Colts Neck Annual Reorganization Meeting - 1.2.26

We do have two minutes. Um, I'm looking to see who we got. Are you here? Yeah, they said they were. I would, I was just going to say, Dan, where's your piece? I like it. Fashion, like. Although it's getting warm in here. Good evening, everybody. I'd like to call the meeting to order. I see two special guests in the audience, Captain Kent Smith and uh, Executive Officer James Mccardi from Naval Weapons Station Earl. I, I hate to put you on the spot, but Captain, would you be so wonderful as to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance, please?

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. Thank you. And thank you for your service to our country. Absolutely.

The notice requirements of the New Jersey Public Meetings Law have been satisfied by noticing the Asbury Park Press and the Two River Times on October 30, 2025, stating that a reorganization meeting of the Colts Neck Township Committee would be held on January 2nd, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. at Colts Neck Town Hall, One Veterans Way, Colts Neck, New Jersey 07722. A copy is on file in the office of the township clerk. Thank you very much. I'd like to welcome everybody and say happy new year. Um, it would be my honor if I would to bring up uh, Reverend Scott Brown to do our invocation.

Thank you. Thank you, Mayor. And let us pray. Oh, holy gracious God, we begin both a new year and this reorganization meeting with gratitude, giving thanks for the freedom we share, the freedom to gather, the freedom to speak, to serve, to participate in the life of this community. Grateful for a system of government that entrusts ordinary citizens with these extraordinary responsibilities and for the democratic process that brings us together on this day. We express our deep appreciation for the dedicated township staff and the many, many volunteers whose quiet, faithful work sustains the daily life of Colts Neck. We offer a special gratitude for our neighbors at Naval Weapons Station Earl. For our emergency service personnel, police, fire, first aid, fire police, all who stand ready to respond in moments of crisis. We pray for our troops. Their courage, their commitment are a profound gift to this community. We pause in gratitude for Mayor Bus's leadership. And we pause to recognize Committeewoman Sue Fitzpatrick for her exemplary service. Thank you for the leadership she offered, the integrity she showed, the care she demonstrated for the well-being of this town. And now, as we install new leadership, thank you for those who have stepped up to serve. We ask for wisdom, clarity, steadiness for each member of the township committee and especially for incoming Mayor Viola and Deputy Mayor Bazetta. May they lead with humility and strength, with respect for differing perspectives, with a shared commitment to the common good. May all who serve this township do so with fairness, with humility, with compassion, with a deep sense of responsibility to the people they represent. And so may you, oh God, shed your grace upon us each and all. For I pray this in our Savior's name. Amen.

Amen. Thank you so much, Reverend. Just wanted to make a few remarks. As we begin 2026 and I conclude my term here as mayor, I want to first express my sincere gratitude to my colleagues on the township committee, to our dedicated township staff, to the residents of Colts Neck who have entrusted me with the privilege of serving in this role. Serving as mayor has been one of the greatest honors of my public life. It is a responsibility that I have truly carried with humility, respect, and a deep appreciation for the trust placed in me.

At this time, I want to recognize some of our esteemed dignitaries in the room tonight. Um, I want to truly say welcome to our own County Sheriff Shawn Golden. Sheriff, thank you so much for being here. Uh, we have Commissioner Director Tom Arnone, our County Clerk Christine Hanlin. I don't believe I see any of our other commissioners here. Um, but if so, I apologize if I missed you. Um, we're really grateful for your service to this county and all that you do to make this one of the best counties in the entire state. So, thank you. Um, I believe Judge Sonnenblick is here, who I had the wonderful, wonderful honor of having you swear me in to my mayoral role. So, thank you very much for being here. Um, I said thank you to and and appreciate everything for Captain Smith and Executive Officer McCarty for being here as well. And as I said, not just serving our country, but serving the people of Colts Neck in a way that's been very, very special to all of us. So, thank you for for standing by all of us and all the service that you that you do to our our great town and our great country. So, um, I also want to say a big thank you to two of our former mayors. I believe I see Mayor Bartalo in the back and Mayor Orgo. Um, once a mayor, always a mayor. That's what they tell me. Um, I know that you know all too well uh what it takes to sit up here and serve this town. Um, so I thank you for being here and showing support to all of us, not just up here, but everybody in the room as residents of this town.

Tonight is a moment for reflection on the work that we have done together and on the values that guide this community. In 2025, Colts Neck continued to exemplify what thoughtful, steady, and responsible local government looks like. We approached each decision with care, balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to maintain services and infrastructure that make this township a great place to live. In 2025, a significant amount of the township, our committee's efforts, and I know a lot of you have been here for some of our affordable housing meetings. A big part of our focus was devoted to affordable housing um and and addressing our obligations here. This work was very complex, time-consuming, and very difficult. But it was undertaken thoughtfully, responsibly, and with the clear understanding of the long-term impact it has on all of us. So whether or not we're sitting up here or not, the impacts are far-lasting because I know each one of us lives here and loves living here, and that's why we've chosen to serve. Much of this work happened outside of the public view, but it was countless hours of review, discussion, deliberation, and it really does reflect the seriousness with which we take that responsibility.

Equally important was our continued commitment to open communication and civic engagement. One of the most important things that I was able to accomplish here in 2025 along with my fellow committee people was live streaming our meetings. I heard from the public. The public wanted that and I think it's very important. It gives people the opportunity to engage with government in a way that best suits them. Whether or not it's people who complain to me that they couldn't get here, they didn't want to drive in the dark. Uh, they were sick, they were taking care of their kids, they were taking care of their loved ones. Now they can watch, sit back, and learn about everything that we're doing here for transparency and openness. None of this work would be possible without all our township employees. Their professionalism, institutional knowledge, and dedication form the backbone of our community. Their service is steady, often behind the scenes, and always essential, always essential.

As I step down as mayor, I do so with confidence. Confidence in my colleagues currently on the township committee, in our uh, future township committeemen who will be swearing in shortly, in all of our staff, and the strength of our community as a whole. Colts Neck is guided by shared values of respect, service, and deep, deep appreciation for our history and our responsibility to one another. As we look ahead to 2026 and as our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, we're reminded of the work of local government. It's not just about any one individual or title, but about stewardship, leaving our community stronger for those who come next. It has been a tremendous privilege to serve as your mayor. I'm grateful for the opportunity, for the collaboration, and for the trust that you have placed in me. I look forward to continuing to serve this township in the year ahead and supporting its continued progress and success. So, thank you again. Happy New Year and may 2026 be a year of health, unity, and promise for Colts Neck Township. Thank you.

It would be my honor to bring up Committeeman Tobia uh for the swearing in um and whoever will be swearing you in. Thank you, everybody. Before we get started, I'll ask our County Clerk to come read the certification of the election.

Good evening, everyone, and happy new year. Good evening. Thank you for being here. The following is a statement of determination of the board of county canvassers relative to an election held in the county of Monmouth on the fourth day of November in the year of our Lord 2025 for the election of a member of the Colts Neck Township Committee for a full term according to law. The results are as follows: John Tobia, Republican, 3,764 votes. Write-in votes, 149. The said board does determine that at the election, John Tobia was duly elected as a member of the Colts Neck Township Committee. Congratulations.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. At this time, I would ask uh County Sheriff Shawn Golden and County Commissioner Director Tom Arnone to come up along with my family, our wife Jessica, Kira, and Cali. To the left. So, before the Sheriff um offers the oath, I, I just, it's an honor for me to be here. Before I, so, I'd like to say happy new year to all the mayor and counsel there and of course all of Colts Neck here. Um, this is a special honor for me to be able to be part of this ceremony because of my relationship with John over the last 15 years. Uh, so most people could say they've known John, they've seen John, they've had coffee with John. But, um, I work side by side with John for 15 years there as as liaison first there of the public works, which is a thousand miles of lanes and roads, 900 bridges, many, many buildings, and many employees there. And I saw firsthand the dedication, commitment, loyalty, and compassion there that he offered to both all the residents of Monmouth County and more importantly to his staff there. And I think that's going to be a real big benefit here to Colts Neck. So, it's an honor for myself to be able to stand up here and watch him move on to his next career. Um, we surely miss him there on the county. Um, but I know he's in good hands and both professionally and more importantly here in Colts Neck. And I am extremely confident that the people of Colts Neck are going to be extremely pleased and proud to have John be part of the leadership here to run Colts Neck.

Sheriff. Thank you, Commissioner. Thanks, John. Put your hand. John, left hand on the Bible. Raise your right hand. I, John W. Tobia. I, John W. Tobia, do solemnly swear. Do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution. I will support the Constitution of the United States. Of the United States. And the Constitution. And the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. Of the State of New Jersey. I will bear true faith and allegiance. I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. To the same. And to the governments established. To the governments established in the United States. In the United States. And in this state. And in this state. Under the authority of the people. Under the authority of the people. And I will faithfully. And I will faithfully. Impartially. Impartially. And justly perform. And justly perform. All the duties of. All the duties of a township committee member. Township committee member. To the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. And I will not use my office. And I will not use my office to grant preferential treatment. To grant preferential treatment. Nor to seek personal gain. Nor to seek personal gain. Favor or advantage. Favor or advantage. Not available. Not available to the general public. So help me God. Congratulations.

Mayor comments. First of all, I'd like to welcome dignitaries, elected officials, commander from Earl that have worked within the county and shared services, our religious leaders, Father Jeff, Pastor Chris, Reverend Scott, and Rabbi Eye, volunteers, our police officers, friends, and family. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for coming out or viewing this swearing-in and reorganization meeting. This is not about any individual committee person or myself for that matter. It is about what is best for Colts Neck and its residents, and I take that truly to heart. There are a number of thank yous that we must say, but first and foremost, I would like to thank my family for supporting the decision to run. Somewhat had to get a little used to on that. And enduring the negativities and the misinformation on social media during the campaign. So to Jessica and my children, Kier and Cali and Lisa, a big thank you does not go far enough because what they had to endure, nobody should have to endure. But I'm sure another horse might help. And for those of you that we didn't get to the auction last night and we didn't quite luck out, but I'm sure there'll be another one in the future. I further want to thank the voters and the residents of Colts Neck for your overwhelming support and friendship. Thank you to our farming community who had came out strong for me and I take that support very dearly as you know from my agricultural background going back to my grandfather. Thank you to the former uh police and members of the township committee. Thank you to Sheriff Golden for your support, Director Arnone and the other commissioners for their undying support over the years and in this next endeavor because if it was not for the shared services that the commissioners have supported for the municipalities, it would be very hard for a town like Colts Neck, they could not do without that assistance. And for that, I thank you.

This road to the township committee all started back in a planning board meeting almost a year ago when I served as a chairman of the of that meeting and it was to discuss affordable housing. Residents were upset and looking for openness and transparency which they they were entitled to and they still are. I believe Colts Neck needs responsible housing to accommodate seniors, veterans, and citizens with special needs that does not have a negative impact on the environment and risking our water supply. Responsible housing is not high density. It should include walking paths, green areas, recreation areas to benefit our future residents that will be residing there. We have to change. We have to do what and put Colts Neck first. Township spending needs to be reduced by at least 10% in operations, not on the backs of our dedicated employees and legal expenses need to be reduced and wasteful litigation to be eliminated. We also have to develop a 10-year capital plan and we have to change. We have to put Colts Neck first. Our residents are our friends, our neighbors. We play on children's sports teams, classmates, and as such, they should be treated with respect, not be abused, verbally abused for disagreements with us and or airing a question that they might not have in the right format. We have to change. We have to put Colts Neck first. The township committee should post all information on a township website and township-sponsored social media, not from individual committee members because we have to speak as for the entire township, not individuals. We have to change. We have to put Colts Neck first.

I would like to commend our employees for their professionalism and dedication to the residents of Colts Neck. Looking forward to listening and assisting to getting your jobs done, not by interfering, but by true support. To our many volunteers and first responders, a big thank you for your time and dedication. I look forward to working with you also and to strengthen those partnerships. Preserve our farmland and open space by furthering our partnerships with the county, Earl Naval Health, and Station Earl, the state and private organizations is a must to protect Colts. Open and transparent exchange of information be inclusive of all groups and individuals. Develop capital and spending plan for infrastructure, parks, and other improvements with true input from our residents. Develop a strategic plan. Support the CNBA and businesses with a shop local program. and seeking input from our residents is a must. Thank you again to the supporters and now supporters alike. I look forward to serving you. Let's get Colts Neck back on track together. We have to put Colts Neck first and I thank every one of you for all your assistance in getting here. It has been a long tough road and I do truly look forward to working with the other members of the township committee. Thank you.

Congratulations. Thank you very much, Committeeman Tobia. As you learn to make the long walk, the long walk around the the judge can explain to us why why this setup has to be. Oh, I apologize, John. Sorry, I was so busy wondering why we have this setup. Uh, I'd like to move along again. Congratulations. Thank you for your words of of unity and respect for the Colts Neck residents. Um, I'd like to have open nominations for 2026 mayor.

Madam Mayor, it's my honor uh to nominate Michael Viola as mayor for 2026. I would like to second that nomination. Can I have a roll call? Yes, ma'am. Deputy Mayor Viola. Yes. Committeeman Bazetta. Yes. Committeeman Rudo. Yes. Mayor Bus. I'd like to enthusiastically say yes. And Committeeman Tobia. As a result of an incident that occurred last year and has been ongoing where there is future litigation, it could not have been uh it could have definitely been settled differently and the outcome could have been required as a former representative to both parties would have been more proper. I will vote no. That's it.

Thank you. Mike Viola is confirmed as 2026 mayor. Swearing in of Mayor Mayor Viola. Yes. Yes. It's my honor to. My honor to have a daughter of the American Revolution swear me in. I, Mike Viola. I, Michael Viola, do solemnly swear. Do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States. That I will support the Constitution of the United States. And the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. And the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. And that I will bear true faith and allegiance. And I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. To the same. And to the governments established in the United States. And to governments established in the United States. And in this state. And in this state. Under the authority of the people. Under the authority of the people. And that I will faithfully. And that I will faithfully. Impartially. Impartially. And justly. And justly. Perform all the duties of mayor. Perform all the duties of mayor. To the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. And I will not use my office to grant preferential treatment. I will not use my office to grant preferential treatment. Nor to seek personal gain. Nor to seek personal gain. Favor or advantage. Favor or advantage. Not available to the general public. So help me God. Not available to the general public. God. Good job.

Welcome friends, neighbors, family, volunteers, dignitaries. You've all been noticed. You've all been recognized. Thank you. I don't know if that's any better. Happy New Year. We gather today at a moment of great challenge. In the bitter cold winter of 1776, Thomas Paine, to the frozen, malnourished, undersupplied Continental Army, from challenging them from being summertime patriots to full-time freedom fighters and to overcome adversity and rededicate themselves to fight for our independence. He made the following profound statement. These are times that test men's souls. Metaphorically, we are in similar times and trials and we face formidable and threat challenges that threaten to divide us. But let us remember the core of our community, our shared values, our collective strength, our fundamental commitment to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We are stronger together than we are apart. Let us bridge our differences, support our neighbors, face the future not with fear and anger, but with unified resolve. Together, we can and will overcome any adversity, forging a brighter, stronger future for Colts Neck. May God bless our community, our servicemen and women, our first responders, and may he continue to shed his grace on Colts Neck. Thank you.

AND the mayor shall make a long walk around and gives you time, judge, to tell us why. I've heard that I need to present a gavel. Yeah. Not yet, guys. I'm just doing gavels. To you. I want to wish you best. I wish you luck. I appreciate you. Thank you. I shall not go home, but I'm taking my gavel with me. So.

I'd like to open the nominations for deputy mayor. I proudly nominate Dan Bazetta to serve as deputy mayor for the calendar year 2026. And I'd like to jump in there with an enthusiastic second. Roll call. Committeeman Bazetta. Yes. Committeeman Rudo. Yes. Committee Woman Bus. I'm sorry. Who? Committee Woman Bus. Sorry. Sorry. Wait. Can I say yes? No more hammer for you. Take that away from her. Committee. And Mayor Viola. Yes. It'll be my honor to swear in Deputy Mayor. I get to do this walk again. Repeat after me. I, Daniela. Do solemnly swear. I, Daniel Bazetta, do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States. That I will support the Constitution of the United States. And the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. And the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. And to the governments established in the United States. And to the governments established in the United States. And in this state. And in this state. Under the authority of the people. Under the authority of the people. That I will faithfully. And that I will faithfully. Impartially. Impartially. And justly perform all the duties. And justly perform all the duties. Of deputy mayor. Of deputy mayor. To the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. And that I will not use my office. And that I will not use my office. To grant preferential treatment. To grant preferential treatment. Nor to seek personal gain. Nor to seek personal gain. Favor or advantage. Favor or advantage. Not available to the general public. Not available to the general public. So help me God. So help me God. Congratulations.

Good evening, everyone. Mayor Viola, members of the township committee, Monmouth County Commissioners, Sheriff Golden, Madame Clerk, Captain Smith, township professionals, first responders, volunteers, family, friends, fellow residents of Colts Neck. Thank you for joining us this evening. I am deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as deputy mayor of this extraordinary community. Colts Neck is more than just a place on a map. It's a township built on dedication, civic pride, and neighbors who genuinely care for one another. Colts Neck has always stood for strong values, respect for our history, thoughtful growth, and a shared responsibility to protect the quality of life that makes this township so special. We thrive as a community because of the people who step up every day. Our police, our first responders, our township staff, our educators, our volunteers who sit on boards and commissions, and our residents who call Colts Neck home. Your service does not go unnoticed, and I thank all of you for your professionalism, leadership, and dedication to keeping Colts Neck safe, beautiful, and welcoming.

As deputy mayor, I'm committed to listening to your thoughtful comments and suggestions, working collaboratively, and approaching every decision with the best interests of our residents in mind. When I ran for township committee last year, I said that neither I nor my fellow committee members have the answers to all the questions we face. Therefore, I ask you members of our committee to collaborate with us, communicate with us, and cooperate with us because we are stronger when we stand united. Looking ahead, we face opportunities and challenges. Whether it is maintaining fiscal responsibility, preserving open space, supporting our residents, or ensuring transparent and responsive local government. I promise to approach these issues with fairness, integrity, and an open mind. There are two issues in particular that I wish to specifically highlight tonight. Municipal property taxes and high-density housing. I pledge that I will do everything in my power to keep our municipal tax rate as low as possible without sacrificing services and while understanding that state mandates increase township expenses every year. Secondly, I pledge to fight every day to prevent high-density overdevelopment, especially in areas that are not suitable for such housing. I want the residents of Colts Neck to know that I'm always available for a thoughtful discussion about issues that matter to you. The highlight of this past year for me were the evenings spent in this room during township committee meetings with standing-room-only crowds when we came together to discuss discuss issues, share ideas, and find solutions. My wish for the new year is that we continue to work together, respectfully, and constructively with the focus on facts and honesty so we can continue to move Colts Neck forward while honoring the traditions that make it unique. I'd like to thank my family and friends for their unwavering support. Public service is never a solo effort and I am grateful for their encouragement that allows me to serve with confidence and humility. Thank you again for this opportunity. I am humbled by the faith you have placed in me and I am honored to serve you, the residents of Colts Neck. It is a privilege to serve you as deputy mayor and something I will never take for granted. I look forward to working with each of you in the year ahead for the good of our community. Thank you. Happy New Year as we celebrate our country country's 250th birthday and may God continue to bless Colts Neck.

Mike's got a little commentary. Item number 12, public comment. Procedure for public comment. The Colts Neck Township Committee welcomes comments from the members of the public. Please raise your hand if you're interested in being heard. Once recognized by the mayor, identify yourself by clearly stating your name and address for the record. Your comments will be limited to four minutes. Once you have finished speaking or your four minutes have expired, the township committee will respond accordingly. May I have a motion to open to public comment?

Moved. Second. All in favor? I. Anybody from the public wish to make a statement? Mr. O'Brien. Happy new year to you. Thank you. Kevin O'Brien, 18 The Enclosure. Some of these remarks were carryovers from last year. During the December 2024 and at the 2025 reorg meeting, member Viola refused questions on the affordable housing court order, a public record. Transparency builds trust. Colts Neck is our town, too. On April 30th, the state wrote a grant request for $440,454 would not be considered as a 2021 compliance matter was not resolved. Lacking transparency, the committee failed to inform residents of the denied grant. On June 9th, Earl was discussed to convert old base housing to affordable housing units. Mayor Bus said Earl is not in play for affordable housing. Not at this time. Deputy Mayor Viola contradicted her stating the attorneys are involved, not discussions with Earl. We're not at liberty to discuss that. Please just tell us the truth. Opposed to spreading fertilizer. Mayor, um, other towns have built dedicated affordable housing dwellings, eliminating the 4:1 ratio. I'm not a fan of affordable housing, but building 200 units is a far better cry than building a thousand units. On July 9th, member Viola shared the bid price for the Five Points bathroom was $1.2 million per the video. Oprah revealed the five bids averaged $1.5 million, a difference of $300,000. On October 25th, Colts Neck extended a grant request for Five Points bathroom priced at $742,500, less than half the average price of the five bidders. Please help me understand the five the $757,000 difference. The town administrator is now paid $5,000 more to do the work of the the clerk who left, raising her final year income, thus increasing her retirement income, which is a wonderful perk. We deserve a full-time clerk, not a person doing two part-time jobs. The special needs park should be moved closer to the new bathrooms. I've asked for this twice and gotten no response. Those in wheelchairs should not need to navigate the bus loading area, the jogging path, cross the main road to get to the bathroom, which will be some 500 feet away. Hopefully, Luca Broxy won't get in my face this year over me exercising my First Amendment rights as he did last year. Lastly, residents voted for a change in leadership. Mr. Tobia, you have our support and we wish you much success. Thank you.

Mr. O'Brien. Any response? Uh, just two things. First, uh, regarding the full-time clerk, we are in the process of identifying and recruiting a full-time clerk. And secondly, regarding the naval weapons store h naval weapons station Earl housing potential we worked on earlier in the year that was nixed by validity. That's why we didn't discuss it in great detail. We had to get to a certain point before we can share it in public from executive. So that is why that is no longer on the table. Any other response? Any other member of the public wish to speak? Mr. Ryan, please step forward. Alan Ryan, 24 An Street. Just want to say um this room, I am a uh volunteer firefighter and this room has a lot of great volunteers right here and up there you guys. And I just want the people to understand that the volunteers, they take time out of their days, their nights with their families, time away from their families, and to really go and appreciate them and focus on the good. These people are all such good-hearted people. And I mean, I could call any of them. I get an answer on the phone. Just a great group of people. We have a change of uh uh uh command in the fire department. Mike Cassat's going to be deputy uh chief and Johnny's daughter is going to be deputy chief. And these are guys that they're out all the time. The calls have increased. The uh accidents and the one thing that is not mentioned and this is the bad part about it is they you see a lot of bad and uh these guys have seen a lot of bad and uh just remember that and just know how great it is that these volunteers are in this town and they do this and they don't do it for any money or anything like that. They do it because they have a good heart and a good soul and that's it. God bless America. God bless Colts Neck and Earl. What can I say about you guys in the Navy? You're the best. God bless America and thank you for your service.

Thank you, Mr. Ryan. Any other members of the public wish to speak? May I have a motion to close public comment?

Motion to close. Second. All in favor? I. Any opposed? Item number 13, announcement of township committee liaison assignments. I would like to first offer an explanation of what a township liaison is. A liaison serves as a bridge between the township committee, the governing body, and various boards, commissions, and committees. This role ensures communication and coordination between these groups and the township committee, helping to align local policies and initiatives. A board, committee, or commission does not report to the liaison. It's a communication position. Assignments for 2026. Myself as mayor, litigation steering committee, Naval Weapons Station Earl, Colts Neck Business Association, county, state, federal government, planning board, class member one, recreation committee, and senior citizens club. Deputy Mayor Bazetta, affordable housing, local regional schools, personnel committee, Naval Weapons Station Earl, Finance, Planning Board, Class 3, County, State, and Federal Government. Committeeman Rudo, Emergency Management, First Aid, Historic Preservation, Long Range Planning, Police Department. Committeewoman Bus, Fire Department, Prevention Alliance, Friends of the Library, Long Range Planning, Personnel Committee, and Affordable Housing Committee. Committeeman Tobia, Sports Foundation, Board of Health, Environmental Shade Tree Commission, Farmland and Open Space Committee, Green Team Advisory Committee, and the Grand.

Item number 14, Mayor's appointments to boards uh to volunteer boards, committees, and commissions. Planning board, Michael Viola, class number one. Brian Caswell, class 2. Daniel Bazetta, class three. George Corsi, class 4. Christopher Montalvo, class 4. Patrick Lesbriel, alternate number one. and Michael Taylor. Alternate number two. Board of Adjustment, Robert Farrell, member. Philip Cornblue, alternate number one. Board of Health, John Tobia, liaison. Dr. Gordon Boke, member. Pam Soler, member. Dr. Mark McCollum, alternate number one, and Joe Abbottel, alternate number two. Environmental Commission, John Tobia, liaison. Connie Deo, member. Thomas Hennessy Jr., Chairperson. Mayor recommends and appoints Thomas Hennessy as chair. Evan Stavala, member. Michael Taylor, member. Recreation Committee, Michael Viola, liaison. Christopher Montelvo, recommended as chair by the mayor. Paul Wild, member. Farmland and Open Space, John Tobia, liaison. Jonathan Fabozzi, member. Michael Stavala, member. Thomas Morren, member. Connie Deo, alternate number one. Agriculture Advisory Committee, Jenna Casimo, member. Thomas Morren, member. Michael Stavala, member. Historic Preservation, Frank Rudo, liaison. Jack Thompson, member. Michelle Wendoff, member. Michelle Weisbrought, member. Joanne Pazakqua, member. Maggie Osmolski, member. Janine Pinguo, member, and James Shatzel, member. Local a me local planning emergency planning, Frank Rudo, member. I'm sorry, liaison. Dave Stattle, member. Kevin Connect, member. Nicholas Lavali, member.

Resolution number 15 uh comment regarding the liaison positions. I find it interesting and I need to point out as I pledge I'd be open and transparent to the public, the elimination of the public works liaison was, according to our administrator, her recommendation to the governing body. I did not have any discussion on that with this governing body. There is no vote on that. This uh committee, as far as the first time, there is not a liaison of public works. It goes back a long time ago for both also code enforcement. It's quite interesting that as being elected to this governing body with 39 plus years of public works and infrastructure experience on the state, county, and local level, along with being the individual when this township, not this township committee, but township committee decided to downsize their public works department here in Colts Neck. I was appointed through the board of freeholders at the time to assist in that recommendation and transition. And at the point that they are recommending now that there is not a public works liaison, I can assure you knowing that I will direct all questions and inquiries through the administrator for answers, but it will not silence me as an official to ask questions on public works and assist public works. I have the utmost responsibility and also the utmost um proudness and the on the professionalism and dedication of our public works department led by Lou Bada. I worked hand in hand with Lou when I was at the county. His personnel, for the limited personnel they have, do a phenomenal job for this township and I don't want anybody to think that is a reflection on Mr. Bada or his staff. This is something that has changed this year. I was not consulted on it and it is a very strange that of all my years of experience that that liaison position was eliminated when there was other liaison positions left intact. Thank you.

Thank you, Committeeman. Item number 15, Resolution 2026-1, confirming appointment of township professionals pursuant to NJSA 40A1-5. They have a motion.

Moved. Second. Roll call. Deputy Mayor Bazetta. Yes. Committeeman Rudo. Yes. Committeewoman Bus. Yes. Committeeman Tobia. Comment before I vote on this particular resolution and the appointment of professionals. I was not consulted at any time on who the professionals or what their uh responses on the RFPs. Did look at some of those. I find it also strange that it was um ruled that I did not have a copy of a spreadsheet that I asked the administrator for. She said that that was privileged information and then later on, I do thank you Kathleen for supplying that spreadsheet later on for my review. My vote will stand as follows on the professionals. I vote yes for professional number four, five, 11, 12, and 15. I will abstain on all the others because I have not had a chance to review or why they're being selected. But I will vote no on number seven, which is Thomas Troutner for the affordable housing attorney because I do not believe that our interests were properly um litigated or properly represented in this township. I do believe it could have gone another way. So I will vote no on number seven.

Mr. Tobia, just a point of clarification. The uh privileged portion of the of the information that you did not receive was the request on why. Can't hear you. Sorry, if it just is turned on. Can you hear me now? The privileged portion that you did not receive was the request as to why the committee decided they did what they decided to do. She can't speak for the committee and that was done during executive, which I believe you're invited to. That the case says you did get the actual document that re that gave you all the information for all the RFPs before we were here. Thank you, Miss. You're welcome. May I have a motion to adopt?

Moved. I think I think we already we already did that. I already have a first and a second. Just a vote. So, now we're into roll call. I'd like to take this moment to recognize our first responders. I, I still need a roll call. Yes. We did first, second, and then a comment. And so we're ready for roll call. Okay. Sorry. Deputy Mayor Bazetta. Yes. Committeeman Rudo. Yes. Committeewoman Bus. Yes. Committeeman Tobia. Would you like me to state or you have it? We, I, I have the ones that you, yes. Yes. And the ones that you're abstaining from. Is that correct? The rema um, I'm voting yes on four, five, 11, 12, and 15. No on number seven and abstaining on the others. Got it. Perfect. And Mayor Viola. Yes. No exceptions.

Recognition of Colts Neck first responders. Police department members, please step forward. Fire department, please step forward. First aid, please step forward. Fire police, please step forward. This is our first line of defense. We have a full-time paid police department. All other services are volunteer. Like to take this opportunity to thank you for your service and dedication to Colts Neck. We are a community of volunteers. That is why it works as a community because of you. Thank you. And thank you Naval Weapons Station Earl for your fire support of Colts Neck as well. Would Chief Solder and Chief Cassat remain behind for the oath of office administered by your fire chair Tara Bus. Chief, He's not up there. They'll be signed at fire. We'll sign them at fire. You have them. While you're getting that, I just want to say a few things. Um, I took on the responsibility of being the liaison to fire. Um, I, I appreciate that. Um, I, I have the utmost of respect and quite honestly amazement for the fact that all of these first responders, they're there while we're sleeping. They're the first ones on scene when something goes wrong. And I, and I see so many of you out there and and I just want to say thank you. Um, Chief Chief John Solder, who stepped up this past year um in a, a very, well, two years, right? Two years. Yeah. They don't just get you for one year, they get you for two. Wait, do you know this, Mike? Two years. Um, it, it has been an honor to learn from you, be educated by you, um, and really quite honestly just be humbled uh, at at all that you do for this town. Mike, same with you as deputy. You've stepped up. You've stepped in and somehow you agreed to step up as chief. Um, and I just want to say thank you because the level of service that you give to this town is is beyond. So, I just want to say a big thank you to these fine gentlemen.

And with that, it is my honor to do this square. I'm Mike. Hi, Mike. Do solemnly swear. Do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States. That I will support the Constitution of the United States. And the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. In the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. That I will bear true faith and allegiance. I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. To the same. And to the governments established. And to the governments established in the United States. In the United States. And in this state. And in this state. Under the authority of the people. Under the authority of the people. And that I will faithfully. And I will faithfully. Impartially. Impartially. And justly perform. And justly perform. All the duties. All the duties. Of chief of Colts Neck Fire Department. Of chief of Colts Neck Fire Department. To the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. And that I will not use my office. And that I will not use my office. To grant preferential treatment. To grant preferential treatment. Nor to seek personal gain. Nor to seek personal gain. Favor or advantage. Favor or advantage. Not available to the general public. Not available to the general public. So help me God. So help me God. Thank you. It's so late. I, John Solder. I, John Solder, do solemnly swear. Do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution. I will support the Constitution of the United States. Of the United States. And the Constitution of the State of New Jersey. Constitution of the State of New Jersey. That I will bear true faith and allegiance. I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. To the same. And to the governments established. To the governments established in the United States. In the United States. And in this state. And in this state. Under the authority of the people. Under the authority of the people. And that I will faithfully. And that I will faithfully. Impartially. Impartially. And justly perform. Justly perform. All the duties of deputy chief. All the duties of deputy chief. Of Colts Neck Fire Department. To the best of my ability. To the best of my ability. And I will not use my office. I will not use my office. To grant preferential treatment. Grant preferential treatment. Nor to seek personal gain. Nor to seek personal gain. Favor or advantage. Favor or advantage. Not available to the general. Not available to the general. Thank you all. Thank you. We're almost done, folks.

I'd like to point out that all members duly appointed to a board, committee, or commission will be sworn in at their first respective meetings. Item number 17, motion to cons adopt consent agenda. There are 27 items on here, but we're going to do them all at once. All items on the consent agenda are considered routine by the township and are adopted or approved collectively by a single motion and roll call vote of a majority of the township committee. If discussion is desired on any item, it is considered separately. May I have a motion to adopt resolutions 2026-2 to 2026-27.

Moved. Second. Roll call. Deputy Mayor Bazetta. Yes. Committeeman Rudo. Yes. Committeewoman Bus. Yes. Committeeman Tobia. Just before I vote on uh item 26, 2026-12, adoption of the temporary budget, was not consulted on that or had any backup information on on that except for a very brief listing, but I do take uh Jonathan, our CFO. He's very capable and I will trust that that the numbers that he needs for the temporary budget until we can do the final discussion. So, I'll vote yes. And Mayor Viola. Yes.

My final comments. I, I welcome. Thank you all for coming. Thank you for being a part of this. Thank you to all our volunteers. At least 50% of you here are volunteers. Public service is a team sport and you make it a team that functions very well. So, thank you. And thank you to our neighbors at Naval Weapons Station Earl. Thank you to our neighbors who come from additional from adjacent townships. I would like to point out the next township committee meeting is January 14th in this chamber. We will have some special items on the agenda. There will be a new police officer offered for uh appointment to the police department. The police chief will also give a brief update on any trends and statistics from the last year and any input for this year and some of his initiatives. And the 250th co-chairs Mary Pyra and Sue Fitzpatrick will be here to talk about the township's semi-quincentennial celebration. That said, Pastor Chris, would you please step forward for the benediction?

Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Let's pray together, everyone, shall we? Let's pray. Heavenly Father, we have after following all the procedures, taking all the oaths, giving all the comments, now we entrust it all to you. Help us to be still and know that you are God. God, for our leadership, we pray for grace and guidance. Lord, for our outgoing Committeewoman, Sue Fitzpatrick, continued encouragement and peace. For our new uh township committeeman, John Tobia, continued wisdom and strength. For our mayor, Father God, may you continue to give him wisdom as he leads this wonderful town. But now, Lord, together we thank you for another year. We thank you for this amazing country. We thank you that we are blessed to live in the town of Colts Neck. So may you bless our churches and our schools, our first responders and our teachers. May you be with everyone as we remember our common faith, our common love for God, love for neighbor, and that we are so blessed to live in this beautiful town. We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Amen. God bless you all. Thank you. Thank you, Pastor Chris. Item number 22, motion to adjourn. May I have a motion?

Move. Second. All in favor? I. We are adjourned. See you. And this January 14th. Any time I leave I don't need Michael. I've seen it over. Congratulations, Mr. Mayor. Well done. Another year. Another year. Check in. Hello.