Juliana Coelho

Key discussions included the approval of bills for payment and the Treasurer's report. Correspondence noted Ford safety recall notices for command vehicles. The Rescue Squad report for November was approved, and permission was granted for Rig 3 to participate in a Joint Mutual Aid Drill outside the district. Insurance work on Engine-2 was completed. Regarding LOSAP, the board is awaiting state reporting to maximize contributions. The board approved a motion to place a capital expenditure question on the February 2026 ballot, not to exceed $1,400,000, to purchase a new class A pumper by 2029. A Fireman Incentive Plan was approved to start in January 2026, with potential earnings of $200 monthly based on performance metrics. Adjustments will be made to the Fire Department Lease to reflect a 10% rent increase included in the 2026 Budget, which was presented and approved at $663,951.37. Resolutions approving the 2026 Budget and Compensation for the Commissioners were unanimously adopted.

This document is a Periodic Reexamination Report of the Master Plan for Bridgewater Township, Somerset County, New Jersey, adopted in 2011. It evaluates the municipality's progress on objectives related to land development and proposes specific changes to preserve development character and quality, maintain a strong municipal identity, and enhance quality of life. Key focus areas include implementing greater controls for non-residential uses (schools, country clubs, open-air clubs, houses of worship) in residential zones to protect neighborhood character, promoting a balanced variety of land uses, preserving natural systems, coordinating growth with public facilities, and conserving environmental resources. The report concludes that a new Master Plan is not warranted at this time, emphasizing reinforcement of residential neighborhoods and consistency with broader regional and state planning objectives.

The regular session covered council reports, including positive feedback on the Diwali and Halloween celebrations and updates on planning and zoning board activities, such as discussions regarding the Stavola quarry plan and approvals for various construction projects. Council President Norgalis discussed the transition planning for the incoming council members. The Township Administrator reported on a request from Somerset Corporate Center to permit additional uses, like laboratory and ancillary medical uses, within existing vacant office space due to shifts in the New Jersey office market. The Council introduced and proposed several ordinances concerning Middle Brook Sanitary Sewer Pumping Station Improvements, amendments to massage therapy and wrecker roster codes, and fees related to health services. Resolutions were adopted to renew the 2026 Stavola Quarry Operating License, approve budgetary items for the Newcomers Club and a 'Bring Out Your Best' initiative, transfer unused trust account reserves, authorize an electronic tax sale, approve budget transfers for Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations, authorize additional funding for engineering and planning services, submit a municipal alliance application, disburse funds for low- and moderate-income property repairs, award contracts for snow removal and roadway improvements, approve funding for the Universal Drainage Assessment Project, authorize the 2026 fireworks display schedule, and consent to the installation of new turf fields at a baseball complex. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss public safety, contract negotiations, and litigation.

The agenda for this reorganization meeting included the presentation of colors and the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem, and an invocation. Key procedural items involved the certification of the election results from November 4, 2026, confirming the election of Joan Geiger, Andrew Bucko, and Ridwana Isla to the Township Council, followed by memorializing their oaths of office. The meeting also planned for the selection of the Council President, Vice President, and Clerk of the Council. Additionally, the agenda featured the Mayor's State of the Township Address and the consideration and adoption of several resolutions for 2026, such as granting authorities to Township Staff, scheduling annual meetings, establishing a cash management plan, authorizing the Township Engineer for permit execution, and adopting the Employee Handbook. The agenda concluded with a period open to the public and the benediction.

The meeting included discussions and an extension request for the Rackson Restaurants application concerning property at 44 Finderne Avenue and 1503 Main Street, with the extension sought until December 2026 due to project delays. Board members discussed scheduling upcoming applications and member participation, particularly for the Special Meeting regarding the Master Plan. Procedures for the Master Plan hearing and board member expectations were clarified.