Joe Cusumano

The board meeting agenda includes the presentation and ratification of the February bills list and approval of the March bills list. Discussion items include old and new business, and several resolutions: the revision of the grievance policy, the disposition of obsolete equipment, authorization of compensatory time for the maintenance team for snowstorm efforts, the contract extension for HVAC maintenance and repair services with Able Mechanical, Inc., the ratification of the contract for entry stoop replacement at Jennie Parker Manor to Abhzeen Design, Inc. for $37,488.00, and approval of the fiscal audit for the year ended June 30, 2025.

The board discussed correspondence regarding RAD notices and a flu clinic. Committee reports were provided concerning recreation center utilization, intergenerational programs, and bingo activities. A vacancy report for Ptak and JPM properties was presented. The Executive Director provided detailed updates on various building maintenance and improvement projects, including boiler replacements, lighting upgrades, interior painting, and CCTV expansion. Additionally, scheduling changes for upcoming board meetings were announced.

The board discussed community support efforts during the pandemic, including grocery and meal distributions. Reports were provided on vacancy numbers at Ptak Towers and JPM. Staff reported on the status of COVID-19 impacts, vaccine timelines, and public meeting procedures. Legal and contract matters were addressed, specifically the replacement of an antiquated telephone entry system and a dispute with a laundry vendor regarding the right of first refusal. Several resolutions were passed, including the award of contracts for AC equipment replacement, roof coating application, and the ratification of a change order for masonry repairs. Additionally, the board decided to move the time of the upcoming December meeting to 7:00 PM.

The board discussed ongoing COVID-19 related protocols, including property maintenance such as pest control and the distribution of personal protective equipment. Staff reports covered personnel updates regarding administrative and maintenance roles, as well as occupancy statuses for the properties. The meeting included the ratification of bills and the approval of resolutions to increase the bid threshold, authorize final leave pay for a former staff member, and issue formal thank you letters to organizations and individuals who made donations to the properties during the pandemic.

The meeting included an audit report presentation regarding the fiscal year audit and the certification of local finance board reviews. Reports were provided on the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program implementation, capital projects including generator installations, fire safety presentations, and vacancy reports. Additionally, several resolutions were passed, authorizing the hiring of a part-time custodian, an interlocal agreement between the Highlands and Perth Amboy Housing Authorities, the extension of a dog sweeping services contract, and additional architectural and engineering services for kitchen remodeling.