Ashleigh Frueholz

The meeting commenced with a budget workshop followed by the regular session. Council addressed administrative matters, including adopting a resolution to enter executive session concerning Attorney Client Privilege Communication, and later returning to open session, where the Mayor recognized the passing of Councilman Harvey Roseff with a proclamation to lower flags. Key discussions included a notice regarding changes to New Jersey legal notice publication requirements effective March 1, 2026. The Township Manager reported on the upcoming Budget Introduction, an ordinance for affordable housing, and an extension for the Route 206 natural gas project. The Mayor provided updates on securing funding for the new police department construction. Council approved the agenda, adopted a resolution authorizing football field lighting improvements under a grant, and approved the bill list. Furthermore, two ordinances were passed on final reading: one to exceed municipal budget appropriation limits by establishing a cap bank, and another to authorize capital expenditures for various street improvements totaling up to $744,548.00. Under discussion, the Sussex County Board of Taxation approved an extension for reassessment until November 1, 2027. Future agenda items included updates on the Mansfield Trail Dump Superfund Site work schedule.

The meeting commenced with a Budget Workshop followed by a Regular Session. Key discussions during the budget presentation focused on the 2026 Municipal Budget Plan, noting a significant increase in Group Health Insurance costs (40.06%) and the proposed use of a measured portion of the Township's fund balance to mitigate the resulting tax increase. The overall operating budget increase was minimal at 0.71%. Other major expense drivers included Workers Compensation/General Liability and Garbage/Recycling costs. The Capital Improvement Program for 2026 was also presented, showing a reduction in the amount being raised in the Capital Improvement Fund (CIF). The Council discussed and ultimately agreed to utilize $350,000 from the fund balance for one-time capital improvement expenses. The session included resolutions for executive sessions to discuss Attorney Client Privilege Communication and Contract Negotiations regarding the Health Benefits Consultant. During the open session, the swearing-in of Sergeant Chris Spaldo occurred, and proclamations for School Board Recognition Month and Arbor Day were read. Reports included updates on the 2026 budget introduction schedule, open space trail planning, and the 2026 Byram Fest date. The Council unanimously supported accepting a $1.25 million federal grant for a new police department construction project, which would require bonding for the remainder of the estimated $3 million cost. Support was also expressed for pursuing a Local Recreation Improvement Grant for football field lights.

Key discussions during the meeting included the review of collected fees for September and October, covering categories such as Perc Tests, Septic work, and Dog Licenses. The Board of Health approved the 2026 meeting schedule, which includes dates in January, March, May, July, September, and November 2026. New business focused on scheduling the 2026 Free Rabies Clinic for March 28, 2026, and noting the need for volunteers. Additionally, members discussed seeking clarification from the Sussex County Representative regarding procedures for Water Testing commercial facilities.

The agenda for the meeting included a Reorganization session with nominations for key roles and the adoption of several resolutions concerning annual notices and professional service contracts for legal, engineering, and planning services. Committee appointments were also scheduled. Business items included the extension of approval for a minor subdivision and site plan related to property at 8 Carpenter Road, and applications for additions on single-family dwellings at 41 Meteor Trail and 22 Mayne Avenue. The meeting also covered review of bills and reports from the Environmental Commission, Open Space, and Township Council.

The agenda for the meeting included committee appointments for the Site Plan and Master Plan Subcommittees, and the approval of the Meeting Minutes from January 15, 2026. Under resolutions, the Board addressed applications Z11-2025 (addition on a single-family dwelling) and Z13-2025 (addition on a single-family dwelling). New business involved application Z14-2025 for tract disturbance and accessory structures, including a shed, greenhouse, and chicken coop, and application Z12-2025 for new home construction. The session also covered the review and approval of bills, reports from the Environmental Commission, Open Space, and Township Council, and an open to the public session before adjournment.