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JIM BEZANSON, 12 MELISSA LEE DRIVE – Regarding Ord. 03-17 & Ord. 04-17, lives in an R-1 Zone and confirmed the ordinances would prohibit dormitories in his neighborhood; even one day. Township Clerk Eden stated the public hearing for those two ordinances will be on February 28th and advised that his statement would not be part of that public hearing.
PHIL STILTON, 6 KENNEDY COURT – Regarding Ord. 03-17 & Ord. 04-17, asked if Council will explain this and what is the purpose of this ordinance. Attorney Cipriani explained there are two ordinances and one is on just dormitories overall. It was brought to Council’s attention that there was no provision, positive or negative. Dormitories were not addressed in the code and there was a determination that it wouldn’t be a proper use. The remainder is, in accordance with the Master Plan, to reduce the number of zones; it doesn’t eliminate the number of zones which permit schools. It reduces the number of zones in which public or private schools would be a permitted use. Mr. Stilton felt it is only targeting the Yeshiva dormitories and Ms. Cipriani advised it is a general ordinance of any school. Mr. Stilton asked about the present dormitories (for drug dependent people) being operated near the Bartley Field. There were complaints made on it and Councilman Nixon stated it was shut down months ago. Attorney Cipriani stated the question of grandfathering is addressed by the Municipal Land Use Law and the cases interpreting it. She stated this ordinance only affects land uses going forward and someone can go to the Zoning Board for relief.
Mr. Stilton stated that he felt Councilmen Bressi & Calogero made some false statements about my business based on unfavorable press in our publication. They said we charge exorbitant prices and my research proves otherwise. They also stated they're not sure anyone is even reading the publication and we certify our numbers through the Postal Service. We mail, drop in driveways and stores and every resident of Jackson gets a copy. He felt because he spoke out on certain topics that they discredited his business. We don't do it for the money but you do.
RICHARD EGAN, 526 DIAMOND ROAD – Regarding the No-Knock Ordinance, people are now standing in the street trying to solicit others into selling their homes. He suggested a cooling off period to stop solicitation within their permit times; something needs to be addressed.
GEORGE KNEISSER, 18 SHORT HILLS BOULEVARD – Regarding Six Flags, he confirmed the residents get a discount through the ticket program. He had budget/union questions regarding the Police. Attorney Cipriani explained at the time of hire. Being in the Union is not required but they would have to pay a percentage even though they’re not a union member. He confirmed through collective bargaining, the Township can ask for a reduction in salaries; salaries and health benefit contributions are negotiable. Pension is through the State. Councilman Nixon recused himself from the remainder of the meeting (due to a conflict). Mr. Kneisser asked what the unfunded liability is for Jackson Township for health and pension benefits and Attorney Cipriani wasn’t aware. He confirmed the contributions for employees are different with different levels of seniority/longevity. A general statement of law, the existing schedule except for any collective bargaining in place; after the sunset period, it is negotiable. Attorney Cipriani verified the salaries and health benefits are negotiable and the pension is imposed through the State.
PHIL STILTON, 6 KENNEDY COURT – He confirmed the Water Park will have a safety monitor next year. Councilman Martin advised there were people stationed there last year. Mr. Stilton asked if the job title of safety monitor will be higher next year than the temporary/part-time DPW workers that were picking up leaves last year. Will the job be published or will it be given to one of your campaign people as it was this year. Council advised that is a question for Administration.