OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Meeting - December 9, 2025

Township Council — Tuesday, December 9, 2025
BodyFranklin Township, New Jersey
SessionTownship Council
DateTuesday, December 9, 2025
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 1:00:40

Transcript — Verbatim
0:05

This work session regular meeting of the Township Council is called to order.

0:09

Madam Clerk.

0:10

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.

0:22

on Tuesday, December 9th, 2025.

0:27

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

0:35

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.

0:53

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

1:01

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

1:07

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

1:13

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

1:18

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

1:24

May all of you have peace in your hearts and happy holidays.

1:30

Thank you.

1:38

Madam Clerk, please call the roll.

1:40

Councilman Embarrison, Councilwoman Francois, here, Councilman Carazi.

1:45

Here.

1:46

Mayor Kramer?

1:47

Here.

1:47

Councilman Noni Jaka.

1:49

Here.

1:49

Councilmember Pataznik.

1:51

Deputy Mayor Udine.

1:53

Councilman Vassanella.

1:54

Councilman Wright.

1:56

Yes.

1:56

And Councilman Petaznik is on an urgent matter and could not attend.

2:01

Um commendations and proclamations.

2:05

Hmm.

2:06

Hmm.

2:07

I'm going to change the order up here.

2:09

We're going to do the Madrigals commendation first.

2:13

So anyone who goes by that name, come on up.

2:21

If you want me to join you, I will.

2:23

You're welcome to.

2:34

Who's getting appointed?

2:44

You know you're going to have to sing to get out of the room.

2:54

Alex, what you have to pay here for standing here is you're going to read the names.

3:01

Oh no.

3:03

They're actually not very good.

3:04

They're not that hard.

3:08

Short question.

3:10

Okay, here we go.

3:12

Franklin High School, Gold and Blue Choir, also known as the Madrigals, has been selected as the 2025 Star Choir winner of NBC, earning a featured performance at the National Televised Christmas in Rockefeller Center broadcast on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025.

3:35

And whereas this prestigious honor makes the first time a Franklin Township school has achieved this distinction with the blue and gold selected for more than a hundred submissions from schools across New York City spanning New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, and whereas under extraordinary leadership and dedication of advisor Kira Radbenski.

4:03

Excellent.

4:05

A proud Franklin High School alumni, these talented students have demonstrated remarkable discipline, professionalism, and artistic excellence in both contemporary pop, a cappella, and traditional Renaissance magical music.

4:21

And now, therefore, be it resolved that the mayor and council of the township of Franklin do hereby extend our heartfelt congratulations and commendation to the Franklin High School Golden Blue Choir for their outstanding achievement in being selected as the 2025 NBC Star Choir and for their upcoming already happened performance at Rockefeller Center and for their continued dedication to excellence in the performing arts and their service to our community.

4:53

Be it further resolved that we recognize and convend by name each member of the Golden Blue Choir for their individual talents, dedication, and contribution to this historic achievement.

5:11

And the names are Alicia Pinkley, Renaldo Johnson, Cameron Freeman, Jeremy Cobice, Abigail Balda, Miles Charret, Caitlin Mollin, Jordan Kinley, Aaron Holly, Joshua Sparrow, Salma Robinson, Calagia Janae Welsh, Sarah Kraft, Ellie Mary Men Mendoza, Kaylin Dick, L R Sarah Patel, Anise Anali's Diaz, Jerm Jeremiah Waltken, Anthony Holly, and Theresa Endozy.

6:07

Thank you very much for that.

6:14

You did well, but now you know why I got to be mayor.

6:19

Each of these outstanding young people have worked tirelessly to perfect their craft and represent Franklin Township with excellence and pride.

6:28

We are immensely proud to call the blue and gold our own, and we look forward to watching them represent Franklin Township in one of the nation's most iconic stages.

6:58

Must have been exciting to be there.

7:02

Anyone have something to say?

7:20

That's Paigey.

7:21

Hello.

7:29

We have worked absolutely so hard.

7:31

I know everybody here has gone home, practiced as much as possible, come in with high spirits, even though we've had to do so so many performances, but it has just been an absolute gift to be awarded such high prestige.

7:45

I mean, we got to sing at Rockefeller Center, so this is very awesome.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Voting Systems███████████████████19%
Procedural██████████████████18%
Arts And Culture████████████12%
Community Engagement███████████11%
Immigration Policy██████6%
Public Safety██████6%
Traffic Safety█████5%
Public Health█████5%
Youth Programs████4%
Summary of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Meeting - December 9, 2025

The Franklin Township Council held a work session and regular meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Municipal Building. The meeting included commendations, public comments, approval of warrants, consent agenda adoption, and a separately voted resolution. Council also entered executive session.

Commendations & Proclamations

  • Madrigals Commendation: The Franklin High School Gold and Blue Choir (Madrigals) was recognized for being selected as the 2025 NBC Star Choir and for their performance at the nationally televised Christmas in Rockefeller Center on December 3, 2025. Members of the choir attended and sang "Joy to the World."
  • Franklin Day Performers Commendation: Councilwoman Uddin recognized performers from Franklin Day (September 13, 2025), including the band "Tiru Parekuru," who play ancient South Indian percussion instruments. Certificates were presented.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Dave Robinson (349 Biltmore Lane, Somerset Run): Expressed concern about delays in adopting recommendations from the BI (Business/Industrial) re-examination committee to tighten warehouse use variance criteria. He warned that without action, new warehouse applications (e.g., on Davidson and Executive Drive, Catalan Ardenna) could proceed under weaker standards, negatively affecting quality of life. He urged the council to move forward promptly, noting the time and expense already invested in the study.
  • Alex Clark (396 Hamilton Street): Advocated for ranked-choice voting (RCV), citing New Jersey Assemblyman Joe Danielson's recent bill. He explained the history of RCV in Australia to counter misconceptions, emphasizing that RCV ensures majority support and does not favor any party. He encouraged the council to consider a resolution supporting the Municipal School Board and Voting Options Act.
  • Beverly Lawson (2004 Anwar Road): Opposed any proposed stormwater runoff fee, calling it a "backdoor tax" and a "money grab." She also questioned Resolution #25-511 supporting the New Jersey Immigrant Trust Act, asking whether it would make Franklin a sanctuary town, how police would handle ICE warrants, and what financial impact it would have on taxpayers.
  • Linda Powell (22 Buffett Drive): Expressed support for the Immigrant Trust Act, arguing it protects both police and residents, and that ICE often operates without warrants. She urged passage of the resolution and stressed the importance of protecting human rights and the rule of law.

Council Comments & Reports

  • Mayor Kramer: Responded to Mr. Robinson, assuring that the warehouse issue is being taken seriously and that there is motion on it, though slower than desired. He also commented on ranked-choice voting, stating he has become a fan personally.
  • Councilman Wright: Discussed ongoing efforts to address speeding on residential streets, including a planned pilot for speed humps. He encouraged residents to contact him to coordinate block-wide support.
  • Councilwoman Francois: Announced the formation of the Municipal Alliance Opiate Funds Advisory Subcommittee, which seeks two Franklin residents in recovery from substance abuse to serve as regular and alternate members. She also praised the Madrigals for putting Franklin on the map.
  • Councilman Oni Jaka: Wished everyone happy holidays and urged vigilance against car break-ins during the season.
  • Councilman Kharazi: Shared that Anna Dolinchen, Vice Chair of the Advisory Board of Health, was appointed to the Governor's transition team on economic development and innovation. Also noted upcoming committee meetings.
  • Deputy Mayor Uddin: Emphasized following speed limits, supported affordable housing seminars, and promoted the Franklin Food Bank and the upcoming "Jingle Mingle" event at the Youth Center.
  • Mayor Kramer: Provided updates on the Franklin 250 celebration, including events on January 4 (Battle of Princeton reenactment and conference on horseback) and January 10 (Salute to America show at the high school).
  • Township Manager: Clarified that Resolution #25-511 (supporting the Immigrant Trust Act) is simply a statement of support for pending state legislation, not a change to local policy. He noted that New Jersey law enforcement already operates under Attorney General Directive 2018-6, which governs interactions with federal immigration authorities, and that the resolution would impose no new costs or burdens. He also announced the employee holiday party on Friday, December 12, funded entirely by staff and unions.

Consent Agenda

All items A through Y (Resolutions #25-497 through #25-523) were adopted by unanimous consent without discussion or pull. Key items include:

  • Tax title lien redemptions
  • Refund of tax and water overpayments
  • Water charge adjustments for leak hardships
  • Cancellation of capital ordinance balances
  • Amendment to 2026 council meeting schedule
  • Release of inspection escrow and performance guarantees
  • MOU with FBI for police firearms range use
  • Award of a front-end loader (Sourcewell co-op)
  • Flooring installation contract for Senior Center
  • Housing rehabilitation contract for 25 Brook Street
  • Insertion of opioid settlement, recycled tonnage, clean communities, and CDBG grants into the budget
  • Shared services agreement with Somerset County Health Department
  • Resolution supporting the NJ Immigrant Trust Act
  • Request for Sewerage Authority surplus transfer
  • 2026 fire district salaries
  • Fireworks displays at The Palace at Somerset Park
  • Budget transfers
  • Tax court judgment refund
  • Laptop/desktop purchase from Dell
  • Write-off of old bank reconciliation items

Resolutions Voted Separately

  • Resolution #25-518: Extend the competitive contract with Central Jersey Housing Resource Center (CJHRC) as administrative agent for affordable housing for a third year, not to exceed $66,000. Adopted 6-0-1 (Councilman Vassanella abstained, citing his board membership with CJHRC).

Executive Session

  • Resolution #25-519: Authorized executive session for attorney-client privilege. Adopted unanimously. Council then recessed into closed session.

Key Outcomes

  • Consent agenda (23 resolutions) adopted unanimously.
  • Resolution #25-518 (affordable housing contract extension) adopted with one abstention.
  • Resolution #25-519 (executive session) adopted.
  • Public comments and council discussions will inform future actions on warehouse zoning, ranked-choice voting, stormwater fees, and substance abuse advisory committee appointments.
  • The next regular meeting is expected in January 2026.

Meeting Transcript

This work session regular meeting of the Township Council is called to order. 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 meeting would take place at the municipal building at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9th, 2025. If we could all stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the invocation by Councilman Alex Carazi. 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 is 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 to be peace in home in the home, there must be peace in the heart. May all of you have peace in your hearts and happy holidays. Thank you. Madam Clerk, please call the roll. Councilman Embarrison, Councilwoman Francois, here, Councilman Carazi. Here. Mayor Kramer? Here. Councilman Noni Jaka. Here. Councilmember Pataznik. Deputy Mayor Udine. Councilman Vassanella. Councilman Wright. Yes. And Councilman Petaznik is on an urgent matter and could not attend. Um commendations and proclamations. Hmm. Hmm. I'm going to change the order up here. We're going to do the Madrigals commendation first. So anyone who goes by that name, come on up. If you want me to join you, I will. You're welcome to. Who's getting appointed? You know you're going to have to sing to get out of the room. Alex, what you have to pay here for standing here is you're going to read the names. Oh no. They're actually not very good. They're not that hard. Short question. Okay, here we go. Franklin High School, Gold and Blue Choir, also known as the Madrigals, has been selected as the 2025 Star Choir winner of NBC, earning a featured performance at the National Televised Christmas in Rockefeller Center broadcast on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025. And whereas this prestigious honor makes the first time a Franklin Township school has achieved this distinction with the blue and gold selected for more than a hundred submissions from schools across New York City spanning New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, and whereas under extraordinary leadership and dedication of advisor Kira Radbenski. Excellent. A proud Franklin High School alumni, these talented students have demonstrated remarkable discipline, professionalism, and artistic excellence in both contemporary pop, a cappella, and traditional Renaissance magical music. And now, therefore, be it resolved that the mayor and council of the township of Franklin do hereby extend our heartfelt congratulations and commendation to the Franklin High School Golden Blue Choir for their outstanding achievement in being selected as the 2025 NBC Star Choir and for their upcoming already happened performance at Rockefeller Center and for their continued dedication to excellence in the performing arts and their service to our community. Be it further resolved that we recognize and convend by name each member of the Golden Blue Choir for their individual talents, dedication, and contribution to this historic achievement. And the names are Alicia Pinkley, Renaldo Johnson, Cameron Freeman, Jeremy Cobice, Abigail Balda, Miles Charret, Caitlin Mollin, Jordan Kinley, Aaron Holly, Joshua Sparrow, Salma Robinson, Calagia Janae Welsh, Sarah Kraft, Ellie Mary Men Mendoza, Kaylin Dick, L R Sarah Patel, Anise Anali's Diaz, Jerm Jeremiah Waltken, Anthony Holly, and Theresa Endozy. Thank you very much for that.

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