Middlesex public meetings in 2021
24 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Borough Council
The Middlesex Borough Council is holding its regular meeting on December 21, 2021, with a full agenda of public hearings, resolutions, and reports. Key actions include final adoption of two ordinances (one on board attendance, one creating an Assistant Recreation Coordinator position), approval of a consent agenda with 22 resolutions, and a non-consent resolution to pay all claims. The meeting also includes an executive session for negotiations and personnel matters.
- Ordinance 2049-21: establishes removal procedure for unexcused absences from boards/committees
- Ordinance 2050-21: creates Assistant Recreation Coordinator position
- Resolution 348-2021: promotes Officer Scott Mulford to Patrolman Class A at $114,364/year
- Resolution 352-2021: authorizes $156,656.40 for IT equipment purchase
- Resolution 360-2021: hires Stephen Greco as Assistant Recreation Coordinator at $12,000/year
The Borough Council adopted Ordinance 2049-21, which creates a process to declare a board, committee, or commission seat vacant after six consecutive weeks or three consecutive meetings of unexcused absences. It also adopted Ordinance 2050-21 creating the position of Assistant Recreation Coordinator and hired Stephen Greco for that role at $12,000 per year. The council approved a consent agenda of routine resolutions, including a $156,656.40 IT equipment purchase and a $114,364 police officer advancement. Councilman Carnes was absent for most votes; he abstained on the bill-paying resolution.
- Adopted Ordinance 2049-21 on unexcused absences from boards, committees, and commissions (5-0, Carnes absent)
- Adopted Ordinance 2050-21 creating Assistant Recreation Coordinator position (5-0, Carnes absent)
- Approved November 23, 2021 regular and executive meeting minutes (5-0, Carnes absent)
- Approved consent agenda including Resolution 352-2021 for $156,656.40 IT equipment purchase (5-0, Carnes absent)
- Approved Resolution 348-2021 advancing Scott Mulford to Patrolman Class A at $114,364 effective Dec 29, 2021 (5-0, Carnes absent)
- Approved Resolution 360-2021 hiring Stephen Greco as Assistant Recreation Coordinator at $12,000 effective Jan 1, 2022 (5-0, Carnes absent)
- Approved Resolution 363-2021 to pay claims (5-0, Carnes abstained)
- Approved Resolution 364-2021 to enter executive session on PBA negotiations, dispatch services, public health, real estate, appointments, and personnel (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will introduce two ordinances: one establishing attendance and removal procedures for board, committee, and commission members with unexcused absences, and another creating an Assistant Recreation Coordinator position. They will also hold a public hearing on an ordinance amending dangerous structures regulations, and vote on a consent agenda including personnel actions and budget transfers.
- Ordinance 2049-21: attendance and removal for unexcused absences on boards/committees
- Ordinance 2050-21: creates Assistant Recreation Coordinator position
- Ordinance 2048-21: public hearing on dangerous structures amendments
- Resolution 330-2021: advances Patrolman Brian Rodrigues to Class B at $104,678 annually
- Resolution 328-2021: increases Kelsey Meixner's salary to $38,865
The Borough Council adopted Ordinance 2048-21 amending Chapter 363 on dangerous structures, adding enforcement and penalties. It also introduced Ordinance 2049-21 on board/committee attendance and removal for unexcused absences, and Ordinance 2050-21 creating an Assistant Recreation Coordinator position. Both introductions passed unanimously on first reading and will be considered for final adoption on December 21, 2021. The Council also approved a consent agenda of resolutions, including salary adjustments, budget transfers, and a professional services agreement with Jobs4Blue.
- Adopted Ordinance 2048-21 amending Chapter 363 'Structures, Dangerous' to add enforcement and penalty sections (6-0)
- Introduced Ordinance 2049-21 establishing Chapter 26 on board/committee attendance and removal for unexcused absences (6-0, first reading)
- Introduced Ordinance 2050-21 creating the position of Assistant Recreation Coordinator (6-0, first reading)
- Approved Resolution 328-2021 increasing Kelsey Meixner's salary to $38,865.00
- Approved Resolution 330-2021 advancing Patrolman Brian Rodrigues to Patrolman Class 'B' at $104,678 effective December 14, 2021
- Approved Resolution 333-2021 authorizing budget transfers totaling $306,210.00 in the 2021 Operating Budget and $500.00 in the Swim Pool Budget
- Approved Resolution 338-2021 authorizing the Mayor to execute a professional services agreement with Jobs4Blue for off-duty police administrative services
- Approved Resolution 340-2021 to go into executive session for property negotiations (Block 225, Lot 5 and Army Corps properties)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider introducing an ordinance to revise dangerous structures rules and adopt another creating emergency vehicle access zones. It will also vote on a consent agenda including contracts, purchases, and personnel actions, and discuss a proposed fee schedule for field usage by outside organizations.
- Ordinance 2048-21 amending Chapter 363 (dangerous structures) with new enforcement and penalty sections
- Ordinance 2047-21 adding emergency vehicle access zones to Chapter 407 (vehicles and traffic)
- Resolution 317-2021: purchase of 2022 Ford F350 pickup for Sewer Department, $59,790
- Resolution 313-2021: floor mat services contract with National Dust Control, $5,665.66
- Workshop item: proposed change in fee schedule for field usage by outside organizations
The Borough Council adopted Ordinance 2047-21, creating an Emergency Vehicle Access Zone on Mountain Avenue at the Middlesex Borough Rescue Squad entrance/exit, with fines up to $250 or 90 days imprisonment. It also introduced Ordinance 2048-21, which revises dangerous structures rules and adds fines of $500 to $2,000 per violation. The council approved a consent agenda including a $59,790 truck purchase, a $5,665.66 floor mat contract, and several personnel and grant resolutions. A proposed hourly fee schedule for field and court use by outside organizations was discussed but not voted on.
- Adopted Ordinance 2047-21 creating an Emergency Vehicle Access Zone on Mountain Avenue at the Rescue Squad entrance/exit (unanimous; Flood absent)
- Introduced Ordinance 2048-21 revising dangerous structures rules and adding penalties of $500 to $2,000 per violation (unanimous; Flood absent)
- Approved consent agenda including Resolutions 312-2021 through 324-2021 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 317-2021 to buy a 2022 Ford F350 pickup for the Sewer Department for $59,790.00
- Approved Resolution 313-2021 for floor mat services with National Dust Control for $5,665.66 (Jan 1–Dec 31, 2022)
- Approved Resolution 315-2021 amending the appointment of Dawn Guttschall as part-time Tax Assessor, with salary of $30,000 and later $35,000
- Approved Resolution 322-2021 to enroll in the Department of Defense 1033 Program for excess equipment (Jan 1–Dec 31, 2022)
- Approved Resolution 325-2021 to pay claims (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will introduce Ordinance 2047-21 to add emergency vehicle access zones to the traffic code, and will consider several resolutions including accepting a $69,292 body-worn camera grant and a $28,014.86 Clean Communities grant. The agenda also includes accepting resignations, purchasing pagers, and an executive session on public safety and real estate matters.
- Ordinance 2047-21: adds emergency vehicle access zones to Chapter 407 (Vehicles and Traffic)
- Resolution 305-2021: accept $69,292.00 body-worn camera grant from NJ Office of Attorney General
- Resolution 306-2021: accept $28,014.86 Clean Communities grant
- Resolution 308-2021: purchase 10 dual band P24 voice pagers and chargers for up to $6,887.00
- Executive session on public safety, real estate deed restrictions, property sales, and Blue Acres buyouts
The Borough Council introduced Ordinance 2047-21 on first reading, which would create an Emergency Vehicle Access Zone on Mountain Avenue at the Middlesex Borough Rescue Squad entrance/exit, prohibiting stopping or obstruction there with a maximum $250 fine or 90 days imprisonment. The council also approved shared fire service agreements with Dunellen (through December 31, 2022) and Greenbrook (through December 31, 2021), and accepted a $69,292.00 state Body Worn Camera grant and a $28,014.86 Clean Communities grant. All items passed unanimously; the ordinance heads to a public hearing and final adoption on November 9, 2021.
- Introduced Ordinance 2047-21 creating an Emergency Vehicle Access Zone on Mountain Avenue at the Rescue Squad entrance/exit (first reading, unanimous; final vote set for 11/9/2021)
- Approved shared service fire agreement with Dunellen expiring December 31, 2022 (Resolution 311-2021, unanimous)
- Approved shared service fire agreement with Greenbrook expiring December 31, 2021 (Resolution 311-2021, unanimous)
- Accepted $69,292.00 SFY21 Body Worn Camera Grant from NJ Department of Law and Public Safety (Resolution 305-2021)
- Accepted $28,014.86 Clean Communities Grant and inserted it into the 2021 budget (Resolution 306-2021)
- Approved purchase of 10 Dual Band P24 Voice Pagers and Desk Chargers not to exceed $6,887.00 (Resolution 308-2021)
- Accepted resignation of Alisa Guttadauro as School Crossing Guard effective October 29, 2021 (Resolution 307-2021)
- Accepted resignation of Amelia Sherr from the Board of Health effective October 15, 2021
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will hold a public hearing and final vote on Ordinance 2046-21, which revises notice requirements for repeated property maintenance violations. The council will also consider a consent agenda with resolutions for equipment purchases, professional services, and tax adjustments, plus a non-consent resolution to pay all claims. An executive session is scheduled to discuss public safety, real estate sales, and the Army Corps/Wall project.
- Ordinance 2046-21 amending Chapter 317 Property Maintenance notice requirements
- Resolution 292-2021: $9,900 for three Blowhard 20” AC/DC fans for Fire Department
- Resolution 294-2021: $10,966 for four High Rise Rescue Equipment Kits
- Resolution 293-2021: Approve Colliers Engineering proposal for NJDOT road improvements on Harris, Sherman, Chestnut, Hazelwood
- Resolution 295-2021: Solid waste disposal agreement with Middlesex County Utilities Authority (2022-2026)
The Borough Council unanimously adopted Ordinance 2046-21, which allows officials to issue summonses immediately for repeat property maintenance violations after three notices within three years. The Council also approved several fire equipment purchases and a road improvement contract.
- Adopted Ordinance 2046-21 revising notice requirements for repeat property maintenance violations (Unanimous)
- Approved $9,900 purchase of three Blowhard AC/DC fans for Fire Department (Unanimous)
- Approved $10,966 purchase of four High Rise Rescue Equipment Kits (Unanimous)
- Approved Colliers Engineering & Design contract for road improvements not to exceed $78,000 (Unanimous)
- Authorized 5-year solid waste disposal agreement with Middlesex County Utilities Authority (Unanimous)
- Approved $6,300 C-Cure system software upgrade from ADT Commercial (Unanimous)
- Authorized cancellation of taxes for Block 247 Lot 16 due to Army Corps of Engineers purchase (Unanimous)
- Approved waiving/adjusting sewer service charges for Block 321 Lot 6, Block 6 Lot 2.02, and Block 318 Lot 48 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council is reviewing ordinances regarding property maintenance and criminal background checks for vendors. The meeting also includes resolutions for various personnel appointments and a major sewer project award.
- Ordinance 2045-21: Amendment to financial agreement with Middlesex Residential Urban Renewal, LLC
- Resolution 286-2021: $810,635.00 award to T.R. Weniger, Inc. for Phase II Sewer Project
- Resolution 269-2021: $6,500 settlement for legal fees regarding GRC Complaint No. 2018-70
- Resolution 276-2021: Appointment of Dawn Guttschall as Part Time Tax Assessor at $30,000.00 annually
- Ordinance 2043-21: Authorization of criminal history record checks for licensed vendors and service agents
The Borough Council awarded a $810,635 contract to T.R. Weniger, Inc. for the Phase II Sewer project at the Greenbrook Road and Louis Avenue pump stations, and adopted three ordinances covering property maintenance notice rules, criminal background checks for vendors and licensees, and the Environmental Commission. It also introduced an ordinance revising repeated-violation notice requirements and approved a $6,500 settlement of legal fees in a 2018 government records complaint. Councilman Jeremiah Carnes was absent; all recorded votes were unanimous among the five members present.
- Awarded Phase II Sewer (Greenbrook Road and Louis Avenue Pump Station) contract to T.R. Weniger, Inc. for $810,635 (unanimous; Carnes absent)
- Adopted Ordinance 2043-21 adding criminal history background checks for vendors, licensees and procurement of services (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2044-21 amending Environmental Commission composition and powers (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2045-21 amending the financial agreement with Middlesex Residential Urban Renewal, LLC for Block 349 redevelopment at 220-232 Lincoln Boulevard (unanimous)
- Introduced Ordinance 2046-21 revising notice requirements for repeated property maintenance violations; next reading 10/12/2021 (unanimous)
- Approved $6,500 settlement payment to Rotimi Owoh, Esq. for legal fees in GRC Complaint No. 2018-70 (unanimous)
- Appointed Dawn Guttschall part-time Tax Assessor at $30,000/year effective October 4, 2021, rising to $35,000 on July 1, 2022 (unanimous)
- Approved Elks Lodge 1488 to provide alcohol at the October 9, 2021 Recreation Food Truck Festival at Mountain View Park (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will hold public hearings on three ordinances, including a $500,000 increase for the sanitary sewer rehabilitation project (total $2.95M) and new grease trap regulations. They will also vote on a consent agenda with 20 resolutions, including a $475,977.80 road program bid and a $90,200 landfill remediation contract. Several proclamations and appointments are scheduled.
- Ordinance 2040-21: Increase sewer rehab appropriation by $500,000 to $2,950,000
- Resolution 256-2021: Award 2020 Road Program (Harris, Sherman, Chestnut, Hazelwood) to Reivax Contracting for $475,977.80
- Resolution 263-2021: Approve $90,200 for landfill remediation document review
- Resolution 268-2021: Waive construction code fees for Hurricane Ida repairs (Sept 1 - Dec 31, 2021)
- Ordinance 2045-21: Amend financial agreement with Middlesex Residential Urban Renewal, LLC
The Borough Council approved a $475,977.80 road improvement contract for Reivax Contracting and authorized a waiver of construction permit fees for Hurricane Ida-related repairs through December 31, 2021. The Council also adopted ordinances regarding grease trap regulations and sewer system bond funding, while tabling a resolution concerning a legal fee settlement. Additionally, the Council appointed Frank Ryan to the Shade Tree Commission and Lieutenant Craig Comiskey as a temporary acting captain.
- Awarded $475,977.80 road contract to Reivax Contracting (6-0)
- Waived construction permit fees for Hurricane Ida repairs (6-0)
- Adopted grease trap/interceptor ordinance (6-0)
- Adopted $500,000 sewer bond ordinance (6-0)
- Appointed Frank Ryan to Shade Tree Commission (6-0)
- Tabled settlement of $6,500 legal fees (6-0)
- Defeated property maintenance notice ordinance (2-4)
- Appointed Lt. Craig Comiskey as temporary acting captain (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will hold public hearings and consider final adoption of a $2,032,000 capital improvements bond ordinance, and introduce three ordinances including a $500,000 increase for the sanitary sewer rehabilitation project (Phase II). The agenda also includes a consent agenda with numerous resolutions covering police promotions, retirements, contracts, and licenses, plus an executive session for contract negotiations.
- Ordinance 2040-21: Increase sewer rehab appropriation by $500,000 to $2,950,000
- Ordinance 2039-21: Public hearing on $2,032,000 capital improvements bond
- Resolution 227-21: Pay Lt. Dan O'Connor retirement allowance of $75,945.50
- Resolution 233-21: Pay Capt. Frank DeNick retirement allowance of $85,354.10
- Resolution 238-21: Award janitorial contract to BK & J Spotless, LLC
The Borough Council adopted Ordinance 2039-21, a $2,032,000 bond ordinance funding capital equipment and improvements including police gear and vehicles, a garbage truck, road milling and overlay, an ADA playground at Mountainview Park, and library HVAC and furniture. It also gave first reading to a $500,000 increase in sanitary sewer rehabilitation borrowing (Ordinance 2040-21) and to ordinances on property-maintenance notice rules and grease trap regulations. The council accepted the retirements of Lt. Dan O'Connor and Capt. Frank DeNick, approved several police promotions and temporary acting sergeant/lieutenant appointments, and terminated a janitorial contract after the vendor defaulted, awarding it to the next lowest bidder. All recorded votes were unanimous; Councilman Carnes was absent for two early items.
- Adopted Ordinance 2039-21: $2,032,000 capital bond, $1,567,700 in bonds/notes (unanimous)
- First reading Ordinance 2040-21: adds $500,000 to sewer rehab, total appropriation $2,950,000 (unanimous)
- First reading Ordinance 2041-21: revises property-maintenance notice rules for repeat violations (unanimous)
- First reading Ordinance 2042-21: new grease trap/interceptor regulations for food service establishments (unanimous)
- Accepted Lt. Dan O'Connor retirement, $75,945.50 payout effective Sept 1, 2021 (unanimous)
- Accepted Capt. Frank DeNick retirement, $85,354.10 payout effective Sept 1, 2021 (unanimous)
- Terminated Buildingstars janitorial contract; awarded BK & J Spotless, LLC through May 31, 2022 (unanimous)
- Approved police promotions and temporary acting sergeant/lieutenant appointments effective Sept 1, 2021 (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider introducing a $2,032,000 bond ordinance for capital improvements and equipment, and hold public hearings on zoning amendments to permit cannabis businesses and on updates to pet waste, littering, and storm drain regulations. The council will also vote on a consent agenda with resolutions including sewer bill waivers, appointments, and a lease agreement.
- Ordinance 2039-21: $2,032,000 bond ordinance for capital improvements, issuing $1,567,700 in bonds
- Ordinance 2037-21: zoning amendment to permit certain cannabis businesses
- Ordinance 2038-21: amendments to pet waste, littering, and storm drain chapters per NJDEP requirements
- Resolution 216-2021: appointing two police officers as temporary acting sergeants
- Resolution 218-2021: hiring Shonda Sanchez as Administrative Assistant at $40,000 annual salary
The Council adopted an ordinance allowing most cannabis business classes in industrial districts while explicitly prohibiting retail sales. They also approved updates to pet waste and storm drain ordinances to meet state requirements and introduced a $2.032M bond ordinance for capital improvements.
- Adopted ordinance permitting cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, wholesaling, distributing, and delivery in IND and HI districts (5-1)
- Prohibited Class 5 Cannabis Retailing in all zones (5-1)
- Adopted updates to pet waste, littering, and storm drain ordinances (Unanimous)
- First reading of $2.032M bond ordinance for police, fire, and public works equipment (Unanimous)
- Approved 2021 salaries for non-union officers and employees (Unanimous)
- Appointed Joleen Auricchio and James Dolinski as Temporary Acting Sergeants (Unanimous)
- Hired Shonda Sanchez as Administrative Assistant for Office of Aging and Disabled Services (Unanimous)
- Approved lease agreement with Middlesex Youth Baseball Inc. through Oct 31, 2025 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider adopting the 2021 municipal budget and an amendment to it, along with a series of routine resolutions covering purchases, appointments, and approvals. The agenda also includes introduction of an ordinance to align pet waste, littering, and storm drain regulations with state DEP requirements. Public comment is scheduled at the end of the meeting.
- Ordinance 2038-21 amending pet waste, littering, and storm drain chapters to meet NJDEP requirements
- Resolution 204-2021 adopting the 2021 Municipal Budget
- Resolution 203-2021 approving an amendment to the 2021 Budget
- Resolution 189-2021 authorizing purchase of a Sharp MX-M7570 copier for $11,278.00
- Resolution 194-2021 authorizing payment of $75,033.32 to Sgt. James Bacon per PBA contract
The Borough Council unanimously adopted the 2021 municipal budget, totaling $20,993,258.61 in appropriations. The council also approved an amendment to the swim pool utility budget and introduced an ordinance updating local pet waste, littering, and storm drain regulations to meet state requirements.
- Adopted 2021 municipal budget (6-0)
- Adopted 2021 swim pool utility budget amendment (6-0)
- Introduced ordinance 2038-21 regarding environmental regulations (6-0)
- Approved $11,278 purchase of a new municipal copier (6-0)
- Appointed Carmen Modica as Qualified Purchasing Agent (6-0)
- Authorized $75,033.32 retirement payout for Sgt. James Bacon (6-0)
- Awarded janitorial services contract to Buildingstars Operations, Inc. (6-0)
- Approved 2021 summer playground staff hiring (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council is holding a special remote meeting with one substantive action: a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute an assignment and assumption of a financial agreement for property at Block 348, Lot 1.01. The agreement is being transferred from 150 Lincoln Boulevard Urban Renewal, LLC to Living Lofts Urban Renewal LLC and RK Middlesex Urban Renewal LLC. The rest of the agenda is standard procedural items (flag salute, roll call, public comment).
- Resolution 185-2021 authorizing assignment of financial agreement for Block 348, Lot 1.01
- Parties: 150 Lincoln Boulevard Urban Renewal, LLC (assignor), Living Lofts Urban Renewal LLC and RK Middlesex Urban Renewal LLC (assignees)
The Borough Council unanimously adopted Resolution 185-2021, authorizing the Mayor to execute an assignment and assumption of a 2014 Payment in Lieu of Taxes agreement for property at Block 348, Lot 1.01, commonly known as 144-150 Lincoln Boulevard. The agreement transfers the financial agreement from 150 Lincoln Boulevard Urban Renewal, LLC to Living Lofts Urban Renewal LLC and RK Middlesex Urban Renewal LLC. The resolution requires $357,708.78 to be deposited with the title company by 5:00 PM on June 18, 2021, held in escrow and paid to the Borough upon execution of the assignment. The meeting was a special remote session; no other substantive decisions were recorded.
- Adopted Resolution 185-2021 authorizing Mayor to execute assignment of financial agreement for 144-150 Lincoln Boulevard (6-0)
- Required $357,708.78 deposit with title company by 5:00 PM June 18, 2021, held in escrow pending executed assignment
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will hold a public hearing on the 2021 budget and introduce an ordinance to permit certain cannabis businesses in appropriate zones. They will also hold public hearings on ordinances amending peddling/soliciting license rules and stormwater control regulations. The consent agenda includes a new public works employee contract, liquor license renewals, and various payments and appointments.
- Ordinance 2037-21 to amend zoning to permit certain cannabis businesses
- Ordinance 2035-21 amending peddling and soliciting license application rules
- Ordinance 2036-21 amending stormwater control regulations to meet NJDEP requirements
- Resolution 159-2021 authorizing Public Works employees contract effective Jan 1, 2021 - Dec 31, 2024
- Resolution 178-2021 approving $26,000 payment to Stilo Excavation, Inc. for 2019 DOT Road Program
The Borough Council introduced Ordinance 2037-21 on first reading (5-1, Flood voting no), which would allow cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, wholesaling, distributing, and delivery as conditional uses in the IND and HI Industrial Districts while keeping Class 5 retail cannabis prohibited in all zones. The council also adopted the 2021 budget after a public hearing; the administrator said the total budget rose by $75,000, the levy is unchanged from last year, and there will be no municipal tax increase. Two other ordinances were adopted unanimously: changes to peddling and soliciting license applications (Ordinance 2035-21) and stormwater control regulations conforming to state DEP rules (Ordinance 2036-21). A resolution authorizing assignment of a PILOT financial agreement for 144-150 Lincoln Boulevard was tabled to June 18, 2021.
- Introduced Ordinance 2037-21 allowing cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, wholesaling, distributing, and delivery as conditional uses in IND and HI Industrial Districts; Class 5 retail remains prohibited (5-1, Flood nay)
- Adopted 2021 budget after public hearing; administrator reported $75,000 total budget increase, same levy as last year, no municipal tax increase
- Adopted Ordinance 2035-21 amending peddling and soliciting license application requirements (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2036-21 amending stormwater control regulations to conform to NJ DEP requirements (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 167-2021 renewing 2021-2022 liquor licenses for 12 listed businesses (5-0, Flood abstained)
- Approved additional $26,000 payment to Stilo Excavation, Inc. for 2019 DOT road program work on Fisher Avenue (consent agenda)
- Tabled Resolution 185-2021 authorizing assignment of PILOT financial agreement for 144-150 Lincoln Boulevard to June 18, 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 159-2021 executing DPW union contract effective January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2024 (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will hold public hearings on ordinances regarding cannabis use and retail prohibitions. The meeting also includes discussions on stormwater regulations, peddling licenses, and a police equipment purchase.
- Ordinance 2032-21: Prohibiting Class Five cannabis retailers within the Borough
- Ordinance 2033-21 and 2034-21: Prohibiting cannabis smoking and consumption on public property
- Resolution 164-2021: Purchase of 32 police body cameras for $78,197.00
- Resolution 155-2021: Tax Title Lien Redemption for Block 256 Lot 12 in the amount of $1,929.10
- Ordinance 2036-21: Amending stormwater control regulations to meet NJDEP requirements
The Borough Council adopted several ordinances, including a ban on Class 5 cannabis retail establishments, a $129,026.75 emergency appropriation for community pool revenue losses, and updates to smoking and cannabis consumption regulations in public spaces. The Council also introduced two ordinances regarding peddling and stormwater control, approved towing and junkyard licenses, and authorized the purchase of 32 police body cameras for $78,197.00.
- Adopted Ordinance 2031-21 for a $129,026.75 emergency appropriation for COVID-19 pool losses (Unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2032-21 prohibiting Class 5 cannabis retailers (5-1)
- Adopted Ordinance 2033-21 adding cannabis to smoking restrictions (Unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2034-21 prohibiting cannabis consumption in public places (Unanimous)
- Introduced Ordinance 2035-21 amending peddling and soliciting applications (Unanimous)
- Introduced Ordinance 2036-21 amending stormwater control regulations (Unanimous)
- Approved 2021/2022 towing licenses for five companies (Unanimous)
- Authorized purchase of 32 police body cameras for $78,197.00 under NJ State Contract #17-FLEET-00731 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will introduce the 2021 municipal budget and several ordinances regarding cannabis consumption and retail. The meeting also includes a public hearing on junkyard and junk dealer code amendments.
- Introduction of the 2021 Municipal Budget
- Ordinances regarding cannabis retail, smoking, and public property limitations
- Public hearing for Ordinance 2030-21 regarding junkyard and junk dealer fees
- Resolution 147-2021: Fire Department purchase of 45 protective helmets up to $16,632.00
- Resolution 151-2021: Salary increase for Director of Code Enforcement to $55,000.00
The Council introduced several ordinances to prohibit Class Five cannabis retailers in the Borough and ban the smoking or consumption of cannabis on public property. The Council also introduced the 2021 Municipal Budget and adopted an ordinance requiring criminal record disclosures for junkyard applicants.
- Introduced ordinance to prohibit Class Five cannabis retailers (Unanimous)
- Introduced ordinance to ban cannabis smoking/vaping in enclosed public places (Unanimous)
- Introduced ordinance to ban cannabis consumption on public property (Unanimous)
- Introduced $129,026.75 emergency appropriation for pool revenue losses (Unanimous)
- Adopted ordinance requiring criminal record disclosure for junkyard applicants (Unanimous)
- Introduced 2021 Municipal Budget with total appropriations of $20,993,258.61 (Unanimous)
- Approved second-year tree trimming contract for Predator Tree Service (5-0)
- Approved $16,632.00 for 45 fire department protective helmets (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider an ordinance to amend the code of fees and an application for the SFY 2021 Body-Worn Camera Grant Program. The meeting also includes appointments to a vacant position and several financial resolutions.
- Ordinance to amend the code of fees
- SFY 2021 Body-Worn Camera Grant Program application for Middlesex Police Department
- Salary increase for Kelsey Meixner to $37,500
- Tax title lien redemption for Block 329, Lot 34 in the amount of $51,484.17
- Ordinance 2030-21 regarding junkyards and junk applications
The Middlesex Borough Council unanimously adopted a consent agenda containing 11 resolutions. Key actions included authorizing tax title lien redemptions totaling over $52,000, increasing a clerk's salary to $37,500, and approving a grant application for police body-worn cameras. The Council also introduced an ordinance requiring criminal background checks for junkyard applicants and held a closed session to discuss a contractual issue with Central Jersey JIF.
- Adopted Resolution 143-2021 authorizing $51,484.17 tax title lien redemption (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 132-2021 increasing Kelsey Meixner's salary to $37,500 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 134-2021 approving body-worn camera grant application (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 133-2021 authorizing $1,484.53 tax title lien redemption (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 140-2021 approving Unum Group premium increase of $15.13/month (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 136-2021 disallowing $2,000 in senior/disabled tax deductions (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 138-2021 allowing $750 in veteran tax deductions (unanimous)
- First reading of Ordinance 2030-21 requiring criminal background checks for junkyards (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider ordinances regarding municipal budget appropriation limits and updates to stormwater regulations. The meeting also includes resolutions for electrical service contracts, personnel hiring, and various permit refunds.
- Ordinance 2029-21 regarding appropriation limits and a bank cap
- Ordinance 2028-21 regarding borough stormwater regulations
- Contract for electrical services with Magic Touch Construction and Elite Electrical
- Hiring of Maximilian Vasile as Recreation Program Coordinator at $42,000 annually
- Three $1,875.00 refunds for street opening permits to Orlando Development
The Borough Council adopted Ordinance 2029-21, which raises the 2021 budget appropriation limit by 3.5% (a $512,146.32 increase over the prior year's final appropriations, including a $146,327.52 amount above the standard 2.5% cap). It also adopted Ordinance 2028-21, repealing and replacing Chapter 355 on stormwater control to conform with state Department of Environmental Protection rules. Both ordinances passed unanimously with no public comment. The council also approved a consent agenda of routine resolutions, including a second-year electrical services contract and several street-opening permit refunds.
- Adopted Ordinance 2029-21 to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limit and establish a cap bank, increasing CY 2021 final appropriations by 3.5% ($512,146.32) (6-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2028-21 repealing and replacing Chapter 355 on stormwater control regulations per NJ DEP requirements (6-0)
- Approved the second year of a two-year electrical services contract (5/1/2021–4/30/2022) to Magic Touch Construction as primary and Elite Electrical as secondary (6-0)
- Approved hiring Maximilian Vasile of Aberdeen, NJ as Recreation Program Coordinator at $42,000 annual salary effective April 12, 2021, pending physical and background check (6-0)
- Approved refunds of $1,875.00 each for three street opening permits to Orlando Development (103 Cedar Avenue, 348 Drake Avenue, 605 Sheridan Avenue) (6-0)
- Authorized a tax title lien redemption payment of $932.89 plus $1,200 premium for Block 55/Lot 32 to LSG TL Holdings LLC (6-0)
- Declared a 1998 Ford Crown Victoria surplus and authorized its use by the Middlesex Fire Department for fire safety drills (6-0)
- Approved the March 23, 2021 regular meeting minutes (6-0)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider ordinances regarding budget appropriation limits and stormwater regulations. The meeting also includes resolutions for road reconstruction, personnel appointments, and extending outdoor dining guidelines.
- Awarding $459,666.51 to Stilo Excavation, Inc. for Fisher Avenue and Ashland Road reconstruction
- Introduction of Ordinance 2029-21 regarding appropriation limits and a cap bank
- Appointing Melissa DeMarino as Director of Public Recreation & Senior Services at $75,000 annually
- Advancing Patrolman James Morley to Patrolman Class 'A' at $114,364 annually
- Extending outdoor dining and retail guidelines through November 30, 2022
The Council awarded a road reconstruction contract for Fisher Avenue and Ashland Road to Stilo Excavation, Inc. They also approved a budget increase ordinance and updated tree removal contribution fees. Two ordinances regarding stormwater regulations and budget limits were introduced on first reading.
- Awarded $459,666.51 road contract for Fisher Avenue and Ashland Road to Stilo Excavation, Inc. (Unanimous)
- Adopted amended ordinance increasing tree removal contributions to $400, $500, or $900 based on diameter (Unanimous)
- Approved $35,186.23 for fire protection clothing and equipment (Unanimous)
- Appointed Melissa DeMarino as Director of Public Recreation & Senior Services at $75,000 annual salary (Unanimous)
- Advanced Patrolman James Morley to Patrolman Class 'A' at $114,364 annual salary (Unanimous)
- Extended COVID-19 outdoor dining and retail permits to November 30, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Authorized White Collar Employees contract effective Jan 1, 2021 - Dec 31, 2024 (Unanimous)
- First reading approved for Stormwater Control Ordinance 2028-21 and Budget Cap Ordinance 2029-21 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider ordinances regarding tree permit procedures, junkyard regulations, public comment time limits, and merging recreation and senior services departments. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Route 28 Streetscape Project and various administrative resolutions.
- Ordinance 2023-21: Clarifying tree permit procedures for commercial and residential sales
- Ordinance 2024-21: Revising junkyard and junk dealer regulations
- Ordinance 2025-21: Adding time limits for public comment during council meetings
- Ordinance 2026-21: Combining Department of Recreation and Department of Senior Services
- Resolution 82-2021: Engineering design services for the 2018 NJDOT Route 28 Streetscape Project
The Borough Council adopted four ordinances: a rewrite of the certificate rules for commercial and residential sales and rentals (2023-21), a revised junkyard chapter (2024-21), a three-minute limit on public comment speakers (2025-21, 5-1), and a merger of the Recreation and Senior Services departments into a new Department of Public Recreation and Senior Services (2026-21, 4-2). It also introduced an ordinance raising the tree-removal contribution fees (2027-21) and approved a $44,450 engineering design contract with Maser Consulting for the Route 28 Streetscape Project, funded by a 2018 NJDOT grant of $1,030,560. Council approved the consent agenda, including resolutions to donate a flood levee easement to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and to oppose state bills on prevailing wage and tax abatements (4-0, two abstentions).
- Adopted Ordinance 2023-21 repealing and replacing Chapter 158 on sale/lease certificates for commercial and residential property (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2024-21 repealing and replacing Chapter 244 on junkyards and junk dealers (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2025-21 adding a 3-minute limit on public comment speakers (5-1, Quinn nay)
- Adopted Ordinance 2026-21 merging Recreation and Senior Services into the Department of Public Recreation and Senior Services (4-2, Flood and Mikolajczyk nay)
- Introduced Ordinance 2027-21 raising tree-removal contribution fees to $400/$500/$900 by tree diameter (unanimous, first reading)
- Approved Resolution 82-2021 for Maser Consulting engineering design services for the Route 28 Streetscape Project, not to exceed $44,450 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 97-2021 donating a flood protection levee easement (Block 247, Lot 1, Tract 701E) to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 91-2021 opposing Assembly Bills 1571/1576 and Senate Bill 1956 and joining Mayors for 'Main Street' (4-0, Mikolajczyk and Quinn abstained)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider several ordinances, including merging the Recreation and Senior Services departments. The meeting also includes a public hearing for a salary range ordinance and various personnel and engineering resolutions.
- Ordinance to combine the Department of Recreation and Department of Senior Services
- Ordinance to set time limits for public comment during Council meetings
- Public hearing for Ordinance 2022-21 regarding officer and employee salary ranges
- Resolution to approve Leonard Vidal as DPW Superintendent at a salary of $102,000
- Resolution to authorize a $31,413.72 retirement allowance for Bob Teutsch
Middlesex Borough Council gave first reading to four ordinances: replacing Chapter 158 on resale/lease certificates, replacing Chapter 244 on junkyards, adding a 3-minute public comment limit, and merging Recreation and Senior Services into one department. Council also adopted the 2021 salary ordinance and approved several resolutions, including $84,000 for construction administration on the Fisher Avenue and Ashland Road project and $63,486 in 2021 HUD funds. A $44,450 engineering design contract for the Route 28 Streetscape Project was tabled to March 9, 2021. Two residents were appointed to the Cultural & Heritage Committee.
- Ordinance 2023-21 (resale/lease certificate procedures) advanced on first reading (6-0)
- Ordinance 2024-21 (junkyard regulations) advanced on first reading (6-0)
- Ordinance 2025-21 (3-minute public comment limit) advanced on first reading (6-0)
- Ordinance 2026-21 (merging Recreation and Senior Services) advanced on first reading (6-0)
- Ordinance 2022-21 (2021 salary ranges) adopted after public hearing (6-0)
- Approved $84,000 Maser Consulting construction administration for Fisher Avenue/Ashland Road project (6-0)
- Tabled $44,450 Maser Consulting design contract for Route 28 Streetscape Project to 3/9/2021 (6-0)
- Approved 2021 HUD funds totaling $63,486 (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider several ordinances regarding property maintenance, municipal fees, and election districts. The meeting also includes resolutions for risk management and tax lien refunds.
- Ordinance 2019-21: Regulations for sump pump discharge into sanitary sewers
- Ordinance 2017-21: Revision of municipal swimming pool membership rates
- Ordinance 2020-21: Procedures for commercial and residential sale/lease certificates
- Resolution 68-2021: Appointing Alamo Insurance Group Inc. as Risk Management Consultant
- Resolution 72-2021: Temporary discharge approval at the Factory Lane Site
The Borough Council adopted three ordinances: raising municipal pool membership fees effective spring 2021, banning sump pump discharges into the sanitary sewer with fines up to $2,000, and deleting the outdated election districts chapter. It also gave first reading to an ordinance setting salary ranges for borough officers and employees, and tabled a resolution on a Factory Lane groundwater discharge application. Much of the meeting was public comment urging the council to push the Board of Education to reopen schools, which the borough attorney said the council has no authority over.
- Adopted Ordinance 2018-21 raising municipal pool membership fees effective spring 2021 (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2019-21 banning sump pump discharge into the sanitary sewer, with fines of $500-$2,000 per offense (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2021-21 deleting Chapter 28 'Election Districts' in its entirety (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 2017-21 amending Cultural and Heritage Committee membership to eleven members with three-year terms (unanimous)
- First reading of Ordinance 2022-21 setting salary ranges for borough officers and employees; next reading 2/23/2021 (unanimous)
- Ordinance 2020-21 on resale/lease certificates was withdrawn
- Tabled Resolution 72-2021 on the Factory Lane temporary discharge application to 2/23/2021 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 73-2021 to pay the claims list (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Mayor and Council will hold a remote telephone meeting on January 26, 2021. The primary item on the non-consent agenda is an executive session to conduct an interview for the DPW Superintendent position.
- Resolution 41-2021: Executive Session for DPW Superintendent Interview
The Borough Council held a special remote meeting on January 26, 2021. The only substantive action was adopting Resolution 41-2021 to go into closed session to interview Leonard Vidal for the position of Superintendent of the Department of Public Works. The resolution was adopted unanimously (6-0). No public comments were received, and no other decisions were recorded.
- Adopted Resolution 41-2021 to enter closed session for a DPW Superintendent interview (6-0)
- Interviewed Leonard Vidal for DPW Superintendent in closed session
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Borough Council
The Borough Council will consider several ordinances regarding swimming pool fees, sump pump regulations, and property maintenance. The meeting also includes resolutions for various staff appointments, retirements, and engineering service contracts.
- Ordinance 2018-21 to revise municipal swimming pool membership rates
- Ordinance 2019-21 regarding sump pump discharge into the sanitary sewer system
- Resolution 59-2021 for engineering services for the Piscataway Sanitary Sewer Metering Station up to $60,000
- Resolution 53-2021 to advance Patrolman Paul Muldowney to Class 'B' at an annual salary of $104,678
- Resolution 51-2021 to hire Kelly Seader as Acting Deputy Director of Recreation at $40,000 annually
The Borough Council introduced five ordinances on first reading, including higher municipal pool membership fees effective spring 2021 and a rewritten Chapter 158 setting inspection and certificate requirements for commercial and residential property sales and rentals. The property-sale ordinance drew the only split vote, passing 5-1 with Councilman Quinn opposed. All five ordinances return for public hearing and final adoption on February 9, 2021. The council also adopted a consent agenda of routine resolutions and withdrew two recreation staffing resolutions by consent vote.
- Ordinance 2018-21 raising municipal pool membership fees introduced on first reading (unanimous); final vote set for 2/9/2021
- Ordinance 2020-21 repealing and replacing Chapter 158 on sale/lease certificates and inspections introduced (5-1, Quinn opposed)
- Ordinance 2019-21 adding sump pump discharge regulations to Chapter 317 introduced on first reading (unanimous)
- Ordinance 2017-21 amending Cultural and Heritage Committee membership to 11 members introduced (unanimous)
- Ordinance 2021-21 deleting Chapter 28 'Election Districts' in its entirety introduced (unanimous)
- Resolution 59-2021 approved amendment to Remington & Vernick Engineers proposal for Piscataway Sanitary Sewer Metering Station replacement, not to exceed $60,000
- Resolution 64-2021 awarded public relations and design consulting contract to Positive (+) Solutions at $29,100 per year, Feb 1-Dec 31, 2021
- Resolutions 51-2021 (hiring Kelly Seader as Acting Deputy Recreation Director, $40,000) and 60-2021 ($2,500 stipend to Melissa DeMarino) withdrawn by consent vote
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Borough Council
The Borough Council is holding a special meeting to discuss several items in executive session. These discussions include potential litigation, contract negotiations, and personnel matters regarding specific borough roles.
- Executive session regarding potential litigation for 150 Lincoln Blvd. and 242 Lincoln DPW
- Contract negotiations for the Borough of Middlesex
- Discussion of White Collar & Rescue Squad Lease
- Personnel discussion regarding DPW Superintendent, Recreation Director, and Director of Senior & Disabled Services
- Discussion of potential stipends for specific personnel
The Borough Council held a remote special meeting on January 19, 2021, opened the public portion, and found no public comments or questions. The council then read and adopted Resolution 40-2021, which authorized going into closed session to discuss potential litigation, contract negotiations, and personnel matters. The meeting was then adjourned; the next regular meeting was set for January 26, 2021. No other substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes.
- Adopted Resolution 40-2021 to enter closed executive session (6-0)
- Closed the public portion of the meeting after no comments were received
- Adjourned the meeting; next regular meeting set for January 26, 2021
Borough Council
The Borough Council is conducting its annual reorganizational meeting to appoint professional service providers and officials for the 2021 year. The agenda includes the adoption of the temporary budget and various administrative appointments.
- Appointment of professional services including Borough Attorney, Labor Attorney, and Borough Engineer
- Approval of the 2021 Temporary Budget
- Authorization of a $25.00 fee per tax sale notice for delinquent taxes
- Appointment of Jack Costa as Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator through 2023
- Endorsement of a 'Buy Local Policy' to support the business community
At its January 5, 2021 reorganizational meeting, the Middlesex Borough Council appointed Christopher M. Corsini as Borough Attorney and approved most 2021 professional appointments by unanimous votes. Resolutions appointing Remington & Vernick Engineers as Borough Engineer, Najarian Associates as Alternate Engineer, and Acrisure as Risk Management Consultant were tabled to January 26, 2021. The council also adopted a temporary 2021 budget of $8,416,290.92 and approved a Buy Local policy. Public comments questioned the engineer and risk management appointments and the handling of remote public comment.
- Appointed Christopher M. Corsini as Borough Attorney for 2021 (unanimous)
- Appointed Steve S. Glickman as Borough Labor Attorney for 2021 (unanimous)
- Tabled appointment of Remington & Vernick Engineers as Borough Engineer to 1/26/2021 (unanimous)
- Appointed Suplee, Clooney & Company as Borough Auditor for 2021 (unanimous)
- Appointed GluckWalrath LLP as Bond Attorney for 2021 (unanimous)
- Appointed JFS Services, LLC as C-4 License Operator for 2021 (unanimous)
- Tabled appointment of Najarian Associates as Alternate Engineer to 1/26/2021 (unanimous)
- Tabled appointment of Acrisure as Risk Management Consultant to 1/26/2021 (unanimous)