Borough of Roseland

The meeting covered the approval of minutes from the October 2025 Regular Meeting and the November 2025 Budget Meeting. Correspondence included an update on the Sensory Garden. The Treasurer's Report detailed the 2025 budget versus actuals, current bank balances, and status of Certificates of Deposit maturing in December 2025 and January 2026. A resolution was presented to approve the 2025 Budget as presented. Committee reports addressed the installation of cameras and maintenance items for the Grounds and Maintenance Committee, the need to discuss Dam inspection and repair for 2026, the status of D&O insurance effective Q1 2026, and planning for the Family Day Event (date selection, DJ, petting zoo). The President's Report tabled several issues to 2026 and introduced discussion items for the current meeting, including a potential lean-to purchase and 2026 meeting dates.

The agenda for the meeting includes the review of the Open Public Meetings Act Statement, Roll Call, and potential formal action items. New Business items involve two separate requests from Russell Serpe for amended site plan approval concerning property at 146 Passaic Avenue and 142 Passaic Avenue, both requesting removal of additional trees and revision of site grading. Additionally, Woodmont Senior Living LLC is seeking a one-year extension for a Major Site Plan approval related to the proposed development of an 181-unit Assisted Living & Memory Care Facility and 42 Affordable Housing Units at 65 Livingston Avenue. General Business includes a review of Ordinance 39-2025, which amends the section pertaining to Fences & Retaining Walls.

The meeting addressed several items under new business, resolutions, and general business. Key discussions included the appeal requesting a Minor Subdivision of one existing lot into three lots for the property located at 144 Passaic Avenue, which was approved. General business involved a determination on whether the property at 7 Becker Farm Road constitutes a Non-Condemnation Area in Need of Redevelopment, based on criteria including a two-year vacancy period. Additionally, there was a discussion concerning the purchase of 192-194 Eagle Rock for municipal parking, and an update was provided regarding necessary retaining wall relocation for the property at 85 Livingston Avenue due to an easement issue.

The meeting addressed several operational and planning items. Key discussions included the rollover of maturing Certificates of Deposit (CDs) in April. Resolutions regarding the 2025 Sensory Garden Lease modifications were approved, setting the term to 1 year, a rate of $945 per month for 10 months with a 5% annual increase, and adjusting the security deposit. Daily usage rates for the Northeast site ($40) and the Lion's Den ($75) were established. The Buildings & Grounds Committee reported on preparations for the camp opening, including site cleanups and repairs to facility elements like handrails and grills, and planned future leaf cleanups. Plans for tree removal estimation and lighting installation for the Lion's Den were initiated, along with considering structural support for a bridge handrail repair. The Finance and Insurance Committee will seek a replacement for the Treasurer's activities. Preparations for the Family Day Event 2025 involved arrangements for a DJ, follow-up on petting zoo/pony rides, ordering fish delivery, and approval for local Cub Scout promotion and uniform wear during the event. The President reported on researching the possibility of using AI for minutes generation and exploring external services for fielding camper calls.

The meeting covered correspondence regarding unauthorized access to private property at the Lion's Den. The Treasurer's Report detailed financials through January 31, 2025, and discussed CD rollovers and expected interest income. Key resolutions involved the 2025 election of officers, confirming the President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. The schedule for meetings from March 2025 through February 2026 was approved. The Buildings & Grounds Committee reported on a camp closing work day and planned an opening work day in mid-March. The Dam Committee will continue investigating dam repairs and major inspections. The Finance and Insurance Committee plans to address the Sensory Garden contract renewal, recommend a 5% rate increase, and inquire about required insurance documentation and the status of December's payment. A discussion was held regarding potentially reassigning some Treasurer activities for compensation. Planning is underway for the Family Day Event scheduled for June 14, 2025. The President reported receiving thanks for a gift sent following a board member's mother's passing, and one member announced their upcoming retirement from their director position.