Rockaway public meetings in 2025

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will consider two resolutions. One authorizes the execution of a mediation agreement with Fair Share Housing concerning the fourth‑round housing element and Fair Share. The other authorizes the mayor to sign a 99‑year lease with the owners of the Pond View Development for a fire/emergency services station on Pond View property. The meeting also includes standard procedural items and a notice of compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.

• Resolution R‑252‑229: Authorize execution of mediation agreement with Fair Share Housing regarding fourth‑round housing element and Fair Share.
• Resolution R‑252‑230: Authorize mayor to sign a 99‑year lease with Pond View Development owners for fire/emergency services station on Pond View property.
• Notice of meeting posted per Public Law 1975, Chapter 231 (Open Public Meetings Act).
• Reorganization meeting scheduled for January 6, 2026.

The council voted to authorize the execution of a mediation agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center concerning the township’s Fourth Round affordable‑housing element. They also approved a 99‑year lease at $1 per year with the Pond View developer to allow a fire and emergency‑services station on the site. Both motions passed with eight votes in favor and one member absent.

• Approved Resolution R-25-229 authorizing mediation agreement with Fair Share Housing Center (8 ayes, 1 absent)
• Approved Resolution R-25-230 authorizing 99‑year $1/yr lease with Pond View for fire/emergency services station (8 ayes, 1 absent)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will consider several consent‑agenda items, including redemption of tax‑title liens on 213 Fischer Ct. and 6 Katherine Rd., a tax refund for a 100% disabled veteran, and a settlement stipulation for multiple tax appeals involving properties on Mount Pleasant and Mount Hope Avenues. The council will also vote to award a $3,000,000 contract for annual bulky and vegetative waste pickup through 2030, authorize a municipal services agreement with The Hills by Lennar Condominium Association, Inc., and designate all Department of Public Works staff as first responders. New business includes a full‑membership request from Mt. Hope Fire Company #2.

• R-25-225: Award $3,000,000 contract for annual bulky and vegetative waste pickup (2026‑2030).
• R-25-226: Authorize mayor to sign municipal services agreement with The Hills by Lennar Condominium Association, Inc.
• R-25-223: Cancel and refund property taxes for a homeowner qualifying as a 100% disabled, tax‑exempt veteran.
• R-25-221 & R-25-222: Redeem tax‑title liens on 213 Fischer Ct. and 6 Katherine Rd.
• R-25-228: Designate all Department of Public Works members as “first responders.”

The Township Council adopted several resolutions, including a $3,000,000 contract for yearly bulky and vegetative waste collection. It also approved tax‑lien redemptions for properties at 213 Fischer Ct. and 6 Katherine Rd., a tax refund for a 100% disabled veteran, and a settlement authority for multiple WPG Rockaway Commons cases. Additional actions authorized the mayor to sign a municipal services agreement with The Hills by Lennar Condominium Association and designated all DPW employees as “first responders.” A closed executive session was authorized to discuss pending litigation.

• Approved R-25-225 contract for bulky/vegetative waste removal $3,000,000 (7‑0)
• Approved R-25-221 redemption of tax lien on 213 Fischer Ct. (7‑0)
• Approved R-25-222 redemption of tax lien on 6 Katherine Rd. (7‑0)
• Approved R-25-223 cancellation and refund of taxes for 100% disabled veteran (7‑0)
• Approved R-25-224 authorization for defense counsel settlement in WPG Rockaway Commons cases (7‑0)
• Approved R-25-226 mayor to sign municipal services agreement with The Hills by Lennar Condominium Association, Inc. (7‑0)
• Approved R-25-228 designation of all DPW members as “first responders” (7‑0)
• Approved R-25-20 authorizing a closed executive session to discuss pending litigation (7‑0)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board will review several site plan applications, including a minor site plan with a “C” variance for Skechers at 343 Mt. Pleasant Avenue, a preliminary and final site plan for a cannabis facility for Sugar Leaves at 420 E Blackwell Street, and a minor site plan with a “C” variance for NJNG at 201 Roundhill Drive. The board will also approve the minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting.

• Minor site plan with “C” variance for Skechers, 343 Mt. Pleasant Ave (Block 11001 Lot 9)
• Preliminary & final site plan for cannabis facility (Sugar Leaves), 420 E Blackwell St (Block 10201 Lot 3)
• Minor site plan with “C” variance for NJNG, 201 Roundhill Dr (Block 22202 Lot 23)
• Approval of minutes from November 17, 2025 meeting

The Planning Board unanimously approved the minutes from the November 17 meeting and the escrow payment resolution. It also unanimously memorialized the Skechers sign variance (PB #2540) and the Sugar Leaves cannabis site plan (PB #2556). Mayor Jackson’s motion to approve the NJNG solar carport application (PB #2555) with specific conditions was seconded and approved by eight members. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved November 17 minutes (uncontested)
• Approved escrow payment resolution (uncontested)
• Approved Skechers sign variance (PB #2540) – unanimous
• Approved Sugar Leaves cannabis site plan (PB #2556) – unanimous
• Approved NJNG solar carport application (PB #2555) with conditions; approved by Mr. Simkins, Ms. Schievella, Mrs. Platts, Mr. Lutz, Mr. Barilla, Mr. Elko, Mayor Jackson & Mrs. Meyers
• Motion to adjourn approved (uncontested)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will review and decide on several variance requests. Items include a “C” variance for a new dwelling at 13 Dawson Road, a “C” variance for impervious coverage for an inground pool at 59 Sunnyhill Road, and an appeal with a “D” variance at 554 Mt. Hope Ave. The meeting also covers routine business such as approval of minutes and other agenda items.

• BOA #25-14 – “C” variance for new dwelling, 13 Dawson Road, Block 40308 Lot 10
• BOA #25-18 – “C” variance for impervious coverage (inground pool), 59 Sunnyhill Road, Block 10402 Lot 71.05
• BOA #25-16 – Appeal and “D” variance, 554 Mt. Hope Ave, Block 11301 Lot 39

The Board unanimously approved payment for professional services. It approved a “C” variance for a new dwelling at 13 Dawson Road (Mattson) with unanimous support, though one member abstained. The Board approved the Everclear Pools “C” variance for an inground pool at 59 Sunny Hill Road, adding conditions on storm‑water design, paver maintenance, and tree replacement, with ten members voting yes and one abstaining. The Brookes “D” variance (BOA #25-16) was carried over to the February 3, 2026 meeting.

• Approved payment for professional services (unanimous)
• Approved “C” variance for new dwelling at 13 Dawson Road (unanimous, 1 abstention)
• Approved Everclear Pools inground‑pool variance with conditions (10‑0‑1)
• Carried BOA #25-16 (Brookes) to Feb 3 2026
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will approve the minutes from the November 13 meeting and adopt Ordinance O-25-17, which amends Chapter VII Traffic to change one‑way streets, stop intersections, and turn prohibitions. A closed session will be held to discuss pending litigation, and several resolutions will address tax lien redemptions, tax refunds, and a new revenue line for the national opioid settlement. Additional resolutions include accepting a historic preservation grant and appointing conflicts counsel.

• Ordinance O-25-17 amending Chapter VII Traffic (one‑way streets, stop intersections, turn prohibitions)
• Resolution R-25-219 inserting revenue for the national opioid settlement into the 2025 budget
• Resolutions R-25-210, R-25-212, R-25-213, R-25-215, R-25-216 redeeming tax title liens on specific properties
• Resolution R-25-211 cancelling and refunding property taxes for a 100% disabled veteran
• Resolution R-25-217 accepting a grant from the NJ Historic Trust for preserving the Ford Faesch‑Manor House

The Rockaway Township Council adopted Ordinance O-25-17 amending traffic regulations with a unanimous 9‑vote approval. It authorized a closed session to discuss pending litigation and later directed the Mayor and Clerk to sign a settlement agreement with BeneCard. The council also approved a consent agenda covering multiple tax‑lien redemptions, a historic‑preservation grant, and an opioid‑settlement budget item. All actions were carried by a 9‑yes vote.

• Adopted Ordinance O-25-17 traffic amendment (9 Yes)
• Authorized executive closed session to discuss pending litigation (9 Yes)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions R-25-209 through R-25-219 (9 Yes)
• Directed Mayor and Clerk to execute settlement agreement with BeneCard (9 Yes)
• Approved minutes of the November 13, 2025 meeting (7 Yes)
• Returned to open session after closed session (9 Yes)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will review four variance applications at its November 18 meeting. Applications include a front‑yard fence variance for Bradley at 3 Stony Brook Road, a new‑dwelling variance for Mattson at 13 Dawson Road, a D‑variance for Lakeland Bus Lines at 425 E Blackwell Street, and C and D variances for a new dwelling for Dickerson on Carrell Street. The board will decide whether to grant each variance.

• BOA #25-15 – “C” variance for a front‑yard fence at 3 Stony Brook Road (Bradley)
• BOA #25-14 – “C” variance for a new dwelling at 13 Dawson Road (Mattson)
• BOA #25-12 – “D” variance for Lakeland Bus Lines at 425 E Blackwell Street
• BOA #24-04A – “C” and “D” variances for a new dwelling on Carrell Street (Dickerson)

The Board of Adjustment approved the variance application for 13 Dawson Road, adding several conditions such as revised topography plans and tree replacement. Two other variance requests (Lakeland Bus Lines and Dickerson) were carried over to the January 13, 2026 meeting. A resolution for payment of professional services was adopted unanimously, and the October 21, 2025 minutes were approved.

• Approved variance for 13 Dawson Road with conditions (approved by all present)
• Carried BOA #25-12 (Lakeland Bus Lines variance) to Jan 13, 2026
• Carried BOA #24-04A (Dickerson variance) to Jan 13, 2026 without further notice
• Approved Resolution for Payment for Professional Services (unanimous)
• Approved memorialization of BOA #25-15 variance despite one dissenting vote
• Approved October 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board will consider several site plan applications, including a preliminary and final cannabis development for Sugar Leaves. It will also review a conditional use site plan for a cottage food license, a minor site plan for TD Bank, and a minor site plan with a variance for Skechers. Public hearings are scheduled for the Skechers application.

• PB# 2556 – Preliminary & Final Site Plan – Cannabis for Sugar Leaves, 420 E Blackwell St, Block 10201 Lot 3
• PB# 2553 – Conditional Use Site Plan Approval – NJ Cottage Food License for Alexis Huguenel, 93 Mt. Pleasant Avenue Unit AO, Block 11116 Lot 52
• PB# 2549 – Minor Site Plan for TD Bank, 326 Mt. Hope Avenue, Block 10801 Lot 39
• PB# 2540 – Minor Site Plan with “C” Variance SIGN for Skechers, 343 Mt. Pleasant Avenue, Block 11001 Lot 9 (public hearing)
• Resolution – ESCROW (PB# 2553)

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting and several resolutions. It approved a minor site plan for TD Bank and a conditional use site plan for Alexis Huguenel’s cottage‑food operation. The board approved Skechers’ request for a sign variance, conditional on revised sign dimensions. The board approved Sugar Leaves LLC’s cannabis retail shop application with multiple conditions.

• Approved October 20, 2025 minutes (uncontested)
• Approved escrow resolution for professional services (uncontested)
• Memorialized TD Bank minor site plan (unanimous)
• Memorialized Alexis Huguenel cottage‑food conditional use (unanimous)
• Approved Skechers sign variance, contingent on revised plans (approved by listed members)
• Approved Sugar Leaves cannabis retail shop with conditions (approved by listed members)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will approve the minutes from the October 28 meeting and hold a hearing on prequalification regulations for Phase V(B) restoration of the Ford‑Faesch Manor House. Council members will consider two ordinances: one amending traffic one‑way streets, stop intersections and turn prohibitions (O‑25‑17), and another amending the defined contribution retirement program eligibility (O‑25‑16). Several items on the consent agenda will be acted upon, including tax lien redemption, tax refunds for disabled veteran homeowners, endorsement of a laundromat permit, a contract price increase for the water field operations building, and renewal of a water‑sampling agreement.

• Ordinance O‑25‑17 amending traffic one‑way streets, stop intersections, and turn prohibitions
• Ordinance O‑25‑16 amending eligibility for the defined contribution retirement program
• Resolution R‑25‑206 authorizing change order increasing the Water Field Operations Building contract to $3,031,710.61
• Resolution R‑25‑205 endorsing a treatment works permit for Rocklaundry LLC to build a new laundromat on Lot 7, Block 10205
• Hearing on prequalification regulations for Phase V(B) restoration of the Ford‑Faesch Manor House

The council adopted Ordinance O‑25‑17, changing one‑way streets, stop intersections, and turn prohibitions. It also approved Ordinance O‑25‑16 amending the retirement program eligibility. Several resolutions were approved, including a contract price increase to $3,031,710.61 and a full‑membership vote for Mt. Hope Fire Company #2. All motions carried with a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved Ordinance O‑25‑17 amending traffic rules (6‑0)
• Approved Ordinance O‑25‑16 amending retirement program eligibility (6‑0)
• Approved Resolution R‑25‑206 increasing Water Field Operations Building contract to $3,031,710.61 (6‑0)
• Approved Resolution R‑25‑205 endorsing ROCKLAUNDRY LLC treatment works permit (6‑0)
• Approved Resolution R‑25‑203 adopting pre‑qualification regulations for Phase V(B) restoration (6‑0)
• Approved Resolution R‑25‑202 amending Township personnel policy and procedure manual (6‑0)
• Approved full membership for Mt. Hope Fire Company #2 (Alan Williams) (6‑0)
• Approved tax‑relief resolutions R‑25‑197, R‑25‑198, R‑25‑199, R‑25‑200, R‑25‑204 (6‑0)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will vote on several financial resolutions, including authorizing a $4,919,205 bond issuance for the Richards Street Roadway Improvements Project and combining $9,711,000 of general bonds into a single issue. The council will also adopt two ordinances: one amending the retirement program eligibility and another adding police regulations for electric personal transportation devices. Additional resolutions address tax‑title lien redemptions, membership in the NJ Solutions Joint Health Insurance Fund, and termination of participation in SHBP/SEHBP.

• Ordinance O-25-15 adding Article 13 to police regulations for electric personal transportation devices
• Ordinance O-25-16 amending Chapter 2, Article V, Section 2‑8 on retirement program eligibility
• Resolution R-25-192 authorizing issuance of up to $4,919,205 bond for the Richards Street Roadway Improvements Project
• Resolution R-25-193 combining $9,711,000 of general bonds into a single issue
• Resolution R-25-195 authorizing the township to become a member of the NJ Solutions Joint Health Insurance Fund

The council adopted Ordinance O‑25‑15 regulating electric personal transportation devices, passing the motion 8‑1. It also approved a package of resolutions (R‑25‑190 through R‑25‑194) covering tax‑title lien redemptions, a performance guarantee release and the issuance of $4.9 M bond anticipation notes and $9.7 M general bonds, with a 9‑0 vote. Additionally, the township approved joining the New Jersey Solutions Health Insurance Fund and withdrawing from the State Health Plan (R‑25‑195 and R‑25‑196), also by a 9‑0 vote. The minutes of the October 14 meeting were approved unanimously (8‑0).

• Adopted e‑bike ordinance O‑25‑15 (8‑1)
• Approved resolutions R‑25‑190‑R‑25‑194 (9‑0)
• Approved health‑insurance change resolutions R‑25‑195 and R‑25‑196 (9‑0)
• Approved October 14 meeting minutes (8‑0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings regarding zoning appeals and variances. The board will consider requests related to a front yard fence and a zoning officer's decision.

• BOA # 25-13: Resolution for a "C" Variance for a new house on steep slopes at 515 Mt. Hope Ave
• BOA # 25-15: Public hearing for a "C" Variance for a front yard fence at 3 Stony Brook Road
• BOA # 25-04: Public hearing for an appeal of the Zoning Officer’s decision at 462 Green Pond Road

The Board accepted the minutes from the October 7, 2025 meeting after a motion and second, with all present members voting in favor. The approval was recorded as unanimous consent, with the chairman abstaining. No other substantive actions or decisions were recorded in this meeting.

• Approved October 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous consent)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board will consider two public‑hearing items: a Conditional Use Site Plan Approval for a New Jersey Cottage Food License submitted by Alexis Huguenel at 93 Mt. Pleasant Avenue, Unit AO, and a Minor Site Plan submitted by TD Bank at 326 Mt. Hope Avenue. The board will also act on an ESCROW resolution and approve the minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting.

• Conditional Use Site Plan Approval – NJ Cottage Food License for Alexis Huguenel, 93 Mt. Pleasant Avenue, Unit AO, Block 11116 Lot 52
• Minor Site Plan for TD Bank, 326 Mt. Hope Avenue, Block 10801 Lot 39
• Resolution: ESCROW
• Approval of September 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Attendance of board members and alternates as listed

The Planning Board approved the escrow resolution for professional services without contest. It approved TD Bank's minor site plan for 326 Mt. Hope Avenue with conditions on Highlands documentation and landscaping review. It also approved a conditional‑use site plan for Alexis Huguenel to bake and sell cookies from her home. The meeting was adjourned with unanimous consent.

• Approved escrow resolution for payment of professional services (uncontested)
• Approved TD Bank minor site plan for 326 Mt. Hope Avenue with conditions (approved by listed members)
• Approved conditional‑use site plan for Alexis Huguenel home bakery (approved by listed members)
• Approved minutes from September 15, 2025 meeting (uncontested)
• Adjourned meeting (approved by all)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will consider several resolutions, including the release of performance guarantees totaling $1,064,008.18 for Queens Road Section I and II improvements. Two ordinances will be presented: one to regulate electric personal transportation devices and another to amend licensing rules for peddlers, canvassers and mobile food vendors. Additional items include redeeming a tax lien on 2 Troll Ln, authorizing the sale of surplus personal property, and renewing public‑health service agreements with neighboring boroughs.

• Ordinance O-25-15 – adds Article 13 to define and limit electric personal transportation devices
• Ordinance O-25-13 – amends Chapter 5 licensing for peddlers, canvassers, solicitors, and mobile food vendors
• Resolution R-25-185 – releases $425,531.95 performance guarantee for Queens Road Section I roadway improvements
• Resolution R-25-186 – releases $638,476.23 performance guarantee for Queens Road Section II roadway improvements
• Resolution R-25-182 – authorizes redemption of tax lien C#23-00032 on 2 Troll Ln

The Township Council adopted an ordinance adding Article 13 to the police regulations to govern electric personal transportation devices and another ordinance amending the licensing rules for pedlars, can‑vassers, solicitors and mobile food vendors. The council also approved a series of resolutions—including a tax‑title lien redemption, a surplus‑property auction, the 2025 Morris County Hazard Mitigation Plan update, and the release of two performance guarantees for the Queens Road projects. After a closed‑session discussion of pending litigation, the council unanimously authorized the mayor to sign a settlement agreement for a malpractice claim.

• Approved Ordinance O‑25‑15 on electric personal transportation devices (8 ayes, 0 nay, D. Brookes absent)
• Approved Ordinance O‑25‑13 amending licensing for pedlars, can‑vassers, solicitors, mobile food vendors (8 ayes, 0 nay, D. Brookes absent)
• Authorized redemption of tax‑title lien on 2 Troll Ln (Resolution R‑25‑182) (8 ayes, 0 nay)
• Authorized sale of surplus personal property via online auction (Resolution R‑25‑183) (8 ayes, 0 nay)
• Authorized adoption of 2025 Morris County Hazard Mitigation Plan update (Resolution R‑25‑184) (8 ayes, 0 nay)
• Released performance guarantee $425,531.95 for Queens Road Section I (Resolution R‑25‑185) (8 ayes, 0 nay)
• Released performance guarantee $638,476.23 for Queens Road Section II (Resolution R‑25‑186) (8 ayes, 0 nay)
• Authorized Mayor to sign malpractice settlement agreement (unanimous consent, 8 ayes, 0 nay)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will meet to consider variance requests and site plan approvals. The meeting includes public hearings for two specific property applications.

• BOA # 25-13: Jenkins, 515 Mt. Hope Ave, "C" Variance for a new house on steep slopes
• BOA #24-04A: Dickerson, Carrell Street, Final Site Plan Approval and amended "C" & "D" Variance

The Board approved the September 16, 2025 minutes unanimously. It also unanimously approved the escrow resolution for professional services. The Board approved applicant Christa Jenkins’ “C” variance for 515 Mt. Hope Avenue with four conditions, with six members voting yes and one voting no. The Board decided to carry forward Scott Dickerson’s amended site‑plan application to a hearing on November 18, 2025.

• Approved September 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved escrow resolution for payment for professional services (unanimous)
• Approved Jenkins “C” variance with conditions (6‑1)
• Carried forward Dickerson amended site‑plan application to Nov 18, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will consider two ordinances: O-25-13 to amend definitions for peddlers, canvassers, solicitors, and mobile food vendors, and O-25-14 to remove Lake Telemark references and adjust vessel size limits in the watercraft regulation. The meeting also includes a consent agenda with resolutions on a tax‑title lien redemption for 1102 Hamilton Dr, a 2013 tax refund, procedures for federal‑aid highway projects, rejection of all bids for bulky and vegetative waste collection services, and contract purchases under cooperative agreements. Minutes from the September 9 council meeting will be approved.

• Ordinance O-25-13: amend Chapter 5, Article 5‑5 definitions for peddlers, canvassers, solicitors, mobile food vendors
• Ordinance O-25-14: amend Chapter 17, Article 2 watercraft operation limits, removing Lake Telemark reference
• Resolution R-25-180: reject all bids for bulky and vegetative waste collection and solid waste services
• Resolution R-25-177: authorize redemption of tax‑title lien C#23‑00012 for 1102 Hamilton Dr
• Resolution R-25-178: authorize refund of taxes for tax year 2013 per tax court judgment

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance O-25-13 amending the township's licensing definitions and Ordinance O-25-14 removing Lake Telemark references from watercraft size limits. A consent agenda approved resolutions authorizing a tax‑title lien redemption, a tax refund, highway project inspection procedures, rejection of waste‑collection bids, and a procurement amendment. The meeting minutes were also approved unanimously.

• Approved September 25 meeting minutes (8‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Adopted Ordinance O-25-13 amending licensing definitions (8‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Adopted Ordinance O-25-14 removing Lake Telemark reference from watercraft limits (8‑aye, 0‑nay)
• Approved Resolution R-25-177 redeeming tax‑title lien on 1102 Hamilton Dr (consent agenda)
• Approved Resolution R-25-178 refunding 2013 taxes per tax court judgment (consent agenda)
• Approved Resolution R-25-179 adopting procedures for federal aid highway projects (consent agenda)
• Approved Resolution R-25-180 rejecting all bids for bulky and vegetative waste collection services (consent agenda)
• Approved Resolution R-25-181 amending procurement authorizations for state, county, and regional contracts (8‑aye, 0‑nay)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will meet to consider a variance request and an appeal of a zoning officer's decision. The meeting will also include the approval of minutes and committee reports.

• Approval of September 2, 2025 minutes
• Consideration of 'C' Variance for 79 Oakland Ave (BOA # 25-11)
• Public hearing on appeal of Zoning Officer's decision for 554 Mt. Hope Ave (BOA # 25-03)
• Committee reports
• Open to the public

The Board approved the September 2 minutes and the escrow by unanimous consent. It adopted Resolution 25‑11 (Tempesta) for a C‑variance, also by unanimous consent. The Brookes matter (25‑30) was carried pending a new D‑variance filing and a hearing set for December 2. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved September 2 minutes (unanimous consent)
• Approved escrow (unanimous consent)
• Adopted Resolution 25‑11 Tempesta C‑variance (unanimous consent)
• Carried matter 25‑30 Brookes until filing of D‑variance application
• Scheduled Brookes hearing for December 2
• Adjourned meeting (all present in favor)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board will meet to conduct regular business and review resolutions. The agenda includes a resolution regarding a site plan for Rocklaundry.

• Resolution PB # 2546: Rocklaundry, 449 Route 46 (Block 10205 Lot 7) Preliminary & Final Site Plan w/ “C” Variance
• Resolution regarding ESCROW

The Board unanimously approved the August 18, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved the Resolution for Payment for Professional Services. The minor site plan for Cibao Meat Products with a C‑variance was memorialized with no opposition. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved August 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution for Payment for Professional Services (unanimous)
• Memorialized Cibao Meat Products minor site plan with C variance (no opposition)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will consider two ordinance amendments, several budget resolutions, and a $635,925 contract award for water main lining on North Lake Shore Drive. Items include changes to watercraft operation rules, licensing definitions, funding for a national opioid settlement, renewal of the township's insurance fund membership, and a soil disturbance permit for a private residence.

• Ordinance O-25-14 amends Chapter 17 to remove a reference to Lake Telemark in watercraft size limits
• Ordinance O-25-13 amends Chapter 5 to update definitions for pedlars, canvassers, solicitors, and mobile food vendors
• Resolution R-25-165 authorizes additional revenue in the 2025 budget for the national opioid settlement
• Resolution R-25-168 authorizes renewal of the township's membership in the Morris County Joint Insurance Fund (2026‑2028)
• Resolution R-25-169 awards a $635,925 contract to J. Fletcher Creamer & Sons, Inc. for water main lining on North Lake Shore Drive

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment approved a “C” variance for Boralsky to install a front‑yard pergola. It also approved Michael Tempesta’s “C” variance to add a three‑story addition, subject to an as‑built survey and roof‑leader plans. The “D” variance request from Lakeland Bus Lines was carried forward to the November 18, 2025 meeting.

• Approved Boralsky front‑yard pergola “C” variance (motion approved, several members abstained)
• Approved Tempesta three‑story addition “C” variance with conditions: as‑built survey and roof leaders on plans (unanimous on completeness, approved by listed members)
• Carried forward Lakeland Bus Lines “D” variance to 11/18/2025

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will meet to consider variance applications for residential properties. The board will review resolutions for two sites and hold a public hearing for one.

• Resolution for BOA # 25-08: Reaven, 7 Lakeview Court ('C' Variance)
• Resolution for BOA # 25-09: Cho, 16 Dead End Road ('C' Variance)
• Public hearing for BOA # 25-10: Boralsky, 56 Robin Street ('C' Variance for front yard pergola)

The Board approved a resolution to pay professional fees for August 19, 2025. It memorialized two "C" variances for Reaven (7 Lakeview Court) and Cho (16 Dead End Road). It also approved the Boralsky application for a front‑yard pergola at 56 Robin Street. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved escrow payment resolution (unanimous)
• Memorialized Reaven "C" variance for 7 Lakeview Court (approved)
• Memorialized Cho "C" variance for 16 Dead End Road (approved)
• Approved Boralsky "C" variance for pergola at 56 Robin Street (approved by listed members)
• Approved minutes from July 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board will consider a minor site plan with a variance for Cibao Meat Products and a preliminary and final site plan with a variance for Rocklaundry. The board will also review the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan.

• Cibao Meat Products site plan with variance (92 Green Pond Road)
• Rocklaundry preliminary and final site plan with variance (449 Route 46)
• Housing Element and Fair Share Plan review
• Approval of June 16, 2025 minutes
• Public hearing for Rocklaundry site plan

The Rockaway Township Planning Board approved the Rocklaundry LLC application for a preliminary and final site plan with a C‑variance, imposing several conditions on signage, loading area, lighting, and storm‑water maintenance. The motion was made by Mayor Jackson, seconded by Mr. Quinn, and passed 7‑1 with Mrs. Platts voting no. The board also unanimously approved the meeting minutes, an escrow payment resolution, a minor site plan for Cibao Meat Products, and a housing‑element resolution.

• Approved June 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved escrow payment resolution for professional services (unanimous)
• Approved memorializing Cibao Meat Products minor site plan with C‑variance (approved by all)
• Approved memorializing Housing Element and Fair Share Plan resolution (approved by all)
• Approved Rocklaundry site plan and C‑variance with conditions (7‑1)
• Motion to adjourn approved (unanimous)

Township Council

The Township Council will introduce an ordinance to amend definitions regarding peddlers, canvassers, solicitors, and mobile food vendors. The body will also address a consent agenda featuring tax lien redemptions, property tax refunds, and project approvals.

• Ordinance O-25-13 to amend Chapter 5 licensing for peddlers, canvassers, solicitors, and mobile food vendors
• Resolution R-25-153 to endorse a permit for Lodi CML Cooperative LLC to build a donut factory and warehouse at Lot 5.01, Block 22102
• Resolution R-25-155 for a modified grant application for a 2025 trail design project at Egbert's Lake Park
• Resolution R-25-161 for a change order increasing the contract price for the Richard Street roadway improvements project
• Resolution R-25-159 authorizing the public sale of township property via Municibid.com

The council approved the July 8, 2025 meeting minutes. It adopted Ordinance O‑25‑13, amending Chapter 5 definitions for pedlars, canvassers, solicitors and mobile food vendors. A consent agenda containing multiple tax‑lien redemption resolutions, grant authorizations, a road‑work change order and other items was approved. The council also appointed Kevin Wells as a full member of Fire Company 4 and Nathan Power as a junior member of Fire Company 1.

• Approved July 8, 2025 minutes (AYE 6, NAY 0, ABSTAIN 2, ABSENT 1)
• Adopted Ordinance O‑25‑13 amending licensing definitions (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSENT 1)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions R‑25‑142 through R‑25‑164 (including tax‑lien redemptions, grant submissions, road‑work change order) (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSENT 1)
• Appointed Kevin Wells as full member of Fire Company 4 (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSENT 1)
• Appointed Nathan Power as junior member of Fire Company 1 (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSENT 1)
• Approved change order increasing contract price for Richard Street roadway improvements (R‑25‑161) (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSENT 1)
• Authorized renewal of ABC liquor license for July 1 2025‑June 30 2026 (R‑25‑149) (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSENT 1)
• Authorized submission of modified grant application for Egbert’s Lake Park trail project (R‑25‑155) (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSENT 1)

Board of Adjustment

The Board approved the minutes from June 17 and July 1, 2025. It memorialized the Phillips “C” variance (BOA #25-07). The Board approved the Reaven fence variance with survey and boat‑storage conditions, and approved the Cho 2‑story dwelling variance with driveway, soil‑disturbance and survey conditions. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Memorialized Phillips “C” variance (BOA #25-07) (approved by 6 members)
• Approved Reaven fence variance with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Cho 2‑story dwelling variance with conditions (approved by 8 members)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Council

The Township Council approved the June 24 meeting minutes by a 7‑0 vote. It then approved a consent agenda containing six resolutions that authorize redemption of three tax‑title liens, disposition of unsold township property, revision of the meeting‑schedule notice, and a $163,931.95 reimbursement to Blenheim Hospitality for water‑bill overpayments. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved June 24 minutes (7-0)
• Approved R-25-136: redemption of tax lien C#24-00001 on 457 Rockaway Rd (7-0)
• Approved R-25-137: redemption of tax lien C#24-00064 on 1070 Green Pond Rd (7-0)
• Approved R-25-138: redemption of tax lien C#24-00035 on 322 Richard Mine Rd (7-0)
• Approved R-25-139: disposition of township property not sold at auction (7-0)
• Approved R-25-140: revision of official notice of 2025 meeting schedule (7-0)
• Approved R-25-141: reimbursement to Blenheim Hospitality $163,931.95 for water overpayments (7-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board approved Elizabeth Phillips' C‑variance to replace her garage, adding conditions for an as‑built survey, DEP compliance, and correct scale on the survey. The Cho family's C‑variance to replace their dwelling was postponed to the July 15 meeting for additional survey and ditch information. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Phillips garage variance with conditions (8‑0)
• Deferred Cho dwelling variance to July 15, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council adopted a consent agenda that included endorsement of the 2025 Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, appointment of a new tax assessor, renewal of ABC liquor licenses, and several tax‑sale and grant authorizations. All items were approved by a unanimous 9‑aye vote with no nay votes or abstentions. The meeting also noted a $870,000 increase in the fund balance and a continued AA1 bond rating.

• Approved appointment of Kimberly Johnson as Tax Assessor – Motion carried 9‑0
• Renewed Alcohol Beverage Control liquor licenses for July 1 2025–June 30 2026 – Motion carried 9‑0
• Authorized tax sale pursuant to N.J.S.A. 54:5‑19 – Motion carried 9‑0
• Authorized contract with RealAuction.com, LLC for 2025 municipal tax lien sale – Motion carried 9‑0
• Endorsed the 2025 Housing Element and Fair Share Plan – Motion carried 9‑0
• Authorized cancellation and refund of property taxes for a 100% disabled veteran – Motion carried 9‑0
• Certified the annual audit – Motion carried 9‑0
• Authorized grant application with NJDOT for roadway improvements to Circle Drive and Midway Court – Motion carried 9‑0

Board of Adjustment

The Board approved the meeting minutes from May 22, 2025. It approved an escrow payment for professional services. The public hearing on BOA #25-04 (Brookes) was postponed to September 16, 2025 with notice. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved escrow payment for professional services (unanimous)
• Postponed BOA #25-04 Brookes appeal hearing to September 16, 2025 (no objection)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Board approved the 2025‑2035 Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, meeting the township’s obligation for 301 affordable units. It also approved the Cibao Meat Products minor site plan with conditions, and adopted a revised Open Space and Recreation Plan as part of the Master Plan. Earlier agenda items—including the meeting minutes, a payment resolution, and a minor site plan for Hoffman—were approved unanimously.

• Approved meeting minutes from May 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution for Payment for Professional Services (unanimous)
• Memorialized minor site plan for Hoffman, 18 Old Beach Glen Road (unanimous)
• Adopted revised Open Space and Recreation Plan wording (no objection)
• Approved Cibao Meat Products minor site plan and “C” variance with conditions (approved by 9 members)
• Approved Housing Element and Fair Share Plan for 2025‑2035 (approved by 9 members)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council adopted Resolution R-25-130 to support a grant application for acquiring the Heller Tract (859 Green Pond Road, ~123 acres). The motion passed with six votes in favor, no votes against, and no abstentions. Public comments were uniformly supportive of the conservation effort. The meeting was then adjourned by consensus.

• Approved Resolution R-25-130 supporting grant for Heller Tract acquisition (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting by consensus (unanimous)

Township Council

The council approved the minutes from the May 13 meeting. It then approved the consent agenda, which includes authorizations for tax refunds, grant applications, and other resolutions. A six‑month extension for a NJDOT Reservoir Road grant was also approved. The council unanimously approved the transition of Liam Durning to full membership in Fire Company 3.

• Approved May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSTAIN 1, ABSENT 1)
• Approved consent agenda authorizing multiple resolutions (AYE 8, NAY 0, ABSENT 1)
• Approved six‑month extension of NJDOT Reservoir Road grant (AYE 8, NAY 0)
• Approved transition of Liam Durning to full Fire Company 3 membership (unanimous 8‑0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved an escrow payment for professional services and granted two “C” variances—one for a detached garage at 20 Hillside Road (Potter‑Durland) and another for an addition at 7 Roanoke Ave (Iaco). Mrs. Platts recused herself from a pending appeal hearing involving Tucker Kelly. The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 pm.

• Approved escrow payment for professional services (motion by Smolinski)
• Approved “C” variance for detached garage at 20 Hillside Road (BOA #25-02)
• Approved “C” variance for addition at 7 Roanoke Ave (BOA #25-06)
• Mrs. Platts recused herself from Tucker Kelly appeal hearing
• Meeting adjourned at 7:23 pm (motion by Horowitz)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the April 28 2025 meeting unanimously. It also unanimously approved a resolution to pay professional services and memorialized the minor site plan for 701 Ford Road. The board accepted the April 2025 Open Space and Recreation Plan update without objection. Finally, the board approved the Hoffman minor site plan for 18 Old Beach Glen Road, adding ADA parking spaces and requiring electrical permits for barn work.

• Approved April 28 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved payment resolution for professional services (unanimous)
• Approved memorialization of 701 Ford Road minor site plan (unanimous)
• Accepted Open Space and Recreation Plan update April 2025 (no objection)
• Approved Hoffman minor site plan with conditions: add ADA parking, obtain electrical permits (approved by listed members)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Township Council

The Township Council approved the minutes from the April 22 meeting and voted to repeal Ordinance O-25-07, which removed Chapter 2, Article VIII, Section 2‑40 (Citizens Recreation Committee). The council also approved a series of consent‑agenda resolutions covering sports‑league insurance, tax‑lien redemptions, a tax‑refund judgment, and other administrative items. The June 10 council meeting was cancelled due to the primary election, and the township reminded owners of one‑ and two‑family rentals to register, noting a $500 fine for non‑compliance.

• Approved April 22 minutes (8‑aye, 0‑nay, 0‑abstain)
• Repealed Ordinance O-25-07 (Citizens Recreation Committee) – AYE: Friedlander, Sackett, Quinn, Noon, Salberg, Wojtowicz, R. Brookes, President Morrison (7); NAY: none; ABSTAIN: D. Brookes; ABSENT: Salberg
• Approved resolution R-25-61 establishing qualifying sports leagues and providing liability insurance
• Approved resolution R-25-93 authorizing redemption of tax‑title lien C#24‑00008 for 544 Herrick Dr.
• Approved resolution R-25-94 authorizing redemption of tax‑title lien C#24‑00012 for 51 Richard St.
• Approved resolution R-25-95 authorizing redemption of tax‑title lien C#24‑00034 for 322 Richard Mine Rd / R5
• Approved resolution R-25-97 authorizing refund of 2023‑2024 taxes per April 3 tax‑court judgment
• Cancelled the June 10 council meeting due to the primary election

Board of Adjustment

The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting. It approved the Potter‑Durland garage variance, requiring an as‑built survey after construction. It also approved the Iaco addition variance, requiring an as‑built survey and storm‑water drainage away from neighboring properties. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved April 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Potter‑Durland garage variance; condition: provide as‑built survey post‑construction (unanimous)
• Approved Iaco addition variance; conditions: provide as‑built survey post‑construction and direct storm‑water drainage away from neighbors (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board approved the minutes from the March 17, 2025 meeting and several resolutions unanimously. It approved a minor subdivision at 523 & 525 Mount Hope Avenue and adopted a minor site plan for 701 Ford Road with no conditions. The board also adopted the updated Open Space & Recreation Plan as an element of the township’s Master Plan to maintain eligibility for state funding.

• Approved March 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution for Payment for Professional Services (unanimous)
• Approved memorialization of Minor Subdivision at 523 & 525 Mount Hope Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved minor site plan for 701 Ford Road, 701 Ford Road Real Estate LLC (no conditions)
• Adopted updated Open Space & Recreation Plan as element of Master Plan

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council approved the minutes from the April 8 meeting and repealed the Citizens Recreation Committee ordinance. It adopted a series of ordinances covering a new housing overlay district, budget cap, salary adjustments, multiple bond issuances, and tax code amendments. The council then adopted the 2025 municipal budget totaling $30,533,753 for municipal purposes, plus additional trust fund levies. All items were approved unanimously except the minutes approval, which had two abstentions.

• Approved April 8 minutes (7-0-2)
• Approved repeal of Citizens Recreation Committee (8-0-1)
• Approved new hospitality and affordable multifamily overlay district (9-0-0)
• Approved ordinance exceeding budget limits and establishing cap bank (9-0-0)
• Approved salary fixing ordinances for officials and employees (9-0-0)
• Approved bond ordinance for $4,286,375 appropriation and $1,821,585 bonds (9-0-0)
• Approved bond ordinance for $1,629,000 appropriation and $1,547,550 bonds (9-0-0)
• Approved 2025 municipal budget of $30,533,753 (9-0-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board appointed Mrs. Royek as Acting Secretary and unanimously approved the March 18 minutes and an escrow payment for professional services. It also approved a C‑variance for a deck and addition at 89 Circle Drive (Gutierrez) and adopted proposed by‑law changes for the Completeness Review Committee. The subdivision variance for 46 Pawnee Avenue was carried forward to the May 6 meeting.

• Acting Secretary appointment approved (unanimous)
• March 18 minutes approval (unanimous)
• Escrow payment for professional services approved (unanimous)
• C‑variance for deck & addition at 89 Circle Drive approved
• By‑law changes for Completeness Review Committee approved (unanimous)
• Subdivision variance for 46 Pawnee Avenue carried forward to May 6

Township Council

The council approved the minutes from the March meetings. It passed two ordinances: one amending the disabled veteran tax refund provision and another updating health and environment sections. The consent agenda items, including tax‑lien redemptions, a gypsy‑moth nuisance declaration, a vision‑insurance contract, a performance‑guarantee release, and the rescission of a scout‑cabin agreement, were also approved.

• Approved March 15 and March 25 meeting minutes (7 AYES)
• Approved Ordinance O-25-11 amending disabled veteran tax refund (7 AYES)
• Approved Ordinance O-25-12 amending health and environment sections (7 AYES)
• Approved tax‑lien redemption resolutions R-25-62 to R-25-65 (7 AYES)
• Approved Resolution R-25-66 declaring gypsy moth a public nuisance (7 AYES)
• Approved Resolution R-25-67 authorizing a 48‑month vision‑insurance contract (7 AYES)
• Approved Resolution R-25-68 releasing $156,026 performance guarantee (7 AYES)
• Approved Resolution R-25-69 rescinding the scout‑cabin memorandum (7 AYES)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council adopted several budget‑related measures, including a $4,286,375 bond ordinance, and approved salary and zoning ordinances. A resolution to repeal the youth‑sports code passed, while adoption of a new affordable‑housing overlay district was postponed.

• Modified 2025 budget introduction, moving $10,000 between sports programs (9‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance O‑25‑04 to exceed budget limits and create a cap bank (9‑0)
• Approved Bond Ordinance O‑25‑08 appropriating $4,286,375 for improvements (9‑0)
• Approved Bond Ordinance O‑25‑09 appropriating $1,629,000 for water system (9‑0)
• Approved Bond Ordinance O‑25‑10 appropriating $564,000 for a new sewer vacuum truck (9‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance O‑25‑01 amending chicken‑keeping regulations (6‑2‑1)
• Repealed youth‑sports code and recreation committee sections (5‑3‑1)
• Postponed adoption of Ordinance O‑25‑02 creating a hospitality and affordable‑multifamily overlay district (9‑0)