Hackettstown, New Jersey

Land Use Board

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hackettstown Preservation Commission will meet to approve minutes from the June 18, 2026 meeting. The body will also review an application regarding a porch at 633-635 Washington Street.

• H26-08: Ty & Jessica Apgar application for porch at 633-635 Washington Street

Parking Authority

The Hackettstown Parking Authority will consider approving the May and June meeting minutes and the Treasurer's reports for those months. The board will discuss a proposed increase and receive an update on a lease. A key agenda item is the meter upgrade. The meeting will also set the date for the next session.

• Approve May & June meeting minutes
• Approve May & June Treasurer reports
• Discussion on increase
• Update on lease
• Meter upgrade

Mayor & Town Council

The Mayor and Town Council will hold public hearings and final adoptions for three ordinances concerning affordable housing obligations and dog restrictions on public walkways. The body will also consider several resolutions related to housing administration and infrastructure grants.

• Ordinance #2026-08 and #2026-09 regarding Development Fees and Affordable Housing Provisions
• Ordinance #2026-07 repealing section 6-10(c) regarding dogs on certain public walkways
• Resolution #2026-54 for NJDOT grant application for Grand Avenue Improvement Project Phase III
• Motion to authorize Colliers Engineering for NJDOT grant for Bells Lane pedestrian and drainage improvements
• Resolution #2026-55 extending the grace period for 2026 3rd quarter property taxes

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will consider routine items including approval of the June 15, 2026 regular minutes, a treasurer’s report for fiscal year 2025, and approval of bills for payment. It will also hear a report from the recreation director and committee reports on building and grounds, personnel, pool, and sports. Public comments and other business are also scheduled.

• Approval of June 15, 2026 regular minutes
• Treasurer’s report for fiscal year 2025 (budget balances)
• Approval of bills for payment (see attached)
• Recreation Director’s report
• Committee reports: building and grounds, personnel, pool, sports

Land Use Board

The Land Use Board will consider several development applications and variances, and will hold a public hearing on the Master Plan Housing Element and Fair Share Plan amendment. The board will also approve the minutes from the May 26, 2026 meeting and receive reports from the financial committee.

• Extension of Resolution Approval for House of the Good Shepherd, Inc. at 798 Willow Grove St & 3 Parke Ave (Application #2023-14)
• Bulk variance request for 311 Cook St (Application #2026-08)
• Public hearing on Master Plan Housing Element & Fair Share Plan amendment
• Minor subdivision and site plan review for 273‑285 Main St (Application #2025-14)
• Bulk variance request for 505 Warren St (Application #2026-05)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hackettstown Historic Preservation Commission will hold a regular meeting on June 18, 2026. The agenda includes a flag salute, Sunshine Act compliance, roll call, and approval of the March 19, 2026 meeting minutes. The commission may also consider any old or new business items brought forward, but no specific actions are listed.

• Flag salute
• Sunshine Act compliance
• Roll call of commission members
• Approval of March 19, 2026 regular meeting minutes
• Discussion of any old or new business items

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes from May 4, 2026, and review the 2025 treasurer's report. The body will also consider bills for payment and receive reports from the Recreation Director and various committees.

• Approval of May 4, 2026 Regular Minutes
• Review of 2025 Treasurer’s Report including salaries, operating expenses, and pool accounts
• Approval of bills for payment
• Reports from Building and Grounds, Personnel, Pool, and Sports committees

The Hackettstown Recreation Commission approved the minutes of the May 4 meeting and a series of expense bills. It authorized several part‑time hires, approved donations for the Tiger Football and Cheerleading programs, and granted a special event license for an American Legion Memorial 5K. All motions passed with either unanimous support or noted abstentions.

• Approved minutes of the May 4, 2026 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved listed expense bills (all in favor)
• Approved motion allowing Chodowicz to contact a parent about swim team participation (all in favor)
• Approved hiring of Ryan Tatarka ($19.50/hr) and Nick Patterson ($16.00/hr) as part‑time summer help (all in favor; Frank Galka abstained)
• Approved hiring of Payton Baryiewski (lifeguard $16.00/hr), McKensie Mandick (cashier $16.00/hr), and Saskia Castelomendes (Assistant Manager $20.00/hr) (all in favor; John Mandick abstained)
• Approved Tiger Football donation of $7,000.00 and Tiger Cheerleading donation of $2,000.00 (all in favor)
• Approved special event license for American Legion Memorial 5K at Riverfront Park on September 12, 2026 (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:18 PM (all in favor)

Mayor & Town Council

The Hackettstown Town Council will consider a $153,200 appropriation for various capital projects, adopt several ordinances affecting dogs on walkways and affordable‑housing fees, and approve liquor‑license renewals and a curb‑sidewalk resurfacing contract. Additional items include police recognitions, audit certifications, and several purchase order and special‑event license approvals.

• Ordinance #2026-06: Appropriation of $153,200 for capital improvements
• Ordinance #2026-07: Repeal of section 6-10(c) on dogs on certain public walkways
• Ordinance #2026-08 and #2026-09: Amendments to development fees and affordable‑housing provisions to meet FHA and UHAC requirements
• Resolution #2026-46: Approval of ten 2026/2027 ABC liquor license renewals
• Resolution #2026-49: Contract award for curb, sidewalk, pavement resurfacing on Madison Street (Phases I & II)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes from May 4, 2026, and review the 2025 treasurer's report. The body will also consider bills for payment and receive reports from the Recreation Director and various committees.

• Approval of May 4, 2026 Regular Minutes
• Review of 2025 Treasurer’s Report
• Approval of bills for payment
• Reports from Building and Grounds, Personnel, Pool, and Sports committees

Parking Authority

The Parking Authority will meet to approve May minutes and treasurer reports. The body will discuss a potential increase and provide an update on a lease.

• Discussion on increase
• Update on Lease

Land Use Board

The Land Use Board will consider several development applications and variances, including an extension of time for the House of the Good Shepherd project at 798 Willow Grove Street and 3 Parke Avenue. The board will also act on use and bulk variances for properties on Willow Grove Street, Sharp Street, Main Street, and other locations. A public hearing will be held for a minor subdivision and site plan on Main Street. Standard agenda items such as minutes approval, swearing‑in of new members, and committee reports are also scheduled.

• Extension of time for House of the Good Shepherd (HOTGS) – 798 Willow Grove St & 3 Parke Ave – preliminary/final major site plan and use/bulk variances
• Application #26-03 – Rizzo’s Wildlife Discovery – 999 Willow Grove St – B44, L3.03 – interpretation/use variance
• Application #26-01 – Kyle Brown – 209 Sharp St – B67, L4 – Section 68 use variance
• Application #2026-02 – 206 Main St. Properties, LLC – 206 Main St – B76, L5 – use variance/bulk variance
• Application #25-14 – Rugel Dream Properties, LLC – 273‑275 & 281‑285 Main St – B72, L17‑18 – minor subdivision and preliminary/final major site plan

Mayor & Town Council

The Hackettstown Mayor and Town Council will approve minutes from April meetings, hold a public hearing to adopt the 2026 municipal budget, and consider several ordinances and resolutions. Items include a fee amendment for non‑conforming use certifications and a $153,200 appropriation for capital improvements. Additional actions involve appointing a new police officer, authorizing an easement, and approving various licensing and purchase motions.

• Public hearing and final adoption of the 2026 Municipal Budget
• Ordinance 2026-06 appropriating $153,200 for capital improvements
• Ordinance 2026-05 amending fees for non‑conforming use certifications
• Resolution #2026-44 appointing Jack Carroll as Police Officer at $66,171.35 salary
• Motion to approve purchase order for DPW lawn mower over $7,500

The Council approved the 2026 municipal budget after a public hearing. It also adopted ordinance #2026-05 to amend land‑development fees and introduced ordinance #2026-06 appropriating $153,200 for capital improvements. Additional actions included setting 2026 employee salaries, granting a temporary easement for stormwater repairs, hiring a new police officer, purchasing a lawn mower, and approving a $4.15 million check register.

• Adopted 2026 municipal budget (6-0)
• Adopted ordinance #2026-05 amending land‑development fees (4-1-1)
• Introduced ordinance #2026-06 appropriating $153,200 for capital improvements (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2026-42 setting 2026 employee salaries (6-0)
• Approved Resolution #2026-43 temporary easement for stormwater pipe repair (6-0)
• Approved hiring of Police Officer Jack Carroll (6-0)
• Approved purchase order for lawn mower $11,100.96 (6-0)
• Approved check register #2026-07 for $4,154,752.95 (6-0)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will consider routine items including approval of the April 6, 2026 meeting minutes, a Treasurer’s Report for fiscal year 2025, and payment of pending bills. The commission will also hear the Recreation Director’s report and reports from the Building and Grounds, Personnel, Pool, and Sports committees. No new contracts, ordinances, or policy changes are listed.

• Approval of April 6, 2026 regular minutes
• Treasurer’s Report for fiscal year 2025
• Approval of bills for payment (see attached)
• Recreation Director’s report
• Committee reports: Building and Grounds, Personnel, Pool, Sports

The commission approved the minutes from the April 6 meeting and several expense bills, including pool service and supplies. It also approved new pool staff positions and their salaries. The commission confirmed that the recreation website registration page will launch on June 1, 2026.

• Approved April 6, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills for Comcast pool service ($233.86), hood cleaning ($350.00), pool chemicals ($2,639.10), water delivery ($148.35), and pool supplies ($627.43) (unanimous)
• Approved new pool employee hires and salaries (unanimous)
• Confirmed recreation website registration page will go live June 1, 2026 (informational)
• Reported installation of swing set and upcoming mulch work (informational)
• Reported replacement of two aerial lights at Tannery Field (informational)
• Reported dedication of Ray Keitres memorial bench on June 12, 2026 (informational)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:52 PM (unanimous)

Land Use Board

The Land Use Board will hold public hearings on site plans and variances for several properties, including Main Street and Sharp Street. The board will also consider resolution approvals for Czig Meister Brewing Company and a property on Valley View Avenue.

• Public hearing for Rugel Dream Properties, LLC at 273-275 and 281-285 Main Street regarding a minor subdivision and site plan
• Interpretation/Use Variance for Rizzo’s Wildlife Discovery at 999 Willow Grove Street
• Resolution approval extension for Czig Meister Brewing Company, LLC at 106 Valentin Street
• Use Variance resolution for Animesh Bhattacharya at 113 Valley View Avenue
• Public hearings for variances at 209 Sharp Street and 206 Main Street

The Land Use Board voted to find the Rizzo’s Wildlife Discovery interpretation conforms with the ordinance, permitting the facility to house wildlife for educational programs. The board also approved a time‑extension for Czig Meister Brewing and a Section 68 use variance for Animesh Bhattacharya. Applications for Jeff Devine and for L. Moises & R. Cajamara were each deemed incomplete. The minutes of the March 24 meeting were approved.

• Approved Rizzo’s Wildlife Discovery interpretation (9‑0‑0)
• Approved Czig Meister Brewing time‑extension (9‑0‑1 abstention)
• Approved Animesh Bhattacharya Section 68 use variance (8‑0‑2 abstentions)
• Deemed Jeff Devine bulk variance application incomplete (9‑0‑1 abstention)
• Deemed L. Moises & R. Cajamara application incomplete (9‑0‑1 abstention)
• Approved minutes of March 24, 2026 meeting (8‑0‑3 abstentions)

Mayor & Town Council

The council will consider a motion to request a moratorium on road work on Grand Avenue at College View Drive for Elizabethtown Gas. They will also discuss and possibly act on an amendment to fees for non‑conforming use certifications, health‑insurance fund matters, and several licensing permits, including taxi driver and owner licenses and NJ ABC permits for Czig Meister Brewing. Additional items include a special event license for live music in the brewery's biergarten and a permit for the Pinelands Youth Sports Association.

• Motion to request a road moratorium on Grand Ave (at College View Dr) for Elizabethtown Gas
• Ordinance 2026-05 to amend fees in Section 901 A4(f) of the Land Development Ordinance
• Approval of NJ ABC permits for Czig Meister Brewing (temporary extension and renewal)
• Approval of taxi driver licenses (M. Allardice, D. Allardice) and taxi owner license for Tia’s Taxi and Limo LLC
• Approval of permit application for Social Affair (Pinelands Youth Sports Association)

The council approved several permits, taxi licenses, and a road‑work moratorium lift. It also voted to leave the NJ State Health Benefits Plan and join the NJ Solutions Health Insurance Fund. The check register payment of $3,455,632.92 was approved.

• Approved $3,455,632.92 check register payment (4‑0)
• Approved lift of Grand Avenue road moratorium for gas work, contingent on restoration (4‑0)
• Approved joining NJ Solutions Health Insurance Fund (4‑1)
• Approved taxi driver licenses for Martha and Derek Allardice through May 1 2027 (4‑0)
• Approved taxi cab owner license for Tia’s Taxi & Limo, LLC (4‑0)
• Approved NJ ABC temporary extension permit for Czig Meister Brewing festival (4‑0)
• Approved permit for Social Affair event for Pinelands Youth Sports Association (4‑0)
• Approved NJ ABC permit renewal for Czig Meister Brewing (3‑0)

Mayor & Town Council

The Hackettstown Town Council will approve the minutes from the March 12 meeting and adopt two ordinances, one funding Liberty Street improvements and another setting salaries and benefits for certain town officers and employees. Several resolutions will be adopted, including re‑appointing the tax assessor, hiring NJ‑eCode 360 to codify the town code, increasing the bid threshold, extending the temporary budget, and introducing the 2026 municipal budget. The council will also consider motions to approve various raffle, special event, and temporary permit licenses.

• Ordinance 2026-03: appropriates $310,000 for Liberty Street Improvements
• Ordinance 2026-04: fixes salary and other benefits of certain officers and employees
• Resolution #2026-35: authorizes engagement of NJ‑eCode 360 for codification and online publication of the Town Code and Land Development Ordinances
• Resolution #2026-38: increases the bid threshold
• Resolution #2026-40: introduces the 2026 Municipal budget

The Hackettstown Mayor and Common Council adopted the 2026 municipal budget and approved several ordinances, including a $310,000 appropriation for Liberty Street improvements and an amendment to employee salary benefits. They re‑appointed Jason Cohen as Tax Assessor, engaged NJ‑eCode 360 to codify the town code, and appointed Darren Tynan as Emergency Management Coordinator. The Council also adopted an updated Personnel Procedures Manual and raised the procurement bid and quote thresholds.

• Adopted ordinance #2026-03 appropriating $310,000 for Liberty Street improvements (Yes – Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Adopted ordinance #2026-04 amending salary and benefits ordinance (Yes – Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Re‑appointed Jason Cohen as Tax Assessor (Yes – Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Authorized engagement of NJ‑eCode 360 for code codification and online publication (Yes – Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Appointed Darren Tynan as OEM Coordinator and Aaron Perkins as Deputy OEM Coordinator (Yes – Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Adopted updated Personnel Procedures Manual (Yes – Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Increased bid threshold to $53,000 and formal quote threshold to $7,950 (Yes – Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Adopted the 2026 municipal budget (Yes – Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)

Recreation Commission

The Hackettstown Recreation Commission will review and vote on the minutes from the March 2, 2026 meeting. It will receive the Treasurer’s 2025 financial report and consider bills for payment. The Recreation Director will give a report and the commission’s committees will present updates on building and grounds, pool, and sports. The agenda also includes public comments and routine procedural items.

• Approval of March 2, 2026 regular minutes
• Treasurer’s 2025 report (budget balances and expenditures)
• Approval of bills for payment
• Recreation Director’s report
• Committee reports: Building and Grounds, Personnel, Pool, Sports

The Hackettstown Recreation Commission approved the March 2 meeting minutes and the submitted bills. It also approved rates for junior softball umpires, soccer clinics, pool staff salaries, summer help hires, a $100 hockey donation, and special event licenses for a Fun Color Run and a 5K race. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved minutes of the March 2, 2026 meeting (all in favor)
• Approved the bills as submitted (all in favor)
• Approved junior softball umpire rate of $45.00 per game (all in favor)
• Approved two to four soccer clinics and one coach clinic at $600 per clinic (all in favor)
• Approved pool staff salary schedule (all in favor)
• Approved hiring Liam Burke at $20.50/hr and Ryan Tatarka at $19.00/hr (all in favor)
• Approved MOHOHA Hockey donation of $100.00 (all in favor)
• Approved special event licenses for Tiger Cheer Fun Color Run (July 25) and Smiles for Margaret 5K (Nov 28) (all in favor)

Parking Authority

The Hackettstown Parking Authority will consider and vote on approval of the March meeting minutes and the March treasurer’s report. It will also discuss preparation for the April 9 Council meeting and receive an update on its lease and the Park Mobile program. An executive session is scheduled before adjournment.

• Approval of March meeting minutes
• Approval of March treasurer report
• Preparation for April 9 Council meeting
• Update on lease and Park Mobile program
• Executive session

Land Use Board

The Land Use Board will conduct public hearings for several variance and subdivision requests. The board will also review site plans and address interpretation and variance applications for local businesses.

• Public hearing: 206 Main Street (206 Main St. Properties, LLC) for Use and Bulk Variance
• Public hearing: 273-275 and 281-285 Main Street (Rugel Dream Properties, LLC) for Minor Subdivision and Site Plan
• Interpretation/Use Variance: Rizzo’s Wildlife Discovery at 999 Willow Grove Street
• Resolutions for Plane Street Properties (108-116 East Plane Street) and Advanced Cardiology, LLC (687 Willow Grove Street)
• Site plan review for PEACE NJ – Douglas A. Blake Memorial Field Complex

The Land Use Board approved a retroactive two‑year extension for Meister Brewing Company through April 25, 2027. It also approved site‑plan and bulk‑variance resolutions for Plane Street Properties and Advanced Cardiology, LLC, and approved a Section 68 amendment for Animesh Bhattacharya. The Jeff Devine application was deemed incomplete, and the Rizzo’s Wildlife Discovery application was postponed to the April 28, 2028 agenda.

• Approved two‑year extension for Meister Brewing Co. (unanimous)
• Approved Plane Street Properties site‑plan/bulk variance (5‑2)
• Approved Advanced Cardiology, LLC site‑plan/bulk variance (4‑0‑3 abstain)
• Approved Section 68 amendment for 113 West Valley View Ave (6‑0)
• Deemed Jeff Devine application incomplete (7‑0)
• Postponed Rizzo’s Wildlife Discovery application to April 28, 2028 (no action)
• Carried Kyle Brown Section 68 application to April 28, 2026 (no action)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hackettstown Preservation Commission will meet to approve minutes from February 19, 2026, and consider sign permit applications for 130 Main Street and 137 Main Street.

• Approval of February 19, 2026 regular meeting minutes
• Sign permit for 130 Main Street (Mythicos)
• Sign permit for 137 Main Street (Pulse Pilates Studio)

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the February 19, 2026 meeting. It also approved a hanging vinyl sign for 130 Main Street (Nelson Martinez) and a vinyl sign on the railing at 237 Main Street (Courtney Harrison). The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved February 19, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved hanging 3 ft × 3 ft vinyl composite sign at 130 Main Street for Nelson Martinez (unanimous)
• Approved vinyl sign on railing at 237 Main Street for Courtney Harrison (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:23 PM (unanimous)

Mayor & Town Council

The Hackettstown Mayor and Town Council will approve minutes from recent meetings, consider several ordinances—including a $310,000 appropriation for Liberty Street improvements and new parking spaces on Church Street—and adopt resolutions on personnel appointments, tax refunds, and grant authorizations. They will also vote on motions for a $7,500 Riverfront Swing Set purchase and a May 17 block party on Ashley Avenue.

• Ordinance 2026-03 appropriating $310,000 for Liberty Street Improvements
• Ordinance 2026-02 establishing three new parking spaces on Church Street for library use
• Resolution #2026-28 appointing Mary Matusewicz as Landlord Registration Clerk at $7,500 pay
• Motion to approve Purchase Order over $7,500 for Riverfront Swing Set
• Motion to approve a block party on May 17, 2026 on Ashley Avenue between Cook Street and Hurley Drive

The Hackettstown Common Council approved the minutes of prior meetings and adopted several ordinances, including a $310,000 appropriation for Liberty Street improvements. It also granted a tax exemption and refund to a disabled veteran, appointed a new Landlord Registration Clerk, extended a temporary CFO appointment, approved a $3,605 substance‑use grant, and set payroll overpayment recoveries. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved minutes of Feb. 9, 2026 special meeting (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Feb. 12, 2026 regular meeting (5-0)
• Adopted ordinance creating three library parking spaces on Church Street (5-0)
• Approved $310,000 appropriation for Liberty Street improvements (5-0)
• Approved tax exemption and $1,439.52 refund for disabled veteran Eric Symonds (5-0)
• Approved $125 refund to Ashley Garden Apartments for overbilled registration fees (5-0)
• Appointed Mary Matusewicz as Landlord Registration Clerk at $7,500 annual salary (5-0)
• Extended Karolina Rodrigues as Temporary CFO/Qualified Purchasing Agent for a second year at $90,000 salary (5-0)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes from February 2, 2026, and review the 2025 treasurer's report. The body will also consider bills for payment and receive reports from the Recreation Director and various committees.

• Approval of February 2, 2026 Regular Minutes
• Review of 2025 Treasurer’s Report including Salaries, Operating and Expenses, Special Account, and Pool Account
• Approval of bills for payment
• Reports from Building and Grounds, Personnel, Pool, and Sports committees

The Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the February 2 meeting. It authorized weekly use of Alumni Field by T-3 Academy for travel soccer practices. It granted special event licenses to Catholic Charities for a June 24 field trip and to the Special Olympics for an April 26 event at the pool field. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved February 2 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved use of Alumni Field once a week by T-3 Academy for travel soccer practices (unanimous)
• Approved special event license for Catholic Charities field trip at Riverfront Park on June 24, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved special event license for Special Olympics at Pool Field on April 26, 2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:57 PM (unanimous)

Parking Authority

The Authority will consider moving operations to the Community Center and review bid requests. It will hear a request from the NYE committee and discuss personnel matters. An update on the Authority’s lease and the Park Mobile system will be provided.

• Consider relocation of Authority operations to the Community Center
• Review bid requests
• Consider request from NYE committee
• Discuss personnel matters
• Update on lease agreement and Park Mobile system

Land Use Board

The Hackettstown Land Use Board will vote on a resolution to adopt notice procedures required by New Jersey P.L. 2025, Chapter 72 and to establish ongoing monitoring for applicants. The board will also review several bulk and use variance applications for properties on Mountain Avenue, Main Street, Sharp Street, East Plane Street, and Willow Grove Street. Additional agenda items include routine approval of minutes, a financial committee report, and public comment.

• Resolution to implement notice requirements pursuant to NJ P.L. 2025, Chapter 72
• Bulk and use variance applications for 101 Mountain Ave & 110 Mill St (B120, L 1 & 3)
• Bulk and use variance applications for 115‑127 Mountain Ave (B120, L 4.01, 12‑21)
• Use and bulk variance for 206 Main St (B76, L5)
• Public hearing on variance for 209 Sharp St (B67, L4, Section 68)

The Land Use Board approved the minutes from the January meeting and adopted a resolution on notice requirements. It approved two bulk variance applications for Parmiderjeet Sandhu, deemed the 206 Main Street application complete, required a re‑notice for the Rugel Dream Properties project, and approved the parking setback and parking space variances for Plane Street Properties with conditions.

• Approved minutes of Jan 27, 2026 meeting (in favor: Moore, Wolfrum, Stead, DeAngelis, Gaertner; abstained: Lambo, Camporini)
• Approved resolution to implement notice requirements (in favor: Moore, Lambo, Wolfrum, Camporini, Stead, DeAngelis, Gaertner)
• Approved Application #25-10 for GMS Gas Corp (in favor: Moore, Wolfrum, Stead; abstained: Lambo, Camporini)
• Approved Application #25-11 for S&S Real Estate (in favor: Moore, Wolfrum, Stead; abstained: Lambo, Camporini)
• Deemed Application #26-02 (206 Main St.) complete (in favor: Moore, Wolfrum, Camporini, Stead, DeAngelis, Gaertner; abstained: Lambo)
• Required re‑notice for Application #25-14 (Rugel Dream Properties) (in favor: Moore, Lambo, Wolfrum, Camporini, Stead, DeAngelis, Gaertner)
• Carried Application #26-01 (Plane Street Properties) to the March 24, 2026 meeting
• Approved parking setback and parking space variances for Application #26-01 with conditions (in favor: Moore, Lambo, Wolfrum, Camporini, Stead, DeAngelis, Gaertner)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Hackettstown Historic Preservation Commission will meet to approve the January 15, 2026 meeting minutes and to discuss the H26-03 Jordan Race project, which proposes replacing an attic window with an entry door, landing, stairs, and railings at 200‑204 Main Street. The agenda also includes a flag salute, Sunshine Act compliance, roll call, and any other old or new business items that may be presented.

• Approval of January 15, 2026 regular meeting minutes
• H26-03 Jordan Race – replace attic window with entry door, landing, stairs, and railings at 200‑204 Main Street
• Flag salute
• Sunshine Act compliance
• Discussion of any other old or new business items

The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the minutes of its regular meeting held on January 15, 2026. The commission also unanimously approved Application #26-03 submitted by Jordan Race to replace an upper window with a fiberglass door, add a black metal landing and stairs, and install a gas manifold on the parking lot side. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:46 PM.

• Approved minutes of the Jan 15, 2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Application #26-03 for Jordan Race to replace window with door, add landing, stairs, and gas manifold (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:46 PM (unanimous)

Mayor & Town Council

The Hackettstown Mayor and Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the final adoption of Ordinance 2026-01, the Cap Bank Ordinance. They will also consider Ordinance 2026-02, which amends the town code to create three new library‑designated parking spaces on Church Street. Additional items include a resolution to redeem a tax‑lien certificate and several motions to approve event and permit applications.

• Public hearing and final adoption of Ordinance 2026-01, Cap Bank Ordinance
• Ordinance 2026-02 amending Chapter 13 to add three library parking spaces on Church Street
• Resolution #2026-24 authorizing redemption of tax lien certificate #24-00158
• Resolution #2026-25 appointing Gregory Gaertner to the Warren Heritage Scenic Byway Committee
• Motions to approve various permits and licenses, including a temporary ABC permit for Czig Meister Brewing (Stoutfest) and raffle licenses RL#1344‑RL#1348

The council adopted Ordinance #2026-01 to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank. It also approved Ordinance #2026-02 creating three new library parking spaces on Church Street. Several resolutions and permits were approved, including a $63,659.94 payment, the appointment of a scenic byway representative, and a $2,539,813.85 check register. All actions were approved unanimously (4‑0).

• Approved Ordinance #2026-01 (budget cap) (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance #2026-02 (three new library parking spaces) (4-0)
• Approved Resolution #2026-24 to issue a $63,659.94 check (4-0)
• Approved Resolution #2026-25 appointing Gregory Gaertner to the Warren Heritage Scenic Byway Committee (4-0)
• Approved NJ ABC Permit for Czig Meister Brewery Stout Festival (4-0)
• Approved raffle licenses #1344‑#1348 for various organizations (4-0)
• Approved amended special event license for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade (4-0)
• Approved check register #2026-02 for $2,539,813.85 (4-0)

Mayor & Town Council

The Town Council will hold a special meeting to take formal action on one resolution. The meeting focuses on a member appointment for the local utilities authority.

• Resolution #2026-23: Reappointing William Kuster to the Town of Hackettstown Municipal Utilities Authority for a five-year term expiring February 1, 2031

The council adopted Resolution #2026-23 reappointing William Kuster to the Town of Hackettstown Municipal Utilities Authority for a five‑year term ending February 1 2031. The resolution was approved by a vote of Councilpersons Becker, Engelau, Kunz and Lambo. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Reappointed William Kuster to Municipal Utilities Authority (approved, 4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (approved, 4-0)

Parking Authority

Recreation Commission

The Hackettstown Recreation Commission will approve the January 5, 2026 regular meeting minutes. It will review the Treasurer’s report on budget balances and approve bills for payment. The meeting will also include the Recreation Director’s report and updates from the Building and Grounds, Personnel, Pool, and Sports committees.

• Approval of January 5, 2026 regular meeting minutes
• Treasurer’s report on budget balances (salaries, operating expenses, special account, pool account)
• Approval of bills for payment (see attached)
• Recreation Director’s report
• Committee reports: Building and Grounds, Personnel, Pool, Sports

The Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the January 5 meeting and several routine bills. It also approved a golf clinic at $90 per golfer, the 2026 pool season dates and rates, and a $16,500 purchase of swing sets for Riverfront Park. Additionally, the commission granted special event licenses for an American Legion craft show, car show, and a Hackettstown BID community day.

• Approved Jan. 5, 2026 minutes (6‑0‑1)
• Approved routine bills as submitted (7‑0‑0)
• Approved purchase of screws/washers/shims $4.86 (7‑0‑0)
• Approved golf clinic $90 per golfer, five sessions starting Apr 2026 (7‑0‑0)
• Approved 2026 pool season dates and rates (7‑0‑0)
• Approved purchase of swing sets $16,500 from Ben Schaffer Recreation (7‑0‑0)
• Approved special event licenses for craft show, car show, and community day (7‑0‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (7‑0‑0)

Land Use Board

The Land Use Board will approve contracts for professional engineering and planning services. It will adopt a schedule of future meeting dates for 2025‑2026. The board will consider several applications for variances, site plans, and subdivisions, such as a use variance for 115 Maple Avenue and a major site plan for 108 High Street.

• Approve contracts for professional engineering and planning services
• Adopt scheduled meeting dates for 2025‑2026
• Review Application #25-14 – Nmorales, LLC – 115 Maple Avenue – Use Variance
• Review Application #25-19 – High Times, LLC – 108 High Street – Preliminary/Final Major Site Plan and Bulk Variance
• Public hearing on Application #2025-02 – Plane Street Properties – 108‑116 East Plane Street – Minor Site Plan/Bulk Variance

The Land Use Board appointed a new chair, vice‑chair, clerk and professional staff, and adopted meeting dates and official newspapers for 2026. It approved three development variances and found a fourth application complete, carrying its notice to the February meeting. All actions were approved by vote with no opposition.

• Appointed Robert Moore as Chairperson (10‑0‑0)
• Appointed Steven Stead as Vice Chairperson (10‑0‑0)
• Appointed Mary Matusewicz as Clerk (10‑0‑0)
• Appointed Board Engineer, Planner and Attorney (10‑0‑0)
• Adopted official 2026 meeting dates and times (10‑0‑0)
• Designated Daily Record and NJ Herald as official newspapers (10‑0‑0)
• Approved three development variances (total 25‑0‑5 across applications #2025-14, #2025-19, #2025-13)
• Deemed Rugel Dream Properties application complete and carried notice (10‑0‑0)

Mayor & Town Council

The Mayor and Town Council will consider authorizing the Land Use Board to investigate if a specific area is in need of redevelopment. The body will also vote on personnel hiring and various project payments.

• Hiring Laura Chinchilla as part-time Police Clerk at $19.32 per hour
• Authorization for Land Use Board to investigate an area in need of redevelopment
• Change order and final payment for Catwalks Improvement Project (Messercola Excavating Company)
• Purchase Order over $7,500.00 for Messercola Excavating Co
• Special Event License for St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The Council hired Isaura Chincilla as a part‑time police clerk at $19.32 per hour starting Feb 1 2026. It directed the Land Use Board to study Block 129, Lot 16.01 for possible redevelopment. It certified compliance with state hiring‑practice guidance and approved several financial actions, including a $97,736 contract for Catwalks improvements and a $2.6 M check register payment.

• Approved hiring of Isaura Chincilla as part‑time police clerk ($19.32/hr) effective Feb 1 2026
• Directed Land Use Board to conduct preliminary redevelopment investigation of Block 129, Lot 16.01 (Mountain Avenue)
• Certified compliance with NJ hiring‑practice guidance on criminal records (Resolution #2026‑21)
• Updated BID: added Block 21.01, Lot 3 and changed classification from Class 1 to Class 4A
• Approved change order and final payment of $97,736 to Messercola Excavating for Catwalks Improvement
• Approved purchase order of $97,736 to Messercola Excavating for Catwalk Improvements
• Approved St. Patrick's Day Parade license waiver, waiving $50 fee and charging $1,400 town costs
• Approved check register #2026‑01 for $2,598,653.63

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will meet to appoint its 2026 leadership and set the year's meeting schedule. The body will also review two applications for signs and construction on Main Street.

• Rugel Dream Properties, LLC: sign and new building at 273-275 Main Street
• Maria Monjes: sign at 269 Main Street
• Appointment of 2026 Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Approval of 2026 meeting dates

The commission unanimously approved the minutes of the Dec. 18, 2025 meeting, elected Jerry Galante as chair and Terrie Allen as vice chair for 2026, set the 2026 meeting schedule and moved the start time to 7:00 PM, approved the NJ Herald and Daily Record for advertising, and approved two sign applications—including a new building at 273‑275 Main Street with a stepped parapet and darker gray siding.

• Approved Dec. 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Jerry Galante as Chairperson for 2026 (unanimous)
• Elected Terrie Allen as Vice Chairperson for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 meeting dates and changed start time to 7:00 PM (unanimous)
• Approved NJ Herald and Daily Record as advertising newspapers (unanimous)
• Approved sign application #26-02 for 269 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved sign and building application #26-01 for 273‑275 Main Street with stepped parapet and darker gray siding (unanimous)

Mayor & Town Council

The Mayor and Town Council are meeting to appoint members to various municipal committees and confirm officials for roles including police matrons, crossing guards, and construction officials. The body will also consider an ordinance regarding the Cap Bank and several resolutions establishing 2026 tax and expenditure rules.

• Introduction of Ordinance 2026-01, Cap Bank Ordinance
• Resolution 2026-08: establishing approval of expenditures of $7500.00 or more
• Resolution 2026-09: establishing approval of POs of $500.00 or more
• Resolution 2026-10: fixing 2026 property tax interest rates, due dates, and grace periods
• Appointment of Joann Fascenelli as Recycling Coordinator for 2026

The Hackettstown Mayor and Common Council confirmed a series of appointments to fire, police, school and emergency‑management positions. The Council adopted Ordinance #2026-01 to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits and schedule a public hearing. Several resolutions were passed covering the police manual, expenditure thresholds, purchase‑order approvals, tax delinquency interest rates, and the 2026 meeting schedule. All motions passed with a roll‑call vote of Yes by Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon and Tynan.

• Approved appointment of Edward Syfor as Fire Police Chief (term expires Dec 31, 2026) – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Approved appointment of Michael Palko as Fire Police Member (term expires Dec 31, 2026) – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Approved appointment of multiple Police Matrons and Crossing Guards – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Adopted Ordinance #2026-01 to exceed budget limits and establish a cap bank, with a public hearing set for Feb 12, 2026 – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Adopted Resolution #2026-08 requiring Council approval for expenditures of $7,500 or more – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Adopted Resolution #2026-09 requiring Town Clerk/Administrator approval for purchase orders over $500 – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Adopted Resolution #2026-10 setting tax delinquency interest rates and penalties – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)
• Adopted Resolution #2026-14 establishing the 2026 regular meeting schedule – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Sheldon, Tynan)

Mayor & Town Council

The council adopted Resolution #2026-01 to appoint a prosecutor, auditor, town planner, land‑use engineer and land‑use attorney. It also designated seven banks as the town’s official legal depositories (Resolution #2026-02) and approved temporary appropriations of $3,150,883 from the 2025 budget (Resolution #2025-03). Additional actions included appointing an interim Public Works Manager, confirming several mayoral appointments, and adopting Roberts Rules of Order for 2026.

• Approved appointments of Prosecutor, Auditor, Town Planner, Land Use Engineer and Land Use Attorney (Resolution #2026-01) – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Tynan)
• Designated Fulton Bank, Valley Bank, Bank of America, Hope Bank, TD Bank, PNC Bank and NJ Cash Management Fund as official legal depositories (Resolution #2026-02) – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Tynan)
• Approved temporary appropriations of $3,150,883 from the 2025 budget (Resolution #2025-03) – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Tynan)
• Appointed Paul Sterbenz, P.E., as interim Certified Public Works Manager for one year (Resolution #2026-04) – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Tynan)
• Confirmed Mayor DiMaio’s appointment of John Mooney as Town Auditor – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Tynan)
• Confirmed Mayor DiMaio’s appointment of Daniel Bloch as Town Planner – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Tynan)
• Adopted Roberts Rules of Order for 2026 – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Tynan)
• Nominated Jody Becker as Acting Mayor for 2026 – Yes (Becker, Engelau, Kunz, Lambo, Tynan)

Parking Authority

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission unanimously appointed Robert Salus as Chairperson and John Mandick as Vice Chairperson for 2026. It also approved the full schedule of 2026 meeting dates and designated the NJ Herald and Daily Record as the advertising newspapers. The minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting and the submitted bills were approved, with one member abstaining on the bills. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM.

• Appointed Robert Salus as Chairperson for 2026 (unanimous)
• Appointed John Mandick as Vice Chairperson for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 meeting dates (unanimous)
• Designated NJ Herald and Daily Record as advertising newspapers for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the December 1, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved bills as submitted (unanimous, John Mandick abstained)
• Approved purchase of website services from Civic Plus (reported, not a vote)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:00 PM (unanimous)