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OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD

Record of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council October 28, 2025: SNAP Funding, Generator Ban, Redevelopment

Township Council — Tuesday, October 28, 2025

BodyFranklin Township, New Jersey

SessionTownship Council

DateTuesday, October 28, 2025

StatusFILED

Video Record

0:00 / 2:11:53

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0:01

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.

0:14

on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

0:19

Thank you.

0:20

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

0:28

Pledge allegiance to the flag.

0:38

It is as we excuse me, if everybody can remain standing, please.

0:54

As we gather here today as members of the Franklin Township Council, we pray that we are ever mindful of all opportunities to render our service to our fellow citizens and to our entire community, keeping in mind always the enduring values of life, exerting our efforts in those areas and those things upon which future generations can build with confidence.

1:17

Let us continue to strive to make a better world.

1:22

Amen.

1:28

Madam Clerk, please call the roll.

1:30

Councilman Embarrasson.

1:32

Here.

1:32

Councilwoman Francois.

1:34

Councilman Carazi.

1:35

Present.

1:36

Mayor Kramer.

1:37

Here.

1:37

Councilman O'Nijaka.

1:39

Here.

1:39

Councilmember Patosnik.

1:41

Deputy Mayor Udine.

1:43

Oh.

1:43

Councilman Vassanella.

1:45

Here.

1:45

Councilman Wright.

1:47

So I finagled the uh agenda a little bit.

1:51

And we have some visiting dignitaries and completely out of protocol and having Mr.

1:57

LeCourt present them.

2:05

Washington.

2:07

Good evening.

2:07

I'm Bob LaCor, Chairman of the Franklin 250 committee forum to celebrate Franklin Township's role in the American Revolution as we approach its 250th anniversary in 2026.

2:23

Here's something truly special.

2:26

Franklin Township has been recognized as one of the 60 victory towns, and 200 nationally.

2:33

That designation honors communities that played a vital role in the historic 700-mile march to Yorktown, and Franklin Township was right in the heart of it.

2:47

Our committee of 19 members has been working tired of tirelessly to bring the legacy to life.

2:54

I elected recognize each of them tonight, alphabetical order.

2:58

Barbara Breckley, Jay Bird, Bill Karlstatt, Nick Nabigdale, Brad Fay, Bill Grippo, Bob Hoodak, Randy Jones, Chris Kelly, Mayor Phil Kramer, George Luck, Glenn McParlan, Terry Sergio, Councilman James Vassanella, Jennifer Welch, employees who have been great, Isaiah Amila, Stephen Dahl, Krista Haginas, Safi Clanon.

3:29

As Franklin Day, the residents met George Washington, heard a fife and drum, watched Matthew Rispolo, carry General Washington's flag, and you posed with General, you walked away with your own copy of the Declaration of Independence.

3:45

Today's Franklin 250 history was with a handshake.

3:51

We also have commemorative coins designed to bring our own that are unique to Franklin.

4:00

Glenn McParland was a designer of those coins.

4:03

The beautiful keepsakes that honor our local history, and they've already sparked excitement across the community.

4:11

Starting this January, we'll host events every month leading up to the big anniversary.

4:16

Each one is designed to be educational and interactive and give residents a glimpse of the life of Franklin Township 250 years ago.

4:28

You can find all the upcoming events and historical highlights on Franklin's page, on Franklin's 250 page on the Township website.

4:38

We invite everyone to join us, whether you're history buff or just curious about the past that shaped our present.

4:46

Before I do, I'd like to introduce someone who's helped bring Franklin's revolutionary revolutionary legacy to life, Brad Fay of Grigstown, the living historian and spark behind Franklin's march into America's 250.

5:01

Brad has brought two special guests with him tonight.

5:05

And I've been told if I say these words, open a door to the past, something special may happen.

5:22

I'm gradually to uh give something to and read something to the council.

5:34

Thank you.

5:34

Let me just begin by introducing Generals Washington and Rochambeau, portrayed by two local men who uh have been studying this for a very long time and who bring a really authentic look and knowledge to the role.

5:51

Um and it's particularly appropriate that they should be with me here today.

5:55

Um and I just also want to acknowledge up on the screen there we have a picture from Franklin Day where we really launched all of this with some of the same reenactors, a great group of people that were there.

6:07

It's the beginning of a very exciting year for a town like Franklin that has so many different connections to the American Revolution, and I'd like to start by focusing on the one that involves these two generals.

6:20

Um I am regularly working with an organization called the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route Association.

6:28

It's a mouthful, so we abbreviate it by W3R.

6:33

And uh today we're presenting a letter to the council about the history of the trail that passes through Franklin Township.

6:44

And I'd like to read that letter because I think it describes for you a really great moment in the history of Franklin Township.

6:50

And if township manager wouldn't mind also clicking to the next picture, I'll sh I'll show you uh the map uh as well.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting

Food Insecurity█████████████████17%

Procedural████████████████16%

Environmental Protection██████████████14%

Public Engagement█████████████13%

Veterans Recognition██████████10%

Public Safety██████████10%

Historic Preservation██████6%

Religious Land Use████4%

Public Health████4%

Summary of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Meeting – October 28, 2025

The Franklin Township Council held a work session and regular meeting on October 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Key actions included emergency funding for the Franklin Food Bank amid an impending SNAP benefit disruption, unanimous adoption of a groundbreaking ordinance to restrict fossil-fuel generators, and designation of a redevelopment area. The meeting also featured proclamations, public comments, and resolutions on consent.

Consent Calendar

Minutes (June 11, 2024; April 8, 2025; October 14, 2025) – Approved unanimously.
Warrants – $18,216,389.57 approved unanimously.
Consent Agenda Resolutions (Items A through P, as listed on the agenda) – Adopted unanimously. These included:
- Resolution #25-446: Supporting Green Acres diversion for Sunoco pipeline valve replacement at Castleton Park (0.14 acres).
- Resolution #25-449: Authorizing tax title lien redemptions.
- Resolution #25-450: Refunding tax and water overpayments.
- Resolution #25-451: Adjusting water charges for hardship leaks (three properties).
- Resolutions #25-452, #25-453: Releasing inspection escrows to St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church and I Heller Construction Company.
- Resolution #25-454: Refunding construction water meter escrow to Williams Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company.
- Resolution #25-455: Awarding bid for water department supplies to Core & Main LP (not to exceed $800,000/year).
- Resolution #25-456: Awarding state contract for copier lease for Police Community Relations Bureau to Ricoh USA Inc. ($5,520 over 4 years).
- Resolutions #25-457, #25-458: Approving final change orders for Canal Road guiderail (increase to $58,560) and Van Doren Area resurfacing (increase to $735,025.64).
- Resolution #25-459: Authorizing competitive contracting for road survey and asset software.
- Resolution #25-460: Issuing special event permit for Got Your Six Dispensary Veterans Day event (November 8, 2025).
- Resolution #25-461: Authorizing developer agreement with Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity to construct up to 8 affordable housing units on various township-owned properties.
- Resolution #25-462: Authorizing competitive contracting for insurance broker.
- Resolution #25-463: Authorizing grant application for OJJDP mentoring for youth affected by opioid/substance use.
Resolution #25-466: Forming the Municipal Alliance Opiate Funds Advisory Subcommittee – Adopted unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

Eugene Waltz (resident since 1972): Questioned paying school taxes without school-age children. Mayor Kramer responded that funding schools benefits society and criticized property taxes as a funding mechanism, advocating for a means-based tax; referenced a recent press event supporting a study to end property tax funding for schools.
Jan Brant (22 Bryant Court, Republican candidate for Ward 2): Addressed a mischaracterization in a local report and on Deputy Mayor Uddin’s Facebook page, clarifying she opposes warehouses sited next to residential areas and aims to run a positive campaign. Deputy Mayor Uddin responded that she remains accessible to constituents.
Robin Suydam (55 Skillmans Lane, Vice Chair, Environmental Commission): Expressed strong support for the generator ordinance and asked whether it would limit facilities to one generator for emergency use. She hoped for unanimous passage.
Rutgers Student (575 Easton Avenue): Asked about enforcement of the generator ordinance (complaints, inspections, or other). Officials stated enforcement ties to building permits and Certificates of Occupancy; complaints would be investigated by zoning.
John Stone (510 Hamilton Street): Asked about advance timelines and notices for road work. Township Manager Vornlocker noted all paving work is listed on the website, alerts sent via Nixle, and no parking signs posted locally.
Robin Roberts (15 Benjamin Street): Commended the No Kings protest and requested an update on the nuisance ordinance litigation. Township Attorney Rainone stated that if a court decision is issued, the Council will review it, and the Council remains committed to the ordinance and filing an appeal if needed.

Discussion Items

SNAP Crisis and Emergency Food Bank Funding – Derek Smith, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Bank, presented an urgent appeal: On November 1, 2025, SNAP benefits are expected not to arrive for thousands of families. Of 11,480 SNAP-receiving families in Somerset County, 3,603 (30%) reside in Franklin Township. The Food Bank distributes 3.5 million pounds of food annually and serves 100–120 families daily, but expects a surge to 200–300 families. The Food Bank requested $10,000 in emergency operational funding. Council members discussed additional support: Councilman Kharazi announced a $5,000 donation from Masjid Ali (47 Cedar Grove Lane) and plans to engage the Interfaith Council. Councilman Anbarasan committed to contacting Hindu temples. Multiple councilmembers affirmed monthly Ambassador Program donations and encouraged community giving.
Generator Ordinance (Ordinance No. 4483-25) – Public hearing held. The ordinance adds Chapter 198 of the Municipal Code, prohibiting the routine use of on-site generators powered by fossil fuels, petroleum products, or other combustible materials; emergency use remains permitted. It targets off-grid power generation for facilities, focusing on public health, safety, welfare, zoning, building occupancy, and noise—not air quality standards. Speakers included:
- Robin Suydam (Environmental Commission): Strong support, hoped for unanimous passage.
- Eric DeGesero (lobbyist for Fuel Merchants Association and NJ Propane Gas Association): Questioned whether the definition of “generator” could include industrial process boilers and asked about legal authority under the Air Pollution Control Act. Township Attorney Rainone stated the ordinance does not regulate air quality standards and is grounded in municipal police powers; confirmed it is permissible.
- Evan Rentezelas: Asked about mobile food vendors—clarified they are covered under a separate ordinance and this ordinance does not impose movement requirements.
- Walter (304 Cedar Grove Lane): Raised concerns about diesel truck traffic from warehouses and suggested data centers overbuild cleaner generation to feed 5–10% back to the grid. Officials noted warehouses are regulated separately, data centers draw from the grid, and state law does not allow producing more energy than used; clean on-site generation (e.g., solar) is permitted. Council members emphasized proactive regulation for emerging AI/data center and crypto mining operations, citing examples from Pennsylvania (tire-burning, large data center proposals). The ordinance is usage-agnostic and not singling out AI.
Ordinance on Introduction and First Reading (Ordinance No. 4484-25) – Vacating a portion of Executive Drive. Introduced and set for public hearing on November 25, 2025.

Key Outcomes

Resolution #25-467 (SNAP Emergency Funding) – Adopted unanimously: $10,000 from American Rescue Plan Act funds to the Franklin Food Bank for rapid operational scaling and mass food procurement. (Motion by Wright, second by Vassanella; all 9 ayes.)
Ordinance No. 4483-25 (Generator Ban) – Adopted unanimously on second reading. (Motion by Potosnak, second by Anbarasan; all 9 ayes.)
Ordinance No. 4484-25 (Executive Drive Vacation) – Introduced and set for public hearing November 25, 2025. (Motion by Potosnak, second by Uddin; all 9 ayes on first reading.)
Resolution #25-464 (Redevelopment Area Designation with Condemnation Powers) – Adopted on separate vote. (Motion by Anbarasan, second by Uddin; 8 ayes, 0 nays, 1 abstention (Wright).) The resolution designates Block 233, Lots 1.01 and 2.01 and Block 234, Lots 1, 14.01, and 16 as an area in need of redevelopment with condemnation powers.
Resolution #25-466 (Opiate Funds Advisory Subcommittee) – Adopted unanimously.
Executive Session – Authorized (Resolution #25-465) to discuss a personnel matter; no action taken afterwards.

Proclamations & Recognitions

National Veterans and Military Families Month (November 2025) – Presented by Mayor Kramer.
Hindu Heritage Month (October 2025) – Presented by Councilman Anbarasan.
Franklin Township recognized as a “Victory Town” on the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail; a letter from the W3R Association was presented, detailing the 1781 march through Franklin.

Upcoming Events

General Election: November 4, 2025.
Restaurant Week: November 2–8, 2025.
NESE Project Air Quality Permit Public Hearing: November 13, 2025 (virtual).
Veterans Breakfast (free): November 10, 2025, 9 AM at Stage House.

The meeting adjourned after executive session.

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, October 28, 2025. Thank you. If we could all stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation by Councilman Vassanella. Pledge allegiance to the flag. It is as we excuse me, if everybody can remain standing, please. As we gather here today as members of the Franklin Township Council, we pray that we are ever mindful of all opportunities to render our service to our fellow citizens and to our entire community, keeping in mind always the enduring values of life, exerting our efforts in those areas and those things upon which future generations can build with confidence. Let us continue to strive to make a better world. Amen. Madam Clerk, please call the roll. Councilman Embarrasson. Here. Councilwoman Francois. Councilman Carazi. Present. Mayor Kramer. Here. Councilman O'Nijaka. Here. Councilmember Patosnik. Deputy Mayor Udine. Oh. Councilman Vassanella. Here. Councilman Wright. So I finagled the uh agenda a little bit. And we have some visiting dignitaries and completely out of protocol and having Mr. LeCourt present them. Washington. Good evening. I'm Bob LaCor, Chairman of the Franklin 250 committee forum to celebrate Franklin Township's role in the American Revolution as we approach its 250th anniversary in 2026. Here's something truly special. Franklin Township has been recognized as one of the 60 victory towns, and 200 nationally. That designation honors communities that played a vital role in the historic 700-mile march to Yorktown, and Franklin Township was right in the heart of it. Our committee of 19 members has been working tired of tirelessly to bring the legacy to life. I elected recognize each of them tonight, alphabetical order. Barbara Breckley, Jay Bird, Bill Karlstatt, Nick Nabigdale, Brad Fay, Bill Grippo, Bob Hoodak, Randy Jones, Chris Kelly, Mayor Phil Kramer, George Luck, Glenn McParlan, Terry Sergio, Councilman James Vassanella, Jennifer Welch, employees who have been great, Isaiah Amila, Stephen Dahl, Krista Haginas, Safi Clanon. As Franklin Day, the residents met George Washington, heard a fife and drum, watched Matthew Rispolo, carry General Washington's flag, and you posed with General, you walked away with your own copy of the Declaration of Independence. Today's Franklin 250 history was with a handshake. We also have commemorative coins designed to bring our own that are unique to Franklin. Glenn McParland was a designer of those coins. The beautiful keepsakes that honor our local history, and they've already sparked excitement across the community. Starting this January, we'll host events every month leading up to the big anniversary. Each one is designed to be educational and interactive and give residents a glimpse of the life of Franklin Township 250 years ago. You can find all the upcoming events and historical highlights on Franklin's page, on Franklin's 250 page on the Township website. We invite everyone to join us, whether you're history buff or just curious about the past that shaped our present. Before I do, I'd like to introduce someone who's helped bring Franklin's revolutionary revolutionary legacy to life, Brad Fay of Grigstown, the living historian and spark behind Franklin's march into America's 250. Brad has brought two special guests with him tonight. And I've been told if I say these words, open a door to the past, something special may happen. I'm gradually to uh give something to and read something to the council.

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