OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Meeting - September 30, 2025

Township Council — Tuesday, September 30, 2025
BodyFranklin Township, New Jersey
SessionTownship Council
DateTuesday, September 30, 2025
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 2:32:50

Transcript — Verbatim
0:03

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 meeting would take place at the municipal building at 7 p.m.

0:17

on Tuesday, September 30th, 2025.

0:20

Thank you.

0:21

If we could all stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation by Councilmember Pataznik.

0:28

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.

0:33

And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

0:45

If there is to be peace in the world, there must be peace in the nations.

0:50

If there is to be peace in the nations, there must be peace in the cities.

0:54

If there's to be peace in the cities, there must be peace between neighbors.

1:00

If there is to be peace between neighbors, there must be peace in the home.

1:06

If there is peace in the home, there must be peace in the heart.

1:13

Amen.

1:25

Okay.

1:30

Councilman Everison.

1:32

Councilwoman Francois.

1:34

Councilman Carazi.

1:36

Here.

1:36

Mayor Kramer.

1:37

Here.

1:38

Councilman Oni Jaka.

1:39

Here.

1:40

Councilmember Pataznik.

1:41

Present.

1:42

Deputy Mayor Udine.

1:43

Here.

1:43

Councilman Vasanella?

1:45

Here.

1:45

Councilman Wright.

1:47

We are on to item number five on the agenda.

1:50

Copies of the agenda are available near the clerk.

1:54

We're on to commendations and proclamations.

1:58

And the Save a Life Proclamation by Councilmember Carazi and Vassanella.

2:13

Good evening, everyone.

2:15

I see a few people that they maybe are here for this proclamation.

2:20

So please come forward.

2:22

Anybody is here for this.

2:26

Then I guess we'll introduce yourself later on after our read the proclamation.

2:34

Okay.

2:35

Safe for Life Day, September 25, 2025, whereas the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics Provisionally reported 80,391.

2:53

Let me repeat that 80,391 drug overdose death in the United States in 2024.

3:02

And whereas Save a Life Day was established in West Virginia as a pilot in 2020 and has increased in capacity each year.

3:13

And whereas in 2024, Somerset County participated in Save a Life Day and distributed over 640 naloxin kits in one single day to residents contributing to the overall success of the event.

3:32

Thirty-five states participated and collectively distributed over 84,000 nanoxin doses and whereas Narcan is defined.

3:57

And whereas on September 25, 2025, all the states in the United States were invited to participate in the first ever National Day of Free Naloxone, and whereas Save a Life Day will be held on the fourth Thursday of September every year.

4:17

Now therefore, be it resolved that the Franklin Township mayor and the council do here bar proclaim September 25th, 2025 as Save a Life Day.

4:29

The mayor and the council recognize the significance of saving lives and continue to support all efforts to equip our community with life is life-saving devices such as Narcan.

4:43

And with me, we have uh actually three ladies that I know them.

4:49

And uh here, Donna Lisi, she is the director or chair of uh advisory board of health.

5:00

And we have uh Phyllis Beale, who is the champion, and I believe the lead for so forth is take about free.

5:05

Well, with with Safe.

5:07

But I'm also here as should be talking into the mic.

5:10

Here, why don't you talk into the mic?

5:12

We have our co-chairs of our stigma free council, our chair of advisory health.

5:17

Um to the mic and please.

5:21

Hi, my name is Safi Callan.

5:22

I'm the special projects manager for the township of Franklin as well as the co-chair for the Stigma Free Council.

5:29

Um for Save a Life Day.

5:32

We talked about how there's a free distribution of Narcan.

5:36

Uh, we also have that same distribution here in the municipal building.

5:40

So those that are in need and those that know others are in need can get free NARCAN over at the counter with no questions asked.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Animal Welfare█████████████13%
Procedural█████████9%
Public Safety█████████9%
Environmental Protection█████████9%
Public Health███████7%
Public Engagement██████6%
Open Space██████6%
Mental Health Awareness█████5%
Traffic Safety█████5%
Summary of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Meeting - September 30, 2025

The Franklin Township Council held a regular meeting on September 30, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Mayor Phillip Kramer presided. All seven present members voted on items, with Councilmembers Anbarasan and Francois absent. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, adoption of three ordinances on second reading, introduction of six ordinances, and a 23-item consent agenda.

Commendations & Proclamations

  • Save a Life Day Proclamation: Recognized September 25, 2025 as Save a Life Day. Noted 80,391 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2024 (CDC provisional data); Somerset County distributed over 640 naloxone kits in one day in 2024; 35 states collectively distributed over 84,000 naloxone doses. The proclamation was presented by Councilmembers Kharazi and Vassanella.
  • Fire Prevention Week Proclamation: Deputy Mayor Uddin presented a proclamation declaring October 5-11, 2025 as Fire Prevention Week with the theme "Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home". Emphasized safe use, charging, and disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Phyllis Beals (6 Alma Court): Requested formation of an Opiate Settlement Funds Advisory Committee to recommend disbursement of opioid settlement funds. Stated the Municipal Alliance Committee passed a motion for this on September 23, 2025.
  • Barbara Burns (Haverhill Place): Complained about tractor-trailers parking behind the gym at Cedar Grove Center, causing noise and diesel fumes. Requested an ordinance to prohibit truck parking in shopping plazas adjacent to residences.
  • Debra Inman (67 Roberts Road): Complained about a rooster crowing all day on Phillips Road, stating it violates the ordinance prohibiting roosters in residential areas. Expressed frustration with lack of enforcement.
  • Benjamin Guy (35 Patton Drive): Announced October events by Sister2Sister, including a breast cancer walk, and inquired about the Township's Workforce Program.
  • Patrick Murray (11 Hughes Road): Questioned the status of the warehouse development ban and the possibility of a draft ordinance allowing warehouses back. Also asked about impact fees for warehouses.
  • Michele Peterson (66 Wilson Road): Raised multiple concerns: one-party governance on boards/commissions; alleged requirement to switch parties for a planning board appointment; delays in OPRA requests (noting $1.2 million paid to Schaefer and Jellow over 10 years); vendor fees allegedly not paid by Democrats; and possible conflict of interest regarding Councilmember Potosnak's role with the League of Conservation Voters and the generator ordinance.
  • Deanna Luchs (51 Patriots Way): Questioned emergency response time and the number of ambulances serving the township (stated only two).
  • Beverly Lawson (2004 Amwell Road): Reported a large pothole/crater on Churchill Avenue and asked if there is an ordinance requiring contractors to fill holes after road cuts. Also asked about signage for former businesses displaying old names.
  • Javahn Walker (15 Kuhn Street): Asked if the Township could increase fines for passing stopped school buses.
  • Resident from Bridgewater: Spoke in favor of a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program for community cats, suggesting models used in other municipalities.
  • Resident from Hillsborough: Also spoke about TNR and urged removal of the one-hour feeding time restriction in the cat colony ordinance.

Discussion Items

  • Councilmember Wright: Supported breast cancer awareness events; clarified that the Township does not build affordable housing but redevelopers do, funded from the trust fund. Also conducted a tax information presentation showing municipal levy unchanged while school budget added $14 million.
  • Councilmember Potosnak: Thanked the mayor and deputy mayor for the fossil fuel generator ordinance, calling it the first in the state. Defended clean energy and electric vehicles as cost-saving. Reported on the Griggstown Causeway transportation improvements resolution, supporting Alternative 2A with traffic signals and stop signs.
  • Councilmember Vassanella: Reported police reminders to lock doors; announced the upcoming prestigious dog show at Colonial Park; noted a hearing about Sunoco underground pipelines and valve apparatus; updated on Castleton Park reforestation project; and mentioned a grant for the forestry management plan.
  • Councilmember Onyejiaka: Raised speeding complaints on Westminster Road, but Township Manager clarified it is a private road and the Township cannot enforce. Announced a meeting on October 2 with Countryside regarding issues in Meadow Hills, Garden Hills, and Rolling Stone areas.
  • Councilmember Kharazi: Announced the Environmental Commission will receive an Environmental Achievement Award from ANJEC for the community energy plan and microbility study. Reported on a golf outing for the Food Bank (one in seven residents use it) and a Senior Citizen Advisory Committee meeting discussing improvements to the Senior Center. Invited the public to the Advisory Board of Health meeting with speaker Kate Russo.
  • Deputy Mayor Uddin: Updated on Martino Drive roadwork, noting traffic is maintained but residents may prefer closure due to detour traffic from New Brunswick Road. Stated council will continue providing tax information.
  • Mayor Kramer: Announced the Mayor's Wellness Campaign supports Dance for the Cure's Tie the Town Pink initiative, placing pink ribbons on trees at the municipal complex.

Township Manager's Report

  • Robert Vornlocker announced municipal employment opportunities: basketball coaches for youth programs, part-time instructors for Forever 55 programs (music, dance, yoga, etc.), and entry-level positions including 911 telecommunicator, account clerk, laborer, and more. All positions are open until filled.

Consent Calendar

(All 23 consent agenda resolutions were approved unanimously by roll call vote.)

  • Resolution #25-403: Authorize execution of CWA Local 1036 contract (Jan 1, 2022 - Dec 31, 2026).
  • Resolution #25-404: Authorize execution of PBA Local 154 contract (Jan 1, 2024 - Dec 31, 2028).
  • Resolution #25-405: Authorize tax title lien redemptions totaling $226,871.98.
  • Resolution #25-406: Authorize refund of tax and water overpayments ($13,186.89 tax; $3,739.55 water).
  • Resolution #25-407: Adjust water charges for hardship leak credits ($203.12 and $196.77).
  • Resolution #25-408: Release performance guarantee (winter bond) $750.00 to Sangeeta Prasad.
  • Resolution #25-409: Release plan review escrow $5,717.02 to CRP/CHI Veronica Avenue Owner LLC.
  • Resolution #25-410: Authorize refund of construction water meter escrows ($731.26, $2,925.00, $950.00).
  • Resolution #25-411: Authorize competitive contracting for online auction.
  • Resolution #25-412: Award state contract for 10 Panasonic tablets ($44,990).
  • Resolution #25-413: Award state contract for 2025 Ford F150 outfitting ($21,419.36).
  • Resolution #25-414: Award cooperative purchase for GOVQA software renewal ($33,859.40 for one year).
  • Resolution #25-415: Award bid for sidewalk replacement at Town Hall ($53,500.00 to Cifelli and Sons).
  • Resolution #25-416: Award bid for appraisal services for open space (three firms, up to $20,000 each).
  • Resolution #25-417: Amend competitive contract for recreation and enrichment programs ($400,000).
  • Resolution #25-418: Authorize final change order - sidewalk/curb installation Prospect Area (increase to $442,812.05).
  • Resolution #25-419: Authorize final change order - MacAfee Water Main Replacement (decrease to $1,449,281.00).
  • Resolution #25-420: Authorize CDBG housing rehabilitation change order at 4 Holly Street (increase $1,000).
  • Resolution #25-421: Amend Resolution #25-197 for Route 27 Services change order (increase to $619,691.17).
  • Resolution #25-422: Authorize fireworks display at The Palace at Somerset Park on October 17, 2025.
  • Resolution #25-423: Support Preliminary Preferred Alternative for transportation improvements near Griggstown Causeway (Alternative 2A).

Key Outcomes

  • Ordinances Adopted on Second Reading (unanimous votes):
    • Ordinance No. 4474-25: Rezone lots from General Business (G-B) to R-7 Single Family Residential.
    • Ordinance No. 4476-25: Amend water rates and meter charges for apartment complexes (correcting a clerical error).
    • Ordinance No. 4477-25: Amend police promotion procedures for Sergeant and Lieutenant.
  • Ordinances Introduced on First Reading (unanimous votes): Public hearings scheduled for October 14, 2025 (4478-4482) and October 28, 2025 (4483).
    • Ordinances 4478/4479: Authorize acquisition and appropriation of West Point Avenue properties ($742,600 from Open Space Trust Fund).
    • Ordinances 4480/4481: Authorize acquisition and appropriation of Brenner Property ($3,067,000 from Open Space Trust Fund).
    • Ordinance 4482: Accept conservation easement from Jeffrey J. Carter at 179 Cedar Grove Lane.
    • Ordinance 4483: Add Chapter 198 to prohibit routine use of fossil fuel-powered generators (first such ordinance in NJ).
  • Approval of Warrants: $22,632,813.46 for September 30, 2025, approved unanimously.
  • Consent Agenda: All 23 resolutions approved unanimously.

Meeting Transcript

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 meeting would take place at the municipal building at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30th, 2025. Thank you. If we could all stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation by Councilmember Pataznik. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. If there is to be peace in the world, there must be peace in the nations. If there is to be peace in the nations, there must be peace in the cities. If there's to be peace in the cities, there must be peace between neighbors. If there is to be peace between neighbors, there must be peace in the home. If there is peace in the home, there must be peace in the heart. Amen. Okay. Councilman Everison. Councilwoman Francois. Councilman Carazi. Here. Mayor Kramer. Here. Councilman Oni Jaka. Here. Councilmember Pataznik. Present. Deputy Mayor Udine. Here. Councilman Vasanella? Here. Councilman Wright. We are on to item number five on the agenda. Copies of the agenda are available near the clerk. We're on to commendations and proclamations. And the Save a Life Proclamation by Councilmember Carazi and Vassanella. Good evening, everyone. I see a few people that they maybe are here for this proclamation. So please come forward. Anybody is here for this. Then I guess we'll introduce yourself later on after our read the proclamation. Okay. Safe for Life Day, September 25, 2025, whereas the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics Provisionally reported 80,391. Let me repeat that 80,391 drug overdose death in the United States in 2024. And whereas Save a Life Day was established in West Virginia as a pilot in 2020 and has increased in capacity each year. And whereas in 2024, Somerset County participated in Save a Life Day and distributed over 640 naloxin kits in one single day to residents contributing to the overall success of the event. Thirty-five states participated and collectively distributed over 84,000 nanoxin doses and whereas Narcan is defined. And whereas on September 25, 2025, all the states in the United States were invited to participate in the first ever National Day of Free Naloxone, and whereas Save a Life Day will be held on the fourth Thursday of September every year. Now therefore, be it resolved that the Franklin Township mayor and the council do here bar proclaim September 25th, 2025 as Save a Life Day. The mayor and the council recognize the significance of saving lives and continue to support all efforts to equip our community with life is life-saving devices such as Narcan. And with me, we have uh actually three ladies that I know them. And uh here, Donna Lisi, she is the director or chair of uh advisory board of health. And we have uh Phyllis Beale, who is the champion, and I believe the lead for so forth is take about free. Well, with with Safe.

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