTY COURTHOUSE DOUBLE DOORS AND HARDWARE, 20 NORTH BRIDGE STREET, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $76,747.06.
[00:50:03]
RESOLUTION 25-1726, AWARD OF CONTRACT 19025 TO K AND D CONTRACTORS FOR THE SOMERSET COUNTY COURTHOUSE ROOFTOP AIR H HANDLER REPLACEMENT, 20 NORTH BRIDGE STREET IN SOMERVILLE, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $1,187,000.RESOLUTION 25-1727, AWARD OF PROFESIONAL SERVICE CONTRACT TO BOSWELL INC FOR AS NEEDED LAND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW SERVICES IN 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $30,000.
RESOLUTION 25-1728, AWARD OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICE CONTRACT TO H2M ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS FOR SORE-SET COUNTY ADA TRANSITION PLAN DATE, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $50,800.
YES. WE HAVE A ADA TRANSITION PLAN, WHICH REVIEWS ALL OUR FACILITIES TO MAKE SURE THEY'RE ADA COMPLIANT.
THIS APPLIES TO ALL OUR BUILDINGS, AND IT'S A PLAN TO MAKE SURE THAT WE'RE UP TO GRADE SHOWS A SCHEDULE OF IMPROVEMENTS AND WHAT WE NEED TO DO TO BRING ANYTHING UP TO GRADE THAT'S NOT UP TO CODE.
CORRECT. WE HAVE THIS TRANSITION PLAN, AND THIS IS JUST UPDATING THE PLAN.
PRESUMABLY, THERE'S BEEN PROGRESS SINCE THE LAST UPDATE AND THIS IS JUST REVISING IT.
RESOLUTION 25-1729, AUTHORIZING CHANGE ORDER NUMBER ONE AND FINAL PAYMENT FOR TR WENIGER INC FOR HYDRO RAKING AT VARIOUS PARK COMMISSION PROPERTIES, PHASE 1.
THE AS BID CONTRACT AMOUNT IS $793,470.
THE FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT IS 742 $686.80.
THIS CHANGE DER ONE IS A DECREASE, $5,783.20.
RESOLUTION 25-1730, CONSULTANT AGREEMENT MODIFICATION TWO TO TNM ASSOCIATES FOR DESIGN FOR WASHINGTON VALLEY PARK ACCESS ROAD IMPROVEMENTS, BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $20,000 NEW CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $358,731.
THAT PROJECT WAS BID TODAY AND WILL HOPEFULLY BE AWARDED AT THE NEXT MEETING.
>> RESOLUTION 25-1731, AWARD OF CONTRACT TO MARK TINDER APPRAISALS, LLC FOR REAL PROPERTY APPRAISAL SERVICES ASSOCIATED WITH FARMLAND ACQUISITIONS IN THE COUNTY OF SOMERSET ON AN AS NEEDED BASIS FOR 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $10,000.
RESOLUTION 25-1732, AWARD OF CONTRACT TO SHULK REAL ESTATE APPRAISAL FOR REAL PROPERTY APPRAISAL SERVICES ASSOCIATED WITH FARMLAND ACQUISITIONS IN THE COUNTY OF SOMERSET, ON AN AS NEEDED BASIS FOR 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $10,000.
RESOLUTION 25-1733, AWARD OF CONTRACT TO STERLING, DE SANTO AND ASSOCIATES FOR REAL PROPERTY APPRAISAL SERVICES, ASSOCIATED WITH FARMLAND ACQUISITIONS IN THE COUNTY OF SOMERSET ON AN AS NEEDED BASIS FOR 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $10,000.
>> RESOLUTION 25-1734 WAS AVOIDED.
RESOLUTION 25-1735, AWARD A CONTRACT TO E PLUS TECHNOLOGY FOR THE ANNUAL RENEWAL OF HPE SERVER SUPPORT AND SERVICES, UTILIZING THE HUNDERTON COUNTY EDUCATIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT FOR THE PERIOD OF SEPTEMBER 1 TO AUGUST 31, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED THAN $54,398.63.
>> 25-1736, RESCINDING THE AWARD OF THE CONTRACT FOR SPRING GREENS OF LIFE, THREE BRIDGES, NEW JERSEY, FOR EQUINE SERVICES, RESOLUTION R25-1385, CONTRACT CC-015-25R2, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $26,180.
25-737 AWARD OF CONTRACT CY-COM-0012-24 TO MIDDLE EARTH FOR JOURNEYS, STATION HOUSE ADJUSTMENT, AND CONNECTIONS PROGRAMS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR OF A THREE YEAR CONTRACT.
THE GRANT PERIOD IS JANUARY 1, 2025, THROUGH DECEMBER 31 OF 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $146,525.08.
[00:55:11]
>> RESOLUTION 25-1738, AWARD OF CONTRACT TO EMPOWER SOMERSET TO EXPAND AND INTEGRATE THE OVERDOSE FATALITY REVIEW TEAM, UTILIZING THE ONE YEAR OPTION TO EXTEND THROUGH GRANT FUNDING TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $75,000.
25-1739 IS AWARD A CONTRACT TO JOHNSON CONTROLS.
THIS IS A SUPPLEMENTAL CONTRACT FOR OUR SPRINKLER SYSTEMS, INSPECTIONS, TESTING, STAMP PIPES, HYDRANTS, FIRE PUMPS, AND BACKFLOW PREVENTERS.
IT'S THE FIRST YEAR OF A TWO YEAR CONTRACT, BUT THIS WILL COMMENCE FROM THE DATE OF THE AWARD UNTIL FEBRUARY 27 OF 2026.
AND THEN YEAR TWO WILL COINCIDE WITH THE ORIGINAL CONTRACT, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $17,972.
SORRY, 25-1740 IS AWARD OF CONTRACT TO MILLENNIUM MECHANICAL.
THIS IS FOR BOILER REPLACEMENT AT NORTH COUNTY GARAGE AND AT THE WARREN BROOK SENIOR CENTER, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $70,380.
25-1741 IS AWARD OF CONTRACT TO ADAPCO AND HERITAGE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY.
THIS IS FOR MOSQUITO INSECTICIDES AND HERBICIDES, SECOND YEAR OF A TWO YEAR CONTRACT, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $25,000.
25-1742 IS AWARD A CONTRACT TO MESCARO EXCAVATING.
THIS IS FOR SNOW REMOVAL IN MULTIPLE TOWNSHIPS ON COUNTY ROADS.
IT'S THE FIRST YEAR OF A TWO YEAR CONTRACT.
THIS CONTRACT S' WILL COMMENCE ON NOVEMBER 1, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 25,000.
THESE ARE USED IN ORDER TO SUPPLEMENT OUR PLOWING TRUCKS THAT WE HAVE CURRENTLY, BUT SOMERSET COUNTY RESIDENTS ARE USED TO SNOW BEING REMOVED FROM THE ROADS RELATIVELY QUICKLY, MEANING BY THE NEXT DAY, SO WE DO HAVE TO SUPPLEMENT OUR DRIVERS WITH CONTRACTS.
25-1743 IS AWARDED CONTRACT TO MODEL ONE COMMERCIAL VEHICLES.
THIS IS FOR TWO RAM PRO MASTER MINIVANS.
THEY ARE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE, AND THE TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $262,993.40.
25-1744 IS AWARDED CONTRACT TO SHI.
THIS IS FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF OUR ROSCO CAMERAS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $34,56439.
ALL OF OUR BUSES HAVE CAMERAS ON THEM THAT FACE OUT THE FRONT, FACE INTO THE BUS ON THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGERS AND FACE OUT THE BACK.
IT IS FOR THE PROTECTION OF NOT ONLY THE CLIENTS, BUT THE DRIVERS THEMSELVES.
25-1745 IS AWARD CONTRACT TO THE HOSE SHOP.
THIS IS FOR OEM RECYCLING PARTS. IT'S OPENED END.
IT'S THE FIRST YEAR OF A TWO YEAR CONTRACT, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 10,000.
>> SORRY ABOUT THAT, 25-1746 IS AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS TO VARIOUS PUBLIC, PRIVATE AND GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES AND HUNDRED IN SORSET COUNTIES TO PAY STIPENDS FOR YOUTH PARTICIPANTS IN THE 2025 SUMMER YOUTH WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 13,600.
>> RESOLUTION 25-1747, AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED.
CONTRACTS TO DSI, MEDICAL SERVICES AND WEX HEALTH, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $2,200.
RESOLUTION 25-1748, AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACT TO PERSONNEL DATA SYSTEMS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $8,000.
>> 25-1749 AMENDING AND CANCELING, CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS OR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS FOR POLARIS PHARMACY SERVICES OF WARRINGTON, TOTAL DECREASE NOT TO EXCEED $3,751.59.
1750 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMENT ORDERS FOR SERVICES PROVIDED TO SOMERSET COUNTY SHERIFF, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED ONE AND $1,124.57 THEY ARE FOR RED BANK VETERINARIAN SERVICES AND CERTIFIED SPEEDOMETER SERVICES.
1751 IS AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACT OR ROYAL PRINTING SERVICE, WEST NEW YORK FOR VOTING AUTHORITIES FOR THE SOMERSET COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS, GENERAL ELECTION, AND EARLY VOTE IN TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $25,548.14.
[01:00:09]
>> RESOLUTION 25-1752, AUTHORIZING CLOSING, AND RETURNING REMAINING FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY ORDERED CONTRACT TO STRUNK ALBERT ENGINEERING FOR AS-NEEDED MECHANICAL DESIGN SERVICES FOR 2024, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED NEGATIVE $20,500.
RESOLUTION 25-1753, APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO GSP PROPERTIES FOR OPEN ENDED MAINTENANCE CONTRACT FOR BUILDINGS, FOR RECYCLING, CENTER NETTING INSTALLATION, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $2,573.29.
>> GOOD EVENING. I HAVE SEVERAL INSERTION OF SPECIAL REVENUE INTO THE BUDGET.
THE FIRST 120-51-7504 IS FOR THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, THE SEA HAWK GRANT AND THE AMOUNT OF $179,411 INTO THE 2025 COUNTY BUDGET.
IN-KIND MATCH APPROPRIATED AND THE DEPARTMENT IS APPROPRIATED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SALARY AND WAGE AND OPERATING BUDGET COMING FROM THE LOCAL PUBLIC HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS.
25-1755 IS FOR THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, GREEN ACRES STEWARDSHIP, GREEN KNOLL GOLF COURSE HYDRO RAKING PROGRAM, AND THE AMOUNT OF $174,000.
IN-KIND MATCH WAS APPROPRIATED IN THE OPEN SPACE FUNDS.
251756 IS FOR THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HARM REDUCTION GRANT AND THE AMOUNT OF $300,000.
251757 IS FOR THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, THE TUBERCULOSIS GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $87,422.
25-1758 IS THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES, DIVISION OF AGING SERVICE SERVICES, STATE AID REIMBURSEMENT BENEFIT OFFICE OF AGING ADMIN, AND THE AMOUNT OF $58,000.
25-1759 IS FOR THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES, DIVISION OF DISABILITY SERVICES, THE PERSONAL ASSISTANCE SERVICES PROGRAM GRANT AND THE AMOUNT OF $64,350.
25-1760 IS FOR THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, THE WIOA ADULT FOR FISCAL YEAR 24 GRANT AND THE AMOUNT OF $29,880.
AND FINALLY, 25-1761 IS FOR THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY, THE EDWARD BURN MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT AND THE AMOUNT OF $57,972.
THE KIND MATCHES APPROPRIATED IN THE SOMERSET COUNTY PROSECUTOR SALARY AND WAGE BUDGET.
AND MOVING ON 25-1762 IS AUTHORIZING A CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS TO NW FINANCIAL GROUP, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $24,447.
AND 25-1763 IS AUTHORIZING REFUNDS FOR VARIOUS OVER PAYMENTS BY THE COUNTY, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $15,200.32.
AND 25-1764 IS THE PAYMENT OF CLAIMS AND RATIFYING OF THE SAME.
THIS IS AN APPROVAL TO PAY THE CONFIRMING ORDER FOR RHONDA LIPSCOMB OF HARRISON, NEW JERSEY, FOR MUSIC HISTORY AND PERFORMANCE AT THE QUAIL BROOK SENIOR CENTER ON JULY 1ST, 2025.
25-1766 AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS TO UNIQUE SECURITY AND CONSULTING SERVICES, LLC, CONTRACT CC-0051-25 FOR SECURITY SERVICES AT 27 WARREN STREET FOR THE PERIOD OF SEPTEMBER 2025 THROUGH DECEMBER OF 2025, NOT TO EXCEED $20,000.
25-1767, AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACT FOR 22ND CENTURY TECHNOLOGIES INC FOR RICHARD HALL COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTERS, TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT SERVICES FOR REGISTERED NURSES.
[01:05:01]
TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $10,000.25-1768, AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACT FOR NOOR STAFFING GROUP, LLC.
CONTRACT CC-0035-24 FOR RICHARD HALL COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTERS, TEMPORARY STAFFING FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $7,500.
25-1769, AUTHORIZING THE CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACT FOR QUALIFACTS SYSTEMS INC, CONTRACT CC-0121-20 FOR RICHARD HALL, COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER, QUALIFACTS ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS SYSTEM, FIFTH YEAR OF A SEVEN YEAR CONTRACT, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $13,600.
AUTHORIZING THE CANCELLATION OF CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS FOR QUALIFACTS SYSTEMS INC, CONTRACT CC-0121-20, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED DECREASE OF $4,353.10.
25-1771, APPROVAL TO PAY A CONFIRMING ORDER FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH CENTERS OF NEW JERSEY, AND PA ELKRIDGE, MARYLAND FOR MEDICAL EXAMS FOR STAFF AT RICHARD HALL, COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $316.62.
25-1772, AN APPROVAL TO PAY THE CONFIRMING ORDER TO MIDDLE EARTH FOR JOURNEY, STATION HOUSE ADJUSTMENT, AND THE CONNECTIONS PROGRAMS FROM JANUARY 1ST, 2025 TO AUGUST 31ST, 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $283,240.92.
>> 25-1773, APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO VERIZON FOR ACCOUNT 0163 FOR BUNDLED PHONE LINES FOR MAY 2025, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $5,028.80.
25-1774 APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO MARTIN ABBOTT AND TESS, FOR MONTHLY CAR WASH OVERAGES, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $85.20, 25-1775 APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO RUCKER'S SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH FOR NEW JERSEY LEAD INSPECTOR AND RISK ASSESSOR CLASS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $850.
25-1776 IS AMENDING AND CANCELING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR MULTIPLE VENDORS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $23,580.70.
25-1777 IS AUTHORIZING A CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS TO MILLENNIUM MECHANICAL FOR REPAIRS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 50,000.
25-1778, IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDERS TO MULTIPLE VENDORS FOR EMERGENCY REPAIRS AND MATERIALS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $150,960.44.
JUST SO YOU KNOW, THESE EMERGENCY REPAIRS INCLUDED REPLACING A FIRE ALARM PANEL AT RICHARD HALL.
IT ALSO INCLUDED 2024 INVOICES FOR RADIO TOWERS, WHICH WERE NOT UNDER THE CURRENT CONTRACT.
WE HAD TO DO AN EMERGENCY BOILER REPLACEMENT AT THE VAN HORNE HOUSE IN JANUARY.
WE ALSO HAD TO DO AN EMERGENCY BOILER REPLACEMENT AT THE JAIL IN OCTOBER OF 2024, JUST RECEIVED THE BILL RECENTLY, AND THE OTHER COSTS WERE SERVICE CALLS.
WE ALSO HAD ORDERED PARTS FROM ONE OF THE VENDORS THAT WAS NOT ON STATE CONTRACT, AND WE HAD A JAIL CHILLER REPAIR, WHICH WAS ALSO CONSIDERED AN EMERGENCY.
25-1779 IS AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY ORDERED CONTRACTS TO BOB'S UNIFORM.
THIS IS FOR VARIOUS SAFETY CLOTHING AND SUPPLIES, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 3,000.
25-1780 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO COMPLETE RECYCLING SOLUTIONS.
WE RECEIVED FLUORESCENT BULBS THAT WE NORMALLY DON'T DISPOSE OF, SO WE HAD A CONTRACT OR NOT CONTRACT, BUT WE HAD TO GET RID OF THEM AT A VENDOR, ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND SAFE, COMMISSIONER.
NOT LIKE SWINGING THEM AT EACH OTHER WHEN WE WERE KIDS.
[LAUGHTER] 25-1781 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO D&B AUTO SUPPLY.
THIS WAS FOR EXHAUST DIESEL FLUID.
WE TRIED TO GET QUOTES OFF A STATE CONTRACT.
WE MADE AN ERROR WHEN WE SUBMITTED IT TO PURCHASING, BUT IN THE MEANTIME, WE WERE RUNNING OUT OF DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID FOR OUR VEHICLE, SO WE HAD TO BUY A PALETTE OF IT FROM D&B.
25-1782 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDERS TO GENL SAFETY.
THIS IS FOR BOOMS THAT WE HAVE TO PUT AROUND OUR RECYCLING FACILITY,
[01:10:03]
SO OIL DOESN'T GET IN TO THE STORM DRAINS.25-1783 HAS APPROVED THE PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO REPUBLIC SERVICES AND ALLIED WASTE SERVICES.
THIS IS FOR OUR COMMODITIES, SO THIS IS A NORMAL THING THAT HAPPENS EVERY MONTH BECAUSE WE SPOT MARKET COMMODITIES, WE DO NOT DO ANY TYPE OF BID.
IT WORKS BETTER FOR THE COUNTY TO SPOT MARKET BECAUSE THE PRICES FLUCTUATE SO MUCH.
25-1784 IS APPROVED TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDERS TO RICHIE TIRE SERVICE.
THIS WAS FROM USED TIRE DISPOSAL FROM OUR FIRST SATURDAY DROP OFFS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $2,816.37.
25-1785 IS AMENDING AND CANCELING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR MULTIPLE VENDORS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $57,724.48.
25-1786 IS AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS.
THIS IS TO MAZZA RECYCLING SERVICES.
IT'S FOR RECYCLING OF OUR WOOD REFUSE, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 8,000.
25-1787 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDERS TO OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH CENTER OF NEW JERSEY.
THIS IS FOR HEARING RETESTS AND ALSO TO STAVOLA CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $1,669.51.
SO THE HEARING TEST, WHAT WE HAD TO DO IS BECAUSE PEOPLE MISSED THE FIRST TEST.
WE HAD TO SEND OTHER PEOPLE FOR THE SECOND TEST, AND WE DIDN'T HAVE ENOUGH ON THE BLANKET TO COVER IT, SO WE HAD TO MAKE IT A CONFIRMING ORDER, HENCE THE MATERIALS BEFORE THE PO WAS APPROVED, WE WENT AND BOUGHT THE MATERIALS.
THAT IS ALSO CONSIDERED CONFIRMING ORDER.
25-1788 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO PUMPING SERVICES, AND ALSO STAVOLA.
PUMPING SERVICES WAS AN EMERGENCY REPAIR AT OUR MAIN PUMP STATION.
STAVOLA SERVICES WAS, AGAIN, WE PURCHASED MATERIALS PRIOR TO THE BPO BEING APPROVED.
25-1789 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFORMING ORDER TO PUMPING SERVICES.
AGAIN, THIS WAS FOR AN EMERGENCY REPAIR AT OUR PUMP STATION, AND AS YOU SEE, WE CONTINUOUSLY HAVE EMERGENCY REPAIRS AT THE PUMP STATION.
WE CONSIDER EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS AT THE PUMP STATION PROTECTING BOUNDBROOK THROUGH THE GREENBOOK FLOOD CONTROL PROJECT AND EMERGENCY.
THAT TOTAL WAS NOT TO EXCEED $5,448.
25-1790 IS AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS TO NATIONAL FUEL OIL, SUBURBAN PROPANE.
THIS IS FOR OBVIOUSLY FUEL AND PROPANE, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $355,000.
25-1791 IS AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACTS TO MULTIPLE VENDORS FOR PARTS AND REPAIRS, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $171,000.
25-1792 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDERS TO VARIOUS PARTS AND REPAIR VENDORS.
THAT'S 720,535,24, AND JUST SO YOU KNOW THAT COVERS 22 REQUISITIONS, THOSE CONFIRMING ORDERS.
THE MINIMUM AMOUNT THAT WE WENT OVER, MOST OF IT WAS BLANKETS THAT WE HAD PUT IN, WE OVER EXPENDED THE BLANKETS.
THE MINIMUM WE OVERSPENT WAS $65.80.
THE MAXIMUM WAS $13,612.30, ONE WAS FOR PARTS, ONE WAS FOR PARTS AND REPAIRS.
ALSO INCLUDED IN THERE, BECAUSE THE NUMBER WAS SO LARGE.
WE DID HAVE TO REPAIR OUR RECYCLING LOADER TIRES.
THOSE WERE NOT PART OF THE CONTRACT THAT WE HAVE OUT NOW, SO CONSIDERED A CONFIRMING ORDER.
HOWEVER, WE WILL BE ADDING IT TO THE CONTRACT IN THE FUTURE.
>> NO, YOU'RE GOOD. 1793 IS AWARD OF A STATE CONTRACT FOR A 60 MONTH LEASE FOR THE BLACK AND WHITE COPY OF THE LEASE.
INCLUDES 150,000 BLACK AND WHITE COPIES PER MONTH WITH OVERAGES TO BE BILLED AT 0.0037 CENTS.
ALL SERVICES IMPLIES INCLUDED EXCEPT FOR PAPER.
>> IS THERE A MOTION TO ADD TO THE ABOVE RESOLUTION IS 25-1700 THROUGH 25-1793 TO THE CONSENT AGENDA FOR SEPTEMBER 9TH.
>> RECUSED FROM 25-1783 NOTED. DIRECTOR ROBINSON?
>> 25-1491 IS AUTHORIZING THE PARTICIPATION OF THE COUNTY OF SOMERSET IN THE PURDUE DIRECT NATIONAL OPIOID SETTLEMENT AND
[01:15:03]
THE EXECUTION OF ALL RELATED SETTLEMENT DOCUMENTS.1492 IS AUTHORIZED INNOVATION AGREEMENT TO BDG ARCHITECTS FORMERLY JRS ARCHITECT, PC.
1493 IS AN AWARD OF CONTRACT TO [INAUDIBLE] AND HOLLAND BOOK FOR LEGAL SERVICES, COUNTY SOMERSET, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $100,000.
>> 1494, WHICH I HOPE WILL BE THE LAST TIME YOU HEAR ME TALK ABOUT THE SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAM IS A AMENDING, THIS IS DIFFERENT.
THERE WE GO. WE'LL GO BACKWARDS.
1495 IS AMENDING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR A PREVIOUSLY WATER CONTRACT FOR A VENDOR FOR 2025 SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAM, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED A DECREASE OF $3,196.
[LAUGHTER] WELL, WE HAVE 94 KIDS, ABOUT 40 OR SO ARE DONE.
THE REST WILL BE DONE IN THE NEXT SEVERAL WEEKS.
[BACKGROUND] OH, YEAH, SOME OF THEM GO ON FOREVER. IT SEEMS. [LAUGHTER]
>> YOU'RE STILL HERE [INAUDIBLE].
>> IT FEELS LIKE IT, BELIEVE ME.
>> 1494 IS APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO HUNTERDON COUNTY EDUCATIONAL SERVICES COMMISSION FOR LITERACY SERVICES PROVIDED TO OUT OF SCHOOL YOUTH AND HUNTERDON AND SOMERSET COUNTIES, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $17,000.
THIS WAS THE EMERGENCY FUND WE GAVE THEM WHEN TITLE II WAS PAUSED; ALLOWED DISCONTINUE GED SERVICES.
>> RESOLUTION 25-1496, APPROVING THE SUBMITTAL OF A GRANT APPLICATION, EXECUTION OF A GRANT CONTRACT WITH THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FOR THE 2025 GREEN STREETS AND STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE MAPPING GRANT PROGRAM.
WE'RE WORKING ON A DESIGN OF SOME TURNING LANES ON SOUTH MIDDLEBUSH ROAD AT COURT LEO AND JACKS LANES, AND WE'RE DOING SOME GREEN STORMWATER, AND HOPEFULLY WE CAN GET A GRANT FOR THIS.
>> RESOLUTION 25-1497, AUTHORIZING THE SOMERSET COUNTY DIVISION OF PLANNING TO APPLY TO AND ACCEPT FUNDING IF AWARDED, FROM THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, FOR THE RGGI NATURAL CLIMATE SOLUTIONS GRANT, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED FIVE MILLION DOLLARS.
WE'RE WORKING WITH THE ADMINISTRATOR AND THE PARKS COMMISSION ON THIS APPLICATION, AND THERE'S NO REQUIRED MATCH.
IT IS FOCUSED ON TREE PLANTING IN OUR PARKS AND THE MONITORING OF CARBON SEQUESTRATION AFTERWARDS.
>> 25-1498, AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF SOMERSET TO ENTER INTO A RIGHT OF ENTRY AGREEMENT.
>> WHAT IS OFF THE HOOK? [LAUGHTER]
>> DID MY LITTLE BACKWARDS WALK THERE.
[LAUGHTER] 25-1498, AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF SOMERSET TO ENTER INTO A RIGHT OF ENTRY AGREEMENT WITH WSP USA INCORPORATED TO ACCESS MONITORING WELLS ON COUNTY OWNED LAND IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BRIDGEWATER, SOMERSET COUNTY, NEW JERSEY.
>> RESOLUTION 25-1499, AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR A PREVIOUSLY AWARDED WHITSONS CONTRACT R24-2430 FOR THE PURCHASE OF SHELF STABLE MEALS AND HOME DELIVERED MEALS.
TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $294,064.21.
25-1500 APPROVAL TO PAY CONFIRMING ORDER TO THE NEW JERSEY JUVENILE DETENTION ASSOCIATION, MOUNT FREEDOM, NEW JERSEY FOR ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $100.
THIS IS AN APPROVAL TO PAY A CONFIRMING ORDER TO THE MYERS-BRIGGS COMPANY, PASADENA, CALIFORNIA FOR THE ELEVATE LICENSE RENEWAL.
THIS IS A SOFTWARE LICENSE FOR SOFTWARE THAT IS USED FOR ASSESSMENT OF INDIVIDUALS TO RECEIVE TRAINING SERVICES, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $195.
>> GOOD EVENING. RESOLUTION 25-1502, RESCINDING RESOLUTION NUMBER R25-1389 DUE TO TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS WITHIN THE RESOLUTION.
25-1503, AUTHORIZING THE SOMERSET COUNTY PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE TO APPLY FOR AND ACCEPT FUNDING IF AWARDED FROM THE FFY24 VICTIMS OF CRIME ACT GRANT PROGRAM.
[01:20:04]
25-1504 AUTHORIZING THE SOMERSET COUNTY PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE TO APPLY FOR THE SFY2025 ARRIVE TOGETHER GRANT PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY TO ACCEPT FUNDING IF AWARDED IN THE AMOUNT OF UP TO $350,000.25-1505, AUTHORIZING THE SOMERSET COUNTY PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE TO APPLY FOR THE SFY2026 OPERATION HELPING HAND GRANT PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY AND TO ACCEPT FUNDING WHEN AWARDED IN THE AMOUNT OF UP TO $105,000.
>> 25-1506, AUTHORIZING CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS FOR PREVIOUSLY AWARDED CONTRACT FOR ORE POWER, LLC FOR THE PURCHASE OF REPLACEMENT BATTERIES TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $305.
25-1507 AUTHORIZING SOMERSET COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO APPLY FOR AND ACCEPT FUNDING FROM THE NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FOR LOCAL CORE CAPACITY OF PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, LINCS GRANT PROGRAM UP TO $245,027 FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026.
>> 25-1508 IS AWARD OF CONTRACT OF BEST CLEANING BUILDING SERVICE.
IT'S FOR JANITORIAL AND CUSTODIAL SERVICES.
IT'S FOR A COUNTY AND PARK COMMISSION FACILITIES, FIRST YEAR OF A TWO YEAR CONTRACT.
TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED 471,000, THAT'S JUST FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS YEAR.
25-1509 IS AWARD A CONTRACT TO INDUSTRIAL COOLING CORP.
THIS IS FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE COMPRESSOR, AND IT'S AT 40 GROVE STREET, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $77,392.30.
25-1510 IS AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF 2026 FORD F-350 PICKUP TRUCKS THAT WILL COME WITH SNOW PLOWS.
THIS IS UTILIZING STATE CONTRACT.
THEY ARE REPLACEMENT VEHICLES, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $231,143.58.
25-1511 IS AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE TWO 2026 FORD F-550.
AGAIN, THEY WILL COME WITH SNOW PLOWS, AND THEY WILL ALSO, I BELIEVE, AND I DON'T SEE THAT ON HERE.
THEY COME WITH A STAINLESS STEEL MASON DUMP BODY.
THIS IS BOUGHT OFF THE ESCNJ, TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED $186,803.64, AND THEY ARE ALSO REPLACEMENT VEHICLES.
>> THANK YOU. MOTION TO ADD RESOLUTION IS 25-1491 THROUGH 25-1511 TO THE AGENDA FOR OUR SIX O'CLOCK MEETING FOR OUR REGULAR MEETING.
>> THIS IS A PUBLIC PORTION OF THIS MEETING WHERE ANYONE FROM THE PUBLIC CAN COME TO SPEAK, FIVE MINUTES, NO YIELDING OF TIME.
THEY'LL COMING UP A SECOND TIME.
WE ASK THAT YOU JUST STATE YOUR NAME AND YOUR ADDRESS.
IS THERE A MOTION TO OPEN TO PUBLIC?
>> I'M GOING TO READ THIS, SO A LITTLE BIT HIGH FOR ME.
>> HAVE YOUR NAME FIRST, PLEASE, MA'AM.
>> 22 BUFFER DRIVE, FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, SOMERSET.
GOOD EVENING, COMMISSIONERS AND OTHERS HERE.
I WAS GOING TO AGAIN ASK YOU TO SIGN A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE NEW JERSEY'S CLIMATE SUPER FUND ACT WHERE POLLUTERS WILL PAY FOR THE DAMAGE THEY HAVE CREATED.
UNDER OUR CURRENT FEDERAL ADMINISTRATION, PRESIDENT TRUMP HAS VOWED TO COMPLETELY ELIMINATE FEMA, WHICH PROVIDES DISASTER RELIEF ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
FEDERAL AGENCIES LIKE THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE, WHICH PROVIDE CRITICAL WARNING FOR FLOOD EVENTS, LIKE FLASH FLOODS THAT WE'VE HAD IN NEW JERSEY RECENTLY, HAVE BEEN DRASTICALLY CUT.
BILLS IN OTHER STATES LIKE VERMONT AND NEW YORK'S CLIMATE SUPERFUND LAW WILL HELP REPAIR DAMAGED ROADS AND BRIDGES, STRENGTHEN SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS, AND SUPPORT THE FIRST RESPONDERS WHO RISKED THEIR LIVES TO KEEP US SAFE DURING CLIMATE DISASTERS.
OUR COMMUNITIES NEED FUNDING FOR DISASTER RELIEF, HEALTH CARE, AND REBUILDING, CREATING JOBS TO FIX WHAT IS BROKEN AND HELPING TO PREVENT FURTHER DISASTERS WITHOUT PUTTING THE BURDEN BACK ON EVERYDAY PEOPLE.
FOSSIL FUEL COMPANIES CONTINUE TO LIE ABOUT THE IMPACT OF THEIR PROCESSES AND PRODUCTS AND BUY POLITICAL FAVOR, KEEPING US LOCKED INTO A SYSTEM THAT IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY DANGEROUS AND COSTLY FOR EVERYONE.
IN THE CURRENT FEDERAL ATMOSPHERE OF
[01:25:03]
CLIMATE DENIAL AND THE GUTTING OF GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, WILLIAMS TRANSCO HAS REAPPLIED FOR THE NORTHEAST SUPPLY ENHANCEMENT OR NESE PROJECT, A PROJECT THAT HAS BEEN REJECTED AND DENIED SEVERAL TIMES BY BOTH NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY.THE NESE PROJECT PROPOSES CONSTRUCTION OF A GAS POWER COMPRESSOR STATION, THE MOST POLLUTING TYPE IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, NEAR AN ACTIVE QUARRY, AND CLOSE TO 2,000 HOMES, MANY SCHOOLS AND HOUSES OF WORSHIP, 3.5 MILES OF CONNECTING PIPELINE THROUGH OLD BRIDGE, AND 23 MILES OF NEW PIPELINE UNDER THE RARITAN BAY NEW YORK HARBOR.
THE TOXINS EMITTED BY THE COMPRESSOR STATION CREATE MORE AIR AND WATER POLLUTION AND INCREASE THE RISK OF ASTHMA, CARDIOVASCULAR, NEUROLOGICAL, DEVELOPMENTAL, AND RESPIRATORY DISEASES AND CANCER.
SMALL PARTICULAR MATTER TRAVELS HUNDREDS IF NOT THOUSANDS OF MILES, AS WE EXPERIENCED LAST SUMMER FROM THE CANADIAN FIRES AND LATCHES ONTO CARCINOGENS, BRINGING THEM DEEP INTO OUR BODIES.
THE HIGHER PRESSURE AND SPEED OF GAS COMING FROM THE COMPRESSOR STATIONS INCREASE THE RISK OF LEAKS, FIRES, AND EXPLOSIONS.
A PIPELINE UNDER RARITAN BAY NEW YORK HARBOR WILL DREDGE UP TOXINS BURIED FOR DECADES, CAUSING POLLUTION AND RISKS OF INCREASED INLAND AND COASTAL FLOODING AND DESTRUCTION OF CRITICAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS.
THIS PROJECT IS NOT NEEDED AND IT IS NOT IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST FOR RESIDENTS OF NEW JERSEY.
THE COMMUNITIES IN NEW JERSEY WILL SUFFER THE ADVERSE EFFECTS OF PIPELINE LEAKAGE, RISK OF FIRES AND EXPLOSIONS, INCREASED FLOODING, AND INCREASED AIR AND WATER POLLUTION, ADVERSELY IMPACTING HEALTH, WHILE NONE OF THIS GAS IS FOR NEW JERSEY AND IS NOT NEEDED BY NEW YORK.
SO FAR, 15 MUNICIPALITIES, FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP BEING THE FIRST AND ONE COUNTY HAVE TAKEN A STAND AGAINST NESE.
WE ALL WANT TO KEEP OUR COMMUNITY SAFE, WHICH IS WHY I ALSO HAVE TO ASK YOU TO TAKE A STAND AGAINST THE NESE PROJECT, WHICH IS A DANGER TO OUR ENVIRONMENT, TO OUR HEALTH, AND TO OUR SAFETY. THANK YOU.[APPLAUSE].
>> GOOD EVENING, ALL. MY NAME IS CAROL KEENE, AND I RESIDE AT 4291 ROUTE 27 IN THE LITTLE ROCKY HILL SECTION OF FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP.
I AM AN IMPACTED PROPERTY OWNER AS MY LAND BORDERS THE SITE OF PROPOSED COMPRESSOR STATION 206, PART OF NESE.
I AM ALSO AS A BOARD MEMBER SPEAKING ON BEHALF OF THE NEW JERSEY BUDDHIST VIHARA AND MEDITATION CENTER, WHICH IS ALSO AN IMPACTED LAND OWNER.
I AM ALSO A MEMBER OF THE STEERING COMMITTEE OF THE FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP TASK FORCE IN OPPOSITION TO NESE.
AFTER HAVING BEEN DENIED APPROVAL FOR THEIR PROJECT SEVERAL TIMES IN THE PAST BY NEW JERSEY AND NEW YORK, WILLIAMS TRANSCO HAS RESURRECTED AND PROPOSED THE SAME PLANS AGAIN, WHICH INCLUDE A 32,000 HORSEPOWER GAS COMPRESSOR STATION IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, 3.5 MILES OF NEW CONNECTING PIPELINE THROUGH OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP, AND 23 MILES OF NEW PIPELINE UNDER RARITAN BAY TO ROCKAWAY, NEW YORK.
THEY ARE SEEKING APPROVAL ON BOTH THE STATE AND THE FEDERAL LEVELS, AND I'M ASKING THE COMMISSION TO PLEASE PASS A RESOLUTION IN OPPOSITION TO IT.
OUR CONCERNS ARE STILL FOR THE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE OF THE RESIDENTS OF FRANKLIN AND OUR NEIGHBORING AREAS, PARTICULARLY THOSE IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE CS 206 SITE, WHO WOULD BE MOST VULNERABLE TO THE AIR, NOISE, AND WATER POLLUTION.
THE SITE IS SITUATED NEXT TO TRAP ROCK QUARRY, AN ACTIVE MINING OPERATION, WHOSE BLASTING IS OFTEN SO STRONG THAT IT SHAKES MY HOUSE.
ON THE ROUTE 518 SIDE, THERE ARE TWO FARMS AND AN ACTIVE SUPERFUND SITE, WHICH TRANSCO WANTS TO USE AS THEIR DRIVEWAY FOR CONSTRUCTION AND ACCESS TO CS 206.
ON THE OTHER SIDE ROUTE 27, THERE ARE TWO LARGE COMMUNITIES THAT ARE APPROXIMATELY WITHIN 1 MILE AND THEIR PRINCETON MANOR AND PRINCETON WALK.
AS MENTIONED, THE NJ BUDDHIST VIHARA AND MEDITATION CENTERS PROPERTY ABUTS THE CO 206 SITE, AND THEIR MAIN BUILDING IS LESS THAN A QUARTER MILE AWAY FROM WHERE THE COMPRESSOR STATION WOULD BE.
THE NJBV HAS BEEN DECLARED A CULTURAL LANDMARK BY FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, AND AS AN INTERFACE COMMUNITY SPACE, IT PROVIDES IMMENSE PUBLIC VALUE.
HAVING A HAZARDOUS POLLUTING, INDUSTRIAL FACILITY NEXT TO THE VIHARA WOULD BE A BLATANT DISREGARD FOR THE CULTURAL, SPIRITUAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL WELL BEING OF THEIR COMMUNITY WHILE ALSO JEOPARDIZING THE SERENITY AND THE PEACE THAT MANY PEOPLE FIND THERE.
ALL THESE COMMUNITIES WOULD BE AFFECTED BY
[01:30:01]
THE POTENTIAL HAZARDS OF EXPLOSIONS AND THE RISK OF FIRES.ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS INCLUDE NOT ONLY THE WATER, NOISE, AND AIR POLLUTION, BUT ALSO THE DEGRADATION OF FOREST HABITAT, EXCEPTIONAL WETLANDS, AND THE WATER SYSTEM THEY FEED INTO.
CLIMATE CHANGE WILL BE EXACERBATED BY METHANE GAS EMISSIONS FROM THE COMPRESSOR STATION ITSELF AND FROM LEAKING PIPELINES.
FOR ISSUES SUCH AS THESE, WE NEED TO RISE ABOVE POLITICAL CONSIDERATIONS AND JOIN TOGETHER FOR THE GREATER GOOD OF PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITIES FROM THE ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS POSED BY THE NESE PROJECTS PROPOSED COMPRESSOR STATION AND NEW PIPELINES.
FOR THE SAKE OF THE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE OF THE RESIDENTS OF THIS COUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS, WE URGE YOU TO PASS A RESOLUTION OPPOSING NESE.
>> I'M HERE TO SPEAK ABOUT THE WILLIAMS TRANSCO.
>> STEPHEN MITCHELL, I LIVE AT 1 MOUNTAIN AVENUE IN SOMERVILLE, NEW JERSEY.
WILLIAMS TRANSCO HAS PROPOSED TO BUILD OR TO RESTART THEIR APPLICATION, WHICH EXPIRED LAST YEAR.
I BELIEVE SOMERSET COUNTY HAS ALREADY REJECTED THIS PREVIOUSLY IN THE PAST.
BASICALLY, THEY WANT TO RESTART IT.
THEY HAVEN'T REALLY IMPROVED ANY OF THEIR PROPOSALS TO IT.
IN FACT, THEY'RE GOING TO TRY TO GET AROUND NEW JERSEY'S THRESHOLDS ON SOME HAZARDOUS, POLLUTANTS THAT ARE GOING TO BE DISTRIBUTED THROUGH IT, THEY ARE GOING TO TRY TO BUY CREDITS RATHER THAN MODIFY THEIR PROPOSAL.
CURRENTLY, THEIR PROPOSAL EXCEEDS NEW JERSEY'S THRESHOLDS FOR THESE POLLUTANTS SUCH AS ACETYLENE, BENZENE, XYLENE.
ANYWAY, TRANSCO IS GOING TO GET AROUND THE LAW BY PURCHASING THESE CREDITS FROM OTHER BUSINESSES.
THE PIPELINE IS GOING TO BE BUILT, AS HAS ALREADY BEEN MENTIONED, PREDOMINANTLY IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY AND HEADED TOWARDS LONG ISLAND.
THIS IS OUR BIG IMPACT TO SOMERSET COUNTY IS THAT THE COMPRESSOR STATION BEING PROPOSED FOR FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP IS GOING TO EMIT OR IS PROJECTED TO EMIT 141,000 TONS OF CO_2 PER YEAR, 112 TONS OF OTHER AIR POLLUTANTS SUCH AS NITROGEN OXIDE, BENZENE, AND XYLENE, WHICH I WAS REFERRING TO EXCEEDS THE NEW JERSEY THRESHOLDS, AND THAT THEY'RE GOING TO GET AROUND THAT.
THEY'RE GOING TO TRY TO BUY THESE EMCORS OR WHATEVER THEY ARE.
ANYWAY, I REQUEST THAT YOU REJECT THIS PROPOSAL SO THAT NEW JERSEY AND PARTICULARLY SOMERSET COUNTY DOESN'T GET MORE POLLUTED THAN IT ALREADY IS.
>> GOOD EVENING, COMMISSIONERS. I'M CHARLIE CRADAVILL, I'M THE CENTRAL JERSEY ORGANIZER WITH FOOD AND WATER WATCH, AND I'M A RESIDENT IN NEW BRUNSWICK, BUT I'M A PROUD ALUMNUS OF HILLSBORO HIGH SCHOOL, AND I'M REALLY GLAD TO BE HERE IN PERSON FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THIS ROOM.
IT'S GREAT TO SEE YOU ALL UP HERE.
I DO HAVE A DRAFT RESOLUTION I'D LIKE TO APPROACH.
GREAT. YEAH, I CAN'T SAY IT BETTER THAN YOUR CONSTITUENTS DID, BUT THERE'S A REASON THAT I'M HERE TODAY ON BEHALF OF MY ORGANIZATION, SPEAKING TO YOU ON BEHALF OF OUR 72,000 MEMBERS AROUND THE STATE.
WE EXIST TO PROTECT PEOPLE'S FOOD AND WATER FROM CORPORATIONS THAT THREATEN IT, AND INCREASINGLY, OVER THE YEARS, THE BIGGEST THREAT TO FOOD AND WATER IS THE CLIMATE CRISIS.
WE NEED TO STOP BUILDING FOSSIL FUEL INFRASTRUCTURE.
EVERY TIME WE BUILD MORE FOSSIL FUEL INFRASTRUCTURE, IT MEANS MORE DRILLING, MORE POLLUTION, AND ULTIMATELY IT MEANS IT'S GOING TO GET BURNED IN THE END AND LEAD TO THOSE POLLUTANTS THAT MY FRIENDS HERE WERE TALKING ABOUT.
THIS PROJECT DOES NOTHING GOOD FOR SOMERSET COUNTY.
THERE'S A REASON THAT HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE CAME OUT TO A RALLY ON SHORT NOTICE RECENTLY IN THE AREA.
THEY DON'T WANT A COMPRESSOR STATION NEAR THEM.
IF YOU LOOK AT THE TRACK RECORD OF THIS COMPANY, WILLIAMS, THEIR FACILITIES HAVE INJURED MORE THAN 100 PEOPLE AND CAUSED LOSS OF LIFE, AS WELL.
[01:35:06]
I THINK THAT THE POWER THAT IS DEMONSTRATED BY THESE RESOLUTIONS IS BEING HEARD.OF COURSE, I'VE COME TO YOU BEFORE.
I THINK I TALKED TO YOU THROUGH THE PHONE, AND YOU DID THE RIGHT THING, AND YOU SUPPORTED US IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY OPPOSING THE WOODBRIDGE GAS PLANT, AND TOGETHER, WE WERE ABLE TO DEFEAT THAT PROJECT AND STOP THAT FROM HAPPENING.
YOUR OWN CONSTITUENTS NEED YOU NOW TO STAND UP, PASS A MUNICIPAL RESOLUTION.
WE TOOK THE LIBERTY OF DRAFTING ONE.
WE'RE WORKING IN A COALITION WITH OVER 100 GROUPS, INCLUDING ALL THE LEADING ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS, FOOD AND WATER WATCH, LEAGUE OF CONSERVATION VOTERS, SIERRA CLUB, WE'RE ALL UNITED ON THIS BECAUSE WE KNOW THAT THE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM IS CLEAR, THE SCIENCE IS CLEAR.
WE CANNOT SURVIVE AS A SPECIES IF WE CONTINUE DOWN THIS ROAD, AND WE NEED TO STOP NOW.
UNFORTUNATELY, WITH CHANGES AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL, THIS CORPORATION THINKS THEY CAN RUSH THIS THROUGH.
THEY THINK THEY CAN FORCE THIS THROUGH, AND THERE IS A LOT OF URGENCY AROUND THIS.
THAT'S WHY I'M HERE TODAY TO SPEAK TO YOU.
I WAS GOING TO ASK, WOULD THE COMMISSIONERS CONSIDER PASSING THIS RESOLUTION TODAY? WELL, I JUST WANTED TO GET THE ANSWER TO THAT QUESTION, AND I'LL JUST SPEAK TO THE URGENCY.
>> WE'VE PASSED A RESOLUTION IN THE PAST.
WE DON'T MAKE A HABIT OF PASSING CEREMONIOUS RESOLUTIONS.
WE ARE, AND HAVE ASKED THE REQUEST TO SEND UP COMMENTS, SO WE JUST NEED TO DO A FOLLOW UP TO SEE IF OUR COMMENTS HAVE BEEN SUBMITTED.
>> WELL, I THINK THAT PASSING A RESOLUTION AND SENDING IT TO THE GOVERNOR TO THE DEP AND TO YOUR STATE AND FEDERAL REPS WOULD GO A LONG WAY, A LOT MORE THAN JUST A COMMENT ON THE DEP DOCKET WOULD.
I THINK THAT THE TIMING WOULD BE GREAT FOR YOUR NEXT MEETING BECAUSE AS YOU MAY KNOW, THERE'S A PUBLIC HEARING COMING UP.
THE ONE AND ONLY PUBLIC HEARING THAT THE DEP IS HOLDING IS GOING TO BE THE EVENING OF SEPTEMBER 10TH.
I ENCOURAGE ANYBODY WATCHING WHO DOESN'T WANT THIS TO SPEAK UP AND RAISE YOUR VOICE THAT EVENING AT 6:00- 9:00 P.M.
IF YOU JUST GOOGLE DEP, NESE AND ESE.
YOU COULD PROBABLY FIND HOW TO JOIN THAT HEARING.
BUT I REALLY TRULY HOPE AS A FORMER RESIDENT OF THIS COUNTY THAT YOU WILL PASS ANOTHER RESOLUTION ON SEPTEMBER 9TH, JUST ONE DAY BEFORE THAT REALLY IMPORTANT HEARING AND MAKE IT CLEAR THAT THE ELECTED OFFICIALS ARE WILLING TO DO EVERYTHING THAT YOU CAN WITH YOUR POWER TO PROTECT YOUR RESIDENTS.
I'LL FOLLOW UP IN THE WEEKS BETWEEN NOW AND THEN.
BUT I REALLY HOPE THAT YOU'LL REVIEW THIS LANGUAGE AND PUT IT ON YOUR NEXT AGENDA BECAUSE I THINK THAT'S SOMETHING THAT YOUR RESIDENTS REALLY DESERVE.
I FOR ONE, AS A FORMER RESIDENT, I'M IMPLORING YOU TO DO THAT, AND SO OUR MEMBERS AROUND THE STATE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME.
>> WHAT PERMITS ARE FOR DEP RIGHT NOW?
>> I BELIEVE IT'S WATER QUALITY.
>> 401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATE?
>> [INAUDIBLE] ARE THE ONCE WHO HAVE IT.
>> THEY'RE COMING UP A SECOND TIME.
HE STILL HAS ABOUT A MINUTE LEFT ON HIS IS TIME. [INAUDIBLE].
>> YES. THERE'S ALSO AN AIR PERMIT.
>> AIR QUALITY PERMIT, AND 401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATE.
>> YEAH. 401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATION, OF COURSE, NEW YORK DENIED IT LAST TIME, AND NEW JERSEY FOLLOWED SUIT.
BUT THIS TIME, THERE'S NO GUARANTEES THAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN.
WE REALLY NEED EVERYBODY TO JOIN UP AND UNITE.
THIS IS SOMETHING WE CAN AGREE ON.
NO NEW FOSSIL FUEL INFRASTRUCTURE, AND ESPECIALLY NO DANGEROUS LAND USES HERE IN SOMERSET COUNTY. THANKS FOR YOUR QUESTION.
>> ALL RIGHT.
* This transcript was compiled from uncorrected Closed Captioning.