South Orange Village public meetings in 2021

General

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a special virtual meeting on December 31, 2021. The only substantive item is a resolution to adopt an updated Personnel Policy and Procedure Manual/Employee Handbook. The meeting also includes public comment and standard procedural items.

• Resolution 2021-350 adopting updated Personnel Policy and Procedure Manual/Employee Handbook

At a special meeting on December 31, 2021, the South Orange Board of Trustees adopted Resolution 2021-350, updating the Township of South Orange Personnel Policy and Procedure Manual/Employee Handbook. The vote was 6-0 in favor, with all trustees present voting yes. The administrator said the update allows future changes to individual sections without a new resolution, and suggested forming an ad hoc group in October 2022 to review the policy. No public comment was offered, and the meeting adjourned at about 10:35 a.m.

• Adopted Resolution 2021-350 updating the Personnel Policy and Procedure Manual/Employee Handbook (6-0)

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda covering contracts, appointments, and a $15.6 million bill payment. The board will also enter executive session and hear public comment.

• Resolution 2021-349 authorizes payment of bills totaling $15,619,376.16
• Resolution 2021-346 approves collective bargaining agreements with Police Benevolent Association SOA Local No. 12A
• Resolution 2021-340 awards a $7,560 contract to City Fire Equipment Company for fire and burglar alarm inspections
• Resolution 2021-345 authorizes purchase of social media archiving software from PageFreezer for up to $2,700
• Resolution 2021-344 authorizes a limited access agreement with Valley Street South Orange Urban Renewal, LLC

The Board of Trustees approved a consent agenda of resolutions covering a sanitary sewer extension consent, engineering services for the Cameron tennis courts, budget transfers, a Community Care & Justice contract extension, board appointments, a social media archiving software purchase, police collective bargaining agreements, emergency well decommissioning, and the appointment of Ojetti E. Davis as Village Clerk. The board also approved paying bills and issuing checks totaling $15,619,376.16 for the period through December 27, 2021. A separate resolution awarding a fire and burglar alarm inspection contract to City Fire Equipment Company was tabled to the next meeting. The board approved minutes from the December 13, 2021 meeting and authorized an executive session on personnel, redevelopment, library bond, and budget matters.

• Approved consent agenda resolutions 2021-331 and 2021-337 through 2021-339 and 2021-341 through 2021-348 (6-0)
• Approved payment of bills and issuance of checks totaling $15,619,376.16 through December 27, 2021 (6-0)
• Tabled Resolution 2021-340, a one-year fire and burglar alarm inspection contract with City Fire Equipment Company not to exceed $7,560.00 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of the December 13, 2021 regular meeting (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-336 authorizing an executive session on personnel, redevelopment, library bond, and budget matters (all in favor)
• Appointed Ojetti E. Davis as Village Clerk (Resolution 2021-348)
• Authorized collective bargaining agreements with the Police Benevolent Association SOA Local No. 12A (Resolution 2021-346)
• Authorized purchase of social media archiving software from PageFreezer not to exceed $2,700.00 (Resolution 2021-345)

General

The South Orange Village Community Relations Committee is meeting virtually to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, receiving liaison reports, and planning for 2022. New business includes nominating a Villager of the Month, creating a promotional video, and setting meeting dates and goals. The committee will also discuss returning to in-person meetings and a potential budget.

• January Villager of the Month nomination
• Creation of a sizzle reel
• CRC membership drive for January
• Discussion on returning to in-person meetings
• 2022 meeting dates and times

General

The South Orange Historic Preservation Commission is holding its regular virtual meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, including roll call, approval of minutes from October and November meetings, and public comments. The main substantive items are updates on old business: the Baird, the Library, and 167 North Ridgewood Road, plus subcommittee updates on the Master Plan Element and the website.

• Approval of minutes from October 21 and November 18, 2021 meetings
• Update on Baird
• Update on Library
• Update on 167 North Ridgewood Road
• Master Plan Element Update

The Historic Preservation Commission conducted routine business, voting to approve the minutes from its October 21 and November 18, 2021 meetings. No substantive preservation applications or new business items were decided during the session. Commissioners received informational updates on ongoing village projects, including library renovations and local development reports.

• Approved meeting minutes for Oct. 21 and Nov. 18, 2021 (unanimous; Martinek abstained on Nov. 18)

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission is meeting virtually to discuss updates on environmental policies and projects. Key items include a leaf blower ordinance to be presented to the Board of Trustees in January, and progress on riparian and tree ordinances. The commission will also hear public comments and updates from various committees.

• Leaf Blower Ordinance to be presented to BOT on January 10, 2022
• Shade Tree Committee to Commission Ordinance – BOT first reading date TBD
• Riparian Protection Ordinance – in progress
• Tree Ordinance – in progress
• Newly appointed Commission Alternates: Olivia Lewis-Chang and Walter Clarke

General

The Finance and Capital Projects Committee will hold a regular virtual meeting to discuss new business including the Parking Authority and environmental initiatives funding, followed by department updates and reviews of the FY'21 operating and capital budgets and the budget calendar. The meeting includes public comment and approval of prior minutes.

• Parking Authority discussion
• Environmental initiatives/sustainability funding discussion
• FY'21 operating budget review
• FY'21 capital budget review
• Budget calendar discussion

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a virtual public works and utilities meeting. Department heads will report on operations and present capital and operational budget requests for the upcoming year. The board will also discuss changing the meeting time.

• Public Works report and capital/operational requests
• Water Utility report and capital/operational requests
• Joint Meeting of Essex & Union County (sewer) report
• Engineer report and capital/operational requests
• Discussion on changing meeting time

General

The South Orange Village Planning Board is holding a special meeting to hear a single application: Case #287/6 South Orange LLC proposes converting the existing three-story commercial building at 6-8 South Orange Avenue into a mixed-use building with retail on the first floor and two stories of residential. The applicant is seeking preliminary and final site plan approval and C variance relief. The meeting is virtual via Webex.

• Case #287/6 South Orange LLC, Block 1908 Lot 5, 6-8 South Orange Avenue
• Preliminary & Final Site Plan and C Variance Relief
• Conversion of three-story commercial building to mixed-use with retail and residential

The South Orange Planning Board approved Case #287/6 South Orange LLC for a preliminary and final site plan and C variance relief at Block 1908 Lot 5, 6-8 South Orange Avenue. The applicant proposed converting an existing three-story commercial building into a mixed-use building with retail on the first floor and two stories of residential. The board heard testimony from three expert witnesses and approved the application with conditions as discussed; no public comments were recorded. The meeting adjourned at approximately 11:07 pm.

• Approved with conditions Case #287/6 South Orange LLC site plan and C variance relief for 6-8 South Orange Avenue (6-0)
• Applicant to secure a letter from the neighbor regarding windows on the 2nd and 3rd floors

General

The Planning & Economic Development Committee is holding a regular meeting to receive reports from code enforcement, the deputy administrator, and the South Orange Downtown director. Under old business, they will discuss updates on the parking ordinance, the cannabis task force, the master plan, an NPP application on Irvington Avenue, and accessory dwelling units. The meeting is virtual and open to the public.

• Update on Parking Ordinance
• Cannabis Task Force discussion
• Master Plan update
• NPP Application - Irvington Avenue
• Accessory Dwelling Units discussion

The committee agreed to support the hiring of a full-time Code Enforcement Officer. Members also discussed draft requirements for Accessory Dwelling Units and noted that a Parking Ordinance was introduced on first reading at a separate Board of Trustees meeting.

• Agreed to support hiring a full-time Code Enforcement Officer
• Agreed to send draft Accessory Dwelling Unit requirements to the Development Committee for architect feedback

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with several public hearings and votes. Key actions include a second reading of a $500,000 bond ordinance for water utility improvements, a first reading of an ordinance to exempt new businesses in the Central Business District from certain parking requirements, and a second reading of an anti-nepotism policy. The board will also vote on a consent agenda with numerous contracts and resolutions, and hear a presentation from Congressman Donald Payne Jr. on federal infrastructure legislation.

• Second reading of bond ordinance 2021-22: $500,000 for water utility improvements
• First reading of ordinance 2021-25: parking requirement exemptions for new businesses in Central Business District
• Second reading of ordinance 2021-24: adopting an anti-nepotism policy
• Consent agenda includes $4,771,398.67 in bills and contracts for legal services, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing
• Promotion of David Klugel to Deputy Fire Chief

The Board approved a large payment of bills and passed several ordinances, including a $500,000 bond for water utility improvements. The Board also promoted David Klugel to Deputy Fire Chief and adopted an anti-nepotism policy.

• Approved $4,771,398.67 in bill payments (6-0)
• Approved $500,000 bond ordinance for water utility improvements (6-0)
• Promoted David Klugel to Deputy Fire Chief (6-0)
• Adopted anti-nepotism policy ordinance (6-0)
• Approved ordinance for parking requirement exemptions in Central Business District for first reading (6-0)
• Approved ordinance regarding prohibited parking and loading zones on Valley Street (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including various legal service contracts and a $70,561 engineering contract for Well #17 (6-0)
• Tabled Resolution 2021-331 regarding sanitary sewer extension for Lackawanna Place and Valley Street

General

The South Orange Village Community Police Collaborative is holding a regular meeting to discuss updates from the Community College and Justice (CC&J), Police Department, and Board of Trustees, as well as priorities and youth member recruitment. The agenda includes public comments and an executive session. This is a routine meeting with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• CC&J update and introductions
• Police Department update
• Board of Trustees update
• Priorities discussion
• Youth member recruitment update

General

The Health & Public Safety Committee is meeting to discuss 2022 capital and operating budget requests from all departments, along with updates on first responder radios. The agenda includes approval of minutes from previous meetings and an executive session. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• 2022 Capital and Operating Budget Requests – all departments
• First responder radio updates
• Approval of minutes from October 14 and November 4, 2021
• Executive session

The committee reviewed 2022 capital and operating budget requests for the Police Department, Rescue Squad, and Health Department. No formal votes were taken on these requests or the meeting minutes during this session. The committee discussed radio reception improvements and future meeting dates.

• Minutes approval tabled to January 13, 2022
• Meeting adjourned at 7:18 PM

Board of Trustees

This is the agenda for the South Orange Village Board of Trustees' Strategic Partnerships and Citizen Engagement committee meeting on December 8, 2021. The agenda contains only standard procedural items such as roll call, minutes approval, public comments, and old/new business, with no specific action items, proposals, or discussions listed. It appears to be a routine meeting with no substantive items on the published agenda.

• No specific items listed beyond standard procedural order

The Strategic Partnerships and Citizen Engagement committee met on December 8, 2021 and approved prior minutes for posting. Members received updates on the NPP grant survey, a Jespy House survey, Seton Hall University partnerships, South Orange Downtown programs, and possible Italian Cultural Center and Gaslight Ads initiatives. No ordinances, resolutions, contracts, or funding votes were recorded in these minutes; most items were reports or ongoing discussions.

• Approved prior meeting minutes for posting
• No public comments were offered
• NPP grant survey circulating; 150 responses needed by December 31, 2022
• Jespy House survey discussed; Trustee Jones compiling committee list
• Seton Hall NPP grant representatives identified: Russ Sprriglia (resident and faculty) and a student
• South Orange Downtown facade program: new awnings in Village Plaza, funded through reserves and beautification
• Gaslight Ads revival discussed, including a $2,000 ad and preference for local businesses
• Next meeting scheduled for January 12, 2022

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Village Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes, consider a resolution for a proposed 2-story rear addition at 212 Edgewood Terrace, and adopt a resolution setting 2022 meeting dates. The meeting is virtual and open to the public.

• Case #1046: 2-story addition at 212 Edgewood Terrace (Block 2503 Lot 6)
• Resolution establishing 2022 meeting dates
• Approval of minutes from November 3, 2021 meeting

The South Orange Village Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a resolution for Case #1046, allowing Michael Rocks and Stephen McGee to construct a 2-story addition at the rear of 212 Edgewood Terrace (Block 2503 Lot 6). The Board also approved its 2022 meeting dates and the minutes of its November 3, 2021 regular meeting. No discussion items were recorded, and the meeting adjourned at approximately 7:33pm.

• Approved Resolution for Case #1046 — 2-story rear addition at 212 Edgewood Terrace, Block 2503 Lot 6 (6-0)
• Approved Resolution setting 2022 meeting dates (6-0)
• Approved minutes of the November 3, 2021 regular meeting (5-0)
• Next meeting set for Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at 7:00 pm

Planning Board

The South Orange Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to consider several site plan applications, including a 60-unit inclusionary development on Irvington Avenue, and to discuss and potentially adopt the final Master Plan. The board will also vote on resolutions and hear public testimony on the applications.

• Case #283: Preliminary & final site plan for 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue, with ground-floor retail
• Case #286: 1-story addition for seating at 10 Sloan Street (Miti Miti South Orange LLC)
• Case #287: Conversion of 6-8 South Orange Avenue to mixed-use with retail and residential
• Resolution establishing 2022 meeting dates
• Final Master Plan discussion and board decision on adoption

The South Orange Planning Board adopted the Final Master Plan and its corresponding resolution during its December 6, 2021 meeting. The board also approved a site plan and variance application for a rear addition at 10 Sloan Street (Miti Miti) and carried a commercial building conversion application for 6-8 South Orange Avenue to December 15. Additionally, the board approved five sets of past meeting minutes, a resolution for a 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue, and the 2022 meeting dates.

• Approved meeting minutes from Nov 1, 2021, Sep 30, 2021, Oct 18, 2021, Oct 26, 2021, and Nov 10, 2021
• Approved amended resolution for Case #283 (270 and 299 Irvington Avenue) for a 60-unit inclusionary development with commercial use (6-0)
• Approved resolution establishing 2022 meeting dates (8-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved Case #286 (Miti Miti at 10 Sloan Street) for a 1-story rear addition and C variance relief with conditions (9-0)
• Carried Case #287 (6-8 South Orange Avenue) to the December 15 special meeting
• Adopted the Final Master Plan (8-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted the Resolution of Board Action on the Master Plan (8-0)

General

The South Orange Village Citizen Budget Advisory Committee (CBAC) is meeting to review the FY2022 budget timeline, including upcoming deadlines for capital requests, department budget reviews, and presentations to the Board of Trustees. They will also discuss the status of the 2021 budget versus actuals, with 4Q projections, and address specific concerns such as capital expenses, shared services, COVID-related costs, a $500,000 bond issue for the Water Utility, and hiring a part-time NPP Coordinator. The meeting is open to public comment.

• Review of FY2022 budget timeline: November capital requests, December department reviews, January draft capital budget presentation
• Community organization funding requests from SOPAC, South Orange Downtown (SOVCA), YouthNet, Environmental Commission, CCR
• Discussion of $500,000 bond issue for Water Utility
• Discussion of hiring part-time NPP Coordinator in Administration
• Status of 2021 budget vs actual with 4Q projections

General

The South Orange Village Design Review Board is holding a regular committee meeting to discuss old business, including properties at 10 Sloan Street (Miti Miti) and 6-8 South Orange Avenue. The meeting also includes public comments and setting the next meeting date.

• 10 Sloan Street (Miti Miti) discussion
• 6-8 South Orange Avenue discussion
• Public comments period

General

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding its regular meeting, where it will vote on a consent agenda that includes a $41,695.65 contract for police station furniture, a resolution appointing a humane law enforcement officer, and a $10.99 million bills payment. The board will also consider appointments to the library board and environmental commission, and receive reports from various departments. Public comment is scheduled.

• Resolution 2021-304: Award contract to Exemplis Corp for police station furniture, not to exceed $41,695.65
• Resolution 2021-308: Authorize payment of bills totaling $10,991,979.09
• Resolution 2021-303: Appoint Sgt. John Niedzinski as Humane Law Enforcement Officer
• Resolution 2021-307: Authorize agreement with Jayme Ganey for South Orange Care & Community Justice Project
• Appointments to Public Library Board (Andrew Ha, Emily Brown) and Environmental Commission (Walter Clarke)

The South Orange Board of Trustees approved a bills list totaling $10,991,979.09 and a contract not to exceed $41,695.65 for furniture at the police station. The board also adopted several resolutions, including appointing a humane law enforcement officer and adopting the 2022 municipal holiday calendar. President Collum made appointments to the library board and environmental commission, and the board convened as the Board of Health to discuss COVID-19 updates. No new business was introduced, and the meeting adjourned after an executive session on contract negotiations.

• Approved minutes of November 8, 2021 regular meeting (5-0, Haskins absent)
• Approved Resolutions 2021-303 through 2021-307, including appointment of Sergeant John Niedzienski as Humane Law Enforcement Officer and $41,695.65 furniture contract for police station (5-0, Haskins absent)
• Approved payment of bills and issuance of checks totaling $10,991,979.09 (5-0, Haskins absent)
• Approved Resolution 2021-309 authorizing executive session on Baird Community Center and public safety radios (all in favor)
• Appointed Andrew Ha and Emily Brown to South Orange Public Library Board; Walter Clarke as alternate to Environmental Commission
• Convened as Board of Health to receive November 2021 report and discuss COVID-19 updates

General

The South Orange Village Finance and Capital Projects Committee will hold a regular virtual meeting to discuss budget transfers, hear from the Parking Authority, and receive updates from the finance, tax, and water departments. They will also review the FY'21 operating and capital budgets and set the FY'22 budget calendar. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Budget transfers discussion
• Parking Authority presentation by Mark Hartwyk and Marc Bromfield
• FY'21 Operating Budget review
• FY'21 Capital Budget review
• FY'22 Budget Calendar and department presentations

The Finance and Capital Projects Committee voted to send six budget transfers to the full Board of Trustees for adoption at its next meeting. The South Orange Parking Authority asked the Village to take on all financial expenses of running Jitney Services; the committee requested audits and budget projections and suggested a formal resolution and a budget workshop presentation in late January or early February. Approval of prior minutes was carried to the December meeting, and no reports were given on the FY'21 operating budget, FY'21 capital budget, or the FY'22 budget calendar.

• Approved sending 6 budget transfers (2 pension accounts, engineering, Planning Board, Historic Preservation Commission, street lighting) to the full Board of Trustees (all in favor, none opposed)
• Carried approval of minutes to the December meeting
• Parking Authority request for Village to cover all Jitney Service expenses: no decision; committee requested 2019/2020 audit figures and 2022-2023 projections
• Chair Hilton suggested Parking Authority Trustees submit a resolution and make a budget presentation at the late January/early February budget workshop

General

The South Orange Historic Preservation Commission is holding a regular virtual meeting. They will swear in a newly appointed alternate member, adopt a resolution setting 2022 meeting dates, and receive updates on the Baird and Library projects and 167 North Ridgewood Road. Public comments will be heard.

• Swearing-in of Julie McCourt as Alternate Member
• Resolution establishing 2022 meeting dates
• Update on 167 North Ridgewood Road
• Baird and Library project updates

The commission approved a resolution to establish its meeting schedule for 2022. Additionally, a new alternate member was sworn into office.

• Approved Resolution establishing 2022 meeting dates (unanimous)
• Swore in Julie McCourt as Alternate Member

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission is meeting to discuss updates on the leaf blower ordinance, zero waste strategic planning, and various park conservancy projects. The agenda includes public comments and reports from committees, with no major decisions scheduled.

• Leaf Blower Ordinance FAQ and public forum being finalized
• Zero Waste strategic planning update after Maplewood approved resolution
• Founders Park Conservancy 50th Anniversary celebration report
• Meadowland Park Conservancy 1st Anniversary celebration report
• Storm drains follow-up on presentation and software

The Environmental Commission approved its October 2021 minutes and heard updates on leaf collection, tree planting, and the Greenway project. No ordinances or funding measures were voted on; the proposed Shade Tree Committee ordinance remains with the Village attorney and has not been voted on. The meeting was otherwise discussion and reports, with no public comment and no guest speaker.

• Approved October 2021 minutes
• No vote taken on Shade Tree Committee to Commission ordinance (still with Clyde Otis)
• No vote taken on Leaf Blower Ordinance (FAQ and public forum still being finalized)
• No public comment recorded
• No guest speaker present

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is meeting virtually to discuss strategic partnerships and citizen engagement. The agenda includes updates on cannabis next steps, a digital kiosk, a community board, a demographics survey, and a communication plan, as well as new business on Italian Cultural Center discussions and an NPP Grant. No formal votes or ordinances are listed.

• Cannabis Next Steps discussion
• Digital Kiosk Update
• Community Board Status/Next Steps
• Demographics Survey
• Italian Cultural Center discussions and NPP Grant

The Strategic Partnerships and Citizen Engagement committee approved its prior meeting minutes (Trustee Zuckerman not eligible to vote) and reviewed progress on website changes, a volunteer form, and a demographics survey. The committee tabled the Community Board status/next steps and Italian Cultural Center discussions. On the NPP grant, it outlined a digital survey targeting 100 people, with a plan to be written up and approved by the Board of Trustees at the mid-March board meeting. No ordinances, contracts, or budget items were decided; the meeting was largely reports and discussion.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (Trustee Zuckerman not eligible to vote)
• Community Board status/next steps tabled
• Italian Cultural Center discussions tabled
• NPP grant survey plan to be drafted and sent to BOT for approval at mid-March board meeting
• Demographics survey to be reviewed by trustees, targeted for presentation at the Nov 22 BOT meeting
• Next meeting set for December 8, 2021
• Meeting adjourned at 9:26 am

General

The South Orange Planning Board is holding a special meeting to consider a preliminary and final site plan for a 4-story self-storage facility at multiple properties on Lackawanna Place and Valley Street. The board will also receive a presentation on the South Orange Master Plan by Topology. A resolution for the storage facility case is on the agenda for approval.

• Case #285/Storage Platform, LLC: preliminary and final site plan for a 4-story, ~131,832 SF self-storage facility with ground-floor community amenities at 1 Lackawanna Pl., 15 Lackawanna Pl., 311 Valley St., 313 Valley St., 315-317 Valley St., and 265 Valley St.
• South Orange Master Plan presentation by Topology
• Next meeting scheduled for Monday, December 6, 2021 at 7pm

The South Orange Planning Board voted 9-0 to approve a resolution for Case #285, a preliminary and final site plan for a 4-story self-storage facility of about 131,832 square feet with ground-floor community amenities at 1 and 15 Lackawanna Pl., 311, 313, 315-317 and 265 Valley St. The board also heard a presentation from the firm Topology on the South Orange Master Plan, covering mobility, land use, historic preservation and quality of life. Chairman Colton-Max said a final look and possible adoptions would come at the December 6 regular meeting. The meeting adjourned at about 9:35 pm.

• Approved Resolution for Case #285, Storage Platform, LLC self-storage site plan (9-0)
• Master Plan presentation received; no adoption vote taken, possible adoptions set for December 6 regular meeting

General

The Planning & Economic Development Committee is meeting virtually to discuss several ongoing items, including an update to the parking ordinance, the cannabis task force, the master plan, an NPP application on Irvington Avenue, and accessory dwelling units. The agenda also includes reports from code enforcement, the deputy administrator, and the South Orange Downtown Alliance, plus approval of the October 19 minutes.

• Update of Parking Ordinance
• Cannabis Task Force
• Master Plan
• NPP Application - Irvington Avenue
• Accessory Dwelling Units Discussion

The committee approved the minutes from the October 19, 2021 meeting. Members also received updates on code enforcement, village rebranding, downtown events, and the status of various development projects and ordinances.

• Approved October 19, 2021 meeting minutes

General

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with several ordinances for first reading, including a $500,000 bond for water utility improvements, a parking change on Valley Street, and an anti-nepotism policy. The board will also vote on consent agenda resolutions, including a professional services contract and bill payments totaling over $3.1 million. The meeting includes an executive session for a water utility matter and public comment.

• Ordinance 2021-22: $500,000 bond for water utility improvements
• Ordinance 2021-23: Prohibited parking and loading zone changes on Valley Street
• Ordinance 2021-24: Adopting an anti-nepotism policy
• Resolution 2021-297: Professional services contract to Alexander Elias Architecture for 133 Fairview Avenue
• Resolution 2021-302: Payment of bills totaling $3,181,520.50

The Board of Trustees approved first reading of three ordinances: a $500,000 bond for water utility improvements, a parking and loading zone change on Valley Street, and an anti-nepotism policy. Public hearings and possible final votes are set for December 13, 2021. The board also approved a consent agenda of five resolutions, a $3,181,520.50 bills payment, and withdrew a prior resolution on architecture services at 133 Fairview Avenue. Village President Collum was absent.

• Advanced Ordinance 2021-22, $500,000 water utility bond, first reading (5 yes, 1 abstain)
• Advanced Ordinance 2021-23, Valley Street parking and loading zone changes, first reading (6-0)
• Advanced Ordinance 2021-24, anti-nepotism policy, first reading (6-0)
• Set public hearings on Ordinances 2021-22, 2021-23, 2021-24 for December 13, 2021
• Approved Resolutions 2021-297 through 2021-301 on consent (6-0)
• Withdrew Resolution 2021-073 on architecture services at 133 Fairview Avenue (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-302 paying bills totaling $3,181,520.50 (6-0)
• Approved minutes of October 25, 2021 regular meeting (5 yes, 1 abstain)

General

The South Orange Village Community Police Collaborative is holding a regular meeting to discuss updates from the police department, the Community Choice and Justice (CC&J) committee, and traffic cameras, as well as to review an annual priorities survey and youth recruitment. The agenda includes public comments and an executive session, but no specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Traffic camera update
• Review of annual priorities survey and discussion
• Youth member recruitment update
• Trustee Liaison report update
• Police department update

The South Orange Community Police Collaborative held a virtual meeting where they approved the October 2021 minutes and received updates from the trustee liaison, police department, and committee members. The meeting included discussions on trash and recycling, Storm Ida claims, body camera rollout, traffic safety cameras, and annual focus priorities, with no substantive new business or votes taken.

• Approved October 2021 meeting minutes

General

The Health & Public Safety Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss reports and new items across health, OEM, rescue, fire, police, and traffic safety. Key topics include Hurricane Ida impact and recovery, a digital video system for police, and automatic aid with Maplewood. The meeting includes public comment periods and an executive session.

• Discussion of Maplewood automatic aid, radio coordination, and joint training
• Police digital video system update
• Hurricane Ida impact and recovery review
• Follow-up on annual traffic safety report and Essex County road repair/safety upgrade process
• Mobility Action Committee update

The South Orange Village Health & Public Safety Committee met virtually on November 4, 2021, to review departmental updates from OEM, the Rescue Squad, and Police, and heard reports on Tropical Storm Ida recovery. The committee approved the meeting minutes from August 12 and September 9, 2021, and tabled a proposal to reorganize committee meeting schedules for offline discussion.

• Approved August 12, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved September 9, 2021 meeting minutes
• Tabled the Health & Public Safety meeting re-organization proposal for offline discussion

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Village Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting to hear one application: a request to construct a 2-story rear addition at 212 Edgewood Terrace. The board will also swear in a new alternate member and approve minutes from the September 14, 2021 meeting.

• Case #1046: 2-story rear addition at 212 Edgewood Terrace (Block 2503 Lot 6)
• Swearing in of Clifford Pomerantz as Alternate Member
• Approval of minutes from September 14, 2021 regular meeting

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a variance application for a 2-story rear addition at 212 Edgewood Terrace. The board also swore in a new alternate member and approved the minutes from the September 14, 2021, meeting.

• Swore in Clifford Pomerantz as alternate member
• Approved September 14, 2021, meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved 2-story addition at 212 Edgewood Terrace with conditions (7-0)

General

The Board of Trustees will review the FY 2022 budget calendar and the current status of the 2021 budget versus actual spending. Discussions include capital expense concerns, shared services, and COVID-related expenses.

• FY 2022 budget timeline update
• Review of 2021 3Q operational and capital budget vs actual
• Discussion of 4Q budget projections
• Discussion regarding capital expenses and shared services

Planning Board

The South Orange Planning Board will consider several site plan applications, including a proposed 4-story self-storage facility and a 60-unit inclusionary housing development on Irvington Avenue. The board will also hear requests for a restaurant addition and a mixed-use conversion, and discuss a Master Plan update.

• Case #285: 4-story self-storage facility (131,832 SF) at 1 Lackawanna Pl. and nearby properties
• Case #283: 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue with ground-floor retail
• Case #286: 1-story addition for seating at 10 Sloan Street (Miti Miti)
• Case #287: Conversion of 6-8 South Orange Avenue to mixed-use with retail and residential
• Master Plan Update discussion

The South Orange Planning Board approved Case #283, a 60-unit inclusionary development with ground-floor commercial space at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue, with conditions discussed by the board. The board also approved the October 4, 2021 minutes. Two other applications, Case #286 (Miti Miti) and Case #287 (6 South Orange Avenue), were carried to the December 6 meeting, and the resolution for Case #285 (Storage Platform, LLC) was carried to a special meeting on November 10.

• Approved Case #283: 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue with conditions (8-0)
• Approved minutes of October 4, 2021 regular meeting (all in favor, none opposed)
• Carried Case #285 resolution (Storage Platform, LLC) to special meeting on November 10
• Adjourned Case #286 (Miti Miti South Orange, LLC) to December 6 meeting
• Carried Case #287 (6 South Orange LLC) to December 6 regular meeting
• Adjourned meeting at approximately 10:45 pm

General

The South Orange Village Planning Board is holding a regular committee meeting, with the main item being a presentation on the South Orange Master Plan by Topology. The board will also set its next meeting date and handle routine procedural matters. No formal decisions or public hearings are listed on this agenda.

• South Orange Master Plan presentation by Topology
• Next meeting scheduled for Monday, November 1, 2021 at 7pm

The Planning Board held a special virtual meeting on October 26, 2021. Village Planner Phil Abramson presented the South Orange Master Plan, covering its process, contents, and timeline, with elements on Mobility, Land Use & Community Forum, Historic Preservation, and Quality of Life. No adoption or approval vote was recorded; a public hearing on the plan is scheduled for November 10 at 7pm virtually, where the public may ask questions and comment. The meeting adjourned at about 8:00 pm.

• Master Plan presented by Village Planner Phil Abramson (no vote recorded)
• Public hearing on the Master Plan scheduled for November 10 at 7pm, virtual
• Next regular meeting set for Monday, November 1, 2021 at 7pm
• Moved to adjourn at approximately 8:00 pm; all members present in favor

General

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting with votes on a $500,000 bond ordinance for water utility improvements and a second-reading ordinance creating a Community Care and Justice Social Worker position. The board will also consider a consent agenda including resolutions for hiring part-time staff, supporting a zero waste initiative, and accepting the 2020 audit report. The meeting includes public comment periods and several announcements about community programs and events.

• Bond ordinance 2021-22: $500,000 for water utility improvements
• Ordinance 2021-21: creating Community Care and Justice Social Worker position
• Resolution 2021-291: support for zero waste community and joint bid with Maplewood
• Resolution 2021-295: payment of bills totaling $6,938,303.94
• Resolution 2021-294: renewal of liquor license for Eden Café & Dining LLC

The Board of Trustees approved an ordinance creating a new Community Care & Justice social worker position and authorized the hiring of an individual for that role. Trustees also approved the 2020 annual audit report, a $6.9M payment of bills, and a liquor license renewal for Eden Cafe & Dining LLC. A bond ordinance for water utility improvements was tabled to the next meeting.

• Adopted ordinance creating Community Care & Justice social worker position (6-0)
• Approved hiring of CC&J social worker (6-0)
• Approved $6,938,303.94 in bill payments (6-0)
• Approved 2020 annual audit report and corrective action plan (6-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Eden Cafe & Dining LLC (6-0)
• Tabled water utility bond ordinance (6-0)
• Approved October 11, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)

General

The South Orange Village Historic Preservation Commission is holding a regular meeting with a mostly procedural agenda. They will approve the minutes from the September 23 meeting, discuss volunteer applications, and receive updates on the Baird, Library, and 167 North Ridgewood Road projects. No major decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Discussion of volunteer applications
• Update on Baird project
• Update on Library project
• Update on 167 North Ridgewood Road
• Approval of September 23, 2021 minutes

The commission met to discuss volunteer applications, project updates, and subcommittee reports. No formal votes or substantive actions were recorded in the provided minutes.

• No formal actions or votes were recorded

General

The South Orange Village Public Works & Utilities Committee is meeting to discuss routine reports and new stormwater projects. The agenda includes lessons from Hurricane Ida, green infrastructure, a potential stormwater utility, and related policy. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of stormwater lessons from Hurricane Ida
• Green infrastructure initiatives
• Potential stormwater utility
• Stormwater policy considerations
• Reports from Public Works, Water Utility, Joint Meeting of Essex & Union County (sewer), Recycling/Solid Waste, and Engineer

General

The South Orange Village Finance and Capital Projects Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the 2020 audit, a water capital request, and updates from the finance, tax, and water departments. They will also review the FY'21 operating and capital budgets. The meeting is primarily for discussion and updates, with no final votes scheduled.

• 2020 Audit review
• Water Capital Request
• FY'21 Operation Budget review
• FY'21 Capital Budget review
• Department updates from Finance, Tax Collector, Water, and Tax Assessor/QPA

The Finance and Capital Projects Committee voted to move a $500,000 water utility working capital request to the Board of Trustees for its consideration. The committee also received a briefing on the 2020 Audit, which will go to the Board of Trustees for adoption at its November 15 meeting, followed by a Corrective Action Plan within 60 days. The committee approved minutes from its July 23, 2021 regular meeting. No action was taken on the FY'21 operating or capital budgets, which had no reports.

• Approved July 23, 2021 regular meeting minutes (all members present)
• Advanced $500,000 water utility working capital request to Board of Trustees (committee all in favor)
• Received 2020 Audit briefing; adoption expected at Board of Trustees November 15 meeting

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission is meeting virtually to hear a presentation on lead in South Orange, discuss policy updates including a leaf blower ordinance, and review updates on current projects like tree planting and recycling. The agenda also includes public comments and new business items such as concerns about artificial turf and undergrounding PSE&G lines.

• Presentation and Q&A on lead in South Orange by Alexander 'Lex' van Geen of Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory
• Leaf Blower Ordinance - FAQ and public forum being finalized and scheduled
• Approval of outgoing releases including media press release on trees and Village Blast on reusable take-out container survey
• Letter of support for organic field treatment program at Cameron Field in Meadowland Park
• Work days scheduled for Sundays, including collaboration with Ethical Culture Society at Meadowland Park

The Environmental Commission approved its September 2021 minutes and passed three communications items: a press release on the fall tree planting, a Village Blast on the reusable takeout container survey, and a recommendation letter supporting continued organic field treatment at Cameron Field in Meadowland Park. Most of the meeting was presentations and discussion, including a talk by Lex van Geen of Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory on childhood lead exposure, with a map showing 9% of South Orange children (about 2,700) exceeded the blood-lead threshold. The commission also heard updates on a 110-tree fall planting starting November 3, stormwater and leaf-mulching efforts, and a joint South Orange/Maplewood zero waste plan expected before the Board of Trustees.

• Approved September 2021 minutes
• Approved press release on fall tree planting
• Approved Village Blast on reusable takeout container survey
• Approved recommendation letter supporting continued organic field treatment at Cameron Field in Meadowland Park
• No additional letters or releases approved (none submitted)

General

The South Orange Parking Authority is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes routine reports, approval of checks and minutes, and public comment. In open session, the board will receive updates on outdoor dining, the Riverside lot, and jitneys. The meeting will also include a closed session to adopt the previous closed minutes.

• Resolution approving checks
• Resolution adopting open minutes for September 21, 2021
• Updates on outdoor dining, Riverside lot, and jitneys
• Resolution adopting closed minutes for September 21, 2021

General

The Planning & Economic Development Committee is meeting to discuss several items, including an update to the parking ordinance, the cannabis task force, the master plan, an NPP application on Irvington Avenue, and accessory dwelling units. The meeting includes reports from code enforcement, the deputy administrator, and the South Orange Downtown director.

• Update of Parking Ordinance
• Cannabis Task Force discussion
• Master Plan discussion
• NPP Application on Irvington Avenue
• Accessory Dwelling Units discussion

The Planning & Economic Development Committee approved its September 21, 2021 minutes and discussed several items without adopting any ordinances. It agreed to use 2,500 or 3,000 square feet as the standard in a parking ordinance update, which will next be drafted by Mr. Otis. The committee also reviewed proposed changes to the escrow deposit process and accessory dwelling unit rules, both of which will return for further review.

• Approved September 21, 2021 meeting minutes (all members present)
• Agreed to 2,500 or 3,000 as the standard in the parking ordinance update; Mr. Otis to draft ordinance
• Escrow deposit ordinance amendments to be reviewed by committee at next meeting before moving forward
• Accessory dwelling unit recommendations to be drafted and circulated for committee review at next meeting

General

The South Orange Village Planning Board is holding a special meeting to continue its review of a proposal by Storage Platform, LLC for a 4-story self-storage facility at multiple properties on Lackawanna Place and Valley Street. The board will consider the preliminary and final site plan for the approximately 131,832-square-foot building, which includes community amenities on the ground floor. This is a continuation from the October 4th regular meeting.

• Case #285/Storage Platform, LLC: 4-story self-storage facility, approx. 131,832 SF, with ground-floor community amenities
• Properties: 1 Lackawanna Pl., 15 Lackawanna Pl., 311 Valley St., 313 Valley St., 315-317 Valley St., 265 Valley St.
• Preliminary and Final Site Plan review
• Continuation from October 4th regular meeting

The Planning Board approved the preliminary and final site plan for Case #285, a proposed 4-story self-storage facility of approximately 131,832 SF with ground-floor community amenities, on Block 2303 Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 13 & 14 (1 and 15 Lackawanna Pl., 311, 313, 315-317 and 265 Valley St.). The vote was 7-0, with members Busch-Vogel, Freeman, Harris and Zuckerman absent. Approval was subject to conditions discussed by the board, including pedestrian safety and tree preservation. Three expert witnesses testified and the public raised concerns about pedestrian safety during construction, materials, footprint and storm water management.

• Approved Case #285/Storage Platform, LLC preliminary and final site plan for a 4-story, ~131,832 SF self-storage facility with ground-floor community amenities (7-0)
• Approval made subject to conditions discussed by the board, including pedestrian safety and saving trees
• Applicant agreed to keep the sidewalk open during construction
• Applicant agreed to work with the Design Review Board

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees' Community Relations Committee is meeting virtually to discuss upcoming community events, including a cannabis town hall and a special planning board presentation on the Master Plan. The agenda includes reports, new business, and old business items such as a debrief on Newcomers Day and potential date changes. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or financial actions listed.

• Cannabis Town Hall scheduled for Thursday, October 21, 2021
• Special Planning Board: Master Plan Presentation on Tuesday, October 26
• Discussion of Newcomers Day debrief and tentative date of Saturday, October 1, 2022
• Introduction of original founder Lois Larkey and 25th anniversary of the committee
• Villager of the Month recognition for William Hahn

General

The South Orange Village Community Police Collaborative (CPC) is holding a regular meeting to receive updates from its trustee liaison, police department, and subcommittees, and to discuss community engagement, use of force, surveillance cameras, and an ad hoc ordinance committee. New business includes reviewing the CPC meeting order, liaison roles, data discussion, community ambassadors, and police management reports. The meeting is open to public comments and will include an executive session.

• Use of force update
• Surveillance camera update
• Ad hoc ordinance committee update
• Community ambassadors discussion
• Police management report and deployment

The committee approved the September 2021 meeting minutes. Members received updates on police body cameras, a social work referral program, and surveillance camera policy compliance.

• Approved September 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjust the order of the minutes (unanimous)

General

The South Orange Village Health & Public Safety Committee is holding a regular meeting to review reports from health, OEM, rescue, fire, police, and traffic safety divisions. Key discussion items include Hurricane Ida impact and recovery, a police digital video system, and traffic safety improvements. The meeting includes public comment periods and an executive session.

• Ida impact and recovery updates for OEM and traffic safety
• Police digital video system discussion
• Maplewood automatic aid, radio coordination, and joint training for fire
• Follow-up on annual traffic safety report and Essex County road repair/safety upgrade process
• Mobility Action Committee update

The Health & Public Safety Committee met on October 14, 2021, and tabled approval of its August 12 and September 9, 2021 minutes to November 4, 2021. The committee received reports on COVID-19 and Care & Community Justice, OEM reimbursements from Tropical Storm Isaias, the Rescue Squad, Fire, Police, and Traffic Safety. No ordinances, resolutions, or purchases were approved; several items were left for future meetings or pending review.

• Tabled approval of August 12 and September 9, 2021 minutes to November 4, 2021
• No new items were introduced in the General, Health, OEM, Rescue, Fire, or Police sections
• Digital video system policy draft distributed to Community Police Collaborative for review; purchases put on hold
• Traffic study on Grove Road conducted for 5 days instead of 7-8; full 8-day survey planned
• Annual Traffic Safety Report and Road Repair/Safety Upgrade Process deferred due to absence of Village Engineer
• Trustee Haskins to follow up on Longview Rd. and Laural Place stop sign request
• Next meeting scheduled for November 11, 2021

Board of Trustees

This is the agenda for the South Orange Village Board of Trustees regular committee meeting on October 13, 2021. The agenda lists only the order of business and provides no specific items for discussion or decision.

The Board of Trustees held a meeting on October 12, 2021, to discuss strategic partnerships and citizen engagement. The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting. No other formal legislative actions or votes were recorded in the provided minutes.

• Approved previous meeting minutes

General

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with several public hearings and votes. Key items include a $5 million bond ordinance for capital improvements related to Hurricane Ida damage, an ordinance waiving construction and tree removal fees for Ida-related damage, and an ordinance creating a Community Care and Justice Social Worker position. The board will also vote on a consent agenda with resolutions including a $100,000 allocation from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and a contract for camera cabling at SOPAC.

• Ordinance 2021-19: $5,000,000 bond for Hurricane Ida capital improvements, issuing $4,750,000 in bonds
• Ordinance 2021-20: Waives construction and tree removal fees for Tropical Storm Ida damage with 30-day notice and application by Dec 31, 2021
• Ordinance 2021-21: Creates Community Care and Justice Social Worker position
• Resolution 2021-285: Allocates $100,000 from Affordable Housing Trust Fund for Wealth Gap Equalizer Loan Program
• Resolution 2021-278: Accepts SHI proposal for SOPAC camera cabling, not to exceed $9,350.39

The Board of Trustees adopted a $5,000,000 bond ordinance for capital improvements responding to Hurricane Ida damage, authorizing $4,750,000 in bonds or notes. Trustees also approved allocating $100,000 from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to the Wealth Gap Equalizer Loan Program, and adopted an ordinance creating a Community Care and Justice Social Worker position on first reading. A tax exemption and redevelopment agreement for a Valley Street storage project was also approved on second reading.

• Adopted Ordinance 2021-19: $5,000,000 appropriation for Hurricane Ida capital improvements, authorizing $4,750,000 in bonds or notes (6-0, Hilton absent)
• Adopted Resolution 2021-285: Allocated $100,000 from Affordable Housing Trust Fund to Wealth Gap Equalizer Loan Program (6-0, Hilton absent)
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-21 on first reading: Created Community Care and Justice Social Worker position (6-0, Hilton absent); public hearing set for October 25, 2021
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-18 on second reading: Approved tax exemption and financial agreement for Valley Street South Orange Urban Renewal, LLC storage project (6-0, Hilton absent)
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-20 on second reading: Waived construction and tree removal fees for Tropical Storm Ida damage, with notice within 30 days and applications by December 31, 2021 (6-0, Hilton absent)
• Approved Resolution 2021-286: Authorized payment of bills totaling $2,964,491.74 (6-0, Hilton absent)
• Approved minutes of September 27, 2021 regular meeting (5-0, Coallier abstained, Hilton absent)
• Approved Resolution 2021-276: Authorized executive session on recycling, fire merger, redevelopment, and personnel matters (all in favor, none opposed)

General

The South Orange Village Design Review Board is holding a regular committee meeting to review several design proposals, including a storage concept, properties at 270 Irvington Avenue, 10 Sloan Street, and 6-8 South Orange Avenue, an awning at 4 Village Plaza, and a project at 136 South Orange Avenue. The board will also take public comments before adjourning.

• Storage concept review
• 270 Irvington Avenue proposal
• 10 Sloan Street proposal
• 6-8 South Orange Avenue proposal
• 4 Village Plaza awning

Planning Board

The South Orange Planning Board will hear applications for several development projects, including a 60-unit inclusionary housing complex and a 4-story self-storage facility. The board will also receive a Master Plan update and a report regarding the Planning & Economics Development Committee.

• Case #283: 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue
• Case #285: 4-story, 131,832 SF self-storage facility at 1 Lackawanna Pl. and Valley St. locations
• Case #286: 1-story addition to an existing commercial building at 10 Sloan Street
• Case #287: Mixed-use conversion at 6-8 South Orange Avenue (carried to November 1st)

The Planning Board approved the minutes from their September 9, 2021, meeting. The board heard testimony regarding the 270-274 Irvington Avenue development application before adjourning the case to November 1. Other pending site plan applications were carried to future meetings.

• Approved September 9, 2021, meeting minutes (with one abstention)
• Adjourned Case #283 (270-274 Irvington Ave) to November 1
• Carried Case #285 (Storage Platform, LLC) to October 18 special meeting

General

The Design Review Board will hold a special virtual meeting to review memos regarding several development concepts. The discussion includes projects located at 270 Irvington Avenue, 10 Sloan Street, and 6-8 South Orange Avenue.

• Memo review for 270 Irvington Avenue
• Memo review for 10 Sloan Street
• Memo review for 6-8 South Orange Avenue
• Review of storage concept

General

The South Orange Village Planning Board is holding a special meeting to hear a preliminary and final site plan application for a 4-story self-storage facility at multiple properties on Lackawanna Place and Valley Street. The applicant, Storage Platform, LLC, proposes a facility of approximately 131,832 square feet with community amenities on the ground floor. The board will also set the next meeting date and handle routine procedural items.

• Case #285/Storage Platform, LLC: Preliminary and Final Site Plan for a 4-story self-storage facility (approx. 131,832 SF) at 1 Lackawanna Pl., 15 Lackawanna Pl., 311 Valley St., 313 Valley St., 315-317 Valley St., and 265 Valley St.
• Community amenities proposed on the ground floor of the facility.
• Next meeting scheduled for Monday, October 4, 2021 at 7:00 pm.

The Planning Board heard testimony regarding a proposed 4-story self-storage facility by Storage Platform, LLC. No final decision was made during the meeting.

• Adjourned Case #285/Storage Platform, LLC to October 4, 2021

General

The Design Review Board will hold a regular meeting to review new business regarding specific property locations. The board will also receive updates on old business involving a storage building and Y-Group improvements.

• 6-8 South Orange Avenue review
• 10 Sloan Street (Miti Miti) review
• 270 Irvington Avenue review
• Awning reviews for 4 Village Plaza and 136 South Orange Avenue
• Y-Group updates regarding awnings, brick work, and lighting

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda that includes several financial and administrative items. Key actions include authorizing a $700,000 bond for water infrastructure, approving a $73,650.95 change order for roof repairs, and purchasing two hybrid police vehicles for up to $65,000. The board will also hear a concept plan from Storage Platform, LLC, and a library presentation, and will discuss changing leaf collection methods.

• Resolution 2021-271: $700,000 bond for water infrastructure via NJ Infrastructure Bank
• Resolution 2021-267: $73,650.95 change order for roof work by Frankoski Construction
• Resolution 2021-273: Purchase of two 2021 hybrid Ford Escapes for police, up to $65,000
• Resolution 2021-274: Lease of four 2022 Ford F-350s for Public Works, up to $4,000/month
• Presentation: Storage Platform, LLC concept plan; Library presentation

The Board of Trustees approved a $7.37 million bill list and authorized a redevelopment project for the Lackawanna and Valley site. Trustees also approved several contracts for municipal equipment, police vehicles, and public works staffing. Additionally, the Board discussed a potential pilot program for bagging leaves to improve local waste collection.

• Approved $7,376,630.53 bill payment resolution (6-0)
• Authorized Lackawanna + Valley redevelopment site plan process (6-0)
• Approved $73,650.95 change order for Frankoski Construction (6-0)
• Approved $22,819.38 purchase of Toro Sand Pro 5040 (6-0)
• Authorized $65,000 purchase of two hybrid Ford Escapes (6-0)
• Approved $4,000/month lease for four Ford F-350 trucks (6-0)
• Appointed Cliff Pomerantz to Zoning Board of Adjustment (6-0)
• Approved September 13, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0)

General

The South Orange Historic Preservation Commission is meeting virtually to review a non-binding advisory application for a four-story self-storage facility at 265, 311, 313, 315 & 317 Valley Street and 1 & 15 Lackawanna Place. The commission will also review volunteer applications, receive updates on Baird, the Library, and 167 North Ridgewood Road, and discuss subcommittee items. Public comments will be taken.

• Non-binding advisory application Case #2021-02 by Storage Platform, LLC to raze property and build 4-story self-storage with community amenities
• Review of volunteer applications
• Updates on Baird, Library, and 167 North Ridgewood Road
• Subcommittee updates on Master Plan Element and Website

The Historic Preservation Commission reviewed a non-binding advisory application (Case #2021-02) from Storage Platform, LLC to raze existing buildings and construct a four-story self-storage facility at 265, 311, 313, 315 & 317 Valley Street and 1 & 15 Lackawanna Place. The commission voted to authorize its counsel, Mr. Sullivan, to send a letter with commissioners' comments and concerns to the Planning Board, which is scheduled to hear the matter on September 30. The commission also approved the minutes of its July 15, 2021 meeting and moved review of volunteer applications to its October meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of the July 15, 2021 regular meeting (all in favor, none opposed)
• Authorized Mr. Sullivan to send a letter with commissioners' comments and concerns on Case #2021-02 (Storage Platform, LLC) to the Planning Board (all in favor, none opposed)
• Moved review of volunteer applications to the October meeting

General

The Finance and Capital Projects Committee is meeting to discuss new business including a water study and overtime for police and fire departments, as well as old business such as department updates and the FY'21 operating and capital budgets. Public comments are also scheduled.

• Water study discussion
• Police and Fire Departments overtime
• FY'21 Operation Budget review
• FY'21 Capital Budget review
• Department updates from Finance, Tax Collector, Water, and Tax Assessor

The committee approved the June 17, 2021, meeting minutes. Members discussed Tropical Storm Ida damage estimates, water system evaluations, and the impact of personnel shortages on police and fire department overtime.

• Approved June 17, 2021, meeting minutes

General

The Public Works & Utilities committee will discuss various infrastructure reports and ongoing projects. Topics include water utility updates, recycling subcommittee reports, and several engineering projects involving grants and capital improvements.

• Updates on New Waterlands Bike Path and Bridge grant projects
• Capital projects for Baird Community Center and Connett Building
• Discussion of Grove Road grant projects
• Review of County projects on Irvington Ave.
• Discussion of stormwater utility and green infrastructure

The committee approved the minutes from the August 26, 2021, meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of reports on ongoing public works, water utility projects, and recycling subcommittee updates, with no other formal votes taken.

• Approved August 26, 2021, meeting minutes

General

The South Orange Parking Authority is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes routine reports, approval of checks and minutes, public comment, and updates on operations such as the jitney, senior bus, outdoor dining parking, and construction projects. A closed session is scheduled for personnel matters.

• Resolution approving checks
• Resolution adopting open minutes for August 17, 2021
• Operational updates on jitney, senior bus, outdoor dining parking, construction projects
• Closed session for personnel

General

The South Orange Village Planning & Economic Development Committee is meeting virtually to discuss several ongoing projects. They will hear reports from code enforcement, the deputy administrator, and the South Orange Downtown organization. New business includes a redevelopment update, while old business covers the cannabis task force, the master plan, an NPP application for Irvington Avenue, and accessory dwelling units.

• Redevelopment update
• Cannabis task force discussion
• Master plan discussion
• NPP application for Irvington Avenue
• Accessory dwelling units discussion

The South Orange Village Planning and Economic Development Committee met to review departmental reports, ongoing redevelopment projects, and post-storm recovery following Tropical Ida. The committee heard updates on code enforcement, code waivers for storm damage, downtown business operations, and the upcoming Master Plan adoption schedule. The minutes record no final voting decisions or ordinances passed during this meeting.

• Approved July 20, 2021 meeting minutes

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission is meeting virtually to discuss and potentially vote on two resolutions: one urging action on climate polluters and another for fossil fuel divestment from the pension fund. They will also review updates on post-Ida recovery, tree planting, and zero waste initiatives.

• Resolution for EC consideration: Pay Up Climate Polluters - LET’S VOTE!
• Resolution for EC consideration: Fossil Fuel Divestment from Pension Fund - LET’S VOTE!
• Leaf Blower Ordinance update
• Shade Tree Commission Ordinance update
• Bottle Bill Proposal to contact NJ General Assembly

The South Orange Environmental Commission approved two resolutions regarding climate change and fossil fuel divestment during their September 2021 meeting. Members also discussed post-storm recovery efforts, including green infrastructure planning and recycling contract updates. The commission reviewed ongoing projects such as park field treatments, tree planting, and upcoming community outreach events.

• Approved August 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved 'Pay Up Climate Polluters' resolution
• Approved fossil fuel divestment from pension fund resolution (with one abstention)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Village Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting to consider an application for completeness for a proposed 2-story rear addition at 212 Edgewood Terrace, and to approve minutes from the August 3, 2021 meeting. A new member will be sworn in. The meeting is virtual via Webex.

• Case #1046: Michael Rocks and Stephen McGee, Block 2503 Lot 6, 212 Edgewood Terrace – 2-story rear addition
• Swearing in of Justin Balik as Regular Member
• Approval of minutes from August 3, 2021 regular meeting

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is meeting to consider ordinances and resolutions, including a $5 million bond ordinance for Hurricane Ida capital improvements and a tax exemption for a storage project on Valley Street. The board will also vote on a consent agenda covering contracts, hiring, and purchases, and will discuss reports on Hurricane Ida response and other village matters.

• Ordinance 2021-19: $5,000,000 bond for Hurricane Ida capital improvements, issuing $4,750,000 in bonds
• Ordinance 2021-18: Tax exemption for Valley Street South Orange Urban Renewal LLC storage project
• Ordinance 2021-20: Waive construction and tree removal fees for Ida damage if notice within 30 days
• Resolution 2021-243: $422,540 for Crest Drive tank replacement engineering
• Resolution 2021-244: $320,396 for two dump trucks with plows

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees introduced ordinances to authorize a $5 million bond and emergency appropriations for Hurricane Ida repairs, alongside fee waivers for storm-related construction. The Board also approved professional services contracts, equipment purchases, affordable housing management, and a bill list totaling $12,594,656.29. Additionally, the Board advanced tax exemption and redevelopment agreements for a Valley Street storage project and accepted real property on Fairview Avenue.

• Approved minutes for regular meeting on August 9, 2021 and special meetings on August 17 and August 27, 2021
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-18 on first reading for tax exemption and redevelopment agreement for Valley Street South Orange Urban Renewal, LLC
• Adopted Bond Ordinance 2021-19 on first reading appropriating $5,000,000 for Hurricane Ida capital improvements
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-20 on first reading to waive construction and tree removal fees related to Tropical Storm Ida
• Approved consent agenda including affordable housing management, emergency Ida vendor payments, seasonal hires, engineering services for Crest Drive tank, DPW and police vehicle purchases, salary settings, board appointments, and emergency appropriations
• Approved Resolution 2021-240 accepting real property donation at 133 Fairview Avenue (5-1, Trustee Hilton abstaining/opposed)
• Adopted Resolution 2021-260 withdrawing the liquor license renewal for Eden Cafe & Dining until state approval
• Approved Resolution 2021-261 authorizing payment of bills totaling $12,594,656.29

General

The South Orange Planning Board will hold a regular meeting with several site plan applications, including a 60-unit inclusionary housing development at 270-299 Irvington Avenue, a 26-unit apartment complex on Third Street, and a 4-story self-storage facility. The board will also vote on resolutions for an indoor playground, facade revisions, and other projects, and discuss a Master Plan update.

• Case #283: 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue with ground-floor retail
• Case #284: 26-unit multi-family complex at 41-45 Third Street
• Case #285: 4-story self-storage facility (~131,832 SF) at Lackawanna Place and Valley Street
• Case #277: Indoor playground at 468 Valley Street
• Case #274A: Facade revisions for Vose Ave. Apts. at 57-65 South Orange Avenue

The Planning Board approved resolutions for an indoor playground at 468 Valley Street, facade revisions for the Vose Ave. Apts. Urban Renewal project, and a 26-unit apartment complex at 41-45 Third Street. The board also deemed three new development applications complete and carried a hearing for a 60-unit project on Irvington Avenue to the October 4 meeting.

• Approved minutes for August 2 and August 16, 2021 meetings
• Approved resolution for Case #277 (468 Valley Street) (3-2)
• Approved resolution for Case #274A (Vose Ave. Apts.) (4-0)
• Approved resolution for Case #284 (41-45 Third Street) (4-0)
• Deemed Case #285 (Storage Platform, LLC) complete
• Deemed Case #286 (10 Sloan Street) complete
• Deemed Case #287 (6-8 South Orange Avenue) complete
• Carried Case #283 (270-299 Irvington Avenue) to October 4 meeting

General

The Health & Public Safety Committee is holding a regular meeting to review reports and discuss follow-up items across health, rescue, fire, police, and emergency management. Key topics include the impact and recovery from Hurricane Ida, updates on the Care & Community Justice initiative, and new items such as a digital video system for police and traffic safety improvements. The meeting is open to public comments and includes an executive session.

• Ida Impact & Recovery across all departments
• Care & Community Justice Update
• Maplewood Automatic Aid, Radio Coordination, and Joint Training (Fire)
• Digital Video System (Police)
• Annual Traffic Safety Report & Essex County Road Repair/Safety Upgrade Process

The Health and Public Safety Committee met to discuss department reports and the extensive impact of Tropical Storm Ida, which caused an estimated $4.8 million in damage to municipal properties, fields, pools, and vehicles. Officials outlined recovery efforts, FEMA reimbursement processes, and upcoming bond resolutions. The committee also reviewed updates on the Care & Community Justice task force, police fleet shortages, and traffic safety concerns.

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is meeting virtually to discuss ongoing community engagement and strategic partnership initiatives. The agenda includes updates on cannabis policy, digital kiosks, a community board, a demographics survey, and public art projects, as well as partnerships with Seton Hall University and South Orange Downtown. New business includes planning for Newcomers Day and discussing the reestablishment of an Arts Committee. The meeting is largely a discussion and update session rather than a decision-making one.

• Cannabis policy update
• Digital kiosk update
• Demographics survey
• Public art projects with SOVCA and Cultural Affairs
• Partnerships with Seton Hall University and South Orange Downtown

The Strategic Partnerships and Citizen Engagement committee met on September 8, 2021 and discussed planning items rather than voting on them. Members noted cannabis consensus-building is about 50% complete, with another 2-3 meetings expected before it goes to the public and a possible early-October town hall. They also discussed reestablishing an arts committee, Newcomers Day, a Valley Street mural that was approved, and recruiting a chair for the Seton Village Irvington Avenue Corridor committee. No public was present, and the minutes record no formal votes or approvals by the Board of Trustees.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded; meeting was discussion and planning only
• Cannabis consensus reported about 50% complete; 2-3 more meetings expected before public input
• Potential cannabis town hall discussed for early October (virtual/in-person mix or Facebook Live suggested)
• Valley Street mural noted as 'All Approved' with scheduling in progress
• Next meeting date set for October 13, 2021
• Minutes approval to occur via email
• Arts interest meeting and reestablishing an Arts Committee discussed; Bob Zuckerman to reach out
• Seton Village Irvington Avenue Corridor committee seeking a chair; Bill Haskins agreed to be liaison

General

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting to discuss the budget process for fiscal year 2022, including the timeline and the role of the Community Budget Advisory Committee (CBAC). They will also review the status of the 2021 budget, including third-quarter operational and capital budgets and fourth-quarter projections. Specific concerns such as retirement costs, lease vs. purchase decisions, and state funding related to COVID are on the agenda.

• Overview of FY2022 budget timeline
• Role of CBAC in budget preparation
• Status of 2021 budget vs actual, including 3rd quarter updates and 4th quarter projections
• Discussion on retirement costs, lease vs. purchase, and state funding (COVID)
• Agreement between SOV and Enterprise Lease Management

General

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a special virtual meeting to consider two resolutions: one authorizing up to $122,660 for engineering services to survey and design miscellaneous improvements and confirm an existing water main asset, and another granting a tax exemption and executing a PILOT agreement with BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners LLC, Jespy House Inc, and Penwal Affordable Housing Corporation. The meeting includes public comment and a roll call vote on the resolutions.

• Resolution 2021-235: Authorizes HDR, Inc. proposal and task order for engineering services up to $122,660 for water main asset survey and design
• Resolution 2021-236: Grants tax exemption and PILOT agreement with BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners LLC, Jespy House Inc, and Penwal Affordable Housing Corporation
• Public comment period open

The Board of Trustees held a special virtual meeting on August 27, 2021, and approved two resolutions on a consent agenda. The board authorized a professional engineering services proposal and task order with HDR, Inc. not to exceed $122,660.00, and approved a tax exemption and PILOT agreement with BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners LLC, Jespy House Inc, and Penwal Affordable Housing Corporation.

• Approved Resolution 2021-235 for HDR, Inc. engineering services not to exceed $122,660.00 (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-236 for a tax exemption and PILOT agreement with BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners LLC, Jespy House Inc, and Penwal Affordable Housing Corporation (7-0)

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission will review several policy updates and resolutions. The meeting includes updates on tree projects, zero waste initiatives, and potential new committees.

• Resolution for EC consideration: Pay Up Climate Polluters
• Resolution for EC consideration: Fossil Fuel Divestment from Pension Fund
• Leaf Blower Ordinance update
• Shade Tree Commission Ordinance update
• Bottle Bill Proposal discussion

General

The South Orange Village Public Works & Utilities Committee will meet virtually to discuss routine reports and updates. Topics include public works projects, water utility operations, recycling plans for 2022, and capital projects. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Discussion of New Waterlands Bike Path and Bridge grant project
• Update on Grove Road project
• Capital projects: Baird Community Center and Connett Building
• County project on Irvington Ave.
• Discussion of Leaf Blower Ordinance

The Public Works & Utilities Committee met on August 26, 2021, and received reports on drainage work at Grove Park, water utility projects, recycling options for 2022, and various road and capital projects. No formal decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes. The committee discussed replacing the Transportation Advisory Committee with a Mobility Action Committee and reviewing an ordinance to turn the Shade Tree Committee into a commission. The next meeting is scheduled for September 16, 2021.

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a special virtual meeting to consider two resolutions on the consent agenda. The board will vote on approving a transfer and development agreement for an affordable housing project at 41-45 West Third Street and on rejecting all bids for building a recycling shed. Public comment will be heard before adjournment.

• Resolution 2021-233: Approve transfer and development agreement for affordable housing at 41-45 West Third Street
• Resolution 2021-234: Reject all bids for building a recycling shed

The Board of Trustees approved Resolution 2021-233, a transfer and development agreement for an affordable housing project at 41-45 West Third Street, on a 6-1 vote with Trustee Hilton voting no. The board also approved Resolution 2021-234 rejecting all bids submitted for building a recycling shed. No members of the public commented, and the meeting adjourned at about 10:30 a.m.

• Approved Resolution 2021-233, transfer and development agreement for affordable housing at 41-45 West Third Street (6-1, Hilton no)
• Approved Resolution 2021-234 rejecting all bids for building a recycling shed (6-0)

General

The South Orange Village Community Relations Committee is meeting virtually to discuss community engagement items. The agenda includes a tabled proposal for charrettes (community planning workshops) and planning for Newcomers Day, as well as selecting the next Villager(s) of the Month. No votes or decisions are listed; the meeting is largely procedural and planning-focused.

• Tabled new project: Charrettes for Community Relations Committee & Communication
• Newcomers Day planning
• Next Villager(s) of the Month selection
• Newcomers Hub discussion

General

The South Orange Planning Board will hold a special virtual meeting to hear Case #284. The board will review a proposal from BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners, LLC for a multi-family apartment complex and related amenities.

• Case #284: 26-unit multi-family apartment complex at 41-45 Third Street (Block 1902 Lots 39 & 40)
• Preliminary and Final site Plan with C-Variance Relief

At a special virtual meeting on August 16, 2021, the Township of South Orange Planning Board approved a preliminary and final site plan with C-variance relief for a 26-unit multi-family apartment complex at 41-45 Third Street (Block 1902, Lots 39 & 40), proposed by BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners, LLC. The board heard testimony from engineer David Halls and architect Michael Scro, and entered two exhibits (east and south renderings). Trustee Zuckerman moved to approve the application with the conditions discussed, seconded by Ms. Morin; the roll-call vote was 6-0 in favor. No members of the public commented.

• Approved preliminary and final site plan with C-variance relief for a 26-unit apartment complex at 41-45 Third Street (6-0)
• Approved with conditions discussed, including a parking arrangement made a condition of approval and elimination of the parking variance
• Entered exhibits A1 (East rendering) and A2 (South rendering)
• Adjourned the meeting (all in favor)

General

The Community Police Collaborative regular committee meeting will hear updates from the police department on body cameras and surveillance cameras, as well as reports on community engagement and National Night Out. The committee will also discuss its structure, including adding a youth member and sub-committees, and meeting logistics. This is a working session with no votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Police department update on body cameras and surveillance cameras
• Discussion on committee structure, including youth member and sub-committee focus
• Community engagement update, including National Night Out
• Trustee liaison report update
• Next meeting set for September 9, 2021, virtual Webex

The Community Police Collaborative approved its July 2021 minutes by unanimous consent of voting members present. Acting Chief Dolinac reported that public feedback from a July forum on the public surveillance camera program is being reviewed as the village and police department develop camera policy, and that the state-required body camera program is state-funded with procurement ongoing. The CCJ program now has a full-time licensed social worker, Kristen Miller, who described adding three MSW students, launching suicide awareness and domestic violence programs, and starting a CC&J survey. Agenda-setting and committee structure items were tabled until the next meeting; no public comments were made and no executive session was held.

• Approved July 2021 CPC meeting minutes by unanimous consent of voting members present
• Tabled meeting logistics (agenda-setting and other suggestions) until next meeting
• Tabled committee structure (youth member and sub-committees) until next meeting
• No new business identified by members
• No executive session held; meeting adjourned at 8:18 PM

General

The South Orange Village Health & Public Safety Committee is holding a regular virtual meeting. The agenda includes approval of minutes, public comments, and reports from health, OEM, rescue, fire, and police departments. Specific discussion items include a digital video system for police, Maplewood automatic aid and radio coordination, and a follow-up on the annual traffic safety report and road repair/safety upgrade process.

• Police Digital Video System discussion
• Maplewood Automatic Aid, Radio Coordination, and Joint Training
• Follow up: Annual Traffic Safety Report & Essex County
• Road Repair/Safety Upgrade Process
• Community Care & Justice Update

The committee approved the minutes from the June 10, 2021 meeting. Department heads provided updates on public safety, health statistics, and infrastructure projects, including the status of body-worn camera procurement and traffic safety studies.

• Approved June 10, 2021 meeting minutes

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing and vote on an ordinance to prohibit cannabis businesses within the village, except as provided, while expressing intent to develop local regulations. The board will also consider a consent agenda with several resolutions, including hiring part-time employees, purchasing two hybrid Ford Escapes for $63,274.19, and approving a $199,814.00 contract for automated metering infrastructure. An executive session is scheduled to discuss a recycling contract under attorney-client privilege.

• Ordinance 2021-17 to prohibit cannabis businesses (public hearing and vote)
• Resolution 2021-226: purchase of two 2021 hybrid Ford Escapes for $63,274.19
• Resolution 2021-228: HDR Inc. contract for automated metering infrastructure up to $199,814.00
• Resolution 2021-230: change order #9 for Baird Community Center renovations, net increase of $189,970.49
• Resolution 2021-231: authorize negotiations for parking spaces for affordable housing at 41-45 West Third Street

The Board of Trustees adopted Ordinance 2021-17, which amends Village Code Section 185-164 to prohibit the operation of any class of cannabis businesses within the Village's boundaries, except as provided, while expressing continued intent to develop a local regulation scheme for commercial recreational cannabis. The Board also approved Resolution 2021-232 authorizing payment of bills and issuance of checks totaling $2,708,851.96 for the period through August 9, 2021. Several other resolutions on the consent agenda were listed but their individual outcomes are not clearly recorded in the supplied minutes. Trustee Jones was absent.

• Adopted Ordinance 2021-17 prohibiting all classes of cannabis businesses (6-0, Jones absent)
• Approved Resolution 2021-232 paying bills totaling $2,708,851.96 (6-0, Jones absent)
• Approved minutes of July 26, 2021 meeting (6-0, Jones absent)
• Approved Resolution 2021-223 authorizing executive session on recycling contract and general redevelopment (all in favor)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Village Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes from July 6, 2021, and consider a resolution for a C-variance at 16 Hart Drive North. The applicant proposes adding an interior elevator and a garage space for an accessible vehicle. The meeting is virtual via Webex.

• Case #1045: C-variance for elevator and accessible garage at 16 Hart Drive North (Block 1803 Lot 3)
• Approval of minutes from July 6, 2021 regular meeting
• Next meeting scheduled for September 7, 2021

The Board of Adjustment approved the minutes from the July 6, 2021 meeting. Additionally, the Board approved a resolution for a C-Variance at 16 Hart Drive North to allow for an interior elevator and an accessible garage space.

• Approved July 6, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved C-Variance resolution for 16 Hart Drive North (6-0)

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to hear several site plan applications, including an amended final site plan for the Vose Ave apartments and a preliminary/final site plan for a 60-unit inclusionary development on Irvington Avenue. One application has been withdrawn, and another has been carried to September. The board will also discuss a Master Plan update and a report from the Planning & Economic Development Committee.

• Case #274A: Amended final site plan for Vose Ave Apts (57-65 South Orange Ave) to raise building stepback to 4th story
• Case #283: 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Ave (carried to September 8)
• Case #268A: Withdrawn application for fence and planting changes at 109 & 115 W. South Orange Ave
• Case #284: 26-unit apartment complex at 41-45 Third Street
• Master Plan Update discussion

The Planning Board approved an amended final site plan for the Vose Ave. Apartments to allow a building step back at the 4th story. Several other site plan applications were carried to future meetings or withdrawn.

• Approved amended final site plan for Vose Ave. Apts. (7-1)
• Approved July 7, 2021 meeting minutes
• Carried Case #277 (468 Valley Street) to September meeting
• Carried Case #283 (270-299 Irvington Avenue) to September meeting
• Case #268A (109 & 115 W. South Orange Avenue) withdrawn
• Carried Case #284 (41-45 Third Street) to August 16, 2021 special meeting

General

The Seton Village Irvington Avenue Corridor Committee is meeting virtually to discuss old and new business, including a rescheduled spring cleanup, business recruitment, and a mural replacement. They will also consider a Neighborhood Preservation Grant and receive liaison reports on development and streetscape projects.

• Clean Up, Green Up rescheduled to late August
• Recruitment of businesses report
• Displaying art in vacant storefronts next steps
• Neighborhood Preservation (NPP) Grant volunteer recruitment
• Seton Village Mural Replacement discussion

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding its regular meeting with several votes, including a first reading of an ordinance to prohibit cannabis businesses and a second reading of water service line regulations. The board will also vote on a consent agenda with multiple resolutions, including grants, contracts, and change orders, and will hear a presentation on a potential fire department merger with Maplewood.

• Ordinance 2021-17: first reading to prohibit cannabis businesses in the village
• Ordinance 2021-16: second reading on water lateral removal and master meters
• Resolution 2021-211: $125,000 grant for Seton Village Neighborhood Preservation Program
• Resolution 2021-217: $89,861 for police body worn cameras
• Resolution 2021-222: $7,245,125.47 in bills for payment

The Board advanced an ordinance to prohibit cannabis businesses within village boundaries and updated water service regulations. It also approved a consent agenda including several construction change orders and police equipment purchases.

• Approved Ordinance 2021-17 (first reading) to prohibit cannabis businesses
• Approved Ordinance 2021-16 (second reading) regarding water service lines and master meters
• Approved $125,000 DCA grant application for Seton Village neighborhood preservation
• Approved $29,300 contract for Grove Road construction administration
• Approved four change orders for Baird Community Center renovations totaling $89,359.07
• Approved $89,861 for police department body worn cameras
• Approved $31,111 for stormwater discharge evaluation at Grove Park
• Authorized $7,245,125.47 in bill payments

General

The Finance and Capital Projects Committee will hold a regular virtual meeting to discuss a property revaluation, an enterprise proposal, and updates from several departments. They will also review the FY'21 operating and capital budgets. The meeting is largely a discussion and update session, with no final votes scheduled.

• Discussion of property revaluation
• Enterprise proposal review
• Department updates from Finance, Tax Collector, Water, and Tax Assessor/QPA
• FY'21 Operating Budget review
• FY'21 Capital Budget review

General

The South Orange Village Public Works & Utilities Committee will discuss routine reports and several ongoing projects, including water utility improvements, grant-funded projects, and capital projects. New business includes a leaf blower ordinance, pedestrian safety, and the Shade Tree Commission. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items being updates or discussions rather than final decisions.

• Water utility: seeking bids for underground water main locate company (Mountain Zone, Hoskier to Longview)
• Water utility: AMI Phase I and II meter replacement implementation
• Water utility: Crest Drive and Newstead piping projects with NJIB documentation
• Grant projects: New Waterlands Bike Path and Bridge, Grove Road
• Capital projects: Baird Community Center, Connett Building

The South Orange Village Public Works & Utilities committee met on July 22, 2021, to hear departmental reports and discuss public works, water utility, recycling, and engineering projects. The committee approved the minutes from the June 17, 2021 meeting. No other formal votes or substantive policy decisions were recorded.

• Approved June 17, 2021 meeting minutes

General

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with a routine agenda. They will approve minutes, select a recorder, and hear reports from the Environmental Commission and SOMA Two Towns Coordinators. A trustee will provide updates on efforts to install a stop sign at Longview and Laurel due to pedestrian and bicycle safety concerns, and on senior programming through the Recreation Department.

• Update on stop sign at Longview and Laurel for pedestrian and bicycle safety
• Progress on senior programming through the Dept. of Recreation
• Environmental Commission report
• SOMA Two Towns Coordinators reports
• Approval of June 21, 2021 minutes

The South Orange Senior Advisory Committee approved its June minutes and voted down a motion to resume in-person meetings in August (2 in favor, 9 opposed). Members discussed forming a Senior Green Squad to educate businesses about the 2022 state ban on Styrofoam and plastic straws, and reviewed senior exercise programs, walking audits, and pedestrian safety ideas. Most remaining items were discussion or next steps, not formal decisions.

• Approved June meeting minutes (motion by Convissor, seconded by Aronson)
• Motion to resume in-person meetings in August failed (2 in favor, 9 opposed)
• Motion made to form a Senior Green Squad as a subgroup of SOSAC; no vote recorded
• Motion to adjourn made by Gordon, seconded by Boss

General

The Planning & Economic Development Committee is meeting to discuss new business, including an NPP application for the Irvington Avenue Corridor and accessory dwelling units. They will also receive reports on code enforcement and from the deputy administrator, and revisit old business items such as the Cannabis Task Force, Master Plan, Valley Street Beautification, and an Abandoned Properties Ordinance.

• NPP application for Irvington Avenue Corridor
• Accessory Dwelling Units discussion
• Cannabis Task Force update
• Valley Street Beautification
• Abandoned Properties Ordinance

General

The South Orange Village Community Relations Committee is holding a virtual meeting to discuss routine business, including a tabled proposal for community charrettes, planning for Newcomers Day, selecting the next Villager(s) of the Month, and updates on the Newcomers Hub. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Tabled new project: Charrettes for Community Relations Committee & Communication
• Newcomers Day planning
• Next Villager(s) of the Month selection
• Newcomers Hub update

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission is meeting virtually to approve minutes, hear public comments, and receive an update from Essex County Mosquito Control. They will also discuss policy updates, including a passed arborist resolution and ongoing work on leaf blower and shade tree ordinances, and consider resolutions on climate polluters and fossil fuel divestment.

• Special guest: Eric Williges, Superintendent, Essex County Mosquito Control
• Arborist resolution passed: retainer for 100 hours
• Leaf Blower Ordinance and Shade Tree Commission Ordinance in progress
• Resolutions for consideration: Pay Up Climate Polluters and Fossil Fuel Divestment from Pension Fund
• Rethinking Recycling Town Hall on July 22, 7:00-8:30 pm

The South Orange Village Environmental Commission met on July 15, 2021, but could not approve minutes or take any votes because a quorum was not present. Members discussed policy updates, including that the Arborist Resolution passed the Board of Trustees and that a Leaf Blower Ordinance will likely go to the Board of Trustees in September. Two resolutions — 'Pay Up Climate Polluters' and 'Fossil Fuel Divestment from pension fund' — were listed for consideration but no vote could be taken. The meeting also included project updates and a guest presentation from Essex County Mosquito Control.

• No votes taken — quorum not present
• Minutes could not be approved — quorum not present
• Arborist Resolution passed the Board of Trustees (reported, not voted on by EC)
• Leaf Blower Ordinance expected to go to Board of Trustees in September (reported)
• Shade Tree Ordinance to form a shade tree commission being worked on (reported)
• Resolutions on 'Pay Up Climate Polluters' and 'Fossil Fuel Divestment' listed for consideration but not voted on

General

The South Orange Historic Preservation Commission is holding a regular meeting to discuss several items, including the removal of asphalt in Founders Park and a resolution for Grove Park. They will also receive updates on Baird, the Library, 167 North Ridgewood Road, and Case #2021-01 for 14 Second Street. The meeting is open to the public with a comment period.

• Founders Park - removal of asphalt within a certain area
• Resolution for Grove Park
• Update on 167 North Ridgewood Road
• Case #2021-01 The Y Group - 14 Second Street update
• Public comments

The Historic Preservation Commission approved its June 16, 2021 minutes and voted to change the title of its presiding officer from "Chairman" to "Chairperson." It also heard updates on Founders Park asphalt removal, a proposed Grove Park Celebration Garden, and 393 Irving Avenue, but took no formal action on those items. The commission noted it has no jurisdiction over the Founders Park proposal and that a memorial policy should be in place before the Grove Park resolution is adopted.

• Approved minutes of the June 16, 2021 regular meeting (all in favor, none opposed)
• Approved changing the position title from "Chairman" to "Chairperson" (all in favor, none opposed)

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is meeting virtually to handle routine approvals, hear public comments, and receive reports. Under new business, the board will review the results of a demographics survey and discuss next steps, and will set a date and agenda for a cannabis town hall. Old business covers citizen engagement updates and strategic partnerships, including the Community Care and Justice Initiative and work with Seton Hall University.

• Review demographics survey results and next steps
• Cannabis town hall date and agenda
• Digital kiosk update
• Community Care and Justice Initiative update
• Seton Hall University partnership update

The Strategic Partnerships and Citizen Engagement committee met on July 14, 2021 and discussed plans rather than deciding anything binding. Items included distributing demographics survey results, scheduling a mid-September cannabis town hall on opting out (a resolution already drafted by Mr. Otis), a digital kiosk update, public art projects, and the Community Care and Justice Initiative survey. The minutes record no motions, votes, or approvals.

• No substantive decisions recorded; discussion-only meeting
• Cannabis town hall planned for mid-September on opting out; resolution drafted by Mr. Otis, not voted on
• Demographics survey results to be distributed to volunteer list
• Cannabis Task Force kick-off noted; not a public meeting
• Public art projects to be painted in summer, revealed in fall
• Community Care and Justice Initiative survey to be added to Qualtrics with translated languages

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda of resolutions, including a $2.24 million bill payment and a contract for tree services. The board will enter executive session to discuss contract negotiations for recycling and the Seton Hall PILOT. Public comment is scheduled, and announcements cover community programs and water utility notices.

• Resolution 2021-210 authorizes payment of bills totaling $2,240,210.35
• Resolution 2021-206 awards $8,500 contract to Richview Consulting for tree services
• Executive session to discuss recycling contract and Seton Hall PILOT negotiations
• Resolution 2021-204 settles grievances with police union Local 12
• Community Care & Justice Program survey launched with Essex County and Seton Hall

The Board of Trustees approved a bills list of $2,240,210.35 and ten consent resolutions covering an electronic tax sale, hiring seasonal employees, a settlement with the police benevolent association, and an $8,500 arboricultural contract. The board also approved prior meeting minutes and entered executive session to discuss a recycling contract, a Seton Hall PILOT, the fire department, and redevelopment. Trustee Hartshorn Hilton was absent; no substantive debate or new policy decisions were recorded beyond these approvals.

• Approved bills and checks totaling $2,240,210.35 (2021-210)
• Approved consent resolutions 2021-200 through 2021-209
• Approved $8,500 contract with Richview Consulting for arboricultural services (2021-206)
• Approved settlement of grievances with South Orange Policeman's Benevolent Association Local No. 12 (2021-204)
• Approved hiring part-time seasonal employees in Public Works, Recreation, and Health
• Approved minutes of February 10, 2020 and February 24, 2020 (Brown and Haskins abstained)
• Approved minutes of June 28, 2021
• Authorized executive session on recycling contract, Seton Hall PILOT, fire department, and redevelopment (2021-199)

General

The South Orange Village Design Review Board is holding a regular committee meeting with a single substantive item: a follow-up discussion on The Y Group LLC, which was previously before the Planning Board. The rest of the agenda is procedural, including roll call, public comments, and setting the next meeting date.

• Follow-up discussion on The Y Group LLC from Planning Board meeting

The Design Review Board discussed the Y Group LLC application, following up on awning, light, and brick insert details requested by the Planning Board; members agreed Ms. Crenshaw would follow up on the awning review and Mr. Hut would review the brick inserts. The board also reviewed an amended site plan for The Learning Center and recommended relocating the side playyard to the back of the building under the current deck, which would require losing parking spaces, and discussed a solid fence. No public comment was offered and no formal approvals, denials, or votes are recorded in these minutes.

• Agreed Ms. Crenshaw will follow up on the Y Group awning review
• Agreed Mr. Hut will review the Y Group brick inserts
• Recommended The Learning Center playyard be relocated to the back of the building under the current deck
• Noted the recommended playyard relocation would require a loss of parking spaces
• Discussed a solid fence for The Learning Center (no action recorded)

General

The South Orange Village Community Police Collaborative is holding a regular committee meeting to discuss ongoing topics, including surveillance camera FAQs and follow-up on de-escalation efforts. The agenda also includes welcoming new members, a trustee liaison report, and public comments. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Surveillance Camera FAQs & Follow Up
• De-escalation Follow Up
• Welcome to new CPC Members
• Trustee Liaison Report
• Next meeting scheduled for August 12, 2021 at 7:30pm

The Community Police Collaborative approved its minutes, welcomed new voting member Richard Stephen Bell and alternate Joshua Tinkelman, and heard updates on the Community Care & Justice program, whose research protocols were approved by university review boards and which received $100,000 from the Essex County Commissioners on May 26. Members discussed preliminary state use-of-force portal data and agreed by straw poll to postpone a regular use-of-force report until the full CPC is formed. No executive session was needed and the meeting adjourned at 9:12pm.

• Approved prior meeting minutes
• Welcomed Richard Stephen Bell as voting CPC member and Joshua Tinkelman as alternate
• Postponed decision on regular use-of-force report until full CPC is formed (straw poll showed widespread agreement)
• No executive session held

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to consider several applications, including adopting an amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan, and reviewing site plans for a 26-unit apartment complex, an indoor playground, and facade revisions. The board will also hear a continuation of a case for an indoor playground and discuss a Master Plan update.

• Ordinance 2021-15 adopting the amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan
• Case #284: 26-unit apartment complex at 41-45 Third Street
• Case #277: Indoor playground at 468 Valley Street (continuation)
• Case #274A: Facade revisions at 57-65 South Orange Avenue
• Case #283: 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue (carried to August 2)

The South Orange Planning Board approved Case #277, an indoor playground at 468 Valley Street, subject to conditions discussed, by an 8-0 roll call vote. The Board also approved a resolution adopting Ordinance 2021-15, the amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan, and deemed two site plan applications conditionally complete: Case #268A at 109 & 115 W. South Orange Avenue and Case #284 at 41-45 Third Street. Two other cases were carried to the August 2, 2021 meeting: Case #274A (Vose Ave. Apts.) and Case #283 (270-274 Irvington Avenue).

• Approved resolution adopting Ordinance 2021-15, the amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan (4-0)
• Deemed Case #268A (109 & 115 W. South Orange Avenue) conditionally complete (8-0)
• Deemed Case #284 (41-45 Third Street, 26-unit apartment complex) conditionally complete (8-0)
• Approved Case #277 (468 Valley Street indoor playground) subject to conditions (8-0)
• Carried Case #274A (Vose Ave. Apts. facade revisions) to August 2, 2021
• Carried Case #283 (270-274 Irvington Avenue, 60-unit inclusionary development) to August 2, 2021 at applicant's request
• Approved minutes of June 7, June 9, and June 21, 2021 meetings

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Village Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting with several administrative items, including the election of officers, swearing in of new members, and approval of minutes. The main item is a public hearing on Case #1045, a variance request for an interior elevator and accessible garage at 16 Hart Drive North.

• Case #1045: C-Variance for elevator and garage at 16 Hart Drive North (Block 1803 Lot 3)
• Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman
• Swearing in of new members William MacIntosh and Mia Charlene White
• Approval of minutes from June 1, 2021 meeting

The Board of Adjustment approved a C-variance application for 16 Hart Drive North to allow for an interior elevator and an accessible garage addition. The board also elected new officers and administered the oath of office to two new members.

• Approved C-variance for 16 Hart Drive North (7-0)
• Approved June 1, 2021 meeting minutes
• Elected Paul Breene as Chairman
• Elected Jacob Levine as Vice Chairman
• Administered Oath of Office to William MacIntosh and Mia White

General

The Recreation, Arts & Cultural Affairs Committee is meeting virtually to discuss program updates and facility projects. Items include summer camps, pool status, senior yoga, Baird and Carter Park updates, and cultural events. The agenda is largely a status report with no major decisions listed.

• Summer camps and pool update
• Baird and Carter Park capital project updates
• Romeo and Juliet in the Park and summer events
• Meadowbrook Rd. closure discussion
• Cameron Tennis Courts and temporary basketball court

The provided minutes for the July 1, 2021, Planning & Economic Development Committee meeting contain no record of actions, discussions, or decisions.

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees will hold public hearings and votes on two ordinances: one amending the Church Street Redevelopment Plan and another updating business licensing regulations. They will also consider a first-reading ordinance on water service line removal and master meter requirements. The board will vote on a consent agenda with numerous resolutions, including contracts, appointments, and a $1,956,658.57 bill payment.

• Ordinance 2021-15: Adopting amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan
• Ordinance 2021-14: Amending Chapter 96 Business Licensing and Regulations
• Ordinance 2021-16: Water service line removal and master meter requirements
• Resolution 2021-198: Authorizing payment of bills totaling $1,956,658.57
• Resolution 2021-190: Designating BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners as conditional redeveloper for Block 1902, Lots 39 and 40

The Board of Trustees approved multiple redevelopment agreements, including the designation of BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners and Storage Platform, LLC as redevelopers. Trustees also authorized several service contracts for the South Orange Care & Community Justice Project, approved the 2021-2022 liquor license renewals, and authorized a $1,956,658.57 payment of bills.

• Approved $1.96M payment of bills (6-0)
• Adopted Church Street Redevelopment Plan ordinance (5-0-1)
• Designated BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners as conditional redeveloper (5-0-1)
• Designated Storage Platform, LLC as redeveloper (6-0)
• Approved 2021-2022 liquor license renewals (6-0)
• Authorized six service contracts for Care & Community Justice Project (6-0)
• Appointed two members to Zoning Board of Adjustment (6-0)
• Created South Orange Cannabis Task Force (6-0)

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board is holding a special virtual meeting to continue hearing Case #282, an application by The Y Group LLC for amended site plan approval at 14 Second Street. The applicant seeks approval for changes to approved building materials and architectural flourishes, with no changes proposed to use, structure, affordable housing, or number of dwelling units. The meeting includes roll call and a public notice statement, with adjournment following the application hearing.

• Case #282 - The Y Group LLC, Block 1905 Lot 2, 14 Second Street: amended site plan for building material and architectural changes
• Continuation from May 3rd hearing
• No changes proposed to use, structure, affordable housing, or dwelling unit count
• Special meeting held virtually via Webex

The Planning Board approved an amended site plan for The Y Group, LLC at 14 Second Street. The application requested approval for changes to building materials and architectural features, with no changes proposed to the building's use or number of units.

• Approved amended site plan for 14 Second Street (5-2)

General

The South Orange Village Community Relations Committee is meeting virtually to approve minutes, receive reports on the Newcomers Hub and Newcomers Day, and discuss new business including a proposed charrettes project for the committee and communication. They will also discuss next steps for the Villager(s) of the Month. The meeting is largely procedural with reports and planning discussions.

• New project: Charrettes for Community Relations Committee & Communication
• Discussion of next steps for Villager(s) of the Month
• Reports on Newcomers Hub and Newcomers Day
• Next meeting date set for July 26, 2021

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a virtual special meeting. The board will vote on a resolution to enter executive session and consider a consent agenda resolution to submit a grant application and execute a contract with the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the Montrose Avenue West road reconstruction project.

• Resolution 2021-175 authorizing executive session
• Resolution 2021-176 approving grant application and contract with NJ DOT for Montrose Avenue West road reconstruction

General

This is an executive workshop for the Board of Trustees, not a regular decision-making meeting. The agenda covers an introduction to village government, the legislative process, boards and committees, and legal updates on pending matters. No formal votes or public hearings are scheduled.

• Legal update on litigation: South Orange v. Benas and labor matters
• Real estate/development: Third Street Affordable Housing and Italian Club Purchase
• Legal updates on open space and water system
• Training on Open Public Meeting Act (Sunshine Law) and Open Public Record Act (OPRA)

General

The South Orange Historic Preservation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting, primarily to review updates on ongoing projects, including the Baird, the Library, 167 North Ridgewood Road, and Case #2021-01 for 14 Second Street. The commission will also swear in a new alternate member and approve the minutes from the May 20 meeting. No new applications or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Swearing-in of newly appointed Alternate Greg Spreeman
• Update on 167 North Ridgewood Road
• Update on Case #2021-01, The Y Group, 14 Second Street
• Approval of minutes from May 20, 2021 regular meeting

The South Orange Historic Preservation Commission approved the May 20, 2021 minutes as amended and swore in Greg Spreeman as a Class A Alternate. The board agreed to place a resolution about a celebration garden in Grove Park on its July agenda for discussion before the Board of Trustees considers it on June 28. Updates were given on the library grant, Baird construction, 167 N. Ridgewood Road, and The Y Group at 14 Second Street, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved May 20, 2021 minutes as amended (all in favor, none opposed)
• Swore in Greg Spreeman as Class A Alternate
• Agreed to place Grove Park celebration garden resolution on July agenda for discussion

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission is meeting virtually to discuss policy updates on leaf blower and tree ordinances ahead of the next Board of Trustees meeting. They will also review updates on various projects including the heat map data, field maintenance, native plant sales, and zero waste initiatives. The meeting includes public comments and approval of previous minutes.

• Leaf Blower Ordinance policy update
• Tree Ordinance policy update
• Sustainable Jersey Certification not due until 10/2022
• Shade Tree Commission Formation update
• Native plant sale planned for 9/18 with partners

The commission approved the May 2021 minutes and voted to forward a proposed leaf blower ordinance to the Board of Trustees. Members discussed the formation of a Shade Tree Commission and reviewed updates on the town's heat map and eco-guide.

• Approved May 2021 minutes
• Voted to send leaf blower ordinance to Board of Trustees (5-1)

General

The South Orange Village Finance and Capital Projects Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the FY'21 operating and capital budgets, water utility matters, and a CBAC update. The committee will also hear a presentation from Enterprise and set goals for increasing budget transparency and identifying savings. Department updates are scheduled from Finance, Tax Collector, Water, and Tax Assessor.

• Presentation from Enterprise
• Goals to increase transparency and identify savings in capital and operating budgets
• FY'21 Operating Budget discussion
• FY'21 Capital Budget discussion
• Water Utility discussion

General

The South Orange Village Public Works & Utilities Committee will meet virtually to discuss routine reports on tree removal, water utility, recycling, and engineering projects. They will also review capital projects like the Baird Community Center and Connett Building, and consider new business on curb/sidewalk programs, striping, pedestrian safety, and the Shade Tree Commission. The agenda includes a public comment period and approval of prior minutes.

• Discussion of grant projects: New Waterlands Bike Path and Bridge, Grove Road
• Capital projects: Baird Community Center, Connett Building
• County project: Irvington Ave.
• Curb and Sidewalk Program and striping
• Recycling/Solid Waste Sub Committee update on consultant work and recycling facility site plan

The Public Works & Utilities committee met on June 17, 2021, and approved the May 27, 2021 minutes. Most of the meeting was reports and discussion: tree removal and maintenance, water utility updates, recycling facility planning, and various road, curb, and park projects. No ordinances, resolutions, contracts, or budget items were voted on beyond approving the prior minutes.

• Approved May 27, 2021 minutes

General

The South Orange Village Planning & Economic Development Committee is meeting virtually to discuss several items, including new business on the First Baptist Church at 103 Valley Street, Valley Street beautification, and a post-COVID commuting plan. They will also review old business on the Cannabis Task Force, 315 Self Place resolution compliance, and the Master Plan. The meeting includes approval of minutes and reports from the Deputy Administrator and SOVCA.

• First Baptist Church (103 Valley Street)
• Valley Street Beautification
• Post-COVID Commuting Plan
• Cannabis Task Force
• 315 Self Place Resolution Compliance

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda that includes the promotion of a police sergeant, contracts for cleaning services at the municipal pool and other facilities, and the appointment of a new library director. The board will also consider liquor license renewals, a celebration garden in Grove Park, and payment of bills totaling over $3.8 million. The meeting begins with an executive session to discuss a fire department merger and other matters.

• Resolution 2021-163 promoting Sally Reaves to Police Sergeant
• Contract with Harvard Services Group for pool disinfecting/cleaning at $4,204.54/month
• Contract with Harvard Services Group for janitorial services at $4,193.16/month
• Resolution 2021-166 appointing Jill Faherty as Library Director
• Resolution 2021-174 authorizing payment of bills totaling $3,830,791.47

The Board of Trustees approved a consent agenda of nine resolutions (2021-164 through 2021-172), including janitorial contracts for the municipal pool and police/recreation/DPW facilities, the appointment of Jill Faherty as library director, seasonal hiring, and a celebration garden in Grove Park. The board also approved a $3,830,791.47 bills list, renewed liquor licenses for 2021-2022, and promoted Sally Reaves to police sergeant. Minutes from December 2019 and May 2021 meetings were approved, and the board heard a pedestrian safety audit presentation from the Senior Advisory Committee.

• Approved Resolution 2021-162 authorizing executive session on Fire Department merger and appointments (all in favor)
• Approved Resolution 2021-163 promoting Sally Reaves to Police Sergeant (6-0)
• Approved minutes of Dec 9, 2019 and Dec 30, 2019 meetings (Brown and Haskins abstained)
• Approved minutes of May 24, 2021 meeting (6-0)
• Approved Resolutions 2021-164 through 2021-172, including janitorial contracts not to exceed $4,204.54 and $4,193.16 monthly, library director appointment, seasonal hiring, and Grove Park celebration garden (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-173 renewing liquor licenses for 2021-2022 term (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-174 authorizing payment of bills totaling $3,830,791.47 (6-0)
• Village President appointed Greg Spreeman as Class A Alternate Member to Historic Preservation Commission

General

The Community Police Collaborative will hold a regular meeting via WebEx. The agenda includes reports on the Community Care & Justice Program and a discussion regarding use of force and mental health calls.

• Community Care & Justice Program Report
• Discussion on Use of Force and Mental Health Calls
• CPC Outreach Launch on Juneteenth

The committee approved the meeting minutes and welcomed two new members. Members discussed the Community Care & Justice Program's $100,000 funding and preliminary state-wide use of force data. A proposal to add regular use of force reports to meetings was postponed until the full committee is formed.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Appointed Richard Stephen Bell as voting member
• Appointed Joshua Tinkelman as alternate voting member
• Postponed decision on regular use of force reporting until full CPC is formed

General

The South Orange Health & Public Safety Committee is meeting to discuss public safety updates, including police camera replacements, a use of force portal, and traffic safety follow-ups. The agenda includes reports from health, fire, rescue, and emergency management departments, with public comments and new items.

• Police camera replacements
• Use of Force Portal
• Annual Traffic Safety Report follow-up
• Community Safety Post-Underhill Shootings
• Maplewood Automatic Aid, Radio Coordination, and Joint Training

The Health & Public Safety Committee heard departmental reports and updates regarding the Care & Community Justice program, FEMA disaster funding, and public safety operations. The meeting included discussions on community safety following the Underhill Field shootings, stray cat regulations, and traffic safety studies, with no formal binding municipal votes recorded.

• SORS members voted to approve updates to SORS By-Laws (Constitution) and retitled Captain to Chief and Lieutenant to Deputy Chief

General

The South Orange Village Planning Board is holding a special meeting to hear a continuation of Case #282, an application by The Y Group LLC for amended site plan approval at 14 Second Street. The applicant seeks approval for changes to building materials and architectural details only, with no changes to use, structure, affordable housing, or number of dwelling units. The meeting is virtual and open to the public.

• Case #282 - The Y Group LLC, Block 1905 Lot 2, 14 Second Street: amended site plan for building material and architectural changes
• Continuation from May 3rd hearing
• No changes proposed to use, structure, affordable housing, or dwelling unit count
• Next meeting scheduled for July 7, 2021 at 7:00 PM

The Planning Board held a special meeting on June 9, 2021 and took up Case #282, The Y Group, LLC's amended site plan for 14 Second Street (Block 1905 Lot 2), which concerns changes to approved building materials and architectural features. Because required revised plans were not submitted in time for the board professionals to review, the case was carried to a special meeting on June 21, 2021 at 7 p.m., with no further noticing required. No other decisions were recorded; the board then adjourned.

• Carried Case #282 (The Y Group, LLC, 14 Second Street, amended site plan) to a special meeting on June 21, 2021 at 7 p.m. because revised plans were not submitted in time for review
• Adjourned the meeting (moved by Freeman, seconded by Loehner, all members in favor)

General

The South Orange Village Design Review Board is holding a regular committee meeting to discuss old business items, including updates on the Vose & Taylor project, the Lackawanna & Valley Redevelopment Plan, and applications for Buzzing Bee's Academy and Little Stages. The board will also discuss future monthly meeting dates and take public comments.

• Vose & Taylor Update
• Lackawanna & Valley Redevelopment Plan
• Buzzing Bee's Academy - 31 3rd Street
• Little Stages - 14 South Orange Avenue
• Discussion of future monthly DRB meeting dates

The Design Review Board approved specific sign and window treatment plans for two local businesses. Updates were presented for the Vose & Taylor site plan and the Lackawanna & Valley Redevelopment Plan, with the latter remaining on hold pending further revisions. The board also agreed to determine future meeting dates via a poll.

• Approved second sign rendering option for Buzzing Bee's Academy
• Approved 25% transparent window coverage with curtain detail for Little Stages
• Vose & Taylor site plan update presented; board discussed materials and height
• Lackawanna & Valley plan on hold until concerns are addressed graphically
• Future meeting dates to be determined by poll

General

The South Orange Village Community Board is meeting virtually to discuss neighborhood communication plans, village issues including cannabis, volunteer positions, tree removal, construction projects, and summer events. The agenda is largely discussion-oriented with no formal votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Neighborhood Communications Plan exercise
• Discussion of cannabis
• New Committee: Mobility and Pedestrian Safety
• Tree removal discussion
• Summer 2021 events overview

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is meeting to discuss several new business items, including direction for SPACE, the time of meetings, and a cannabis discussion. They will also review old business on citizen engagement and strategic partnerships, such as a demographics survey, volunteering, and the Community Care and Justice initiative. The agenda is largely discussion-oriented with no formal votes listed.

• Direction for SPACE
• Discuss time of meeting
• Cannabis discussion
• Demographics survey
• Community Care and Justice initiative

The South Orange Strategic Partnerships and Citizen Engagement committee met on June 9, 2021 and discussed ongoing initiatives including a Community Care and Justice academic study that received $100,000 from Essex County on May 26, a demographics survey with 34 submissions, and a digital kiosk proposal. The group agreed to keep the same meeting time and discussed forming a cannabis taskforce, noting the state has not yet issued regulations. No formal motions, votes, or binding decisions are recorded in these minutes.

• No formal votes or binding decisions recorded; meeting was discussion-only
• Agreed to keep the same meeting time
• Community Care and Justice initiative received $100,000 from Essex County (approved May 26, per minutes)
• Demographics survey reported 34 individual submissions
• Cannabis taskforce discussed; state regulations not yet issued
• Digital kiosk proposal to be fleshed out with grant or sponsor options
• Next meeting set for July 14, 2021

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider several site plans, including a 60-unit inclusionary development and a residential subdivision. The meeting also includes the adoption of the Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan and a discussion on the Church Street Redevelopment Plan.

• Adoption of Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan (Ordinance #2021-13)
• Case #283: 60-unit inclusionary development at 270-274 Irvington Avenue
• Case #280: Minor subdivision at 353 West South Orange Avenue
• Case #274A: Building facade revisions for Vose Ave. Apts. Urban Renewal, LLC
• Case #277: Indoor playground renovation at 468 Valley Street

The Planning Board approved a resolution finding Ordinance 2021-13, adopting the Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan, consistent with the Master Plan, and approved a minor subdivision at 353 West South Orange Avenue. It deemed complete an amended final site plan for the Vose Ave. Apts. Urban Renewal project and a 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue, subject to items to be submitted 14 days before the hearing. A hearing on a proposed indoor playground at 468 Valley Street was adjourned to the next regular meeting due to the late hour, and the Board deemed Ordinance 2021-15, adopting the Amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan, consistent with the Master Plan.

• Approved resolution finding Ordinance 2021-13 (Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan) consistent with the Master Plan (5-0)
• Approved minor subdivision and preliminary/final site plan with C-variance relief at 353 West South Orange Avenue, Case #280 (5-0)
• Deemed complete amended final site plan for Vose Ave. Apts. Urban Renewal, LLC, Case #274A (6-0)
• Deemed complete preliminary/final site plan with C-variance relief for 60-unit inclusionary development at 270 and 299 Irvington Avenue, Case #283, subject to items submitted 14 days prior to hearing (6-0)
• Adjourned hearing on Case #277, indoor playground at 468 Valley Street, to next regular meeting
• Deemed Ordinance 2021-15 (Amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan) consistent with the Master Plan (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved minutes of May 3, 2021 regular meeting (6-0)

General

The Recreation, Arts & Cultural Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss and receive updates on recreation programs, facilities, and cultural events. Items include summer camps, pool updates, park projects, and upcoming events like Pride Month and Juneteenth. The agenda is largely informational with no final decisions listed.

• Summer camps and pool update
• Baird and Carter Park updates
• Romeo and Juliet in the Park
• Pride Month and Juneteenth events
• Meadowbrook Rd. closure and Cameron Tennis Courts

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Zoning Board of Adjustment met virtually on June 1, 2021. The board carried Case #1045 regarding 16 Hart Drive North to the July 6, 2021, meeting.

• Case #1045 (16 Hart Drive North): Proposed elevator and accessible garage space

The Board of Adjustment approved the minutes of its May 4, 2021 meeting by roll call vote. The only application on the agenda, Case #1045 for 16 Hart Drive North, was carried to the July 6, 2021 meeting; the minutes do not state a reason for the carry. No other decisions were recorded, and the meeting adjourned at about 7:15 p.m.

• Approved minutes of the May 4, 2021 meeting (Breene, DiScala, Shapiro, Dahn all yes)
• Carried Case #1045 (16 Hart Drive North, Block 1803 Lot 3) to the July 6, 2021 meeting

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission is meeting to receive updates on several ongoing projects. Discussions include tree ordinance progress, recycling feedback, and native plant initiatives.

• Updates on Grant Trees status and Scotland Road tree projects
• Discussion of Tree Ordinance and Homeowners Guide
• MSW/Recycling feedback and food waste discussion
• Invasive plant removal work days
• Eco Guide project update

General

The South Orange Village Public Works & Utilities Committee is meeting virtually to discuss routine reports and updates on public works, water utility, sewer, recycling, and capital projects. The agenda includes public comments on Founders Park, reports on tree removal and grant projects, and discussions on pedestrian safety and fall tree planting. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or ordinances listed.

• Public comments on Founders Park
• Tree removal data report
• New Waterlands Bike Path and Bridge grant project
• Grove Road grant project
• Baird Community Center capital project

The Public Works & Utilities committee met on May 27, 2021 and heard reports and updates on tree removal, water utility issues, recycling, grant projects, and capital projects. Members discussed pedestrian safety and fall tree planting, and agreed to continue conversations on a fall planting plan. No formal motions, approvals, or denials are recorded in these minutes; the only recorded action was setting the next meeting for June 17 at 8:00 PM, and the meeting adjourned at 10:40 AM.

• No formal decisions, votes, or approvals are recorded in these minutes
• Next meeting moved to the 3rd Thursday, June 17th, at 8:00 PM
• Discussion only: fall tree planting with NJ Tree Foundation; agreed to continue conversation with Lisa and work with Mike on a fall plan
• Discussion only: pedestrian safety concerns and how to make the Village more pedestrian friendly
• Discussion only: whether the Village or the Architect should provide the recycling facility site plan
• Report: storm sewer leak by the Exxon station being assessed
• Report: Grove Road project delayed, completion expected before school opens in fall
• Report: Irvington Ave. project meeting scheduled for 5/28; start projected mid-summer

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees is reviewing ordinances for business licensing and the Church Street redevelopment plan. The meeting also includes discussions on public health, upcoming elections, and various municipal resolutions.

• Ordinance adopting the amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan
• Resolution for a $500,000 grant for the Recreation and Cultural Affairs building
• Resolution for a $39,500 annual agreement with University Hospital for fire dispatch
• Resolution for a $8,905 change order for Baird Community Center renovations
• Approval of bills totaling $6,463,657.97

The Board of Trustees approved a $6,463,657.97 bills list and passed eight consent resolutions, including a $500,000 state grant application for recreation building renovations and a $39,500/year fire dispatch agreement with University Hospital. Two ordinances advanced on first reading: a business licensing code revision and the amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan; public hearings are set for June 28, 2021. The board also approved minutes from three prior meetings and appointed Linda Beck to the Environmental Commission.

• Approved bills list and check issuance totaling $6,463,657.97 (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2021-14 amending business licensing code on first reading (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2021-15 adopting amended Church Street Redevelopment Plan on first reading (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved consent resolutions 2021-153 through 2021-160 (6-0), including $500,000 grant application for recreation building and $39,500/year fire dispatch agreement
• Approved minutes of Nov 25, 2019 and May 10, 2021 regular meetings (4-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved minutes of May 17, 2021 annual organization meeting (6-0)
• Appointed Linda Beck to Environmental Commission
• Set public hearings for Ordinances 2021-14 and 2021-15 for June 28, 2021 at 7:00 PM

General

The Commission will discuss updates regarding the Library, Baird, 167 North Ridgewood Road, and 14 Second Street. The Board will also vote on a volunteer application for an open alternate position.

• Update on 167 North Ridgewood Road
• Update on Case #2021-01 (The Y Group LLC at 14 Second Street)
• Vote on volunteer application of Greg Spreeman for open alternate position
• Master Plan Historic Element subcommittee update

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the April 15, 2021, meeting and appointed a new alternate member. The commission received updates on the Library grant, asbestos removal at the Baird building, and a pending application for 14 Second Street.

• Approved April 15, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Greg Spreeman to the open alternate position (unanimous)

General

The Planning & Economic Development Committee will meet virtually to discuss new business including marijuana legislation and St. Paul's Outreach. The committee will also receive reports from building, code enforcement, and the SOVCA, and provide an update on the Master Plan.

• Discussion of marijuana legislation
• Master Plan update
• St. Paul's Outreach discussion
• Building/Code Enforcement report
• SOVCA report

The committee discussed three legislative options for cannabis zoning ahead of an August 23 deadline. The Building Department announced it will move plumbing inspections in-house to address realtor complaints regarding costs.

• Agreed to keep current meeting recurrence as is
• Building Department to perform plumbing inspections in-house and raise fees

General

The Board of Trustees is conducting a reorganization meeting to certify election results and administer oaths to incoming members. The meeting includes the appointment of trustees to various standing committees, boards, and liaison roles.

• Oath of office for incoming Trustees Braynard 'Bobby' Brown, William 'Bill' Haskin, and Karen Hartshorn Hilton
• Resolutions to appoint trustees to various bodies including the Board of Health and Planning Board
• Appointment of trustees as liaisons to the Environmental Commission and Arts Advisory Committee
• Appointment of Karen Hartshorn Hilton as Acting Village President in the event of the President's absence

The Board of Trustees administered the oath of office to three newly elected Trustees. The Board also approved a consent agenda of 26 resolutions appointing Trustees to various village committees, boards, and liaison positions.

• Swore in newly elected Trustees Braynard "Bobby" Brown, William "Bill" Haskins, and Karen Hartshorn Hilton
• Approved Resolutions 2021-126 through 2021-151 appointing Trustees to standing committees and various boards (6-0)
• Appointed Trustee Karen Hartshorn Hilton as Acting Village President for a one-year term in the event of the President's absence (6-0)

General

The committee is meeting to review upcoming community events and the Newcomers Hub layout. Members are also discussing new project charrettes and the Villager of the Month program.

• Review of AAPI Month, Memorial Day, Pride Month, and Juneteenth events
• Review of Newcomers Day business and organization list
• Discussion of new project charrettes for committee communication
• Discussion regarding next steps for Villager of the Month

General

The Community Police Collaborative will hold a virtual meeting to discuss surveillance camera presentations and the CC&J Program. The body will also discuss operational processes for handling normal, between-meeting, and urgent business.

• Surveillance Camera Presentation & Discussion
• CC&J Program and Sexual Harassment discussion
• CPC operational process review
• Data Informed Community Engagement discussion

The Community Police Collaborative met May 13, 2021 and heard a policy briefing recommending a pause to the town's surveillance camera upgrade/expansion plus a series of policy changes, to allow community input. The briefing, compiled by CPC members and community members, will be posted on the CPC outreach website. SOPD's Sgt. Lombardi answered questions on camera numbers, local data storage, vendor Minds Eye, signage, and a 30-day storage limit he said is set by state statutes. No vote or formal decision by the CPC is recorded in these minutes; public speakers supported pausing the program.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded; minutes cover reports, a presentation, and public comment
• CPC Chair Bobby Brown elected Village Trustee, must step down as CPC Chair; Brown and Trustee Coallier to serve as CPC liaisons
• CPC website and blog approved by town attorneys; outreach committee to add content at outreachcpc.org
• Policy briefing presented recommending a pause to the surveillance camera program and policy changes; to be posted publicly
• SOPD to issue FAQ and hold a community forum on the camera upgrade program, per Trustee Coallier
• Sgt. Lombardi clarified data will be stored locally, town will contract with Minds Eye, and 30-day storage limit is driven by state statutes
• Public comment from Ben Vitale, Rita Pancholy, and Kelly Piccola supported pausing the program and adding body cameras first

General

The committee will review reports regarding COVID-19 vaccine sessions and radio testing. Members will also discuss traffic safety, including Meadowbrook Lane Sunday closures and potential committee changes.

• Meadowbrook Lane Sunday closures discussion
• Discussion on replacing TAC with Mobility & Pedestrian Safety Committee
• Review of street paving and water main replacement against crash reports
• Maplewood Automatic Aid, Radio Coordination, and Joint Training report
• Virtual COVID Vaccine Session with South Orange Library & Radio

General

The Design Review Board will meet virtually to discuss new business. The agenda includes a redevelopment plan and a signage request for a local business.

• Lackawanna + Valley redevelopment plan
• Buzzing Bee signage at 31 Third Street

The Design Review Board met on May 12, 2021 and discussed the Lackawanna + Valley redevelopment plan, including building materials, lighting, landscaping, signage, and screening storage lockers. Members suggested frosting windows on the Lackawanna Place side to soften lighting, and agreed to bring recommendations to the next development committee meeting. A detailed report on signage for Buzzing Bee at 31 Third Street was deferred to the June 9, 2021 meeting. No substantive decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded; there was no public comment.

• No formal decisions recorded; board discussed Lackawanna + Valley redevelopment design and agreed to forward recommendations to the development committee
• Buzzing Bee signage report at 31 Third Street deferred to June 9, 2021 meeting

General

The meeting includes discussions regarding demographic surveys, volunteering management, and public art projects. The body will also review strategic partnerships involving Jespy House, Seton Hall University, and the Community Care and Justice initiative.

• Demographics survey discussion
• Digital Kiosk update
• Public Art projects coordination
• Jespy House partnership discussion
• Seton Hall University partnership discussion

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will hold a second reading for the Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan and consider several consent agenda resolutions. The meeting includes a public hearing for the South Orange Village Center Alliance FY 2021 operating budget.

• Second reading of Ordinance 2021-13 regarding the Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan
• Purchase of water treatment chemicals from Main Pool and Chemical Company, Inc. up to $18,000.00
• Change order #3 for Frankoski Construction Company for asbestos abatement at Baird Community Center totaling a $43,280.15 increase
• Public hearing for the South Orange Village Center Alliance FY 2021 operating budget
• Approval of bills totaling $7,977,363.51

The Board of Trustees adopted Ordinance 2021-13 on second reading, approving the Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan; Trustee Zuckerman abstained and the motion carried. The board also approved a consent agenda of 11 resolutions covering water treatment chemicals, pool and seasonal hiring, engineering and asbestos-abatement change orders, a redevelopment agreement amendment, a police grievance settlement, and a senior coordinator appointment. A resolution naming a South Wyoming Avenue and Lenox Avenue intersection in memory of Nikhil Badlani and a resolution adopting the South Orange Village Center Alliance FY 2021 operating budget were each approved separately. The board authorized payment of bills totaling $7,977,363.51.

• Adopted Ordinance 2021-13, the Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan (6-0, Zuckerman abstained)
• Approved Resolutions 2021-112 through 2021-122 on consent, including $18,000 water treatment chemicals and a $43,280.15 asbestos-abatement change order (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-123 naming the South Wyoming Avenue and Lenox Avenue intersection in memory of Nikhil Badlani (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-124 adopting the South Orange Village Center Alliance FY 2021 operating budget (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-125 authorizing payment of bills and issuance of checks totaling $7,977,363.51 (6-0)
• Approved minutes of the October 14, 2019 and October 28, 2019 regular meetings (6-0)
• Approved minutes of the April 26, 2021 regular meeting (5-0, Zuckerman abstained)
• Approved Resolution 2021-111 authorizing an executive session on PSE&G, police personnel, general redevelopment, personnel, and water matters (all in favor, none opposed)

General

The committee will receive updates on seasonal recreation programming, facilities, and upcoming cultural events. Members will also discuss old business regarding park signage and senior activities, and consider a new recreation grant application.

• Public comment regarding Grove Park Meadowbrook Lane closure
• Updates on Baird and Carter Park facilities
• Discussion of User Fee Trust Fund
• Recreation Grant Application

The South Orange Recreation, Arts & Cultural Affairs Committee met on May 6, 2021, and approved a motion by Trustee Hilton, supported by Trustees Schnall and Jones, to close Meadowbrook Lane on Sundays for pedestrian and bicycle use. The committee also heard public comments regarding private gardening concerns in Grove Park and received multiple updates on recreation programs, facility projects, and upcoming cultural events.

• Approved Sunday road closure for Meadowbrook Lane for pedestrians and bicyclists (passed by Trustees Hilton, Schnall, and Jones)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet virtually to review site plans and variance requests. The agenda includes a remanded site plan for St. Paul's Outreach, Inc. and requests for residential additions.

• Case #1017: St. Paul's Outreach, Inc. Final Site Plan & D-Variance Relief (Block 601 Lot 12)
• Case #1044: Avery Hackett deck addition (12 Glenview Road)
• Case #1045: Elevator and accessible garage application (16 Hart Drive North)
• Approval of April 6, 2021, meeting minutes

The Board of Adjustment approved resolutions for two zoning variance cases and deemed a third application complete. Additionally, the Board elected Todd DiScala as Chairman and Paul Breene as Vice Chairman.

• Approved April 6, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved resolution for Case #1044, 12 Glenview Road (5-0)
• Approved resolution for Case #1017R, 315 Self Place (4-0)
• Deemed Case #1045, 16 Hart Drive North, complete (5-0)
• Elected Todd DiScala as Chairman
• Elected Paul Breene as Vice Chairman

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board will meet to vote on two redevelopment plan ordinances and hear several site plan applications. The board will also discuss the amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan and a Master Plan update.

• Adoption of Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan (Block 2303, Lots 1, 2, 3, 13, 14)
• Adoption of Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan (Block 1905, Lot 1)
• Case #280: Minor subdivision and site plan for 353 West South Orange Avenue
• Case #277: Site plan for indoor playground at 468 Valley Street
• Case #282: Amended site plan for 14 Second Street

The Planning Board approved resolutions finding three redevelopment plans consistent with the Master Plan: the Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan (Ordinance 2021-11), the Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan (Ordinance 2021-12), and the amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan (Ordinance 2021-13). It also approved a minor subdivision and site plan at 353 West South Orange Avenue to create two residential lots, with one abstention. A site plan for an indoor playground at 468 Valley Street was carried to June 7 at the applicant's request, and a site plan for 14 Second Street was adjourned to June 7 due to the late hour.

• Approved resolution for Ordinance 2021-11, Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan, consistent with Master Plan (7-0)
• Approved resolution for Ordinance 2021-12, Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan, consistent with Master Plan (6-0, Lerman recused)
• Approved minor subdivision and site plan at 353 West South Orange Avenue for two single-family lots (7-0, Freeman abstained)
• Carried Case #277, indoor playground at 468 Valley Street, to June 7 at applicant's request
• Adjourned Case #282, 14 Second Street amended site plan, to June 7 due to late hour
• Deemed Ordinance 2021-13, amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan, consistent with Master Plan (7-0, Zuckerman recused)
• Approved minutes of February 24, March 25, and April 5, 2021 meetings

General

The Design Review Board will hold a virtual meeting to conduct a draft memo review for 14 Second Street. No other new business is listed on the agenda.

• Draft Memo Review: 14 Second Street

General

The committee is meeting to decide whether to proceed with the Clean Up, Green Up project scheduled for May 15. Members are also discussing business recruitment, social media outreach, and updates on local developments.

• Clean Up, Green Up project planning
• Proposal to display art in vacant storefronts
• Potential house portrait fundraiser
• Development updates for Italian Club, Carter Park, and 270/299 Irvington Avenue

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to consider the 2021 municipal budget and several bond ordinances. The agenda includes discussions on redevelopment plans for Valley/Lackawanna and Sloan Street, as well as various personnel and contract resolutions.

• Bond ordinance for $5,700,000 in general obligation refunding bonds
• Bond ordinance for $3,295,184 for various capital improvements
• Adoption of Valley/Lackawanna redevelopment plan for Block 2303
• Adoption of Sloan Street redevelopment plan for Block 1905
• Approval of $3,902,458.26 in bills through April 26, 2021

The Board of Trustees approved the 2021 amended municipal budget and several bond ordinances for capital improvements and refunding. The board also approved two redevelopment plans and a series of administrative resolutions via consent agenda.

• Approved 2021 amended municipal budget (5-0)
• Approved $5.7M refunding bond ordinance (5-0)
• Approved $3.29M bond ordinance for capital improvements (5-0)
• Approved Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan (5-0)
• Approved Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan (5-0)
• Approved $3,902,458.26 in bill payments (5-0)
• Approved contract for Miele's Concessions as pool food vendor
• Approved $11,503 change order for Baird Community Center renovations

General

The South Orange Environmental Commission is meeting to provide updates on several ongoing environmental projects. The agenda includes planning for River Day, a native plant sale, and a Repair Café.

• River Day on May 2
• Native plant sale on May 1
• Repair Café on May 1
• Doug Tallamy Summit Coalition event on April 26
• Seton Village Clean-up / Green-up on May 15

The Environmental Commission approved the March 2021 minutes and provided updates on several local green initiatives. Members discussed the progress of tree plantings, the upcoming River Day and Repair Cafe events, and the selection of Zero Waste as a consultant for recycling and waste planning.

• Approved March 2021 minutes

General

The committee is meeting to review reports on the New Waterlands Bike Path & Bridge and the Water Utility. Discussion items include the Baird Community Center capital project and the Tree Grant.

• New Waterlands Bike Path & Bridge report
• Baird Community Center capital project report
• Water Utility report
• Tree Grant next steps

The Public Works & Utilities committee selected Zero Waste Associates from a pool of bidders. The committee also received progress reports on several capital projects and the New Waterlands Bike Path & Bridge.

• Selected Zero Waste Associates from bidders for Recycling/Solid Waste

General

The Design Review Board will review new business regarding 14 Second Street and Sofi Gaslight Commons. The board will also revisit several ongoing items including projects on Valley Street and South Orange Avenue.

• 14 Second Street review
• Sofi Gaslight Commons review
• Indoor Playground at 468 Valley Street
• Learning Experience at 109 & 115 South Orange Ave
• Holsman Physical Therapy at 349 Valley Street

The Design Review Board approved the new SOFI (formerly Gaslight Commons) sign at its April 21, 2021 meeting, finding it within zoning requirements. The board also approved the minutes of its February 17, February 25, and March 9, 2021 meetings. Other items were updates or discussions: 14 Second Street changes will go before the Historic Preservation Commission and Planning Board, and the SOVCA mural at 20 Valley Street was presented after being selected by contest jurors and the beautification committee. No public comment was made and the meeting adjourned at 9:12 PM.

• Approved minutes of the February 17, February 25, and March 9, 2021 meetings (all members present)
• Approved the new SOFI (formerly Gaslight Commons) sign, with no further feedback
• Directed Chair Crenshaw to circulate a draft memo on handling applicants who don't follow approved plans, for board review and forwarding to the Planning Board

General

The committee will review reports from the Trustee, Environmental, and Municipal representatives. Discussion topics include senior bus surveys, Meals on Wheels updates, and various community webinars.

• Trustee report by Karen Hilton
• SOMA Coordinator Report by Cathy Rowe
• Senior Bus Survey discussion
• Meals on Wheels update by Larry Aronson
• AARP grant discussion

The South Orange Senior Citizen Advisory Committee approved its prior minutes with corrections to dates and names for Karen Boss and Judy Targan. The meeting was largely informational: reports covered construction at Baird, a shared services agreement with Maplewood for social worker Carol Berman, and plans for senior programs and bus service. No ordinances, contracts, or funding measures were decided.

• Approved prior meeting minutes with corrections to dates and names for Karen Boss and Judy Targan

General

The committee will review reports from building code enforcement and the SOVCA. Discussion items include the Master Plan update and a concept review regarding prevailing wage legislation.

• Master Plan Update
• Concept Review Procedure A1571- Prevailing Wage Legislation
• Business Code Registration – CC&J Summer outdoor activation
• Building/Code Enforcement Report

The Planning & Economic Development Committee approved prior meeting minutes and received status reports on building permits, downtown events, and several development projects. The committee discussed a draft rewrite of Chapter 96 business licensing rules that would remove what members described as harsh, police-enforcement-oriented language, with a goal of introducing it at the first Board of Trustees meeting in May. No formal votes on new ordinances or resolutions were recorded; the meeting was largely informational and procedural.

• Approved February 23, 2021 and March 16, 2021 meeting minutes (all members present)
• Directed draft Chapter 96 business code rewrite toward possible introduction at first May Board of Trustees meeting (no vote recorded)
• Received Building Dept report: about $450,000 collected in permit fees; Landmark/Village Hall project anticipated finished by August 2021
• Received zoning updates: 6-8 South Orange Ave pre-application held; 103 Valley St (First Baptist Church) seeking pre-application meeting; 14 Second St developer to seek relief from Planning Board approval; Lackawanna & Valley storage facility redevelopment plan introduced to BOT
• Received update on St. Paul's Outreach (315 Self Place): Zoning Board approved with conditions after seven hearings; approval not yet memorialized
• Received Master Plan update: completed draft anticipated in weeks; Steering Committee to review rollout plan
• Announced A1571 Prevailing Wage Legislation will not move forward
• Set next meeting for May 18, 2021 at 8:30 AM

General

The committee is meeting to discuss upcoming community initiatives and reports. Members are reviewing plans for Newcomers Day and a potential new project regarding community charrettes.

• Proposed Newcomers Day dates: October 3rd with a rain date of October 10th
• Discussion of New Project: Charrettes for Community Relations Committee & Communication
• Liaison reports regarding Community Board and Demographics Survey
• Review of Newcomers Hub and Newcomers Day community letter and list

General

The Historic Preservation Commission approved minutes of its March 18, 2021 meeting and administered the Oath of Office to Amy Dahn on her reappointment. The board reviewed a non-binding advisory application (Case #2021-01) from The Y Group, LLC for 14 Second Street, where the applicant described changes to building materials, signage, windows, lighting and facade made after prior Planning Board approval; members raised concerns that changes were made before seeking an amended application. The board voted unanimously to have Counsel William Sullivan draft a letter to the Planning Board summarizing its comments and concerns. The board also interviewed Greg Spreeman for an open position, with a recommendation to be forwarded to the Village President if selected.

• Approved minutes of March 18, 2021 regular meeting (all in favor, none opposed)
• Administered Oath of Office to Amy Dahn on her reappointment to the board
• Approved having Counsel Sullivan draft a letter to the Planning Board summarizing the board's comments and concerns on Case #2021-01, 14 Second Street (all in favor, none opposed)
• Interviewed Greg Spreeman for an open commissioner position; recommendation to Village President pending if selected

General

The Strategic Partnerships and Citizen Engagement Committee is meeting to review demographic questions for the Master Plan report and discuss volunteer management software. The committee will also discuss community care initiatives and potential partnerships with Seton Hall University and real estate developers.

• Review of demographics questions for Master Plan report
• Discussion of volunteer management software platforms
• Update on new Village Branding and Gaslight 2021 mailing
• Community Care and Justice initiative discussion
• Seton Hall University survey items including app development

General

The Community Board met virtually to discuss its purpose, member expectations, and communication structures. The agenda includes discussions on neighborhood and Village issues, though no specific projects or ordinances were listed.

• Discussion of Board purpose and expectations
• Review of communication protocols
• Discussion of neighborhood and Village issues

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will consider the first reading of the Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan. The meeting includes discussions on multiunit master metering, various professional service contracts, and a significant change order for asbestos remediation at the Baird Community Center.

• First reading of Ordinance 2021-13: Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan
• Change order #2 for Frankoski Construction Company for asbestos remediation at Baird Community Center ($279,375.96 increase)
• Contract with TruGreen Commercial for field treatment and fertilization (not to exceed $71,718.87)
• Change order #2 for H3, Hardy Collaboration Architecture, LLC for library grant services (not to exceed $20,000.00)
• Approval of bills totaling $14,459,257.47

The Board of Trustees approved a consent agenda of 14 resolutions, including contracts for water metering equipment, field treatment, and library grant support. It approved a $279,375.96 net increase to the Frankoski Construction contract for asbestos remediation at the Baird Community Center. The board also advanced the amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan on first reading, set a May 10 public hearing, and tabled a contract for architecture services at 133 Fairview Avenue. The meeting included a fire captain promotion, proclamations, and reports; no public comments were recorded.

• Approved Resolution 2021-068 authorizing executive session on multiunit master metering, Passaic River litigation, and personnel matters (all in favor)
• Approved Resolution 2021-076 appointing Keith Scheper as Fire Captain (5 yes, 1 no: Hilton)
• Approved minutes of Sept. 7, 2019 special, March 22, 2021 regular, and March 31, 2021 special meetings (5 yes, 1 no: Hilton)
• Advanced Ordinance 2021-13 adopting the Amended Vose + Taylor Redevelopment Plan on first reading (5 yes, 1 abstain: Zuckerman); public hearing set for May 10, 2021
• Approved consent agenda Resolutions 2021-069 through 072, 074 through 080, and 082 through 084 (all in favor)
• Tabled Resolution 2021-073 for architecture services at 133 Fairview Avenue (all in favor)
• Approved Resolution 2021-081, Change Order #2 with Frankoski Construction for asbestos remediation at Baird Community Center, net increase of $279,375.96 (all in favor)
• Approved Resolution 2021-085 adopting pre-qualification regulations for Connett Library exterior restoration Phase II (all in favor)

General

The Community Police Collaborative will meet virtually to discuss surveillance camera presentations and follow up on retreat visioning. The meeting also includes a report from the Trustee Liaison.

• Surveillance Camera Presentation & Discussion
• Retreat Follow-up/Visioning Discussion
• Trustee Liaison Report

The Community Police Collaborative met on April 8, 2021. Sergeant Lombardi presented the town's plan to expand and replace surveillance cameras at hot spots, and said all uniformed officers should have body cameras by June 1st or shortly thereafter, funded by the state. CPC members and residents raised privacy and OPRA questions, and an ad-hoc committee will make recommendations. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the body also continued a visioning discussion and received trustee reports.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded; minutes approved without a recorded tally
• Heard police plan to expand and replace surveillance cameras at hot spots
• Heard all uniformed officers expected to have body cameras by June 1st, funded by the state
• Formed an ad-hoc committee to further engage surveillance issues and make recommendations
• Continued CPC visioning discussion on mission, purpose, and objectives
• Received trustee reports on Community Care & Justice, community boards, Juneteenth, and the town budget

General

The committee will review reports and discuss new items from the Health, OEM, Fire, Rescue, Police, and Traffic Safety departments. The meeting includes a radio testing report for SOPD, SOFD, and SORS, as well as a review of Chapter 96 of the Business Code.

• Radio testing report for SOPD, SOFD, and SORS
• Chapter 96 Business Code review
• Departmental updates from Health, OEM, Fire, Rescue, Police, and Traffic Safety

General

The Finance and Capital Projects Committee will discuss the Fiscal Year 2021 operating and capital budgets. The meeting also includes discussions regarding renewal pilot agreements and the water utility.

• FY'21 Operation Budget discussion
• FY'21 Capital Budget discussion
• Renewal Pilot/In Lieu of Agreements
• Water Utility update
• Post Polak Contract follow-up

The committee approved the minutes from February 11 and March 11, 2021. Members discussed PILOT agreements, budget calendars, and asbestos abatement costs for the Baird Community Center. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved minutes of February 11, 2021 and March 11, 2021 (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet virtually to review a remanded site plan for St. Paul’s Outreach, Inc. and a deck addition request for 12 Glenview Road. The board will also approve minutes from the March 2, 2021, meeting.

• Case #1017: St. Paul’s Outreach, Inc. Final Site Plan & D-Variance Relief (Block 601 Lot 12)
• Case #1044: Avery Hackett, 12 Glenview Road, C-Variance Relief for a rear deck addition

The South Orange Board of Adjustment approved Avery Hackett's application for C-variance relief to add a rear deck at 12 Glenview Road, subject to conditions discussed, on a 5-1 vote (DiScala voted no). The board also approved the minutes of its March 2, 2021 meeting by a 6-0 roll call. In Case #1017R (St. Paul's Outreach, Inc., 315 Self Place), a remand from the Appellate Division, the board discussed a draft resolution but took no decision; the resolution is set for memorialization at the next meeting. The meeting adjourned at about 8:40 p.m.; the next regular meeting is May 4, 2021.

• Approved C-variance relief for a rear deck at 12 Glenview Road (Avery Hackett), subject to conditions discussed (5-1; DiScala no)
• Approved minutes of the March 2, 2021 meeting (6-0)
• Case #1017R (St. Paul's Outreach, Inc., 315 Self Place): draft resolution discussed, no decision; set for memorialization at next meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review site plans for Boland Hall at 400 South Orange Avenue and a subdivision at 206 Ampere Parkway. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the Valley/Lackawanna and Sloan Street redevelopment plans.

• Seton Hall University: 1,628 sq ft entrance lobby at 400 South Orange Avenue
• 206 Ampere Parkway, LLC: Minor subdivision for a single family dwelling
• The Y Group LLC: Amended site plan for 14 Second Street
• Ordinance #2021-11: Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan
• Ordinance #2021-12: Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan

The Planning Board approved resolutions for a Seton Hall University entrance lobby and a three-lot subdivision at 167 and 201 North Ridgewood Road, and deemed a site plan application for 14 Second Street complete. It also voted that two redevelopment plans — Valley/Lackawanna and Sloan Street — are consistent with the Master Plan. Two other applications were carried to later meetings.

• Approved resolution for Seton Hall University Boland Hall entrance lobby, Case #278 (4-0)
• Approved resolution for minor subdivision creating three lots at 167 and 201 North Ridgewood Road, Case #281 (5-0)
• Deemed Case #282 (14 Second Street amended site plan) complete and referred to Design Review Board (7-0)
• Found Ordinance 2021-11, Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan, consistent with the Master Plan (8-0)
• Found Ordinance 2021-12, Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan, consistent with the Master Plan (7-0, Lerman recused)
• Carried Case #277 (468 Valley Street indoor playground) to June 7 at applicant's request
• Carried Case #280 (353 West South Orange Avenue subdivision) to May 3, no further noticing required
• Approved minutes of March 1, 2021 regular meeting (all in favor)

General

The Recreation, Arts & Cultural Affairs Committee is meeting to receive updates on spring programming, summer camps, and facility projects. The committee will also discuss new business regarding the Cameron Tennis Courts and planning for heritage months.

• Updates on spring programming, summer camps, and the swim team
• Updates on community gardens and capital projects
• Cameron Tennis Courts FY21 hire plans
• Planning for Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Juneteenth, and LGBTQ planning
• Discussion of User Fee Trust Fund and park signage

General

The Board of Trustees is holding a special virtual meeting to conduct first readings of two redevelopment ordinances. These ordinances concern the Valley/Lackawanna and Sloan Street areas.

• First reading of Ordinance 2021-11: Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan (Block 2303, Lots 1, 2, 3, 13, and 14)
• First reading of Ordinance 2021-12: Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan (Block 1905, Lot 1)

The Board of Trustees held a special virtual meeting on March 31, 2021 and voted 6-0 to approve on first reading two redevelopment ordinances: the Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan (Block 2303, Lots 1, 2, 3, 13 and 14) and the Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan (Block 1905, Lot 1). Both were introduced by Village Planner Greer Patras and now go to a public hearing and possible further action at the April 26, 2021 meeting at 7:00 PM. The Board also directed the Village Clerk to publish the ordinances in the official newspaper and post them in the Municipal Offices. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at about 6:00 pm.

• Approved Ordinance 2021-11 (Valley/Lackawanna Redevelopment Plan, Block 2303, Lots 1, 2, 3, 13 and 14) on first reading (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2021-12 (Sloan Street Redevelopment Plan, Block 1905, Lot 1) on first reading (6-0)
• Set public hearing for Ordinances 2021-11 and 2021-12 for April 26, 2021 at 7:00 PM (all in favor, none opposed)
• Directed Village Clerk to publish the ordinances in the official newspaper and post them in the Municipal Offices
• Adjourned the meeting at approximately 6:00 pm

General

The Commission will review updates on several ongoing environmental projects and initiatives. The meeting includes discussions regarding river day, recycling, and upcoming educational presentations.

• Updates on Native Plate Sale and ANJEC Turtle Project
• Discussion on MSW/Recycling and DPW yard thoughts
• Presentation on 'Starting a Native Plate Garden' on March 30
• Presentation on 'Homegrown Nation' on April 29

The Environmental Commission approved its February 2021 minutes and spent most of the meeting reviewing a draft ordinance that would prohibit gas and electric leaf blowers from May 1 to Sept. 30, with free registration and fines of $50/$100/$150 for decals and $500/$1,000/$1,200 for violations. No vote was taken; the draft has not been published and the goal is to pass it by late spring, with the May 1 deadline likely missed. The commission also heard updates on River Day (May 2 river cleanup only), a 64-tree grant planting starting April 22, a native plant sale, and a recycling consultant RFP, but took no formal action on those items.

• Approved February 2021 minutes
• Reviewed draft leaf blower ordinance (prohibited May 1–Sept. 30, free registration, fines $50/$100/$150 decals, $500/$1,000/$1,200 violations) — no vote taken
• No vote on River Day May 2 plan — pared-down river cleanup only, no music or food
• No vote on recycling consultant RFP — interviews scheduled for next Monday and Tuesday, award targeted by mid-April
• No vote on DPW yard letter — comments incorporated, including naming suggestion 'River Greenway Recycling Center'

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a special virtual meeting to hear Case #281. The applicant is seeking minor subdivision approval to create three lots at 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North. The proposal includes retaining part of an existing dwelling and constructing a single-family home on the remaining lots.

• Case #281: Minor subdivision and C-variance relief for 206 Ampere Parkway, LLC
• Proposed creation of three lots at 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North

The Planning Board approved a minor subdivision application for 206 Ampere Parkway, LLC to create three lots. The project includes retaining a portion of an existing dwelling and constructing a single-family dwelling on the remaining lots.

• Approved minor subdivision and C-Variance relief for 167 and 201 North Ridgewood Road (6-0)

General

The Planning Board will hold a special virtual meeting to consider Case #281. The applicant is seeking minor subdivision approval to create three lots at 206 Ampere Parkway, LLC, involving Block 1303 Lots 37 and 38 and 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North.

• Minor subdivision and C-Variance relief for 206 Ampere Parkway, LLC
• Proposal to create three lots from Block 1303 Lots 37 and 38
• Proposal to retain a portion of an existing dwelling and construct a single family dwelling

General

The committee will receive reports on the New Waterlands Bike Path & Bridge and the Baird Community Center. Discussion is also scheduled regarding tree planting, tree grants, and new policies for replacing street signs.

• New Waterlands Bike Path & Bridge report
• Baird Community Center capital projects report
• Water Utility report
• Tree Planting/Planning and Tree Grant discussion
• Street sign replacement policy and procedures

The Public Works & Utilities committee reviewed ongoing projects, noting the Waterlands Bridge project awaits state approval and additional funding for inspections. The Grove Park project award was approved with paperwork in process, while the Baird Community Center project remains on hold due to asbestos removal needs. No formal votes were recorded; the meeting focused on status reports and assigning action items for future meetings.

• Grove Park project award approved (paperwork in process)
• Baird Community Center project put on hold due to asbestos
• Waterlands Bridge project awaiting state approval and additional funds
• Street sign replacement policy clarified: signs replaced as needed within budget
• Action item assigned: Trustee Hilton to send DPW list of street signs to replace

General

The meeting includes discussions regarding spring community projects and business recruitment. Officials will also receive updates on development at 270/299 Irvington Avenue.

• Spring project planning for May 15 and 16
• Proposal for plant installations
• Displaying art in vacant storefronts
• Development update for 270/299 Irvington Avenue

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will hold a presentation to introduce the 2021 municipal budget. The meeting also includes first readings of ordinances for bond issuances and a model ordinance to exceed budget appropriation limits.

• First reading of $5,700,000 bond ordinance for refunding Series 2012 bonds
• First reading of $3,295,184 bond ordinance for capital improvements
• Introduction of the 2021 municipal budget
• Contract extension for City Fire Equipment Company Inc. up to $7,560.00
• Approval of bills totaling $2,227,235.20

The Board of Trustees approved first reading of three ordinances: a $5,700,000 general obligation refunding bond, a measure to exceed 2021 budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank, and a $3,295,184 capital improvements bond authorizing $3,160,426 in bonds or notes. Public hearings and possible further action on all three were set for April 26, 2021. The board also adopted two ordinances on second reading and approved a consent agenda of resolutions, including appointing Captain Stephen Dolinac as acting chief and introducing the 2021 municipal budget. A resolution awarding a fire and burglar alarm inspection contract not to exceed $7,560.00 to City Fire Equipment Company Inc. passed with one no vote.

• Approved Ordinance 2021-08 first reading: $5,700,000 refunding bond ordinance (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2021-09 first reading: exceed 2021 budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2021-10 first reading: $3,295,184 capital improvements bond, $3,160,426 in bonds/notes (6-0)
• Set public hearings for Ordinances 2021-08, 2021-09, 2021-10 for April 26, 2021 at 7:00 PM
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-05 second reading: amend Chapter 143 fees, Section 143-8 construction codes (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-06 second reading: add penalties for failure to remove snow or improper removal (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda Resolutions 2021-054 through 2021-057 and 2021-059 through 2021-065 (motion carried; Trustee Hilton unable to vote due to technical difficulties)
• Approved Resolution 2021-058: one-year contract extension to City Fire Equipment Company Inc., not to exceed $7,560.00 (motion carried; Trustee Jones voted No, Trustee Hilton unable to vote)

General

The Commission will discuss documentation for Village properties slated for demolition and provide updates on the Library and Baird projects. The meeting also includes discussions regarding 555 Berkeley Avenue and Keasbey Road.

• Documentation of Village properties slated for demolition
• 555 Berkeley Avenue & Keasbey Road discussion
• Library and Baird updates
• Master Plan Historic Element subcommittee updates

The commission approved the minutes from the February 18, 2021, meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of updates on property preservation and administrative reports with no further formal actions taken.

• Approved February 18, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

General

The Planning & Economic Development Committee will meet virtually to review the Master Plan update and the 3rd & Sloan project. The agenda also includes a review of the Concept Review Procedure and discussion of prevailing wage legislation.

• Master Plan Update
• 3rd & Sloan Update
• Concept Review Procedure
• Prevailing Wage Legislation

The committee received reports on snow removal summonses, vacant property tracking, and business code reviews. No formal votes were taken, but members discussed updating ordinances regarding sump pump water and formalizing developer concept reviews.

General

The committee met virtually to review reports and discuss upcoming community initiatives. Discussions included updates on senior programs and potential community events.

• AARP Grant and Co-Housing webinar report
• Senior Classic Card Program and Senior Friendly Award expansion
• Discussion of Repair Café, River Day, and Meals on Wheels
• Report on signage
• Essex County Executive letter

The South Orange Senior Citizen Advisory Committee met on March 16, 2021 and approved its prior minutes. The rest of the meeting was reports and discussion: SOMA Two Towns for All Ages grant applications for Meadowland Park and Dehart Park, Seton Hall technology classes planned for April 12-30, town construction and park updates, a Meals on Wheels pilot under discussion with MEND, and snow-removal summons concerns. No substantive motions, votes, or funding decisions were recorded.

• Approved the minutes of the prior meeting (no tally recorded)
• No other substantive decisions, votes, or funding approvals were recorded

General

The Community Relations Committee will meet virtually to discuss upcoming activities and recruitment efforts. The agenda includes discussions regarding Newcomers' Day and planning for the next Villager of the Month and Village Spotlight.

• Newcomers Hub report
• New member recruitment discussion
• Newcomers' Day discussion
• Villager of the Month planning
• Village Spotlight planning

General

The Community Police Collaborative will hold a virtual meeting to discuss trustee reports and follow up on retreat visioning. The agenda contains no specific legislative actions or policy decisions.

• Trustee Liaison Report
• Retreat Follow-up/Visioning

The Community Police Collaborative met on February 11, 2021 and approved its minutes. Members heard a report from the Maplewood Community Board on Police about social work models under consideration and discussed how each might fit South Orange. Trustees reported that body cameras are coming to South Orange under state legislation, with state money attached for storage and processing, and that CPC code recommendations must go through the village attorney. The meeting ended with an executive session and adjournment; no ordinances, contracts, or formal resolutions were voted on.

• Approved the meeting minutes
• No substantive motions, ordinances, or contracts were voted on
• Heard report on social work program models from Maplewood Community Board on Police
• Received trustee update: body cameras coming to South Orange under state legislation, with state funding for storage and processing
• Received trustee update: CPC code recommendations must go through the village attorney
• Heard SOPD request for DVRT volunteers and crossing guards (part-time and per diem)
• Entered executive session at 9:25pm and adjourned at 9:26pm

General

The committee will review updates regarding COVID-19 from the Health and OEM departments. Members will also discuss traffic safety processes and a line of sight issue at Valley St. and Hixon Pl.

• COVID-19 updates from Health and OEM
• Maplewood Automatic Aid and radio coordination discussion
• Traffic Safety Process Update
• Line of sight/parking issue at Valley St. & Hixon Pl.
• JESPY House Grant update

General

The Finance and Capital Projects Committee will meet virtually to discuss the fiscal year 2021 operations and capital budgets. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the Post Polak contract and the water utility.

• Post Polak Contract discussion
• FY’21 Operations Budget
• FY’21 Capital Budget
• FY’21 Budget Calendar
• Water Utility discussion

The Finance & Capital Committee met via WebEx on March 11, 2021 and discussed a proposed Post Polak contract that would streamline legal services and consolidate billing; the item was carried to the next meeting. The board also reviewed a bond refinancing update, FY'21 operating and capital budgets, a tax report showing first-quarter collections at 96 percent, and a proposed municipal budget drafted by Administration. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded in these minutes.

• Post Polak legal services contract discussion carried to the next meeting (no vote recorded)
• February minutes carried to the April meeting (no approval recorded)
• Bond refinancing update received; bond counsel to send ordinances and resolutions for the next Board of Trustees meeting
• FY'21 operating budget line items reviewed (no action recorded)
• FY'21 capital budget items discussed, including DPW driveway paving and recycling shed, Baird Center items, open contracts and pool decking (no action recorded)
• Proposed municipal budget drafted by Administration discussed, including a proposed 3.7 interest rate (no adoption recorded)
• Tax report: first quarter at 96 percent with payments received
• Water utility water access study briefly discussed as a capital item from the water budget

General

This is a regular committee meeting focused on strategic partnerships and citizen engagement. The committee will discuss resident communication during the pandemic, including vaccine distribution and the Master Plan, as well as volunteer management software, new community board members, village branding, digital kiosks, public art, and inclusion efforts. It will also review partnerships like the Community Care and Justice Initiative and a potential app with Seton Hall University.

• Discussion of COVID-19 vaccine distribution via southorangecovid19.com
• Volunteer management software platform (Civic Plus, Volunteer Hub) on hold
• Selection of new Community Board members
• Rollout of new Village Branding and first Gaslight 2021 mailing
• Update on digital kiosk vendors and public art projects

The committee approved the previous meeting minutes and discussed various citizen engagement initiatives. No substantive votes or policy decisions were recorded beyond the approval of minutes.

• Approved previous meeting minutes

General

The South Orange Village Design Review Board is holding a special virtual meeting to review new and old business, including an indoor playground proposal and several previously discussed projects. Public comments will be heard, and the next meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2021.

• Indoor Playground – 468 Valley Street (new business)
• Learning Experience – 109 & 115 W. South Orange Avenue (old business)
• Holsman Physical Therapy – 349 Valley Street (old business)
• Garden of Edith – 50 South Orange Avenue (old business)

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with several public hearings and votes, including a $3 million bond ordinance for an advanced water metering infrastructure project, an ordinance updating snow emergency no-parking areas, and a recreation fee schedule amendment. The board will also vote on a consent agenda with contracts and resolutions, and approve bills totaling $6,903,268.08.

• Bond ordinance 2021-03: $3,000,000 for advanced water metering infrastructure
• Ordinance 2021-04: Amends snow emergency no-parking areas to include all municipal public roads
• Ordinance 2021-07: Amends recreation program membership and fees
• Resolution 2021-047: $9,589.00 contract with Ricoh USA for DocuWare software
• Resolution 2021-048: Contract award to CCM Contracting for Grove Road improvements

The Board of Trustees adopted a $3,000,000 bond ordinance for an advanced water metering infrastructure project and approved a contract with CCM Contracting, Inc. for Grove Road improvements. Trustees also adopted ordinances changing snow emergency no-parking rules and recreation fees, and approved a $6,903,268.08 bills list. Several resolutions passed on consent, including a DocuWare software purchase and a baseball instruction contract with The Gym Maplewood.

• Adopted Ordinance 2021-03: $3,000,000 bond for advanced water metering infrastructure (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-04: snow emergency no-parking areas expanded to all municipal public roads (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2021-07: amended recreation membership and various fees (6-0)
• Approved Resolutions 2021-047 through 2021-051 on consent, including $9,589 DocuWare software purchase and Grove Road contract with CCM Contracting (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2021-052: payment of bills totaling $6,903,268.08 (6-0)
• Approved minutes of August 12, 2019; August 26, 2019; January 25, 2020; and February 8, 2021
• Approved Resolution 2021-046 authorizing an executive session on fire department consolidation, deputy administrator role, redevelopment, and capital spend tracking (all in favor)

General

The committee will discuss various recreation programs, arts policies, and facility updates. Topics include spring and summer programming, pool operations, and the Baird renovation.

• Jespy House programming
• Baseball RFP
• Baird renovation update
• Carter Park update
• OLTC tennis court plan

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual meeting to hear two applications: a continuation of St. Paul's Outreach's final site plan and D-variance request for 315 Self Place, and a new C-variance request for a rear deck at 12 Glenview Road. The board will also approve minutes from its February 2 meeting and set the next meeting date.

• Case #1017 – St. Paul's Outreach, Inc., Block 601 Lot 12, 315 Self Place: final site plan & D-variance relief (remand from Appellate Division)
• Case #1044 – Avery Hackett, Block 1602 Lot 3, 12 Glenview Road: C-variance for rear deck addition
• Approval of minutes from February 2, 2021 regular meeting
• Next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 6, 2021

The Board of Adjustment approved a final site plan and D-variance for a property at 315 Self Place. One application for a deck addition was carried to a future meeting.

• Approved Final Site Plan & D-Variance Relief for St. Paul’s Outreach, Inc. at 315 Self Place (5-1)
• Approved February 2, 2021 meeting minutes
• Carried Case #1044 (12 Glenview Road deck addition) to April 6, 2021

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board will hold a virtual regular meeting on March 1, 2021. The board will consider a minor subdivision application for 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North, and discuss a Master Plan update. Two other applications, for an indoor playground on Valley Street and a subdivision on West South Orange Avenue, have been carried to the April 5 meeting.

• Case #275: Minor subdivision for lot line adjustment at 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North (Block 1303, Lots 37 & 38)
• Case #281: Minor subdivision with C-variance relief to create three lots at same address
• Case #277: Indoor playground proposal at 468 Valley Street (carried to April 5)
• Case #280: Minor subdivision and site plan at 353 West South Orange Avenue (carried to April 5)
• Discussion of Master Plan Update

The South Orange Planning Board approved a resolution for Case #275, a minor subdivision at 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North (Block 1303, Lots 37 & 38), as amended. The Board also deemed complete Case #281, a related minor subdivision with C-variance relief at the same addresses, and scheduled a special meeting on March 25, 2021. Two other applications, Case #277 (468 Valley Street) and Case #280 (353 West South Orange Avenue), were carried to April 5 at the applicants' request. The Board approved minutes from its January 19 and February 1, 2021 meetings and received updates on redevelopment and the Master Plan.

• Approved minutes of January 19, 2021 special meeting (6-0)
• Approved minutes of February 1, 2021 regular meeting (8-0)
• Approved Resolution for Case #275, minor subdivision at 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North, as amended (8-0)
• Deemed Case #281, minor subdivision with C-variance relief at 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North, complete (6-0)
• Scheduled special meeting for Case #281 on March 25, 2021 at 7pm
• Carried Case #277 (468 Valley Street) to April 5, 2021 at applicant's request
• Carried Case #280 (353 West South Orange Avenue) to April 5, 2021 at applicant's request

General

The South Orange Village Board of Public Works and Utilities met virtually to receive routine reports on capital projects, water utility matters, and joint county initiatives. No formal decisions were listed on the agenda; items focused on updates and future planning.

• New Waterlands Bike Path & Bridge update
• Grove Park Drainage Next Steps discussion
• Spring Tree Planting grant consideration
• PSE&G System Upgrade project status report

The Public Works & Utilities committee met on February 25, 2021 and discussed ongoing projects including the Waterlands bike path and bridge, Baird demolition, Connett exterior work, water utility operations, recycling planning, and a spring tree planting grant. No motions, resolutions, or formal votes are recorded in these minutes; the body approved the January 28, 2021 minutes and set two action items. The next meeting is March 25, 2021 at 9 AM.

• Approved January 28, 2021 minutes (no tally recorded)
• Action item: issue RFP for third-party inspection for the bike path
• Action item: write letter to PSE&G regarding power outage issues
• Next meeting set for March 25, 2021 at 9 AM

General

The Design Review Board will hold a virtual special meeting to discuss several new business items. The agenda includes discussions regarding the Master Plan and specific site projects.

• Holsman Physical Therapy
• The Learning Center – Signs and Awnings
• Garden of Edith
• Master Plan Discussion

General

The South Orange Village Environmental Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss updates on recycling, tree grants, eco-guide, and fields. They will also coordinate with Seton Hall University on Earth Day and River Day events. The agenda includes several project updates and new ideas, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• River Day planning
• MSW/Recycling updates including DPW yard thoughts
• Tree grant updates
• Eco-guide update
• Seton Hall University Earth Day/River Day and capstone projects

The Environmental Commission approved its January 2021 minutes and spent most of the meeting on planning and updates rather than formal votes. It set River Day for May 2 with May 9 as the rain date, to be held in a socially distant format with reusable garbage cans instead of plastic bags. It also discussed a joint Maplewood-South Orange recycling RFP due March 1, a draft letter to the Board of Trustees about improving the DPW recycling facility, tree planting logistics, and a Home Eco-Guide to appear in the late April issue of Matters Magazine. No ordinances, contracts, or budgets were voted on.

• Approved January 2021 minutes
• Set River Day for May 2, 2021, with May 9 as rain date (socially distant format)
• Agreed to move future meeting start time to 7 pm at a member's request
• Agreed to add a swap-station item to the draft letter to the Board of Trustees on DPW recycling improvements
• Master Plan review not placed on the March 1 Planning Board agenda; Topology needs more time to review feedback

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board is holding a special meeting to consider two applications from Seton Hall University. The board will vote on a resolution for the University Center expansion and hear a minor site plan application for a new entrance lobby at Boland Hall.

• Case #276: Amendment to Master Plan Development and Preliminary & Final Site Plan for University Center, adding 1,384 sq ft to building footprint and renovating remaining sections
• Case #278: Minor Site Plan for Boland Hall, constructing an approximate 1,628 sq ft entrance lobby
• Both applications are for Block 901 Lot 3, 400 South Orange Avenue

At a special virtual meeting on February 24, 2021, the South Orange Planning Board approved three resolutions for Seton Hall University projects at 400 South Orange Avenue. The Board approved a Master Plan Development amendment and a preliminary and final site plan for the University Center, and approved a minor site plan for a new entrance lobby at Boland Hall. All votes carried, with one abstention on the Boland Hall application. No members of the public commented.

• Approved Master Plan Development amendment for Seton Hall University Center, Block 901 Lot 3, 400 South Orange Avenue (5-0)
• Approved preliminary and final site plan for University Center addition of 1,384 sq ft to building footprint (approx. 6,000 gross sq ft) and facade updates (5-0)
• Approved minor site plan for approx. 1,628 sq ft entrance lobby at Boland Hall, 400 South Orange Avenue (5-0, Miller abstained)

General

This is a virtual meeting of the South Orange Village Seton Village - Irvington Avenue Corridor group. The agenda includes old business on the proposed spring project 'Clean Up, Green Up' and new business on recruiting businesses, communications strategy, Women's History Month, and identifying businesses. Liaison reports will update on development at the Italian Club, Carter Park, and 270/299 Irvington Avenue.

• Proposed spring project 'Clean Up, Green Up' with dates, process, ownership, and needs to be confirmed
• Recruitment of businesses along the corridor
• Communications strategy discussion
• Women's History Month planning
• Development updates: Italian Club, Carter Park, 270/299 Irvington Avenue

General

The South Orange Village Planning and Economic Development Committee is meeting virtually to discuss new business, including proposed prevailing wage legislation (A1571) and the formation of a new Community Board with business representatives. They will also receive reports from building, deputy administrator, and SOVCA, and review updates on the Master Plan, a storage facility, and the 3rd & Sloan project.

• Discussion of A1571 Prevailing Wage Legislation
• Discussion on business representatives in new Community Board
• Master Plan Update
• Storage Facility Update
• 3rd & Sloan Update

The Planning & Economic Development Committee approved its January 19, 2021 minutes, agreed to let Chairman Zuckerman draft an ordinance requiring pedestrian safety plans for new development, and received updates on the Master Plan, a storage facility, and 3rd & Sloan. No formal votes were recorded on the Master Plan, storage facility, or 3rd & Sloan. Code Enforcement reported 50 snow removal summonses.

• Approved January 19, 2021 meeting minutes by all committee members present
• Agreed Trustee Zuckerman will draft an ordinance requiring pedestrian safety plans for new development projects
• Received Master Plan update; revised draft expected in about a month, no adoption vote taken
• Received storage facility update; developer to meet again with Design Review Board on design, no decision
• Received 3rd & Sloan update; Design Review Board feedback was to move forward, no committee vote
• Discussed Assembly Bill A1571 on prevailing wage; Trustee Zuckerman stated opposition, no formal action
• Discussed business representatives for new Community Board starting in April, no appointments made

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with several ordinances for first and second reading, including changes to construction fees, snow removal penalties, and recreation fees. The board will also vote on a consent agenda with contracts for playground equipment, salt, and other services, and will discuss the new municipal energy aggregation program.

• Ordinance 2021-05 amending construction code fees
• Ordinance 2021-06 adding penalties for failure to remove snow
• Ordinance 2021-07 amending recreation program fees
• Contract for Carter Park playground equipment up to $116,386
• Contract for Morton Salt up to $72,705

The Board approved a consent agenda including contracts for playground equipment, salt, and professional services. Three ordinances regarding construction fees, snow removal penalties, and recreation fees were passed on first reading. The Board also authorized over $6.2 million in payments.

• Approved payment of bills totaling $6,209,343.78 (5-0)
• Approved $116,386 contract for Carter Park playground equipment (6-0)
• Approved $72,705 contract for Morton Salt (6-0)
• Passed Ordinance 2021-05 (Construction Code fees) on first reading (5-0)
• Passed Ordinance 2021-06 (Snow removal penalties) on first reading (5-0)
• Passed Ordinance 2021-07 (Recreation fees) on first reading (5-0)
• Approved MOU for Community Care & Justice Project (6-0)
• Appointed Eric Siskind as Commissioner to the South Orange Parking Authority (6-0)

General

The South Orange Village Historic Preservation Commission holds its regular meeting to document village properties slated for demolition and discuss updates on the library, Baird property, and 167 North Ridgewood Road. The commission also reviews items from subcommittees and receives a trustee report.

• Documentation of Village Properties slated for demolition
• Library Update
• Baird Update
• 167 North Ridgewood Road
• 555 Berkeley Avenue & 8 Keasbey Road

The South Orange Village Historic Preservation Commission approved minutes from its November 19, 2020 and January 21, 2021 meetings. It voted to send a letter to the Planning Board supporting a proposed three-lot subdivision at 167 N. Ridgewood Road that would preserve the existing structure, and to forward Master Plan historical-section markups to Topology. Members also heard updates on the library grant plans, construction at The Baird, and properties at 555 Berkeley Avenue and 8 Keasbey Road.

• Approved minutes of the November 19, 2020 and January 21, 2021 regular meetings (all in favor, none opposed)
• Approved drafting a letter to the Planning Board in favor of the proposed three-lot subdivision plan at 167 N. Ridgewood Road that preserves the existing structure (all in favor)
• Approved forwarding Master Plan historical-section markups to Topology (all in favor, none opposed)

General

The Township of South Orange Village is updating residents on its Energy Aggregation Program, announcing a new 17-month contract with Energy Harbor starting April 2021. The program offers electricity with nearly double the renewable content of PSE&G at a rate below the utility's average tariff. Residents have a 30-day opt-out period and can opt up to 100% renewable energy for a small premium. A public information session is scheduled for February 18, 2021.

• New contract with Energy Harbor at $0.12696/kWh, below PSE&G's average tariff
• Optional 100% renewable energy product at $0.13437/kWh (premium of $0.00741/kWh)
• 30-day opt-out period begins with mailings in early February 2021
• Public Information Session on February 18, 2021, 6-7 p.m., held electronically
• Livingston and Glen Rock joined the Sustainable Essex Alliance, expanding to seven towns

General

The South Orange Development Committee is meeting to review development proposals and updates. The agenda includes a presentation for a self storage facility on Valley St, a review of revised plans for the Mark Built project at 2nd & Sloan, and discussions on the Master Plan, project updates, and downtown business.

• Presentation by developer of self storage facility on Valley St
• Review of revised plans for Mark Built project at 2nd & Sloan
• Discussion of South Orange Master Plan
• Projects update
• Downtown Business (SOVCA) discussion

General

The South Orange Village Design Review Board is meeting virtually to review new business including an indoor playground at 468 Valley Street, a physical therapy office at 349 Valley Street, a mural request on Valley Street, and a presentation on design guidelines. They will also revisit signage/awning for The Learning Center and the Master Plan update. The meeting includes approval of minutes from prior meetings and public comments.

• 468 Valley Street – Indoor Playground
• 349 Valley Street – Holsman Physical Therapy
• SOVCA Mural Request – Valley Street
• Development Committee – Design guidelines presentation
• The Learning Center – Review Signage/Awning

General

This is the agenda for the Community Police Collaborative 2021 Retreat, a remote meeting held via WebEx. The agenda includes call to order, attendance, public comments, the retreat itself, executive session, and adjournment. No specific decisions or discussions are detailed in the agenda.

• Retreat session
• Public comments period
• Executive session

The Community Police Collaborative discussed its mission, listed past accomplishments, and identified areas for future growth. Members reviewed potential contradictions in the committee's charge and discussed goals for reducing police calls and monitoring use of force. The group decided to dedicate a second meeting to further visioning.

• Approved change to agenda order to prioritize visioning discussions
• Decided to devote a second meeting to visioning

General

The Finance & Capital Committee is meeting to discuss the Fiscal Year 2021 operations and capital budgets. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a refunding bond opportunity and the water utility.

• FY’21 Capital Budget discussion
• FY’21 Operations Budget discussion
• FY’21 Budget Calendar discussion
• Refunding Bond Opportunity with Matthew Jessup Bond Counsel
• Water Utility discussion

South Orange's Finance & Capital Committee voted unanimously on February 11, 2021 to move forward with a proposal to issue about $5 million in refunding bonds and use the proceeds to pay off higher-interest 2012 bonds. Bond counsel Matthew Jessup described a two-step process: a refunding bond ordinance and adoption of a formal resolution. The committee also discussed, without deciding, a possible evaluation of selling the water system, the tax collector's first-quarter report, the annual debt statement, and the FY'21 capital budget. No public comments were made.

• Approved minutes of January 14, 2021 (all in favor)
• Moved forward with ~$5M refunding bond proposal to pay off 2012 bonds (all in favor)
• Water utility sale: only discussed; RFQ for system evaluation being drafted, no vote
• FY'21 capital budget: discussed vehicle purchases, recycling roof, sidewalk repairs; no vote
• Tax collector report: 91% first-quarter cash received; no action taken

General

The Health & Public Safety Committee is meeting virtually to receive reports from health, fire, police, rescue, and emergency management departments. Key topics include COVID-19 vaccination efforts, winter storm response review, FEMA funding for storm damage, and ongoing fire radio communication problems. The agenda also includes traffic safety updates and a possible executive session.

• COVID-19 vaccination clinics: South Orange residents can use Livingston Mall former Sears site; health officer spends 1-2 days weekly there
• FEMA disaster funding approved for Tropical Storm Isaias; winter storm 1/31-2/2 preliminary assessments under county review
• Fire department reported 208 incidents in January; automatic aid agreement with Maplewood being coordinated
• Fire radio communication deficiencies under review; related to Harris County, Texas lawsuit
• Traffic safety: line of sight/parking issue at Valley St and Hixon Pl. to be discussed

The committee approved the January 21, 2021 minutes. Members discussed COVID-19 vaccination registration for seniors, winter storm spending, and police traffic projects. No other substantive votes were recorded.

• Approved January 21, 2021 minutes

General

The Community Police Collaborative will meet remotely to hear reports from trustees and subcommittee chairs. The group will also discuss membership and planning for an upcoming retreat scheduled for February 13, 2021.

• Liaison Report from Trustees
• CPC Membership and Retreat Planning
• Data Analytics subcommittee report
• Training subcommittee report
• Community Outreach subcommittee report

The Community Police Collaborative met on February 11, 2021 and approved its minutes. Most of the meeting was discussion: Maplewood's board presented social work program models under consideration, trustees reported on parking ordinances, code recommendations needing village attorney review, and state-funded body cameras coming to South Orange. The police department asked for DVRT volunteers and crossing guards, and public comment covered the Community Justice & Care program and concerns about social work models. No substantive decisions or votes are recorded in these minutes.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (no tally recorded)
• No ordinances, contracts, or budget items were voted on; items were reports and discussion only

General

The Village Board meets to discuss ways to improve communication with residents and partnerships with local organizations. Items include updates on vaccine distribution, a new village branding rollout, and a community care initiative led by a guest trustee.

• New Village Branding rollout with 1st Gaslight 2021 mailing
• Community Care and Justice initiative presentation by guest Trustee Collier
• Digital Kiosk update on potential vendors
• Public Art projects coordination with SOVCA and Cultural Affairs
• Master Plan report and feedback session

General

The committee approved the previous meeting minutes. Members discussed pedestrian safety, street sign readability, and upcoming technology workshops for seniors.

• Approved meeting minutes

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting, primarily to consider a $3,000,000 bond ordinance for an Advanced Water Metering Infrastructure Project and a traffic ordinance amendment. The board will also vote on a consent agenda with several contracts, including asbestos removal and services for the Community Care & Justice Project, and will enter executive session for privileged discussions on water, capital spending, and resident questions.

• Ordinance 2021-03: $3,000,000 bond for Advanced Water Metering Infrastructure Project
• Ordinance 2021-04: Amends snow emergency no-parking areas to include all municipal roads
• Resolution 2021-023: Contract with Harrington Services for asbestos removal at Baird Center
• Resolutions 2021-25 to 2021-28: Non-fair/open agreements for Community Care & Justice Project services
• Resolution 2021-029: Approves bill payments totaling $1,514,143.48

The Board of Trustees approved first reading of a $3,000,000 bond ordinance for an Advanced Water Metering Infrastructure Project and an ordinance expanding snow emergency no-parking to all municipal public roads. Both measures move to a public hearing on March 8, 2021. The board also approved six consent-agenda resolutions, including an asbestos removal contract for the Baird Center renovation and agreements for the Community Care & Justice Project, and authorized payment of $1,514,143.48 in bills. On a Historic Preservation Commission recommendation to designate 167 and 201 North Ridgewood Road as a local landmark, the board took no action on the advice of Village Counsel.

• Ordinance 2021-03 ($3,000,000 bond for Advanced Water Metering Infrastructure Project) adopted on first reading (6-0)
• Ordinance 2021-04 (snow emergency no-parking expanded to all municipal public roads) adopted on first reading (6-0)
• Public hearing set for Ordinances 2021-03 and 2021-04 on March 8, 2021 at 7:00 PM
• Resolutions 2021-023 through 2021-028 approved on consent (6-0), including asbestos removal contract to Harrington Services Demolition & Recycling for the Baird Center renovation and four Community Care & Justice Project agreements
• Resolution 2021-029 authorizing payment of bills totaling $1,514,143.48 approved (6-0)
• Minutes of November 23, 2020 approved (Coallier abstained); minutes of December 14, 2020 approved (6-0)
• Resolution 2021-022 authorizing an executive session approved (all in favor, none opposed)
• No action taken on Historic Preservation Commission recommendation to designate 167 and 201 North Ridgewood Road as a local landmark

General

The Recreation, Arts & Cultural Affairs Committee is meeting virtually to discuss recreation programs, facilities, and cultural events. Items include updates on senior programming, spring programs, summer camp, the Baird renovation, and 2021 strategic goals. The agenda is largely informational with no votes on ordinances or contracts.

• Baird Renovation Update
• Senior Programming, Spring Programs, Summer Camp updates
• Watershed Literary Events and Black History Month
• Repair Café and Meadowlands Park Conservancy Valentine's Day Event
• Carter Park Update and Shakespeare in Spiotta

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Village Zoning Board of Adjustment is holding a regular virtual meeting. The agenda includes approval of minutes from January 5, 2021, and two applications that have been carried to the March 2 meeting: a final site plan and D-variance for St. Paul's Outreach at 315 Self Place, and a C-variance for a rear deck addition at 12 Glenview Road. No new applications will be heard at this meeting.

• Case #1017 – St. Paul's Outreach, Inc., Block 601 Lot 12, 315 Self Place: Final Site Plan & D-Variance Relief, remanded from Appellate Division, carried to March 2
• Case #1044 – Avery Hackett, Block 1602 Lot 3, 12 Glenview Road: C-Variance Relief for rear deck addition, carried to March 2
• Approval of minutes from January 5, 2021 regular meeting

The South Orange Board of Adjustment met on February 2, 2021 and approved the minutes of its January 5, 2021 meeting by a 4-0 roll call vote. No applications were heard: both scheduled cases were carried to the March 2, 2021 meeting at the applicants' request. Case #1017R (St. Paul's Outreach, Inc., 315 Self Place) and Case #1044 (Avery Hackett, 12 Glenview Road) were postponed. The meeting adjourned at about 7:05 p.m.

• Approved minutes of the January 5, 2021 meeting (4-0)
• Case #1017R, St. Paul's Outreach, Inc., 315 Self Place — carried to March 2, 2021 at applicant's request
• Case #1044, Avery Hackett, 12 Glenview Road — carried to March 2, 2021 at applicant's request

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board will hold a virtual regular meeting to consider several applications, including a request to amend a 2016 resolution for 320 Valley Street to allow a physical therapy office or gym, a minor subdivision at 353 West South Orange Avenue, and site plans from Seton Hall University for the University Center and Boland Hall. The board will also hear a continuation of a lot line adjustment for 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North and discuss a Master Plan update. The agenda includes routine approvals of minutes and appointments.

• Case #244: Amend 2016 resolution for 320 Valley Street to permit physical therapy office, gym, or other professional office (excluding medical/daycare)
• Case #280: Minor subdivision at 353 West South Orange Avenue to create two lots for single homes
• Case #275: Lot line adjustment for 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North (continuation)
• Case #276: Seton Hall University Center addition of ~6,000 sq ft and facade update at 400 South Orange Avenue
• Case #278: Seton Hall Boland Hall entrance lobby of ~1,628 sq ft

The Planning Board approved a Master Plan and site plan for Seton Hall University's University Center. The board also appointed professional consultants and approved a lot line adjustment and a use amendment for private properties.

• Appointed Bowman Consultant Group as Board Engineer (Unanimous)
• Appointed Topology as Board Planner (Unanimous)
• Appointed Scarinci Hollenbeck as Board Attorney (Unanimous)
• Approved use amendment for 320 Valley Street to allow professional offices and gyms (7-0)
• Deemed application for 353 West South Orange Avenue complete (8-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved minor subdivision/lot line adjustment for 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North (7-0)
• Approved Seton Hall University Master Plan (9-0)
• Approved Seton Hall University Center site plan for building addition and renovations (9-0)

General

The South Orange Village Environmental Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates on recycling, trees, the eco-guide, and planning. The main discussion item is the master plan. The agenda is otherwise routine procedural business.

• Approval of December minutes
• Public comment period
• Updates on MSW/recycling, trees, eco-guide, and planning
• Discussion of the master plan

The South Orange Village Environmental Commission approved its December 2020 minutes and spent most of the meeting discussing comments to submit on the draft Master Plan, with a Monday deadline. Members reported on a joint solid waste consultant RFP with Maplewood, tree grant and tree ordinance work, and a planned Home Eco-Guide. Public comment raised neighborhood objections to planned artificial turf at Ritzer Field; the Commission took no formal position on it.

• Approved December 2020 minutes
• No formal vote taken on opposing artificial turf at Ritzer Field; discussion only
• No vote on Master Plan comments; members asked to send final comments to Chairperson Bill Haskins by Saturday for submission to Topology by Monday

General

The South Orange Village Public Works and Utilities meeting on January 28, 2021, is a regular session with reports on capital projects, water utility, and sewer matters. New business includes an RFP for security fencing at the reservoir, a proposal for a DPW nursery, a scout pond cleanup, and use of Tree Plotter software. Old business includes the Grove Park drainage plan. The agenda is largely procedural with no final decisions listed.

• New Waterlands Bike Path & Bridge report
• RFP for Security Fencing at SO Reservoir
• Grove Park Drainage plan (old business)
• DPW use of Tree Plotter software
• Scouts pond clean up

The Public Works and Utilities committee approved the minutes from the December 17, 2020 meeting. No new votes were taken on substantive projects, but updates were provided on the Grove Road project bid deadline and the approval of Phase 1 of a water rate change. Several items, including a security fencing RFP and drainage plan feedback, were listed for future action.

• Approved minutes from 12/17/2020 meeting
• Grove Road project bid due March 2, 2021
• Water rate change Phase 1 approved Jan 25, 2021
• Baird Community Center permits approved; demolition begun
• Recycling facility RFP scheduled for Feb 2, 2021

General

The Village Board will hold a virtual meeting to discuss spring project priorities and receive liaison reports on local development, including updates on the Italian Club, Carter Park, and the 270/299 Irvington Avenue site.

• Spring project priorities and potential dates
• Development update on Italian Club site
• Carter Park update
• 270/299 Irvington Avenue development update

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees held a virtual meeting on January 25, 2021, to discuss and vote on ordinances, resolutions, and community updates. Key actions included first readings of water-rate and code amendments, approval of part-time staff hires, and a public hearing on Community Development Block Grant funding. The Board also received COVID-19 updates and announced Black History Month events.

• 2021-01 Ordinance amending water rates in Chapter 351, Section 15
• 2021-014 Resolution hiring part-time crossing guards
• 2021-019 Resolution approving MOU with Seton Hall University for South Orange Care & Community Justice Project
• 2021-020 Resolution awarding plumbing contract to Thomas O'Neill Plumbing
• 2021-011 Public hearing on Community Development Block Grant funding for 2021

The Board of Trustees approved first reading of two ordinances, including one amending and restating the cost of water, with public hearings set for February 22, 2021. Trustees tabled a second-reading ordinance that would prohibit parking on parts of Valley Street at Hixon Place, citing a business owner's approved site plan and a recommendation for further review. The board approved a consent agenda of hiring and contract resolutions and authorized payment of bills totaling $6,577,295.95. A resolution designating a CISCO networking vendor was also tabled.

• Approved Ordinance 2021-01 (water cost amendment) on first reading (6-1, Coallier no)
• Approved Ordinance 2021-02 (code inclusion) on first reading (5-1-1, Coallier no, Jones abstain)
• Set public hearings for Ordinances 2021-01 and 2021-02 for February 22, 2021
• Tabled Ordinance 2020-26 (Valley Street parking prohibition) on second reading (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda Resolutions 2021-014 through 2021-016 and 2021-018 through 2021-020 (6-0)
• Tabled Resolution 2021-017 (CISCO vendor designation) (5-1, Jones no)
• Approved Resolution 2021-021 authorizing payment of bills totaling $6,577,295.95 (6-0)
• Approved minutes of June 10, 2019; June 24, 2019; November 3, 2020; and November 9, 2020

General

The South Orange Historic Preservation Commission will hold a virtual meeting to discuss a proposal to designate 167 North Ridgewood Road as a local landmark. The agenda also includes updates on the Library and the Baird Center.

• Proposal to designate 167 North Ridgewood Road as a local landmark
• Library update
• Baird Center update
• Discussion regarding 555 Berkeley Avenue & 8 Keasbey Road
• Master Plan Historic Element subcommittee update

The Historic Preservation Commission voted 7-1 to request that 167 North Ridgewood Road be designated a local landmark, then approved a resolution supporting the designation. The property owner, Isaac Lefkowitz, attended with his attorney and described renovation costs and a proposed demolition, while the majority of board members favored designation. The commission also heard updates on the Baird Center construction and Black History Month planning, and no library or website updates were given.

• Requested local landmark designation for 167 North Ridgewood Road (7-1, Martinek opposed)
• Approved resolution supporting the landmark designation (7-0)

General

The South Orange Village Community Police Collaborative is meeting to discuss various topics including liaison reports, membership, subcommittee reports, an ad hoc committee on ordinances, a police social worker pilot, and use of force updates. The meeting is open to public comments and will include an executive session.

• Police Social Worker Pilot
• Use of Force Updates
• Ad Hoc Committee on Ordinances
• Subcommittee reports on Data Analytics, Training, and Community Outreach
• CPC Membership, Leadership Roles, and Retreat Scheduling

The Community Police Collaborative elected its leadership: Bobby Brown as Chair, Stephanie Lawson-Muhammad as Vice-Chair, and Sara Wakefield as Recording Secretary, each nominated, seconded, and accepted. Members approved the prior minutes and heard updates on the Care & Community Justice Program, a CPC Master Plan, and use-of-force reporting. Lt. Acevedo reported a shortage of crossing guards and asked for applicant referrals. The meeting entered executive session at 8:50pm and adjourned at 9:04pm.

• Elected Bobby Brown as CPC Chair (nominated, seconded, accepted)
• Elected Stephanie Lawson-Muhammad as CPC Vice-Chair (nominated, seconded, accepted)
• Elected Sara Wakefield as Recording Secretary (nominated, seconded, accepted)
• Approved prior meeting minutes
• Entered executive session at 8:50pm

General

The Health & Public Safety Committee is meeting virtually to review reports from the fire, police, rescue, health, and emergency management departments. The agenda includes COVID-19 updates, a traffic safety report, and discussion of a line-of-sight/parking issue at Valley St and Hixon Pl. The meeting is primarily a review of departmental reports and updates, with no major new ordinances or contracts on the agenda.

• OEM secured $200,363.76 in additional CARES Act funding, totaling $417,467.22 in 2020
• Rescue Squad reported 1,204 total 2020 responses, including 826 in South Orange
• Fire Department responded to 210 incidents in December, with mutual aid to Orange, Irvington, and East Orange
• Discussion of Maplewood automatic aid, radio coordination, and joint training
• Traffic safety report and line-of-sight/parking issue at Valley St and Hixon Pl

The Health & Public Safety Committee met on January 21, 2021 and approved the minutes of its November 12 and December 10, 2020 meetings. The committee received reports on COVID-19 case counts, vaccination efforts, CARES Act funding, and emergency services, and discussed traffic safety measures including a proposed ordinance on parking at Valley St and Hixon Pl. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was informational and discussion-based.

• Approved November 12, 2020 and December 10, 2020 meeting minutes (all members present)
• No other substantive decisions were recorded; the meeting consisted of reports and discussion

General

The South Orange Village Design Review Board holds a special meeting to review material samples for the Vose and Taylor project, signage for The Learning Experience at 109 South Orange Avenue, and discuss a master plan update. The meeting is conducted virtually via WebEx.

• Material samples façade review for Vose and Taylor project
• Sign review for The Learning Experience at 109 South Orange Avenue
• Discussion of Master Plan update

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board will hold a special virtual meeting to hear Case #244, a request by 320 PC Valley, LLC to amend a 2016 resolution for the property at 320 Valley Street. The amendment would allow a physical therapy office, gym, and other professional offices, as well as other permissible uses under the Township's Municipal Code, excluding medical use and children's daycare. The board will also take roll call and adjourn.

• Case #244 – 320 PC Valley, LLC, Block 2201 Lot 35, 320 Valley Street
• Request to amend January 4, 2016 resolution to permit physical therapy office, gym, and professional offices
• Exclusion of medical use and children's daycare from proposed uses
• Special meeting held virtually via Webex at 7:00 PM

The Planning Board approved an application to amend a 2016 resolution for 320 Valley Street. The amendment allows for a physical therapy office, gym, or other professional offices, excluding medical use and children's daycare.

• Approved amendment to Resolution for 320 Valley Street to allow professional offices, gym, and physical therapy (7-0)

General

The Planning & Economic Development Committee is meeting virtually to approve minutes, receive reports on code enforcement and the SOVCA, and discuss current development projects and the Master Plan. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Review of current development projects
• Master Plan review
• Code enforcement report
• SOVCA report

The committee received updates on code enforcement, permit fees, and business statuses. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during the meeting.

General

The Finance & Capital Committee is meeting virtually to review tax collection reports and discuss the FY'21 operations and capital budgets, as well as the budget calendar and an update from the Capital Budget Advisory Committee (CBAC). These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Tax Collection Reports
• FY'21 Operations Budget
• FY'21 Capital Budget
• FY'21 Budget Calendar
• CBAC Update

The committee approved the minutes from the December 10, 2020 meeting. Members discussed the 2021 budget calendar and the Tax Collector's report. A proposed 7 percent water rate increase was discussed but deferred to the February meeting.

• Approved December 10, 2020 minutes (unanimous)

General

This is a meeting of the Strategic Partnerships and Citizen Engagement committee, not the full Village Board. The agenda is largely a status update on ongoing projects, including COVID-19 communication, volunteer management, and a new village branding rollout. No formal votes or decisions are listed; the meeting is mostly discussion and updates.

• Discussion of Deputy Administrator (communications) staff position
• COVID-19 vaccine distribution and GovAlert reporting updates
• New Village Branding rollout; first Gaslight 2021 to be mailed
• Volunteer software platform (Civic Plus, Volunteer Hub) on hold
• Seton Hall University app for sharing activities (no update)

Board of Trustees

The South Orange Village Board of Trustees is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda that includes adopting the 2021 temporary budget, promoting Thomas Horton to Police Sergeant, and hiring a part-time public health nurse. The board will also hold public hearings on ordinances accepting a land donation and establishing salary ranges for non-union personnel. The meeting begins with an executive session to discuss an energy aggregation contract.

• 2021-008 Resolution Adopting the 2021 Temporary Budget
• 2021-006 Resolution Promoting Thomas Horton to Police Sergeant
• 2020-24 Ordinance Accepting Land Donation of Block 2103, Lot 21
• 2020-25 Ordinance Establishing Salary Range for Non-Union and Supervisory Personnel
• 2021-011 Resolution Authorizing CDBG Funding for Program Year 2021

The Board of Trustees approved the 2021 temporary budget and passed ordinances regarding salary ranges for non-union personnel and a land donation. Trustees also confirmed the promotion of Thomas Horton to Police Sergeant and appointed Julie Doran as Deputy Village Administrator. A resolution to designate a vendor for networking equipment was tabled.

• Promoted Thomas Horton to Police Sergeant (5-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 2020-24 accepting land donation of Block 2103, Lot 21 (6-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 2020-25 establishing salary ranges (6-1)
• Approved 2021 temporary budget (6-0)
• Tabled resolution for networking vendor CONRES (unanimous)
• Appointed Julie Doran as Deputy Village Administrator (6-0)
• Approved contract for Barnabas Health Employee Assistance Program (6-0)
• Authorized disposal of Village vehicles (6-0)

General

The South Orange Village Design Review Board is holding a special virtual meeting to review material samples and signage for The Learning Experience at 109 South Orange Avenue, and façade material samples for Vose and Taylor. The board will also discuss a Master Plan update. Public comments will be taken.

• The Learning Experience – 109 South Orange Avenue: review material samples and sign
• Vose and Taylor: façade material samples review
• Master Plan update discussion

General

The Recreation, Arts & Cultural Affairs Committee is holding a regular virtual board meeting. The agenda consists of standard procedural items: roll call, approval of minutes, public comments, and reports on recreation programs, memberships, fields, facilities, special events, and cultural arts. No specific decisions or proposals are listed; the meeting appears to be primarily for routine updates and discussion.

• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Public comments session
• Recreation program, membership, and fields updates
• Facilities and capital projects report
• Cultural arts update

The Recreation, Arts & Cultural Affairs Committee met to discuss program updates, facility renovations, and budget planning. No formal votes were taken during the meeting; the session focused on reports regarding upcoming seasonal programming, the Baird renovation, and departmental goals.

• Reviewed proposed summer camp fee increase to $850 per child
• Discussed potential purchase of staff vehicle to replace personal vehicle use
• Received update on Baird demolition permits and upcoming groundbreaking
• Planned Black History Month virtual events and art exhibits

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The South Orange Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual regular meeting to approve minutes, handle re-appointments and reorganization, and consider applications. They will review a completeness application for a deck addition at 12 Glenview Road and hear a continued case for St. Paul's Outreach at 315 Self Place, which is a remand from the Appellate Division. One case for a pool at 341 Montrose Avenue has been withdrawn.

• Case #1044: Avery Hackett, 12 Glenview Road, C-variance for rear deck addition
• Case #1017: St. Paul's Outreach, 315 Self Place, final site plan & D-variance (remand)
• Case #1043: McGarry, 341 Montrose Avenue, withdrawn (in-ground pool)
• Re-appointments of William Dahn and Robert Shapiro
• Election of officers and appointment of professionals

The Board of Adjustment approved its December 1, 2020 minutes, swore in reappointed members William Dahn and Robert Shapiro, and reelected Dahn as Chairman and Todd DiScala as Vice Chairman. It also reappointed its professionals for 2021: Topology as Board Planner, Nusbaum, Stein, Goldstein Bronstein & Kron as Board Attorney, Bowman Consultant Group as Board Engineer, and Ojetti Davis as Board Secretary. A deck-variance application at 12 Glenview Road was deemed complete subject to outstanding items being submitted 14 days before the hearing. The in-ground pool application at 341 Montrose Avenue was withdrawn by the applicant, and the St. Paul's Outreach site plan and variance case was adjourned to the next meeting without a decision.

• Approved December 1, 2020 minutes (6-0)
• Reappointed William Dahn and Robert Shapiro to the Board; oath administered
• Elected William Dahn Chairman (6-0) and Todd DiScala Vice Chairman (6-0)
• Reappointed Topology as Board Planner; Nusbaum, Stein, Goldstein Bronstein & Kron as Board Attorney; Bowman Consultant Group as Board Engineer; Ojetti Davis as Board Secretary (all in favor, none opposed)
• Deemed Case #1044 (12 Glenview Road deck variance) complete, subject to items being filed 14 days before the hearing (6-0)
• Case #1043 (341 Montrose Avenue in-ground pool) withdrawn at applicant's request
• Case #1017R (St. Paul's Outreach, 315 Self Place) adjourned to the next meeting with no decision

Planning Board

The South Orange Village Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting to review several site plans and subdivisions, including Seton Hall University's proposed expansions and a request to amend a prior resolution for 320 Valley Street. The board will also discuss a Master Plan update and hear reports from the Planning and Economic Development Committee.

• Seton Hall University: 1,384 sq ft addition to University Center (Case #276)
• Seton Hall University: 1,628 sq ft entrance lobby for Boland Hall (Case #278)
• Tania Roddi: indoor playground at 468 Valley Street (Case #277)
• 320 PC Valley, LLC: amend 2016 resolution to allow physical therapy, gym, professional offices (Case #244)
• 206 Ampere Parkway, LLC: lot line adjustment at 167 and 201 Ridgewood Road North (Case #275)

The Planning Board held its reorganization meeting, reappointing Lillian Harris as a regular member and electing Harold Colton-Max as Chairman and Michael Lerman as Vice Chairman. The board also appointed its professionals for 2021: Topology as Planner, Scarinci & Hollenbeck as Board Attorney, Bowman Consulting Group as Board Engineer, and Ojetti Davis as Board Secretary. Three applications were deemed complete or conditionally complete: Seton Hall University's University Center addition (Case #276), Tania Roddi's indoor playground at 468 Valley Street (Case #277), and Seton Hall University's Boland Hall entrance lobby (Case #278). Two other applications were adjourned: the 206 Ampere Parkway subdivision (Case #275) was postponed to February, and the 320 Valley Street resolution amendment (Case #244) was adjourned to a special meeting on January 19.

• Approved minutes of December 2, 2020 regular meeting (5-0)
• Reappointed Lillian Harris as regular member; oath administered
• Elected Harold Colton-Max as Chairman (all in favor)
• Elected Michael Lerman as Vice Chairman (all in favor)
• Appointed Topology as Planner, Scarinci & Hollenbeck as Board Attorney, Bowman Consulting Group as Board Engineer, Ojetti Davis as Board Secretary (all in favor)
• Deemed Seton Hall University Center application (Case #276) complete subject to items discussed (7-0)
• Deemed Tania Roddi indoor playground application (Case #277) conditionally complete subject to items discussed (7-0)
• Deemed Seton Hall Boland Hall application (Case #278) complete subject to board professional memos (7-0)