OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Regular Meeting – April 9, 2024

Township Council — Tuesday, April 9, 2024
BodyFranklin Township, New Jersey
SessionTownship Council
DateTuesday, April 9, 2024
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 1:56:58

Transcript — Verbatim
0:00

Madam Clerk.

0:02

In accordance with the open public meeting act of the state of New Jersey, adequate notice of this work session regular meeting of the Franklin Township Council was made as required, indicating that this work session regular meeting would take place at the municipal building at 7 p.m.

0:16

on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024.

0:27

Pledge allegiance to the O God, the creator and the redeemer of all the faithful, hear our supplications and through the infinite love and mercy, graciously grant us the strength and the power in our thought and decision to be for the benefit of all at all times.

1:12

Councilman Embarrison.

1:14

Here, Councilwoman Francois here.

1:16

Councilman Karazi, Mayor Kramer.

1:19

Here.

1:19

Councilman Oni Jaka.

1:21

Yeah.

1:21

Deputy Mayor Petaznik.

1:23

Present.

1:23

Councilwoman Udine.

1:25

Councilman Vassanova.

1:27

Councilman Wright.

1:31

Commendations and proclamations.

1:33

Grand number five of the agenda.

1:35

There are copies of the agenda up there.

1:40

We have a commendation by Councilman Embarrasson.

2:05

They teach that at manager school.

2:10

It's an elective class.

2:18

Good evening.

2:20

So today we are going to recognize a young author who goes to Franklin High School.

2:29

And this is his second book.

2:37

So is mine, which is Tamil, spoken in India, state of Tamil Nadu.

2:42

So he has translated the book, a series of short stories, and that is out on Amazon.

2:50

Is it an Amazon?

2:52

Okay, yeah.

2:52

It's an Amazon.

2:53

Yeah, yeah.

2:55

Oh, in our library, yeah, he they donated a book for to the library as well.

2:59

So uh congratulations to Ilan Kadir.

3:02

So I have a commendation for him uh to encourage him to write more books, uh, more to come, all right.

3:09

Uh whereas achievement knows no age and the pursuit of knowledge and creativity is boundless, and whereas the written word has a power to inspire, educate, and transform lives, bridging gaps and fostering understanding across diverse communities, and whereas it is with great pride and admiration that we recognize the remarkable accomplishment of Vilanga de Ilamaran, a Franklin High School student who has demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and creativity in publishing the egg-eyed chameleon.

3:45

And whereas through their remarkable literary work, Ilan Gadir has not only showcased uh his talent and passion, but has also served as an inspiration to peers and aspiring writers everywhere, proving that perseverance and hard work, dreams can be turned into reality.

4:06

And whereas Ilan Gadir has exemplified the values of creativity, determination, and excellence, embodying the spirit of innovation and intellectual curiosity that we seek to foster and celebrate in our educational institutions.

4:24

And whereas their achievement serves as a testament to the supportive environment and quality education provided by Franklin High School, nurturing the talents and aspirations of this of its students and empowering them to reach new heights of success.

4:40

Now, therefore, we councilman Raman Barrison and Mayor Philip Kramer on behalf of the Township Council do here by to hereby commend and celebrate Ilan Kadir Ilamaran for his outstanding achievement in publishing the Egg Guide Chameleon and extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for continued success in his future endeavors, knowing that he will continue to inspire and enrich the world with a creativity, passion, and unique voice.

5:31

Thank you so much for this proclamation.

5:33

And yeah, that's it.

6:08

Okay, good evening, everyone.

6:10

You're probably wondering, there's a whole lot going on here today, right?

6:13

What's going on?

6:15

So today we have a proclamation for volunteerism month, which happens to be April is the month for us to honor volunteers.

6:24

So how about we have our students come up here from the youth council?

6:31

I'm gonna read the proclamation.

6:42

Might want to take a line up front so everybody can see you.

6:45

You can get your picture in the newspaper.

6:50

It's so really nice to have our young people here with us today.

7:02

So our youth council has been around with our recreation department for a long time.

7:08

And we now also have them involved with the youth center.

7:12

Um was it when was Diwali?

7:16

Back in October of last year, Councilman Warhamberson uh did some commendations for for the youth council, but they were not able to make it.

7:26

They had a lot going on during the school year.

7:28

And so we thought it was best that we honor them and have them come in because this happens to be April, which is volunteerism month, and they do a lot of volunteerism.

7:39

So we wanted to acknowledge them, hand them their commendations when they weren't able to be here back in October.

7:46

And Councilman uh Roman will talk all about that.

7:49

So I'll read the proclamation.

7:50

It says, whereas volunteers are the heart and soul of our communities, dedicating their time, skills, and compassion to make a positive difference in the lives of others, whereas volunteers selflessly contribute their talents and resources to address pressing needs, support vulnerable populations, and promote the common good, embodying the spirit of service and generosity.

8:14

This is what our young people are doing every day.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Land Development█████████████13%
Traffic Safety██████████10%
Procedural█████████9%
Youth Programs████████8%
Public Engagement████████8%
Budget Equity Analysis███████7%
Taxation███████7%
Public Works██████6%
Cannabis Regulation██████6%
Summary of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Regular Meeting – April 9, 2024

The Franklin Township Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the municipal building. The agenda included commendations, public comment, introduction of the CY2024 municipal budget, public hearings on several ordinances, and a series of resolutions. Notable outcomes include the failure of an ordinance to remove liquor license location restrictions (receiving only four affirmative votes, short of the required five) and the approval of a $300,000 construction trade training program with the Board of Education contingent on enrollment.

Commendations & Proclamations

  • Elangkathir Elamaran Commendation: Councilman Anbarasan recognized Franklin High School student Elangkathir Elamaran for authoring the book The Egg-eyed Chameleon, his second publication. The commendation praised his literary achievement and donation of a book to the library.
  • National Volunteer Appreciation Month Proclamation: Councilwoman Francois read the proclamation and honored members of the Franklin Youth Council for their volunteer work, including contributing over 100 hours annually and organizing events like a volleyball tournament for 54 kids.
  • National Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation: Mayor Kramer read the proclamation; no representative was present to accept it.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Carol Peterson (Lake Avenue): Complained about a neighbor violating multiple ordinances (parking on blocks, idling vehicles, loud noise). She urged enforcement and suggested providing new residents with translated rule sheets.
  • Benjamin Garrett (35 Patent Drive): Announced a state/local government job fair on April 18 at Mercer County College and Assemblyman Danielson's job fair on April 24. He criticized the township for not investing early in workforce programs, advocating for use of county and state funds for job placement and infrastructure.
  • Princeton Highlands Resident (23 Princeton Highlands): Asked for a timeline on the pedestrian signal at Route 27 and Princeton Highlands Blvd. The manager explained that a traffic warrant analysis and signal design cannot proceed until the budget is adopted in mid-May.
  • Bo Connell (25 Spring Street): Expressed support for the construction trade training program with the Board of Education, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for non-college-bound students.
  • Tracy Wayne (130 Alcorn Street): Requested a four-way stop sign at Arden Street and Gerard Avenue due to speeding and past fatalities. The manager directed her to contact Sergeant Rakes in the Traffic Safety Bureau.
  • Recycling bin issue: Ms. Wayne also asked why some areas have larger recycling bins. The manager explained that Somerset County is expanding its automated collection fleet and that smaller bins are available at 40 Churchill Avenue.

Discussion Items

  • CY2024 Municipal Budget Introduction: Township Manager Vornlocker presented the $3.744 million (5.65%) increase over 2023. Key drivers: health insurance (+$1.36M/17.4%), pension/SS (+$180K/2.4%), debt service (+$258K/8.16%), library tax (+$307K/6.87%). The amount to be raised by taxes increases 6% to $37.99M. The average home value rose 8.15% to $477,100, leading to a municipal tax increase of $80.77 (to $1,215.61). Use of fund balance ($9.3M) kept the increase lower. The budget was formally introduced (Resolution #24-132) and a public hearing set for May 14, 2024. Vote: unanimous.
  • Ordinance 4432-24 (Lead-Based Paint Inspections): Public hearing held. A resident asked about the fee ($250 per unit for landlords). Adopted unanimously.
  • Ordinance 4433-24 (Cultural Arts Council Alternate Members): Adopted unanimously.
  • Ordinance 4434-24 (Remove Liquor License Location Restrictions): Extensive public comment from liquor store owners (Scarlet Knight, Bottle Republic, Hidden Lake) who opposed the change, arguing it would devalue their investments and give an unfair advantage to a new license holder. Council discussion noted only one additional D license is available (total of nine) and that removing the 2000-foot restriction would increase license value. Adoption failed: 4 yes (Francois, Kramer, Onyejiaka, Pataznik), 1 present (Anbarasan), 1 no (Wright) – short of required five affirmative votes.
  • Ordinance 4435-24 (Submission Checklists Amendment): Revised checklists to conform with digital/online submission software. Introduced and passed on first reading; public hearing set for April 23, 2024.
  • Ordinance 4436-24 (Rezone Supra Court Lots): Corrects prior oversight to rezone five lots from RR-3 to R-10A. Introduced and passed on first reading; public hearing set for May 14, 2024.
  • Ordinance 4437-24 (Renaissance Redevelopment Area Rezoning): Removed from agenda by motion earlier in the meeting.

Key Outcomes

  • Budget Introduction (Resolution #24-132): Passed unanimously; public hearing May 14.
  • Lead-Based Paint Ordinance (4432-24): Adopted.
  • Cultural Arts Council Ordinance (4433-24): Adopted.
  • Liquor License Location Restriction Repeal (4434-24): Failed (4-1-1).
  • Submission Checklists Ordinance (4435-24): Introduced and passed first reading.
  • Supra Court Rezoning Ordinance (4436-24): Introduced and passed first reading.
  • Consent Agenda (Resolutions #24-133 through #24-149): Approved unanimously, including awards for GASB 75 valuation, medical TPA (Aetna, up to $1.4M), SCADA maintenance, generator purchase, tables/benches for Grosso Grove, handicap table, change order for trailer, CDBG rehab contract, special event permits (Sri Ramanuja Mission, Tour de Franklin, PDA showcases), online auction, fireworks display, and newsletter contract.
  • Construction Trade Training Program (Resolution #24-150): Approved as amended, contingent on confirmation of at least 20 student enrollments by June 15, 2024. $300,000 from American Rescue Plan funds. Vote: 6-0 (Wright absent? Actually all present voted yes on the amended resolution).
  • Special Event Permit – Leaf Haus (Resolution #24-152): Approved unanimously.
  • Appointments: Karen Trotman Beltman and Eugene Stevens appointed to the Recreation Advisory Committee for terms ending 2026.
  • Executive Session: Council voted to enter executive session (Resolution #24-151) to discuss potential farmland preservation acquisition at 122 Mettlers Road, Somerset.

Meeting Transcript

Madam Clerk. In accordance with the open public meeting act of the state of New Jersey, adequate notice of this work session regular meeting of the Franklin Township Council was made as required, indicating that this work session regular meeting would take place at the municipal building at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024. Pledge allegiance to the O God, the creator and the redeemer of all the faithful, hear our supplications and through the infinite love and mercy, graciously grant us the strength and the power in our thought and decision to be for the benefit of all at all times. Councilman Embarrison. Here, Councilwoman Francois here. Councilman Karazi, Mayor Kramer. Here. Councilman Oni Jaka. Yeah. Deputy Mayor Petaznik. Present. Councilwoman Udine. Councilman Vassanova. Councilman Wright. Commendations and proclamations. Grand number five of the agenda. There are copies of the agenda up there. We have a commendation by Councilman Embarrasson. They teach that at manager school. It's an elective class. Good evening. So today we are going to recognize a young author who goes to Franklin High School. And this is his second book. So is mine, which is Tamil, spoken in India, state of Tamil Nadu. So he has translated the book, a series of short stories, and that is out on Amazon. Is it an Amazon? Okay, yeah. It's an Amazon. Yeah, yeah. Oh, in our library, yeah, he they donated a book for to the library as well. So uh congratulations to Ilan Kadir. So I have a commendation for him uh to encourage him to write more books, uh, more to come, all right. Uh whereas achievement knows no age and the pursuit of knowledge and creativity is boundless, and whereas the written word has a power to inspire, educate, and transform lives, bridging gaps and fostering understanding across diverse communities, and whereas it is with great pride and admiration that we recognize the remarkable accomplishment of Vilanga de Ilamaran, a Franklin High School student who has demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and creativity in publishing the egg-eyed chameleon. And whereas through their remarkable literary work, Ilan Gadir has not only showcased uh his talent and passion, but has also served as an inspiration to peers and aspiring writers everywhere, proving that perseverance and hard work, dreams can be turned into reality. And whereas Ilan Gadir has exemplified the values of creativity, determination, and excellence, embodying the spirit of innovation and intellectual curiosity that we seek to foster and celebrate in our educational institutions. And whereas their achievement serves as a testament to the supportive environment and quality education provided by Franklin High School, nurturing the talents and aspirations of this of its students and empowering them to reach new heights of success. Now, therefore, we councilman Raman Barrison and Mayor Philip Kramer on behalf of the Township Council do here by to hereby commend and celebrate Ilan Kadir Ilamaran for his outstanding achievement in publishing the Egg Guide Chameleon and extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for continued success in his future endeavors, knowing that he will continue to inspire and enrich the world with a creativity, passion, and unique voice. Thank you so much for this proclamation. And yeah, that's it. Okay, good evening, everyone. You're probably wondering, there's a whole lot going on here today, right? What's going on? So today we have a proclamation for volunteerism month, which happens to be April is the month for us to honor volunteers. So how about we have our students come up here from the youth council? I'm gonna read the proclamation. Might want to take a line up front so everybody can see you. You can get your picture in the newspaper. It's so really nice to have our young people here with us today. So our youth council has been around with our recreation department for a long time.

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