OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Regular Meeting - April 14, 2026

Township Council — Tuesday, April 14, 2026
BodyFranklin Township, New Jersey
SessionTownship Council
DateTuesday, April 14, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 1:56:44

Transcript — Verbatim
0:03

This work session miscommunications.

0:13

I have it.

0:16

Okay.

0:16

This works session, regular meeting of Township Council is called to order.

0:22

Okay.

0:22

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

0:29

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.

0:42

on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026.

0:46

You're going to have to please your volitions followed by invocation by Councilwoman Kimberly Francois.

0:59

I pledge of the United States of America.

1:14

Please stay standing.

1:18

Let us all take a few minutes to each seek in our own way.

1:25

Whatever sources of inspiration will grant us the strength and power in our own thoughts and decisions to be for the benefit of all people at all times.

1:37

Amen.

1:50

Councilman Barrison.

1:52

Here.

1:52

Councilwoman Francois.

1:53

Here.

1:56

Mayor Kramer.

1:57

Councilman Oni Jaka.

1:59

Here.

1:59

Councilman Singh?

2:00

Yes.

2:00

Councilwoman Udin.

2:02

Yes.

2:02

Councilman Vasanella.

2:03

Yes.

2:04

Councilman Wright.

2:06

Thank you.

2:07

We have a few commendations and proclamations.

2:10

So we're going to start with the first one.

2:13

It's a wonderful thing that the Lion the Somerset Alliance Club has done to donate to one of our best organization Township, Food Bank.

2:25

So Council of When you Dean, you have it.

3:13

I don't know.

3:14

Um read from the first time.

3:19

Good evening, everyone.

3:22

Oh, this is an amazing event.

3:25

And you know what?

3:26

It's actually very beautiful that we're starting off with such an amazing presentation right now.

3:31

We are going to do a commendation to present um a check that's coming directly from our community.

3:40

And this is what I love about Franklin is that our residents come together and make sure that our local residents are also getting what they need and we're maximizing our worth and our spend.

3:53

So I'm going to read this commendation and then I'll have Rohit from the Somerset Hills Lions Club talk about what they do and the amazing things that they have done in the past and what they continue to do.

4:08

Whereas the Somerset Lions Club has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the well-being of the residents of Franklin Township and the surrounding communities through its tireless volunteer service and a charitable endeavors.

4:21

And whereas through their dedication fundraising efforts, the Summerset Lions Club has raised a remarkable sum of three thousand dollars in support of the Franklin Food Bank.

4:32

And whereas the Franklin Food Bank serves as an essential resource for families and individuals in need throughout our community, and this generous contribution will directly provide nourishment and relief to our neighbors facing food insecurity.

4:46

And whereas the spirit of service embodied by the members of the Somerset Lions Club reflects the finest tradition of civic responsibility and compassionate neighborly action.

5:00

Now, therefore, BA resolved that the mayor and township council of Franklin Township, Somerset County, New Jersey, to hereby command and extend their deepest appreciation to the Somerset Lions Club for their extraordinary generosity and public spirit dedication to the health and welfare of the Franklin Township community.

5:16

Their contribution of $3,000 to the Franklin Food Bank stands as a shining example of Lions International's motto, we serve.

5:24

Be a further reserve that this combination be presented to the Somerset Lions Club as a lasting testament to their goodwill, fellowship, and selfless service to the Franklin Townships and Somerset County.

5:59

Whether it's by you know providing dollars that we are today and giving back to our community.

6:03

So I think it's so important that at times that are so tough now with things that are going away for our families, our seniors, um, you know, single parents that are trying to make their ends meet, that our residents are coming together and forming this um and you know, unity bond and saying, look, how can we help?

6:21

If I have a dollar, how can I give that dollar 50 cents to someone else where that person also eats at the table as I eat at the table?

6:28

So this is a beautiful um, you know, I I just think it's a beautiful act of kindness and another charitable thing.

6:35

So I want to give this uh mic to first.

6:37

Um Rohit, do you want to present first and then we'll have a few words?

6:40

Yeah.

6:41

Okay.

6:45

The check.

6:48

So this is for you.

6:52

Let me get out of the way.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural██████████████████18%
Community Engagement███████████11%
Public Engagement███████████11%
Environmental Protection███████████11%
Youth Programs███████7%
Land Development███████7%
Public Safety██████6%
Water And Wastewater Management██████6%
Public Health████4%
Summary of Proceedings

Franklin Township Council Regular Meeting - April 14, 2026

The Franklin Township Council held a regular meeting on April 14, 2026, at 7 p.m. in the municipal building. The meeting included multiple proclamations, public discussion on a new leaf disposal fee and a councilmember's residency, adoption of ordinances, approval of a consent agenda, and appointments to advisory committees.

Commendations & Proclamations

  • Somerset Lions Club Donation: The Lions Club donated $3,000 to the Franklin Food Bank. Councilwoman Udin commended the club; Rohit Gupta (Somerset Hills Lions Club) described the organization's global impact and commitment to service. The Food Bank director expressed gratitude.
  • Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month: Councilwoman Francois read a proclamation designating April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month, highlighting a personal encounter with a pregnant teen survivor. Karen Alifano spoke on behalf of Safe and Sound Somerset (helpline: 866-685-1122).
  • Child Abuse Prevention Month: Councilwoman Francois also proclaimed April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month, emphasizing that all New Jersey residents are mandated reporters. She noted the importance of reporting suspected abuse (1-800-NJ-ABUSE).
  • Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala: Councilman Anbarasan proclaimed April 29, 2026 as Franklin Township Chamber of Commerce Gala Day, recognizing the chamber's role in supporting over 2,000 local businesses. Chamber President Nick accepted the proclamation and noted the gala will honor Mayor Philip Kramer.
  • Arab-American Heritage Month: Councilwoman Kharazi proclaimed April 2026 as Arab-American Heritage Month, celebrating contributions of Arab Americans in Franklin Township.
  • International Dark Sky Week: Councilman Singh proclaimed April 13–20, 2026 as International Dark Sky Week in Franklin. A representative from the Franklin Astronomy Club highlighted that only 2 in 10 Americans can see the Milky Way and that light pollution is increasing at 2% per year. Upcoming events: a sunset hike on April 18 and a library presentation on April 22.
  • Arbor Day Proclamation: Councilman Vassanella proclaimed April 24, 2026 as Arbor Day in Franklin, noting the township has been a Tree City USA for over 24 years. Steve Gilhooley (Shade Tree Commission) reported on tree plantings along JFK Boulevard, in parks, and a planned reforestation at Castleton Park (Barth of the Woods).

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Resident Elinor Ogan (9 Republic Row) praised the Franklin Astronomy Club's efforts.
  • Resident Shainique Davis (227 Blake Avenue) expressed strong concerns about the new leaf disposal fee effective April 1, 2026, citing: lack of advance notice (contrasted with Nixle alerts for other issues), inconvenient payment method (permit required, cash/check only), limited hours (two Mondays and one Saturday per month), and no grace period. She compared unfavorably to neighboring towns (Piscataway, New Brunswick, South Plainfield) that offer free leaf disposal. She requested a grace period through April, easier payment, expanded hours, and reconsideration of the fee. Township Manager Bob Vornlocker responded that the fee was necessitated by DEP regulations limiting brush storage; the fee is lower than originally proposed after committee discussions. He noted leaf drop-off remains free, and efforts to allow credit card payments online are underway. Councilman Vassanella added that the council worked to reduce the fee and that hours may be reconsidered.
  • Resident Deborah Edmunds (67 Roberts Road) and John Latrakis (Arlington Avenue) asked about Councilman Carl Wright's primary residence, suggesting an official inquiry. Councilman Oni Jaka vouched that Wright lives in town, and Councilwoman Udin noted Wright may have a son with the same name. The Deputy Mayor stated the issue will be looked into.
  • John Latrakis also requested a traffic light at JFK and Winston Drive, rumble strips on Amwell Road, and questioned the number of marijuana dispensaries and tow truck operations on Arlington Avenue. Manager Vornlocker explained that JFK/Winston is under study (cost ~$300,000, possible 2027 budget), Amwell Road is county jurisdiction, and towing companies are legally operating; he will refer concerns to the Traffic Safety Bureau.
  • Resident Kevin Cameron (357 Gerard Avenue), a crossing guard, requested repainting of faded crosswalks at Franklin Boulevard and Holly/Matilda. Manager Vornlocker advised him to raise the issue with Sgt. Riggs in the police traffic safety bureau.
  • Resident (name not given) echoed support for investigating Councilman Wright's residency.

Council Comments & Reports

  • Councilman Vassanella reported on the Public Works Committee meeting: more road paving than anticipated may be possible; a final road list will be released soon.
  • Councilman Vassanella paid tribute to former Township Manager Ken Daly, who passed away. He highlighted Daly's earlier work in San Antonio (Alamo Dome, Sea World) and his commitment to service. Councilwoman Francois recalled working with Daly in the 1990s.
  • Councilwoman Udin noted she conducted a scam/fraud awareness seminar at Canal Walk with the Indo-American Club (over 75 attendees) and promoted a Senior Fraud Forum on April 29. She also mentioned April 25 medication take-back day and a May 9 “Trash the Vape” event for youth.
  • Councilman Singh updated on First Ward paving projects (Canal Road, Leet, Carish Trail, Sterling, Stewart) and ongoing work with DOT on traffic and pedestrian improvements at Princeton Highlands Boulevard/Route 27 and Gold Star/Route 27.
  • Deputy Mayor Kharazi announced the Franklin Soccer Club season, volunteered as a coach, and promoted the YMCA campaign and medication take-back.
  • Councilman Anbarasan reported on the Franklin Township baseball league opening day (350+ players, two out-of-town teams) and PSE&G delays for field electricity.

Township Manager's Report

  • Manager Vornlocker announced registration is open for the 2026 Youth Police Academy (July 9–17, grades 8–12, 30 seats).
  • A resource fair for teens (ages 14–18) will be held April 18 at the Franklin Youth Center (9 a.m.–1 p.m.), offering summer employment, financial aid info, and vocational training.
  • Franklin 250 events: April 18 “George and Martha” cocktail affair at Hageman Farm ($50 per person) and April 19 family program about children during the Revolutionary War.

Discussion Items

  • Ordinance 4501-26 (Vacate Portion of Executive Drive): Public hearing held. Resident Alex Strauss questioned the ordinance, arguing it would give a traffic light to warehouse developers without requiring maintenance. Manager Vornlocker explained the road will become a private driveway for a single warehouse (already approved by the zoning board); the traffic signal was originally paid by developers and will remain; vacating saves taxpayer maintenance costs. The ordinance was adopted (all yes).
  • Ordinance 4503-26 (Conservation Easement – 31 Voorhees, LLC): Introduced on first reading, setting a public hearing for April 28, 2026. Approved unanimously.
  • Consent Agenda (Items A–X): Approved unanimously, including tax title lien redemptions, refunds, water charge adjustments, escrow releases, fire district tax rates, special event permits (St. Matthias 60th anniversary, Turkish Food and Art Festival, Sierra Leone Independence Anniversary, Charity Bike Ride, etc.), stormwater maintenance agreements, and excusal of Councilman Wright from meetings (March 24–May 26, 2026).
  • Resolution 26-178 (Temporary Budget and Emergency Appropriation): Adopted unanimously to allow capital projects to proceed while the full budget is still being prepared.
  • Committee Vacancies: Appointed Brian Geldziller to the Trails Advisory Committee (4-year term), Ashuma Kowl to the Senior Citizen Advisory Committee (non-senior, 1-year term), and Scott Ludwinson to the Advisory Recreation Council (soccer rep). All approved.

Key Outcomes

  • All proclamations were read and accepted.
  • The public comments on leaf disposal fee will be addressed: grace period considered, payment system modernization (credit cards online) in progress, hours review at next Public Works Committee.
  • Councilman Wright's residency will be investigated.
  • Traffic light study at JFK/Winston and crosswalk repainting referred to appropriate departments.
  • Ordinance 4501-26 (vacate Executive Drive) adopted 7-0.
  • Ordinance 4503-26 introduced on first reading (public hearing April 28).
  • Consent agenda and Resolution 26-178 adopted 7-0.
  • Three advisory committee appointments confirmed.

Meeting Transcript

This work session miscommunications. I have it. Okay. This works session, regular meeting of Township Council is called to order. Okay. This work session, regular meeting of the Township Council is called to order. 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, April 14th, 2026. You're going to have to please your volitions followed by invocation by Councilwoman Kimberly Francois. I pledge of the United States of America. Please stay standing. Let us all take a few minutes to each seek in our own way. Whatever sources of inspiration will grant us the strength and power in our own thoughts and decisions to be for the benefit of all people at all times. Amen. Councilman Barrison. Here. Councilwoman Francois. Here. Mayor Kramer. Councilman Oni Jaka. Here. Councilman Singh? Yes. Councilwoman Udin. Yes. Councilman Vasanella. Yes. Councilman Wright. Thank you. We have a few commendations and proclamations. So we're going to start with the first one. It's a wonderful thing that the Lion the Somerset Alliance Club has done to donate to one of our best organization Township, Food Bank. So Council of When you Dean, you have it. I don't know. Um read from the first time. Good evening, everyone. Oh, this is an amazing event. And you know what? It's actually very beautiful that we're starting off with such an amazing presentation right now. We are going to do a commendation to present um a check that's coming directly from our community. And this is what I love about Franklin is that our residents come together and make sure that our local residents are also getting what they need and we're maximizing our worth and our spend. So I'm going to read this commendation and then I'll have Rohit from the Somerset Hills Lions Club talk about what they do and the amazing things that they have done in the past and what they continue to do. Whereas the Somerset Lions Club has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the well-being of the residents of Franklin Township and the surrounding communities through its tireless volunteer service and a charitable endeavors. And whereas through their dedication fundraising efforts, the Summerset Lions Club has raised a remarkable sum of three thousand dollars in support of the Franklin Food Bank. And whereas the Franklin Food Bank serves as an essential resource for families and individuals in need throughout our community, and this generous contribution will directly provide nourishment and relief to our neighbors facing food insecurity. And whereas the spirit of service embodied by the members of the Somerset Lions Club reflects the finest tradition of civic responsibility and compassionate neighborly action. Now, therefore, BA resolved that the mayor and township council of Franklin Township, Somerset County, New Jersey, to hereby command and extend their deepest appreciation to the Somerset Lions Club for their extraordinary generosity and public spirit dedication to the health and welfare of the Franklin Township community. Their contribution of $3,000 to the Franklin Food Bank stands as a shining example of Lions International's motto, we serve. Be a further reserve that this combination be presented to the Somerset Lions Club as a lasting testament to their goodwill, fellowship, and selfless service to the Franklin Townships and Somerset County. Whether it's by you know providing dollars that we are today and giving back to our community.

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