Rockaway public meetings in 2022

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider two variance applications: one for a property at 14 Oak Lane and another for 20 Johnson Road. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes and public comment. Formal action may be taken on these matters.

• BOA #22-20: Brosius, 14 Oak Lane, Block 40401 Lot 26 & 36, 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-22: Marogi, 20 Johnson Road, Block 40301 Lot 2, 'C' Variance
• Approval of minutes from December 6, 2022

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and hearing a public hearing for a minor site plan/tenancy application from DaVita Kidney Care at 437 Route 46. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the DaVita application being the only substantive item.

• Public hearing for PB #2482, DaVita Kidney Care, 437 Route 46, Block 10202 Lot 27, minor site plan/tenancy
• Approval of minutes from November 21, 2022 meeting

The Planning Board unanimously approved a minor site plan for a medical office dialysis facility at 437 Route 46. The approval includes conditions regarding ADA parking, water and health discharge, and the installation of a Knox Box.

• Approved minor site plan for DaVita Kidney Care (unanimous)
• Approved November 21, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will hold public hearings and consider final adoption of two ordinances that reappropriate $3,795,720.24 from previously issued obligations and appropriate $1,354,201.76 from an American Rescue Plan Act grant for various township improvements. The agenda also includes a public hearing on a public-private partnership, certification of the 2022 general election results, and the swearing-in of Mayor Joe Jackson and Councilman Wojtowicz. A consent agenda covers numerous routine items such as tax lien redemptions, refunds, and contract awards, including a prescription plan contract with BeneCard Services.

• Ordinance O-22-20: Reappropriates $3,795,720.24 for various improvements
• Ordinance O-22-21: Appropriates $1,354,201.76 from American Rescue Plan Act grant
• Public hearing on public-private partnership
• Resolution R-22-181: Award contract to BeneCard Services for prescription plan (June 1, 2022 – May 31, 2023)
• Resolution R-22-183: Calls for study commission to review Open Public Records Act

The Township Council adopted two ordinances to fund local improvements using reappropriated funds and an American Rescue Plan Act grant. The council also approved a consent agenda including various tax redemptions, veteran tax refunds, and a prescription plan contract.

• Approved Ordinance O-22-20 to reappropriate $3,795,720.24 for improvements (9-0)
• Approved Ordinance O-22-21 to appropriate $1,354,201.76 from American Rescue Plan Act grant (9-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including tax title lien redemptions and veteran tax refunds (9-0)
• Approved contract for Benecard Services for township prescription plan (9-0)
• Approved resolution to call for a study commission to review the Open Public Records Act (9-0)
• Approved November regular and executive session meeting minutes (9-0)
• Tabled Resolution R-22-182 regarding executive session for contract negotiation

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting on December 6, 2022, at 7:30 PM. The agenda includes public hearings on four variance applications (BOA #22-18, #22-17, #22-20, #22-22) and one extension request (BOA #19-03). The board will also approve minutes, hear correspondence, and address other business.

• BOA #22-18: Ferreira, 40 Richard Mine Road, Block 11402 Lot 1.01, 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-17: Schnurman, 96 W Union Turnpike, Block 11501 Lot 9.01, 'D' Variance
• BOA #19-03: Extension for Mattoni (Gallin), 44 Lake End Road, Block 40401 Lot 67
• BOA #22-20: Brosius, 14 Oak Lane, Block 40401 Lot 26 & 36, 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-22: Marogi, 20 Johnson Road, Block 40301 Lot 2, 'C' Variance

The Board of Adjustment approved variance requests for properties on Richard Mine Road, W Union Turnpike, and Oak Lane. An application for a property on Johnson Road was deemed incomplete and carried forward to a future meeting.

• Approved BOA #22-18 'C' Variance for 40 Richard Mine Road
• Approved BOA #22-17 'C' Variance for 96A W Union Turnpike
• Approved BOA #22-20 'C' Variance for 14 Oak Lane to allow a garage in the front yard
• Deemed BOA #22-22 application for 20 Johnson Road incomplete; carried forward to December 20th
• Approved minutes from November 15, 2022

Township Council

The November 22, 2022 Township Council Regular Meeting has been cancelled. All business will be carried to the December 13, 2022 Regular Meeting.

• Meeting cancelled
• Business moved to December 13, 2022

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board is meeting to consider two minor applications: a site plan for Bank of America at 327 Mt. Hope Ave and a subdivision by Morris Habitat for Humanity on Valley View Drive. The board will also approve minutes from October 17, 2022, and may take formal action on escrow and other resolutions.

• PB #2478: Bank of America minor site plan, 327 Mt Hope Ave, Block 11001 Lot 7
• PB #2479: Morris Habitat for Humanity minor subdivision, 103-107 Valley View Drive, Block 21102 Lots 43-45
• Approval of minutes from October 17, 2022
• Escrow resolution

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the October 17, 2022 meeting. The board approved payments for professional services from escrow accounts and a resolution for Bank of America at 327 Mt. Hope Ave. No action was taken on the Morris Habitat for Humanity application as it was a courtesy application.

• Approved October 17, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution for Payment for Professional Services from Escrow Accounts (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution for PB# 2478 Bank of America 327 Mt. Hope Ave Block 11001 Lot 7 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two variance applications (Ferreira at 40 Richard Mine Road and Schnurman at 96 W Union Turnpike) and consider resolutions for two other variance requests (Gerson at 2 N Lake Shore Drive and Dover PS/St. Clement Church at 154 Mt. Pleasant Ave). The meeting also includes approval of minutes, public comment, and routine procedural items.

• Public hearing: BOA #22-18 Ferreira, 40 Richard Mine Road, 'C' Variance
• Public hearing: BOA #22-17 Schnurman, 96 W Union Turnpike, 'D' Variance
• Resolution: BOA #22-19 Gerson, 2 N Lake Shore Drive, 'C' Variance
• Resolution: BOA #22-21 Dover PS/St. Clement Church, 154 Mt. Pleasant Ave, 'D' Variance

The Board of Adjustment approved several variance requests for residential and institutional properties. Decisions included approvals for a shed, a new garage and greenhouse, and two other variance applications. The board also approved professional service payments from escrow accounts.

• Approved payment for professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)
• Approved BOA #22-19 Gerson, 2 N Lake Shore Drive 'C' Variance
• Approved BOA #22-21 Dover Board of Education/St. Clement Church, 154 Mt. Pleasant Avenue 'D' Variance
• Approved BOA #22-18 Ferreira, 40 Richard Mine Road 'C' Variance for a 10x16 shed (unanimous)
• Approved BOA #22-17 Schnurman, 96A W Union Turnpike 'D' Variance for a garage and greenhouse (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will introduce two ordinances appropriating funds for various township improvements: one reappropriating $3,795,720.24 from previously issued obligations, and another appropriating $1,354,201.76 from an American Rescue Plan Act grant. The council will also vote on a consent agenda covering grants, tax refunds, a soil disturbance permit, a developer's agreement extension, and construction contracts, plus a separate resolution authorizing up to $6,905,700 in bond anticipation notes. A closed session is scheduled to discuss potential litigation.

• O-22-20: Reappropriates $3,795,720.24 for various improvements
• O-22-21: Appropriates $1,354,201.76 from ARPA grant
• R-22-159: Authorizes up to $6,905,700 in bond anticipation notes
• R-22-163: Awards $811,319.00 contract to Hutton Construction for Well 10 wellhouse
• R-22-162: Releases $1,879,870.00 performance guarantee for Peterson Field parking lot, requires $1,925,656.00 maintenance guarantee

The Council passed two ordinances to reappropriate and appropriate over $5.1 million for township improvements and ARPA grants. They also approved several tax refunds for disabled veterans and awarded a $811,319 contract for a wellhouse construction. Other actions included authorizing bond anticipation notes and resolving litigation against Beautiful Farms.

• Approved Ordinance 22-20 reappropriating $3,795,720.24 for improvements (8-0)
• Approved Ordinance 22-21 appropriating $1,354,201.76 from ARPA grant (8-0)
• Approved $811,319 contract to Hutton Construction LC for Well 10 Wellhouse
• Approved issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes not to exceed $6,905,700 (8-0)
• Approved tax cancellations and refunds for three properties with 100% disabled veteran exemptions
• Approved Resolution R-22-151 for National Opioid Settlement revenue (8-0)
• Approved Resolution R-22-165 for American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grant revenue (8-0)
• Authorized Township Attorney to file consent order to resolve litigation against Beautiful Farms (8-0)

Township Council

The October 25, 2022 Regular Township Council Meeting has been cancelled. The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 10, 2022. This agenda contains only a cancellation notice and no items for discussion or decision.

• Regular meeting cancelled for October 25, 2022
• Next regular meeting scheduled for November 10, 2022

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting to consider several variance applications, including minor site plans and use variances. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and hear public comments. Most items are routine variance requests, with one public hearing for a 'D' variance.

• BOA #22-09: 400 Richards Ave LLC, 400 Richards Ave, Block 10202 Lot 33 - Minor Site Plan, Use Variance & 'C's' Variance
• BOA #22-10: LaCroix, 1190 Green Pond Road, Block 60001 Lot 19 & 19.01 - 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-14: Byrne, 20 Sioux Ave, Block 21904 Lot 26 - 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-16: Koetzner, 18 Jacobs Road, Block 40801 Lot 89 - 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-19: Gerson, 2 N Lake Shore Drive, Block 21602 Lot 68 - 'C' Variance (public hearing)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board will hold its regular meeting on October 17, 2022, to consider several site plan applications and a minor subdivision. The agenda includes resolutions for preliminary and final site plan approvals, as well as public hearings for a minor site plan and a minor subdivision. Formal action may be taken on these items.

• PB #2475: ACG Rockaway LLC, 25 Green Pond Road, Preliminary Site Plan, Final Site Plan Approval & 'C' Variance
• PB #2479: Atlantic Health Systems, 333 Mt. Hope Ave, Amended Final Major Site Plan
• PB #2478: Bank of America, 327 Mt Hope Ave, Minor Site Plan
• PB #2479: Morris Habitat for Humanity, 103, 105 & 107 Valley View Drive, Minor Subdivision
• Approval of minutes from September 12, 2022

The board unanimously approved a minor site plan for Bank of America to upgrade ATM lighting at 327 Mt. Hope Ave. A courtesy review was held for Morris Habitat for Humanity's proposed two-lot subdivision at 103-107 Valley View Drive for affordable housing; no vote was taken. Resolutions for professional services and two prior applications were also approved.

• Approved minor site plan for Bank of America ATM lighting upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for payment for professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for PB# 2475 ACG Rockaway LLC at 25 Green Pond Road (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for PB# 2479 Atlantic Health Systems at 333 Mt. Hope Ave (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 12, 2022 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Conducted courtesy review for PB# 2479 Morris Habitat for Humanity subdivision; no vote taken

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on a sewer project ordinance and a public-private partnership. They will vote on ordinances including a $100,000 IT purchase, and consider resolutions for road paving, property sales, and contract changes.

• O-22-19: Ordinance appropriating $100,000 for IT purchase
• O-22-18: Repealing prior ordinances on Bowlbyville Sewer Project
• R-22-144: $425,531.95 contract to Riverview Paving for Queens Road improvements
• R-22-146: Sale of township property (Block 21102, Lots 43-45) to Morris Habitat for Humanity
• R-22-149: Rejecting all bids for Ford Faesch House restoration

Township Council

This September 29, 2022 regular meeting of the Rockaway Township Council was cancelled, so no decisions or discussions occurred. The agenda that would have been considered included two ordinances for public hearing/final adoption and a consent agenda item for a road construction contract. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 13, 2022.

• O-22-18: Ordinance repealing prior ordinances concerning Bowlbyville Sewer Project
• O-22-19: Ordinance appropriating $100,000 from General Capital Fund for IT purchase
• R-22-144: Contract award to Riverview Paving, Inc. for Queens Road Section I improvements, $425,531.95

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting on September 20, 2022, at 7:30 PM. The agenda includes approval of minutes, public comment, and six public hearings for variance applications. All applications are for 'C' variances, with one also involving a minor site plan and use variance.

• BOA #22-13 Bertenshaw, 15 Lake Shore Drive, Block 21601 Lot 40, 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-09 400 Richards Ave LLC, 400 Richards Ave, Block 10202 Lot 33, Minor Site Plan, Use Variance & 'C's' Variance
• BOA #22-15 Campus Walnuts Associates, 20 Telemark Road, Block 30301 Lot 9, 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-10 LaCroix, 1190 Green Pond Road, Block 60001 Lot 19 & 19.01, 'C' Variance
• BOA #22-14 Byrne, 20 Sioux Ave, Block 21904 Lot 26, 'C' Variance; BOA #22-16 Koetzner, 18 Jacobs Road, Block 40801 Lot 89, 'C' Variance

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved four variance applications at its September 20, 2022 regular meeting. The board granted variances for a second-story addition and front porch at 20 Sioux Ave, a two-story garage at 151 Jacobs Road, and equestrian riding arenas at 1190 Green Pond Road. Two additional variance applications (15 Lake Shore Drive and 20 Telemark Road) were also approved via resolution. The next scheduled meeting on October 4 was cancelled due to Yom Kippur.

• Approved BOA #22-14 Bertenshaw variance at 15 Lake Shore Drive (6-0)
• Approved BOA #22-15 Campus Walnuts Associates variance at 20 Telemark Road (6-0)
• Approved BOA #22-14 Byrne variance for second-story addition and front porch at 20 Sioux Ave (unanimous)
• Approved BOA #22-16 Koetzner variance for two-story garage at 151 Jacobs Road (unanimous)
• Approved BOA #22-10 LaCroix variance for equestrian riding arenas at 1190 Green Pond Road (unanimous)
• Approved Susan Royek as acting Secretary for September 20, 2022 (unanimous)
• Cancelled October 4, 2022 meeting due to Yom Kippur

Township Council

The council adopted Ordinance O-22-17, amending rules for peddlers, canvassers, solicitors, and mobile food vendors, after a public hearing. It also introduced Ordinances O-22-18 (repealing prior Bowlbyville sewer project ordinances) and O-22-19 (appropriating $100,000 for IT purchases). The consent agenda, including refunds, tax lien redemptions, a contract for appraisal services, disposal of obsolete phone equipment, and a shared services agreement for school police officers, was approved unanimously. Three EMS appointments were made.

• Adopted Ordinance O-22-17 amending peddler, canvasser, solicitor, and mobile food vendor regulations (9-0)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-18 repealing prior Bowlbyville sewer project ordinances (8-0, 1 abstention)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-19 appropriating $100,000 for IT purchases from general capital fund (9-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including refunds, tax lien redemptions, appraisal contract, phone equipment disposal, and shared services agreement for school police officers (9-0)
• Appointed three EMS members: Kiera Hartnett, Michael Shutz, and Ciara Taggart (9-0)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board is meeting to consider two site plan applications: a preliminary and final site plan with a variance for ACG Rockaway LLC at 25 Green Pond Road, and an amended final major site plan for Atlantic Health Systems at 333 Mt. Hope Ave. The agenda also includes approval of minutes, correspondence, public comment, resolutions, and committee reports.

• PB #2475: ACG Rockaway LLC, 25 Green Pond Road, Block 22102 Lot 5.01, Preliminary Site Plan, Final Site Plan Approval & 'C' Variance
• PB #2457A: Atlantic Health Systems, 333 Mt. Hope Ave, Block 11001 Lot 8, Amended Final Major Site Plan
• Approval of minutes from June 20, 2022
• Resolution on escrow

The Rockaway Township Planning Board approved two site plan applications. PB #2475 for ACG Rockaway LLC at 25 Green Pond Road was approved, allowing interior and exterior improvements to an existing building for warehouse and daycare use, with 13 new loading bays and reduced parking. PB #2457A for Atlantic Health Systems at 333 Mt. Hope Ave was approved, amending a previously approved solar carport facility to relocate one array and split another, increasing the total arrays from 8 to 9. Both approvals were granted with conditions as discussed.

• Approved PB #2475 minor site plan for ACG Rockaway LLC at 25 Green Pond Road (majority vote, Elko recused, Platts voted no)
• Approved PB #2457A amended final major site plan for Atlantic Health Systems at 333 Mt. Hope Ave (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for payment of professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 20, 2022 regular meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved three variance applications at its September 6, 2022 regular meeting. The board granted a 'C' variance for a covered porch at 15 Lake Shore Drive, a 'C' variance for a residential addition at 400 Richard Ave, and a 'C' variance for an already-constructed overhang at 20 Telemark Road. All applications were approved unanimously except for the 400 Richard Ave matter, which passed with two abstentions.

• Approved BOA #22-13 Bertenshaw: 'C' variance for covered porch at 15 Lake Shore Drive (unanimous)
• Approved BOA #22-09 400 Richard Ave LLC: 'C' variance for three-story residential addition at 400 Richard Ave (7-0-2, Platts and Garcia abstained)
• Approved BOA #22-15 Campus Walnuts Associates: 'C' variance for overhang at 20 Telemark Road (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 19, 2022 and August 2, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for payment for professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council is meeting to introduce an ordinance amending rules for peddlers, canvassers, solicitors, and mobile food vendors, and to hold public hearings on two ordinances adjusting salaries for certain officials and employees. The consent agenda includes resolutions on budget revenue, a tax sale refund, liquor license renewals, and rejecting bids for Park Lake Memorial Area improvements. The meeting also includes a separate vote on a firefighter grant application and an appointment of a junior firefighter.

• Introduction of O-22-17 amending Chapter 5, Article V on peddlers, canvassers, solicitors and mobile food vendors
• Public hearings on O-22-15 and O-22-16 amending salaries of certain officials and employees
• R-22-126: Refund of tax sale premium for 11 Sunset Rd. (Block 40303 Lot 16)
• R-22-132: Rejecting all bids for Park Lake Memorial Area improvements
• R-22-135: Authorizing firefighter grant application under American Rescue Plan

The Rockaway Township Council approved two ordinances amending salaries for certain officials and employees, and introduced an ordinance amending rules for peddlers, canvassers, solicitors and mobile food vendors. The council also adopted a consent agenda with resolutions on budget, licenses, and a bid rejection, and appointed a junior firefighter.

• Adopted Ordinance O-22-15 amending salaries of certain officials and employees (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance O-22-16 amending salaries of certain officials and employees (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-17 amending peddler, canvasser, solicitor and mobile food vendor rules (7-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including resolutions R-22-125 through R-22-135 (7-0)
• Appointed Vraj Patel as junior firefighter, Company 4 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of June 14, June 28, and July 12, 2022 meetings as amended (7-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold its regular meeting to consider several variance applications, including a public hearing for a new application. The agenda includes approval of minutes, correspondence, and public comment periods. Most items are routine, but the board will take formal action on the listed variance requests.

• BOA #22-06 Lischin, 27 Crescent Ridge Road, Block 30705 Lot 68, C Variance
• BOA #22-03 DeVenezia, 884 Green Pond Road, Block 40801 Lot 30, C Variance
• BOA #22-11 Laurice, 17 Highland Ave, Block 10302 Lot 8, C Variance
• BOA #21-31 Beautiful Farms, 91 Jacobs Road, Block 40801 Lot 95
• Public Hearing: BOA #22-12 Pollock, 16 Davenport, Block 40301 Lot 12, C Variance

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved four variance applications and dismissed one without prejudice. The approved variances were for properties at 27 Crescent Ridge Road, 884 Green Pond Road, 17 Highland Ave, and 16 Davenport Road. The application for 91 Jacobs Road was dismissed without prejudice. All decisions were made with recorded votes, and the meeting was conducted under the Open Public Meetings Act.

• Approved BOA #22-06 Lischin variance at 27 Crescent Ridge Road (unanimous)
• Approved BOA #22-03 DeVenizia variance at 884 Green Pond Road (unanimous)
• Approved BOA #22-11 Laurice variance at 17 Highland Ave (7-0, 4 abstentions)
• Approved BOA #22-12 Pollock variance at 16 Davenport Road (unanimous)
• Dismissed without prejudice BOA #22-31 Beautiful Farms, LLC at 91 Jacobs Road (7-0, 4 abstentions)
• Approved resolution for payment for professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold its regular meeting on July 19, 2022, at 7:30 PM. The agenda includes approval of minutes, correspondence, public comment, and resolutions for five 'C' variance applications. Two additional 'C' variance requests are scheduled for public hearings. The meeting is open to the public.

• Resolution BOA #22-06: Lischin, 27 Crescent Ridge Road, Block 30705 Lot 68, 'C' Variance
• Resolution BOA #22-03: DeVenezia, 884 Green Pond Road, Block 40801 Lot 30, 'C' Variance
• Resolution BOA #22-08: Lakatos, 13 Hillside Road, Block 40702 Lot 9, 'C' Variance
• Public Hearing BOA #22-11: Laurice, 17 Highland Ave, Block 10302 Lot 8, 'C' Variance
• Public Hearing BOA #21-31: Beautiful Farms, 91 Jacobs Road, Block 40801 Lot 95

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment dismissed the Beautiful Farms application (BOA #21-31) without prejudice due to an outstanding escrow balance of approximately $10,900.50. The board also approved a variance for a shed at 17 Highland Avenue and granted several other variances via resolutions. Two resolutions were held due to lack of a quorum.

• Approved shed variance at 17 Highland Avenue (unanimous)
• Dismissed Beautiful Farms application without prejudice over unpaid escrow (unanimous)
• Approved Lischin fence height variance at 27 Crescent Ridge Road (unanimous)
• Approved Lakatos front yard setback variance at 13 Hillside Road (unanimous)
• Approved Scielso impervious coverage variance at 35 Robin Street (unanimous)
• Approved Hoffman garage and impervious coverage variances at 135 Lake Shore Drive (unanimous)
• Held DeVenzia and Lischin resolutions due to lack of quorum

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will introduce two ordinances amending salaries for contractual and non-contractual employees, and vote on a resolution concerning assessments for the Bowlbyville Sewer Project. The consent agenda includes tax refunds, a tax sale contract, a soil disturbance permit, and professional services contracts.

• O-22-15: Ordinance amending salaries of contractual officials/employees
• O-22-16: Ordinance amending salaries of non-contractual officials/employees
• R-22-122: Resolution on assessments for Bowlbyville Sewer Project
• R-22-120: Contract with RealAuction.com for 2022 municipal tax lien sales
• R-22-123: $20,000 contract with Michael J. Hodges for professional services

The Rockaway Township Council adopted Resolution R-22-122 concerning assessments for the Bowlbyville Sewer Project (8-0-1), after hearing homeowner concerns. It also introduced two ordinances (O-22-15 and O-22-16) amending salaries of certain officials and employees, both with 9-0 votes, and approved the consent agenda (8-0-1) including tax refunds, tax sale authorization, and a $20,000 professional services contract.

• Adopted Resolution R-22-122 on Bowlbyville Sewer Project assessments (8-0-1, Quinn abstained)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-15 amending salaries of certain officials and employees (9-0)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-16 amending salaries of certain officials and employees (9-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax refund, tax sale authorization, and $20,000 contract (8-0-1)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will vote to adopt an ordinance establishing fees and procedures for wedding and civil union ceremonies. The body will also approve the 2021 annual audit report and its corrective action plan. Additionally, the council will authorize the purchase of a sewer inspection camera system and a senior citizens bus, along with renewing multiple liquor licenses.

• Adoption of Ordinance O-22-14 amending Chapter 2, Article IX, Section 48 to include fees for wedding and civil union ceremonies
• Authorization to purchase a new Jet Vac Rover X sewer inspection camera system for a total price not to exceed $136,280.40
• Authorization to purchase a 2017 Starcraft Allstar 'Senior Citizens Bus' from the Borough of Rockaway for $45,000.00
• Approval of the 2021 Annual Audit Report and the associated Corrective Action Plan
• Renewal of liquor licenses for nine local establishments, including Luzzi's Pizza Pub, Miller's Ale House, and Townsquare Café

The Rockaway Township Council unanimously accepted the 2021 audit report and corrective action plan, adopted an ordinance setting fees for wedding and civil union ceremonies, and approved a consent agenda including liquor license renewals and equipment purchases. The council also voted 6-3 to raise the Pride flag, with three members opposed.

• Accepted 2021 audit report (9-0)
• Approved corrective action plan for 2021 audit (9-0)
• Adopted ordinance O-22-14 setting fees for wedding/civil union ceremonies (9-0)
• Approved consent agenda including liquor license renewals and purchases (9-0)
• Voted to raise the Pride flag (6-3)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on five applications for 'C' variances, which are typically required for deviations from zoning regulations. The board will also consider resolutions for two of these applications and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• BOA #22-06 Lischin, 27 Crescent Ridge Road, Block 30705 Lot 68, C Variance
• BOA #22-03 DeVenezia, 884 Green Pond Road, Block 40801 Lot 30, C Variance
• BOA #22-08 Lakatos, 13 Hillside Road, Block 40702 Lot 9, C Variance
• BOA #22-07 Scielso, 35 Robin Street, Block 11113 Lot 7, C Variance
• BOA #22-04 Hoffman, 135 Lake Shore Drive, Block 21806 Lot 10, C Variance

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved three 'C' variances: a front porch at 13 Hillside Road, a rear pavilion at 35 Robin Street, and a front-yard garage and rear pavilion at 135 Lake Shore Drive. Two other applications were carried forward to July 19, 2022 due to lack of board members. All approvals were unanimous.

• Approved front porch variance at 13 Hillside Road (unanimous)
• Approved rear pavilion variance at 35 Robin Street (unanimous)
• Approved front-yard garage and rear pavilion variance at 135 Lake Shore Drive (unanimous)
• Carried forward BOA #22-06 Lischin to July 19, 2022
• Carried forward BOA #22-03 DeVenezia to July 19, 2022
• Approved resolution for payment for professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board is holding its regular meeting on June 20, 2022. The agenda is largely procedural, including approval of minutes, correspondence, and committee reports. The only substantive item is a resolution regarding escrow. No public hearings or major decisions are listed.

• Approval of minutes from March 21, 2022
• Resolution on escrow

The Rockaway Township Planning Board held a regular meeting on June 20, 2022, and approved the minutes from the March 21, 2022 meeting. The board also unanimously approved a resolution for payment of professional services from escrow accounts. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of March 21, 2022 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution for Payment for Professional Services from Escrow Accounts (unanimous)

Township Council

The Township Council will consider an ordinance to add fees for wedding and civil union ceremonies. The agenda also includes several resolutions regarding grant applications, shared services with the Board of Education, and multiple liquor license renewals.

• Ordinance O-22-14: Adding fees and procedures for wedding and civil union ceremonies
• Grant application for NJDOT Highway Safety Fund Project
• Grant application for Richard Street roadway improvements
• Shared services agreement with Board of Education for five Class III SLEO officers
• Renewal of various retail liquor licenses, including The Cheesecake Factory and P.F. Chang’s

The Rockaway Township Council approved the consent agenda (R-22-81 through R-22-100) by an 8-0 vote, covering resolutions on state budget cap urging, grant applications, shared services with the Board of Education, liquor license renewals, and water tank maintenance. A motion to impose assessments on properties serviced by the Bowlby Ville sewer line failed 4-3 with one abstention. The council also introduced ordinance O-22-14 on wedding and civil union ceremony fees.

• Approved consent agenda R-22-81 through R-22-100 (8-0)
• Introduced ordinance O-22-14 on wedding and civil union ceremony fees (8-0)
• Approved May 10, 2022 regular meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved May 10, 2022 closed session minutes (8-0)
• Approved resolution R-22-80 to enter closed session for anticipated litigation (8-0)
• Motion to impose assessments on Bowlby Ville sewer line properties failed (4-3, 1 abstention)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council is holding its regular meeting with two ordinances up for adoption: one amending the offensive or dangerous weapons section of the general ordinances, and another amending the towing, road service, and vehicle storage rules. The consent agenda includes tax refunds, a tax lien redemption, and two fireworks display authorizations. The council will also enter closed session to discuss anticipated contract negotiations.

• O-22-12: Amends Chapter 4 Section 9.5(C) on offensive or dangerous weapons
• O-22-13: Amends Chapter 4 Section 6 on towing, road service, and storage of vehicles
• R-22-74: Redemption of tax title lien C#21-006 against 533 Green Pond Rd. (Block 30301 Lot 11)
• R-22-76 and R-22-77: Authorize public fireworks displays for White Meadow Lake Property Owners' Association and Christ Church
• R-22-78: Authorizes competitive contracting for real property appraisal services

The Rockaway Township Council unanimously adopted two ordinance amendments: one updating the offensive or dangerous weapons section and another revising towing, road service, and vehicle storage rules. All votes were 9-0. The council also approved a consent agenda with six resolutions, including tax refunds, fireworks permits, and competitive contracting for appraisal services, and entered closed session for contract negotiations.

• Adopted Ordinance O-22-12 amending weapons regulations (9-0)
• Adopted Ordinance O-22-13 amending towing and vehicle storage rules (9-0)
• Approved consent agenda with six resolutions (9-0)
• Authorized closed session for contract negotiations (9-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will review several applications for 'C' variances. The meeting includes public hearings for properties on Crescent Ridge Road, Green Pond Road, and George Street.

• BOA #22-05: 'C' Variance for 30 George Street
• BOA #22-06: 'C' Variance for 27 Crescent Ridge Road
• BOA #22-03: 'C' Variance for 884 Green Pond Road

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved two 'C' variances. One allowed a six-foot fence where four feet is the maximum, and the other allowed a new home with reduced side-yard setback and street-access relief. Both were approved unanimously.

• Approved variance for 6-ft fence at 27 Crescent Ridge Rd (unanimous)
• Approved variance for new home at 884 Green Pond Rd (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 19, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for BOA #22-05 Sosely at 30 George St (3-0)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will vote on adopting the 2022 municipal budget, including ordinances to exceed budget limits and issue bonds for capital improvements. The meeting also includes public comment, introduction of two ordinance amendments, and a consent agenda with fee and tax billing resolutions.

• Adoption of 2022 municipal budget (O-22-09, R-22-66, R-22-67)
• Bond ordinance O-22-10: $3,613,675 appropriation for various improvements
• Bond ordinance O-22-11: $1,279,000 for water supply and distribution system
• Introduction of O-22-12 amending weapons ordinance and O-22-13 amending towing regulations
• Consent agenda: sewer maintenance fee, 3rd quarter tax billing, two tax lien redemptions

The Council adopted the 2022 municipal budget of $42,164,384.97, which includes a 3% reduction in the municipal portion of taxes for the average taxpayer. Two bond ordinances were also adopted for various improvements and the water supply system. The Council introduced ordinances amending the weapons and towing regulations, and approved a consent agenda including sewer fees and tax lien redemptions.

• Adopted 2022 municipal budget of $42,164,384.97 (8-0)
• Adopted ordinance O-22-09 to exceed budget appropriation limits and establish a cap bank (8-0)
• Adopted bond ordinance O-22-10 for $3,613,675 for various improvements (8-0)
• Adopted bond ordinance O-22-11 for $1,279,000 for water supply system (8-0)
• Introduced ordinance O-22-12 amending offensive or dangerous weapons regulations (8-0)
• Introduced ordinance O-22-13 amending towing, road service, and storage of vehicles regulations (8-0)
• Approved consent agenda including sewer maintenance fee and tax lien redemptions (8-0)
• Approved resolution to enter closed session for personnel matters (8-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will review several applications for "C" variances. These items include applications for properties on Sunnyside Lane, George Street, and Green Pond Road.

• BOA #22-01: Veenstra, 22 Sunnyside Lane ("C" Variance)
• BOA #22-05: Sosely, 33 George Street ("C" Variance)
• BOA #22-03: DeVenezia, 884 Green Pond Road ("C" Variance)

Township Council

The Township Council will review an ordinance to create a new RMF-3 multifamily residential district. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding interior restoration and upgrades for the Ford-Faesch Manor House.

• Ordinance O-22-08 creating a new 'RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District'
• Public hearing for partial interior restoration and MEP upgrades of Ford-Faesch Manor House
• Resolution R-22-63 regarding bidder pre-qualification for manor house restoration
• Grant application to the New Jersey Historic Trust Program for Ford-Faesch Manor House preservation
• Resolution R-22-65 authorizing a settlement for tax appeal Kruppa, LLC. vs. Township of Rockaway

The Rockaway Township Council voted 0-7 to reject Ordinance O-22-08, which would have created a new RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District. The council also approved several resolutions, including pre-qualification regulations for the Ford-Faesch Manor House restoration and a consent agenda covering grants, tax lien redemptions, and surplus property sales. Public comments raised concerns about speeding, water quality, and the proposed development.

• Rejected Ordinance O-22-08 creating RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District (0-7)
• Approved Resolution R-22-63 adopting pre-qualification regulations for Ford-Faesch Manor House restoration (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including grant application for Ford-Faesch Manor House, tax lien redemptions, and surplus property sale (7-0)
• Approved Resolution R-22-61 to enter closed session for contract negotiation, personnel, and litigation (7-0)
• Approved minutes of March 22, 2022 regular meeting (7-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will vote on a 'C' Variance for 22 Sunnyside Lane. The board will also hold a public hearing on a 'B', 'C', and 'D' Variance and Minor Site Plan for 91 Jacobs Road. Routine items include the approval of March 15, 2022 minutes and correspondence.

• Resolution BOA #22-01: 'C' Variance for 22 Sunnyside Lane (Block 40308 Lot 13)
• Public Hearing BOA #21-31: 'B', 'C', and 'D' Variance and Minor Site Plan for 91 Jacobs Road (Block 40801 Lot 95)

Board of Assessment Commissioners

The Rockaway Township Board of Assessment Commissioners is meeting to consider and vote on property assessments. The agenda includes testimony from the township engineer and a representative from BBG, LLC, followed by a public comment period and a vote on the assessments.

• Testimony by Township Engineer Allison Ferrante
• Testimony by Louis S. Izenberg of BBG, LLC
• Public comment period
• Vote on approval of assessments

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council is meeting to introduce the 2022 municipal budget, including ordinances to exceed budget limits and issue bonds for improvements. They will also consider a consent agenda with resolutions on tax lien redemptions, grants, and developer agreements, plus confirm the municipal judge appointment.

• Introduction of 2022 municipal budget (R-22-44)
• Bond ordinance O-22-10: $3,613,675 for various improvements
• Bond ordinance O-22-11: $1,279,000 for water supply system
• Release of performance guarantee for Lennar (Green Pond Road) with maintenance guaranty
• Appointment of Gerard Smith as Municipal Judge

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board will review a consistency determination regarding the RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District. This process involves checking proposed development regulations against the master plan.

• Consistency determination for Block 10802, Lots 33.01, 34.01, 34.02, 34.03, 34.05 and 34.06
• Approval of February 28, 2022 minutes

The Rockaway Township Planning Board unanimously approved the minutes from the February 28, 2022 meeting, a resolution for payment of professional services from escrow accounts, and a consistency determination for a multifamily residential district. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of February 28, 2022 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for payment for professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)
• Approved consistency determination for RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District, Block 10802 Lots 33.01, 34.01, 34.02, 34.03, 34.05, 34.06 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance application for Beautiful Farms at 91 Jacobs Road, and consider a resolution for a variance at 22 Sunnyside Lane. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, correspondence, and public comment.

• Public hearing: BOA #21-31, Beautiful Farms, 91 Jacobs Road, Block 40801 Lot 95, B/C/D variances and minor site plan
• Resolution: BOA #22-01, Veenstra, 22 Sunnyside Lane, Block 40308 Lot 13, C variance
• Approval of minutes from February 15 and March 1, 2022

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment deemed the Beautiful Farms application (BOA #21-31) for 91 Jacobs Road complete in its entirety, over objections from the interested parties' attorney regarding the site plan and port-a-potties. The board heard testimony from applicant Brian Caine about proposed farm activities, including horse breeding/boarding, poultry, lumber harvesting, camps, birthday parties, and yoga. The public hearing was continued to April 5, 2022, with additional witnesses expected, including a traffic engineer.

• Deemed Beautiful Farms application complete in its entirety (unanimous)
• Approved escrow payment resolution for professional services (unanimous)
• Moved BOA #22-01 Veenstra resolution to April 5 meeting
• Approved minutes from February 15 and March 1, 2022 meetings
• Continued public hearing for BOA #21-31 to April 5, 2022

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will elect a new council member at-large from three candidates, then swear them in. The council will vote on two ordinances accepting sewer/water utility improvements and amending utility easements, and introduce a new multifamily residential district ordinance. Several resolutions on the consent agenda include a $215,750 engineering contract and a school resource officer shared services agreement.

• Election of council member at-large from Raymond Tahan, Pawel Wojtowicz, James Del Greco
• O-22-05: Accept dedication of sanitary sewer and water utility improvements
• O-22-07: Amend 1989 utility and access easement deeds
• O-22-08: Introduce new RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District in land use code
• R-22-39: Retain Mott MacDonald for hydraulic engineering at $215,750

The Rockaway Township Council unanimously elected Pawel Wojtowicz as Council Member At-Large and swore him in during the meeting. The council also adopted two ordinances related to utility easements and introduced a new multifamily residential district ordinance. A consent agenda with eight resolutions was approved, covering items such as a $215,750 engineering contract and a school resource officer shared services agreement.

• Elected Pawel Wojtowicz as Council Member At-Large (8-0)
• Adopted Ordinance O-22-05 accepting sanitary sewer and water utility improvements (9-0)
• Adopted Ordinance O-22-07 amending 1989 utility and access easement deeds (9-0)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-08 creating RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District (9-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $215,750 hydraulic engineering contract and school resource officer agreement (9-0)
• Appointed Doug Bratton and Yoginder Gupta to Citizen's Recreation Committee (9-0)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the proposed 2022 budget, with a presentation by the township auditor. The agenda includes public comment and standard procedural items. No final budget adoption is scheduled; it is a discussion item.

• Presentation by auditor Ray Sarinelli Jr. from Nisivoccia
• Discussion of the proposed 2022 budget
• Public comment period

The Rockaway Township Council held a special budget meeting on March 5, 2022, and approved the 2022 budget after making several amendments. The council reduced the mayor's salary to $15,000, the council president's to $11,000, and council members' to $9,000, and added $25,000 for a part-time zoning officer and $95,000 for an additional police vehicle. A proposal to add $71,000 for a full-time zoning officer was rejected, and the position of Community Services Director was removed from the budget.

• Approved 2022 budget sections 1-23 as amended (8-0)
• Reduced mayor's salary to $15,000, council president to $11,000, council members to $9,000 (8-0)
• Added $25,000 for part-time zoning officer (8-0)
• Rejected $71,000 for full-time zoning officer (3-5)
• Added $95,000 for police vehicle purchases (8-0)
• Removed Community Services Director position (6-2)
• Added $30,000 for freezers/refrigeration at Peterson Field (8-0)
• Added $60,000 for engineering for Peterson Field improvements (6-2)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will conduct public hearings regarding two variance applications. The board will review requests for 'C' and 'C's' variances at 22 Sunnyside Lane and 223 White Meadow Road.

• Public Hearing BOA #22-01: 'C' Variance for Veenstra at 22 Sunnyside Lane
• Public Hearing BOA #22-02: 'C's' Variance for Cohen at 223 White Meadow Road

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Planning Board is meeting to consider resolutions regarding two minor site plan applications. The board will also review minutes from the January 10th meetings.

• Minor Site Plan with Variances for Morris Commons at 600 & 700 Commons Way
• Minor Site Plan for WPG Rockaway Commons LLC at 367 Mt. Hope Avenue
• Approval of January 10th Re-Org and Regular Meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board is meeting to consider resolutions for two minor site plans: PB #2467 for Morris Commons at 600 & 700 Commons Way and PB #2468 for WPG Rockaway Commons LLC at 367 Mt. Hope Avenue. The board will also approve minutes from previous meetings and address correspondence and public comments.

• Resolution for PB #2467: Morris Commons, 600 & 700 Commons Way, Block 22401 Lots 3.06 & 3.07, minor site plan with variances
• Resolution for PB #2468: WPG Rockaway Commons LLC, 367 Mt. Hope Avenue, Block 11001 Lot 11.03, minor site plan
• Approval of minutes from January 10th reorganization and regular meetings
• Escrow resolution

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council will hold its regular meeting, including the election and swearing-in of a council president. The agenda includes approval of minutes, a public comment period, and a consent agenda with two resolutions: one authorizing a strategic plan for a municipal alliance grant and another returning a performance guaranty to Lennar. The meeting is remote, with public participation via Webex or email.

• Election and swearing-in of Council President
• R-22-34: Authorizes submission of strategic plan for Municipal Alliance Grant FY2022
• R-22-35: Returns performance guaranty to U.S. Home Corporation d/b/a Lennar for soil disturbance permit #2014-9 (Block 22401, Lot 1.01)
• Appointment of firefighter Ludwig Szollosy

The Council elected Howard Kritz as Council President, defeating Jonathan Sackett in a 5-2 vote with one abstention. The Council also approved the consent agenda, including a Municipal Alliance grant resolution and a performance guaranty return to Lennar, and appointed Ludwig Szollosy as a firefighter. Several residents spoke, expressing disappointment over Sackett's loss and urging a return to in-person meetings.

• Elected Howard Kritz as Council President (5-2, 1 abstention)
• Defeated motion to elect Jonathan Sackett as Council President (2-5, 1 abstention)
• Approved February 8, 2022 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved consent agenda including R-22-34 (Municipal Alliance grant) and R-22-35 (Lennar performance guaranty return) (8-0)
• Appointed Ludwig Szollosy as Firefighter (8-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment approved a 'C' variance for Patrick Cassidy at 34 William Street, allowing impervious coverage to increase from 36.58% to 41.6% for a home addition, subject to conditions including installing a dry well. The board also approved payment of professional services from escrow accounts. For the Beautiful Farms application at 91 Jacobs Road, the board granted several waivers but deemed the application incomplete, requiring floor plans for the barn and stables and additional information on parking, restrooms, manure, and septic systems before the next hearing on March 15, 2022.

• Approved 'C' variance for Patrick Cassidy at 34 William Street (unanimous)
• Approved escrow payments for professional services (unanimous)
• Granted waivers for application checklist items 9, 10, 12 for Beautiful Farms (unanimous)
• Granted waivers for Form 4 items 1, 14, 15; deemed item 12 incomplete (unanimous)
• Deemed Form 9 items 5, 6 complete; granted waivers for Form 10 items 12, 15; deemed item 13 incomplete (unanimous)
• Granted waivers for Form 11 items 11, 16; deemed item 13 incomplete (unanimous)
• Deemed Beautiful Farms application incomplete; continued hearing to March 15, 2022

Township Council

The Township Council will hold an election for Mayor from three nominees submitted by the Republican County Committee. The agenda also includes introducing ordinances regarding utility improvements and a new multifamily residential district.

• Election of Mayor from nominees Joe Jackson, Don Reddin, and Joe McMahon
• Introduction of Ordinance O-22-05 regarding sanitary sewer and water utility improvements
• Introduction of Ordinance O-22-06 creating a new 'RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District'
• Resolution R-22-31 supporting a Class 5 cannabis retailer by Holistic Re-Leaf LLC
• Soil disturbance permit for the Sarkissian residence at 42 Shawnee Avenue

The Rockaway Township Council unanimously elected Joe Jackson as Mayor, filling the vacancy left by former Mayor Puzio. The council also introduced three ordinances, including one creating a new multifamily residential district, and approved a consent agenda with resolutions on tax lien redemption, cannabis retailer support, and vendor authorization. Appointments for two junior firefighters were approved.

• Elected Joe Jackson as Mayor (8-0)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-05 accepting sewer and water utility improvements (8-0)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-06 creating RMF-3 Multifamily Residential District (8-0)
• Introduced Ordinance O-22-07 amending 1989 utility and access easement deeds (8-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax lien redemption, cannabis retailer support, and vendor authorization (8-0)
• Appointed Jack Brennan and Brian Patoir as Junior Firefighters (8-0)
• Approved minutes from January 3 and January 18 meetings (8-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment is meeting to conduct routine business, including approving minutes, hearing public comment, and addressing a variance application. The main item is a public hearing for a 'C' variance at 34 Williams Street (Block 22004 Lot 33).

• Public hearing for BOA #21-35, Cassidy, 34 Williams Street, Block 22004 Lot 33, 'C' variance
• Approval of minutes from January 25, 2022
• Open to the public session

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved a variance request (BOA #21-35) from Mr. and Mrs. Cassidy to add a 420 sq. ft. family room and a 143 sq. ft. master bedroom extension at 34 William Street. The variance was needed because the proposed impervious coverage of 41.6% exceeds the 25% maximum allowed in the R-13 District. The applicant agreed to install a drywell to manage roof runoff. The motion was approved unanimously.

• Approved variance BOA #21-35 for 34 William Street (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 25, 2022 regular meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance application for Beautiful Farms at 91 Jacobs Road, and will consider resolutions for two other variance requests. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as approval of minutes and public comment.

• Public hearing on BOA #21-31: Beautiful Farms, 91 Jacobs Road, Block 40801 Lot 95, for B/C/D variances and minor site plan
• Resolution on BOA #21-36: Shah, 40 Shawnee Avenue, Block 21301 Lot 84, 'C's' variance
• Resolution on BOA #21-11 extension: Ashdyl Properties, 95 Garrison Avenue, Block 10904 Lot 4

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved two variance applications: BOA #21-27 for Shah at 40 Shawnee Avenue and BOA #21-11 for Ashdyl Properties. A public hearing for BOA #21-31 (Beautiful Farms) was postponed due to COVID-19 and expected attendance, to be rescheduled at a larger venue.

• Approved BOA #21-27 Shah 40 Shawnee Avenue 'C's' variance (6-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved BOA #21-11 Ashdyl Properties Block 10904 Lot 4 extension (6-0, 2 abstentions)
• Postponed BOA #21-31 Beautiful Farms public hearing (unanimous)

Township Council

The Rockaway Township Council is holding a regular meeting remotely via Webex, where it will consider adopting four ordinances, including changes to rules for addressing the council, parking restrictions during states of emergency, and salary ordinances for officials and employees. The council will also vote on resolutions, including one to participate in national opioid settlement agreements, and make appointments to the Citizen's Recreation Committee.

• O-22-01: Amends Chapter 2, Section 2-5.14 (Addressing the Council)
• O-22-02: Amends Chapter 7, Section 7-6.2 (Parking Prohibited During a State of Emergency)
• O-22-03: Salary ordinance for non-contractual employees
• O-22-04: Salary ordinance for contractual employees
• R-22-29: Authorizes participation in opioid settlement agreements with Johnson & Johnson, McKesson, Cardinal Health, and AmerisourceBergen

The Rockaway Township Council unanimously adopted four ordinances: amending the administrative code on public comment rules, prohibiting parking during states of emergency, and fixing salaries for non-contractual and contractual employees. The council also approved a consent agenda including participation in nationwide opioid settlement agreements and made appointments to the Citizen's Recreation Committee.

• Adopted O-22-01 amending public comment rules (8-0)
• Adopted O-22-02 amending parking prohibition during state of emergency (8-0)
• Adopted O-22-03 fixing salaries for non-contractual employees (8-0)
• Adopted O-22-04 fixing salaries for contractual employees (8-0)
• Approved consent agenda including opioid settlement participation (8-0)
• Approved appointments to Citizen's Recreation Committee (8-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting to consider several variance applications. The board will vote on resolutions for two 'C' variance requests (Delgado and Hou) and hold public hearings for two additional 'C' variance requests (Cassidy and Shah). The meeting includes standard procedural items such as approval of minutes and public comment.

• BOA #21-32 Delgado, 6 Meadow Drive, Block 10801 Lot 1, 'C' Variance
• BOA #21-33 Hou, 3 High Street, Block 10717 Lot 4, 'C' Variance
• BOA #21-35 Cassidy, 34 William Street, Block 22004 Lot 33, 'C' Variance (public hearing)
• BOA #21-36 Shah, 40 Shawnee Avenue, Block 21301 Lot 84, 'C's' Variance (public hearing)

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment approved three 'C' variance applications at its January 11, 2022 meeting. The Shah application (40 Shawnee Avenue) was approved unanimously, allowing the homeowner to level and extend their backyard with conditions. The Delgado application (6 Meadow Drive) was also approved unanimously. The Hou application (3 High Street) was approved with one dissenting vote (Mr. Loftus). The Cassidy application (34 Williams Street) was carried forward to February 1, 2022.

• Approved Shah variance for backyard leveling at 40 Shawnee Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Delgado variance at 6 Meadow Drive (unanimous)
• Approved Hou variance at 3 High Street (6-1, Loftus dissenting)
• Carried forward Cassidy variance at 34 Williams Street to February 1, 2022
• Approved minutes of December 21, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for payment of professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

This is the annual reorganization meeting of the Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment. The board will elect officers, adopt by-laws and the year-end report, set the 2022 meeting schedule, and appoint attorneys and consultants. No substantive zoning or land-use decisions are on the agenda.

• Election of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary/Second Vice-Chairperson
• Adoption of by-laws and Year End Report
• Setting 2022 meeting schedule
• Appointment of Board attorney and planning consultant
• Establishment of fee for advance meeting notification

The Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment held its 2022 reorganization meeting, electing officers and making appointments. Jason Smolinski was elected Chairperson, Ray Tahan Vice-Chairman, and James Loftus Secretary/Second Vice-Chairman, all unanimously. The board also unanimously adopted by-laws, the year-end report, and the 2022 meeting schedule, and appointed Joseph Bell as Board Attorney and Burgis Associates as Planning Consultant.

• Elected Jason Smolinski as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Ray Tahan as Vice-Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected James Loftus as Secretary/Second Vice-Chairman (unanimous)
• Adopted by-laws (unanimous)
• Adopted year-end report (unanimous)
• Set 2022 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Appointed Joseph Bell as Board Attorney (unanimous)
• Appointed Burgis Associates as Planning Consultant (unanimous)

Planning Board

This is the Rockaway Township Planning Board's annual reorganization meeting. The board will elect officers, adopt by-laws, set the 2022 meeting schedule, and appoint its attorney, consultants, and subcommittees. No substantive land-use decisions are on this agenda.

• Election of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary/Second Vice-Chairperson
• Adoption of by-laws
• Setting 2022 meeting schedule
• Appointment of Board attorney, planning consultant, and recording secretary
• Establishment of fee for advance meeting notification

The Rockaway Township Planning Board held its annual reorganization meeting, swearing in members and unanimously electing Jack Elko as Chairperson, Frank Barilla as Vice-Chairman, and David Washington as Secretary/Second Vice-Chairman. The board unanimously adopted by-laws, set the 2022 meeting schedule, and approved appointments including Burgis Associates as planning consultant and Shelley Kahn as recording secretary. No substantive land-use decisions were made; all actions were procedural.

• Elected Jack Elko as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Frank Barilla as Vice-Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected David Washington as Secretary/Second Vice-Chairman (unanimous)
• Adopted by-laws (unanimous)
• Set 2022 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Appointed Burgis Associates as planning consultant (unanimous)
• Approved $65 fee for advance meeting notification (unanimous)
• Designated The Daily Record and The Citizen as official newspapers (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Rockaway Township Planning Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, correspondence, and resolutions. The main items are two minor site plan applications: PB #2467 for Morris Commons at 600 & 700 Commons Way, and PB #2468 for WPG Rockaway Commons LLC at 367 Mt. Hope Avenue. Formal action may be taken on these items.

• PB #2467: Morris Commons, 600 & 700 Commons Way, Block 22401 Lot 3.06 & 3.07, Minor Site Plan w/Variances
• PB #2468: WPG Rockaway Commons LLC, 367 Mt. Hope Avenue, Block 11001 Lot 11.03, Minor Site Plan
• Approval of minutes from November 15, 2021
• Resolution regarding escrow

The Rockaway Township Planning Board approved two minor site plans: PB #2468 for WPG Rockaway Commons to divide a tenant space into three spaces, and PB #2467 for Morris Commons to replace a sign and add EV parking spaces. Both applications were approved unanimously with all present members voting in favor. The board also approved minutes from November 15, 2021, and a resolution for payment of professional services from escrow accounts.

• Approved PB #2468 minor site plan for WPG Rockaway Commons (unanimous)
• Approved PB #2467 minor site plan with variances for Morris Commons (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 15, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for payment of professional services from escrow accounts (unanimous)

Township Council

The Township Council met to conduct annual reorganization procedures, including the administration of oaths for ward council members and the election of Council President and Vice-President. The agenda also included several mayoral appointments and the introduction of new ordinances.

• Introduction of Ordinance O-22-03 and O-22-04 to fix salaries for various officials and employees
• Introduction of Ordinance O-22-02 regarding parking prohibitions during a State of Emergency
• Election of Council President and Council Vice-President
• Resolution R-22-21 authorizing tax cancellation and refund for 163 West Lake Shore Drive
• Appointment of various committee members, coordinators, and liaisons

The Rockaway Township Council held its 2022 reorganization meeting, electing Councilman Jackson as Council President and Councilman Sackett as Vice President. The council approved the 2022 meeting schedule, adopted a consent agenda (excluding one tabled resolution), and confirmed numerous mayoral and council appointments, including the Township Attorney, Auditor, and various board members. Four ordinances were introduced, and several resolutions were approved.

• Elected Councilman Jackson as Council President (9-0)
• Elected Councilman Sackett as Council Vice President (9-0)
• Adopted 2022 Annual Meeting Schedule as amended (9-0)
• Approved Mayor's appointments including Affordable Housing Officer, Township Attorney, Labor Counsel, Bond Counsel, Municipal Prosecutor, Public Defender, and Citizen's Recreation Committee (all 9-0 or 8-0 with one absent)
• Appointed Nisivoccia & Company, LLP as Auditor (8-0, one absent)
• Appointed Susan Royek to Board of Adjustment (9-0)
• Appointed Jack Quinn to Planning Board Class III (9-0)
• Approved consent agenda excluding R-22-01 (9-0); tabled R-22-01 due to broken link