Matawan Borough Council Meeting Update

The Regular Borough Council meeting was suspended by the Mayor in order for the Matawan Borough Fire Department to present their Needs Assessment.

It was a worthwhile effort by the Fire Department, which we would like to remind everyone is a volunteer organization. Touched on was consolidation and the need for a hook and ladder truck. While no specifics were mentioned as to the ramifications of consolidation or where the money would come from for the hook and ladder, the information provided will now be decided on by the Borough Council. We trust the Council will take full advantage of the data and make the right decisions to benefit Matawan.

The rest of the meeting contained regular Borough business and proceeded without incident.

Comment: Councilman Mullaney has been voted out by the residents of Matawan. That is a fact. The "sour grapes" attitude is unbecoming of any Councilperson who held an elected position. The current letter writing campaign by two of his associates is insulting to the voters of Matawan. Mr. Mullaney get over yourself. The people of Matawan have spoken. There is no need to belittle the intelligence of the voters because they chose not to re-elect you.

Matawan Borough Council Mtg 11-16-09 @ 7:30pm

Matawan Borough Council meeting tonight at 7:30pm.

Before we get into the Agenda items, we would like to thank some wonderful groups for a job well done. This past Saturday a Swine Flu Clinic was held. Thanks to Matawan's Fire Department, Police Department and First Aid Department it was a rousing success. These groups make us proud to live in Matawan.

Matawan Borough Police Department is having its annual Toys For Tots Drive. This time of year let's remember those who are less fortunate and donate an unwrapped toy. We can bring a smile to the face of a child. Doesn't get any better than that my friends!

Matawan Borough Council Meeting 9-15 @ 7:30pm

Matawan Borough Council meeting 9-15-09 at 7:30pm, Matawan Borough Community Center, 201 Broad St.

Tonight's meeting has nothing earth shaking on the Agenda. Pretty much business as usual.

Old Business - An amendment to Ordinance 09-07, Bond for the Improvements to the Water Treatment Plant will be voted on.

New Business - Resolutions - Two Matawan Police Lieutenants contracts

Two amendments to the Policy and Procedure Manual for Borough Employees:

a) Uniform Time Record Keeping

b) Opt-out for Borough Employees to reject Health Benefit Plan

Bill List - No elected officials or family owned businesses on tonight's Bill List.

Last but not least, a fine job done by the Matawan Recreation Commission at yesterdays Matawan Day event. It was re-scheduled from Saturday but due to weather conditions was re-scheduled to Sunday. A good time was had by all. Thanks to all the volunteers.

Borough Council Workshop/Meeting 8-18-09

Following a noticeable absence from Borough Council meetings, Councilman Mendes made an appearance from his podium bringing along his own agenda. He commenced with using his podium as a stage for his agenda. Councilman, we all know Matawan's Police Department is second to none. Most residents are aware the Main Street building needs repair. It is easy to elaborate on the details of which we are well aware....over and over again. BUT, where is the "sound financial plan." In other words, to take a quote from the movies, "SHOW ME THE MONEY." Hey, if it is good enough for Cuba Gooding, the actor, it is good enough for Matawan residents. It is high time for Borough Council members to stop grand standing and start rolling up their sleeves and work together. Isn't that what we elected them to do? This includes the Mayor. C'mon Council, let's get on with business (not personal business, oops!) and the financial aspects of the Borough! By the way, isn't Councilman Joseph Urbano Chairperson of the Police Department? Isn't Councilman Mendes Chairperson of Fire and Safety? Shouldn't Mendes have discussed his concerns with the Chairperson of the Police Department, Councilman Urbano. This is why people get disgusted with politics. Let's quit the petty nonsense and "T.C.B."

Councilman Mullaney has started his campaign very early. Hey, but that's okay, if he would at least be consistent. As we recall Mullaney voted against the introduction of the Budget. Now at this past meeting he voted for amending the Budget, which included the $105,000. in State Aid. Can someone explain the change? Why the flip/flop? Quite a change from the "spend, spend, spend" Councilman Mullaney of years past. And who was voting to spend money knowing Matawan was working with a deficit Budget, you guessed it, the same Councilman Mullaney.

Police Department - An appearance by Chief Alston of Matawan's Police Department was a little confusing to residents. During the public portion, the Police Department requested a meeting with the Borough Council to discuss data that was given to the Council prior to the meeting. No mention was made as to what the data entailed. Is this the usual procedure for communication? A little puzzling to the residents.

With election time around the corner, we would like to see Matawan's Borough Council rise above the petty politics and start working towards establishing a future financial plan for the Borough, start moving on planning for Redevelopment (to whatever extent is financially prudent), address the Matawan Dams problem, set realistic goals for the Water/Sewer Department (which seems in progress), infrastructure (again set realistic, financially prudent) goals, get a plan for a financially prudent plan for our Police and Fire Department requirements and seek out Grants to help defray the cost of any and all Matawan's goals. Let's stop the back-biting Council and work together. Keep in mind election time is drawing closer. Any Council member who does not consider the needs of the Community at large, instead of their own personal needs, should consider looking elsewhere for our vote!

Hope to see you at the next Council meeting......keeping in mind we only have two a month, it would behoove residents to try to attend at least one.

Borough Council Council Workshop/Meeting at 6:30pm 6/4/09

The long hot days of Summer will soon be upon us. Well, there will be no rest for our Borough Council. Tough decisions, tougher financial issues, tough problems face our Borough Council. We trust they are up for the challenges, oops, isn't that why we elected them! Isn't that why we will continue to re-elect them? We don't want lip service from our Council, we want officials who worry more about Matawan and Matawan's future and can fight the tough fight.


Workshop begins at 6:30pm tonight followed by the regular Council meeting. On the Agenda is the Police Department 150 Main St. along with hiring of a Class II Special. The Special involves spending money, obviously, adding to the Department. What is up for discussion about 150 Main St, Police Dept. Bldg? We all know it needs work, we all know our Police Force deserve a better facility, what we don't know is where are we getting the money....bonds? How can we further tax the already overburdened taxpayers? Isn't that how the previous Democratic majority got us into our current situation, with deficit spending? The Mayor and the Republican majority now is trying to curb spending and get Matawan back on the road to sound financial decision making. Remember when Mayor Buccellato pleaded with the Democratic majority to curb spending over and over again. He urged them to look at the big picture, project for the future, prioritize the needed from the mandatory. Well now it is mandatory to cut spending. Being a Monday Night Quarterback, was it considered when new computers were purchased for the Police Dept, if it was a needed or mandatory purchase? Could that money have been used for the mandatory improvements to the building at 150 Main St?

As we all face these financial difficult times, as we all have to make tough decisions, as we all have to tighten our belts to live within our means and cut out the needed from the mandatory in our personal Budgets, is it too much to ask that our Municipality do the same.

Next item of interest, Ordinance Prohibiting Elected Officials from Municipal Work. Now doesn't that sound like an oxymoron? Apparently, something or someone has been stalling this Ordinance. Why you ask? Let's just see who doesn't want Matawan to have a Pay to Play Ordinance and why? Guess we will see tonight. More on this tomorrow.

The regular meeting items of interest - Public hearing expansion of Bart's Continental Cuisine. Bart's is an old established business in Matawan. They are not only a Gem in our community but make many contributions through fundraisers for charities. They have not abandoned Matawan. Cannot see any reason for anyone to object to their expansion. We wish them continued success.

Police Dept. - Hiring of Class Two Specials. Needed or Mandatory?

Clerk's Office - Hiring of a Part Time hourly Employee. Needed or Mandatory?

Authorizing Professional Services by T & M Associates for Emergency Repair Water and Sanitary Sewer. Obviously a Mandatory.

Authorizing Professional Services by T & M Associates for Well & High Pump Maintenance. Not sure if needed or mandatory. Aware of the problems our Water system faces, it sounds like mandatory.

Payment of Bills - Nothing on the website. We cannot determine if any elected official has done work for the Borough and is seeking payment.

Hope to see you at tonight's meeting.....

Matawan Borough Council Meeting 5-19-2009 at 7:30pm

Borough Council meeting tomorrow to include Public Hearing on the Budget. This should interest everyone in Matawan.

Under Old Business. Ordinance 09-08 - Amending the Code of the Borough of Matawan-Recreation Commission. This proposed Ordinance has been bouncing around since last year.

Another pertinent subject will pertain to elected Borough Officials or their immediate family members doing work for the Borough. This presents a conflict of interest. Whose interests are being served, the elected official or the Borough?

Resolution 09-05-32, Claire Court - JCP&L - we assume this is regarding JCP&L cutting down shrubbery and bushes to the ground. By doing so it devalued the property on Claire Court. We sincerely hope this situation is finally resolved.

Resolution 09-05-21 - Approving the discharge of fireworks in the Borough of Matawan in Celebration of Independence Day. There are different schools of thought on this issue. Some residents oppose the fireworks due to the cost. Other residents enjoy the fireworks and look forward to having barbecues/parties on that weekend. Having the fireworks as the conclusion to their parties. What a nice way to give back to the community.

Very often we moan and groan about what the Borough officials are doing wrong. It is refreshing to observe the professionalism of our new part time Borough Administrator, William Garofolo. From our observations, he is knowledgeable, straight forward and quick to respond to questions members of the Council pose. Good to have you on board Mr. Garofalo.

Hope to see you at the meeting.....

Matawan Borough Council Meeting 4/23 at 7:30pm

Tonight's Council meeting will include a vote for an Ordinance to prohibit elected officials from doing work for the Borough for compensation. This is a long time coming. It will be the 3rd reading of this Ordinance and will be voted on tonight. We conclude it is wrong for a member of the Borough Council to perform work for the Borough. It smacks of impropriety. We want to see this Ordinance passed. Let us see our Council "do the right thing." If you are interested in clean government you might want to attend tonight's meeting.

There are much more important items to be dealt with by this Council. For example, the Water Treatment Plant, the dams and lakes of Matawan, Transit Village coupled with Downtown Revitalization, dealing with the deficit Budget, planning for future Budgets, making our Parks handicapped accessible to name just a few.

Sorry folks due to a computer malfunction the rest of this post has been deleted. Now to work on it.

Hope to see at the meeting......

Workshop, Borough Council Meeting 4-7-09 at 7pm

Reconvene Workshop meeting of 3-31-09, tonight at 7pm. It will be followed by another Workshop meeting. After which the Regular Borough Council meeting will be held. A rather ambitious Agenda for one evening. Without political posturing, we look forward to seeing the Workshops move quickly and the Borough Council making progress.

Will the Council continue with the Police Dept. Budget as the Chief wasn't feeling well at the last Special Meeting? We look forward to hearing what cuts the Police Dept. could make, if any.

Workshop agenda highlights:

An ordinance introduction to exceed the Municipal Budget Appropriation limits and to establish a Cap Bank.

2009 Budget Introduction for the fiscal year.

Workshop Discussions:
Hooray! At long last Matawan will be discussing and voting on a Resolution to retain a Part Time Business Administrator. With our current Budget constraints....a good move!

Property Maintenance Ordinance - For all of the residents who maintain their property, we are assuming (hopefully not like the Bad News Bears movie) this ordinance will enforce and/or create guidelines for property owners to follow. We all are tired of property owners who let their property become storage bins for their junk/garbage.

Extension of 4 day work week

Employee Time Records

General discussion on Recreation Ordinance

Gas & Municipal Vehicles Usage

Council Meeting Agenda

Resolution to Retain Part-Time Business Administrator

Resolution Honoring our Troops and "Support our Troops Day"

Resolution for the Borough of Matawan for a Regional Feasibility Study Grant

Mill Road Sewer Extension (finally)

Bond Ordinance providing an appropriation of $200,000. for Improvements to the Water Treatment Plant. Issuance of $200,000. Bonds or Notes of the Borough for Financing Part of the Appropriation.

It appears that the Council is making progress. Can't help but wonder what Matawan could have accomplished had we not had to make up for the Budget deficits of the last few years. Oh well......

Hope to see you at the meeting......

Happy St. Patrick's Day to our Irish Friends

The regular Matawan Borough Council meeting will be held Wed., March 18, 2009. Mayor Buccellato in consideration of those who celebrate St. Patrick's Day made the change in date.

Have a safe and Happy St. Patrick's Day.

Follow Up to Workshop/Borough Council Meeting

Thinking about the discussions during the Workshop/Borough Council meetings.

Presentation by Maser Consulting of Vue Program - Interesting presentation by Maser regarding a computer system currently installed in the Borough. The presentation concerned expanding this program and the cost of same. Matawan Borough's Water Dept. is currently utilizing this program and will continue until July 2009 at a cost of $500. month. It appears to be a great program which will significantly assist the Borough. Middletown was mentioned as a township that utilizes this system. Don't see how anyone can compare Middletown to Matawan. Middletown is not dealing with the budget deficit of Matawan. However, with the current economic climate (which shows no signs of improving) we don't see how Matawan can afford to invest in a program of this magnitude.

Comment - This contract was awarded to Maser Consulting by a previous Borough Council. Why wasn't the eventual cost of expanding the Program discussed? Were other Engineering firms contacted for pricing or was this another "plum" given to Maser like the $300,000+ no bid contract for the Road Program?

Sign Ordinance - Mr. Monfort of the Matawan Historic Sites Commission handed out a draft of Downtown Matawan Signage Design Guidelines drafted 2/3/01. An enormous amount of work went into the guidelines with no action being taken to date. All seemed to agree that an Ordinance that can be enforced is necessary. Mr. Monfort will be working on updating the guidelines. It was noted that a current Ordinance is in place prohibiting neon signs from being displayed in store windows. This ordinance is not being enforced. Residents were receptive to working with Mr. Monfort and the Commission to bring the process to fruition. We support this program.

Ordinance Prohibiting Elected Officials from Municipal Work - Even the "Thinker" realizes this is a no brainer. While there is currently an ethics code in place, it does not appear to be followed. The Borough Attorney, Pat Menna, Esq. presented the Council with a draft of the Ordinance. Council members made certain recommendations to amend the draft. What concerned us was that current sitting Council members were allowed to contribute and eventually we presume will vote on this Ordinance. How can sitting members of Council who are currently performing work for the Borough make recommendations or vote on this ordinance? It defies logic! The question is whose interests are being protected, the individuals or the Borough?

Unemployment request - W. Malley - Former Councilman Malley applied for Unemployment Insurance and the Borough was listed as a former employer. Needless to say another no brainer. The Borough Attorney, Pat Menna, Esq. was instructed to return the form unsigned with a letter of explanation.

Items held over: Gas & municipal vehicles usage, Discussion on Recreation, Discussion of Pension Deferment, Extension of four day work week.

Borough Council Meeting

Towing License approval - R & A Auto Body, Inc. was held. Why is not known.

Reappointment of Chief Financial Officer - Council members voted to reappoint the current Chief Financial Officer. The only no vote came from Councilman Bud Mullaney. Although he gave no reason for his vote.

Comment - We believe the Council acted in the best interests of the Borough in reappointing the current CFO.

Payment of Bills - Key Auto Body was listed on the Bill List. It was noted that Councilman Kevin Mendes (whose family owns Key Auto Body) abstained from voting.

Comment - The bill list was not published on the website. However, it was mentioned that Key Auto Body Shop had an invoice on the list at the meeting. Hmmmmmmm!

We will still push to get the Bill List published on the Borough website. As residents are entitled to see how their tax dollars are being spent.

Hope to see you at the next meeting.....

Matawan Borough Council Meeting Feb. 17 @ 7:30

Review of the Agenda for the Borough Council meeting was pleased to read Matawan is moving forward with the cell tower, a Commodity Resale Agreement with the County of Monmouth, Municipal Assistance/Share Services Agreement with the County of Monmouth, Loan Application to NJ Dept of Environmental Infrastructure Trust for the Water Treatment Improvements Project to name just a few. There is much to do but this is a good start.

In these difficult economic times it is good to see the teamwork on the current Council. So much more is being accomplished. With the above items moving forward Matawan will see much needed income from the Cell Phone tower and the possibility of selling water from the Water Treatment Plan, once improvements are made.

The Borough Council Workshop meeting on February 3, 2009 did not get to all items on the Agenda. JCP&L was in attendance to address the concerns of residents regarding the removal of trees behind their properties. JCP&L removed trees down to the base thus causing unsightly views and lowering property values. JCP&L will be returning to the Borough Council with further explanations and possible solutions. Many residents are rightfully upset as they were never notified the trees/shrubs would be removed. Discussion on the Cell Phone towers, which will bring income to the Borough was another item for consideration.

Discussion on Towing Ordinance Revision, Ordinance Prohibiting Elected Officials from Municipal Work are two items which were not addressed. To our disappointment these topics will not be discussed or voted on until the next Workshop Meeting/Council Meeting.

The problem, as we see it, is that same night the Council voted to pay invoices from Key Auto Body, (Councilman Kevin Mendes) family owned business. Councilman Mendes was absent from the meeting. WHY is a Councilman's family business, where he is employed, still doing work for the Borough? Previously, Councilman Bud Mullaney, owner of Mullaney Tires, stated his firm would no longer perform work for the Borough. At first blush sounded like the ethical approach to avoid any possibility of conflict of interest. Needless to say, Mullaney dropped the ball and never presented the Council with a draft of a Pay to Play Ordinance. A Matawan First Aid ambulance was seen in the Mullaney Tires parking lot months later. Hmmmm! During his tenure on the Police, Fire, First Aid Commission, Councilman Mendes' family owned business, Key Auto Body, did work for the Police Dept. in addition to providing towing services for the Borough, then voted to pay the invoices. "THE GOD'S MUST BE CRAZY!"

The current Council is attempting to protect the Borough (that is you) against any possibility of a conflict of interest. Current elected officials have to make a decision, do they work for the people of Matawan or their own self interests? That is the harsh reality! We trust the Mayor and Council will not drop the ball and do the necessary.

Note: The Feb. 17th Bill List does not contain any invoices from any Council members family owned businesses.

Hope to see you at the meeting......

The Freeze may be coming to Matawan

We would like to preface our commentary on the Council meeting by saying we have seen a big change in the professionalism and dedication of this Council. Meetings are run relatively smoothly and there is a spirit of cooperation among its members. Nice to see them all buckle down and get down to business.

The Mayor and Council spoke about the poor economic conditions and the ways Matawan is considering meeting its financial obligations. Borough Departments will be asked to cut their Budgets by 5% and the possibility of a salary freeze on all Borough employees are two ways discussed. The damage done by the previous Council's spending, we hope can be repaired by fine tuning the Budget and major cutbacks.

Budget 2009 - Chairman of Finance committee, Tom Fitzsimmons, reported the Budget is being fine tuned. Fitzsimmons reiterated the economic conditions facing Matawan as previously stated by the Mayor. Councilman Fitzsimmons commended Councilman Cannon for his assistance to him with the Budget. Kudos Gentlemen, nice to see everyone pulling together for the betterment of Matawan.

Veto of Ordinance Adopting Responsible Contractor Policy - Veto stands

Pat Menna,Esq. Borough Attorney, gave explanations this Ordinance was not feasible. Councilman Mullaney, in a strictly partisan move requested the Mayor reconsider. Come on Councilman...reeeeally....we all know the Unions donated $7500. to the Democrats failed election. If in fact, you wanted the Ordinance reconsidered, you had ample time to respond to the Mayor's veto, item by item. You did not. Therefore, your posturing was political and not in the best interest of Matawan.

Borough Engineer's Report - As mentioned at the last Council meeting, the Borough Engineer discussed Economic Stimulus Packages which may be available to assist Matawan. Discussion commenced regarding the Water Treatment Plant. Councilman Michael Cannon , as Chairperson of the Water, Sewer Committee, will accompany Rob Keating, Borough Engineer to a preliminary fact finding meeting to determine Matawan's eligibility. Councilman Mullaney requested he attend this meeting. There was no objection.

A portion of the Economic Stimulus Package discussed was for the Road Program. Burrows Mansion maintenance was also discussed.

The Borough Engineering firm hit the ground running and we are impressed. More will follow on the outcome when info becomes available.

Borough Administrator Position - Mayor Buccellato and Councilman Fitzsimmons met with several candidates. More info to follow as it becomes available.

Privilege of the Floor - A resident of Clare Court asked for the Council's help. JCP&L cut down trees to the ground and exposed property owners to the ugly sight of a transformer. Decreasing property value was an issue and the unsightly transformer. Mayor Buccellato requested the Borough Clerk contact JCP&L in order for residents to discuss their issues with JCP&L.

Residents of Mill Road presented the Council with information and photos of damage done by water and mud slides. We were under the impression this was dealt with last year with the previous Borough Engineering Firm and Council. Obviously, someone dropped the ball to the detriment of the residents. Residents deserve answers, this situation is unacceptable.

Hope to see you at the next Council meeting.....

Matawan Borough Council Mtg Update

Borough Council met last night in what we believe is one of the shortest meetings ever. Why you ask, doesn't Matawan have business to conduct?Let's face it this Council has done nothing to reduce the deficit. They have increased spending with no end in sight.

Councilman Malley and Councilman Bunyon were conspiciously silent along with Councilman Cannon. The only Councilperson who ever voted against their spending is Councilwoman Linda Clifton. Councilman Mullaney in an attempt to play politics, asked Fred Carr, how much money will the Borough receive from Reinsurance? This was quite amusing as the Borough has received the bulk of money from Reinsurance and Councilman Mullaney is aware of that fact. If we knew just from attending meetings, why wouldn't a Councilman know? Unless, of course, he was making a feeble attempt at grandstanding and politicking. Sorry folks but the "strategic political move" was not to answer any questions. And playing politics is exactly what they did. As for us, we want answers! In the words of Jack Nicholson in the movie, "A Few Good Men" the Democrats must believe we can't handle the truth! Well we lived through the Korean Conflict, the Berlin Wall Crisis, Viet Nam and the two terrorists attack on the World Trade Center, we can handle your answers. That is, if you have any. Judging by last night you DO NOT.

After having to listen to their political rheotoric all year, this would have been as good a time as any to tell us what your plan will be and how it will affect us financially. Not once have we heard any of them address the Budget deficit. Even when the Mayor has consistently reminded them and offered his assistance and expertise.

Well, now that we have gotten that out of our system, let's share the Curfew information.

Halloween Curfew for persons under 16.

October 29 and 30, 2008 7:30pm to 5am

Please have a safe and Happy Halloween.

October 31, 2008 8:30pm to 5am

Coming soon - We have obtained a copy of the Contract between the firm representing Matawan in the capacity of Borough Attorney. This is to clarify to residents, where Mr. Aaron, Esq. is of late. It seems an associate has been attending Borough Council meetings.

Matawan Borough Council Mtg 10/21 @ 7:30pm

Tuesday's meeting of the Borough Council is interesting. First on the Agenda will be a discussion on the Mill Road Sewers.

This is an item that should have been resolved a long time ago. The Council is still talking, talking, talking. The Mayor has pushed them to make a decision and give the family that has raw sewerage backing up into their home relief. That is what this is all about. Now if this Council can't make a decision when raw sewerage is coming into a homeowner's residence, then how can we expect them to make any serious decisions on anything!

That brings us to another item. Resolution 08-10-17 Authorizing the Chief Financial Officer to pay $4,750. to Signs by J.K. for the fabrication and installation of Signs for Terhune Park, Clinton Street Park, Gravelly Brook Park, Freneau Park and Ravine Drive Park according to a proposal #317 dated August 28, 2008.

Kinda of reminds us of Nero fiddling while Rome burns to the ground! With a deficit of $500,000 and growing what does our Council decide to do.......why vote on a resolution for signs for the Parks in Matawan. Guess Councilman Mullaney, Councilman Malley and Councilman Bunyon thinks this is more important than trying to cut the Budget costs. The signs are beautiful and a welcome addition to Matawan. However, wish the Council could move this quick to make Budget cuts.

Wonder if Signs by J.K. made all those huge political signs we see all over Matawan? Just wondering.....

Speaking of Budget items, Ordinance 08-17 will be introduced tonight. This Ordinance pertains to Fix and Determine the Salaries and Wages of Officiers, Management, Supervisory Personnel and General Employees not Represented by an Organized Bargaining Unit and Employed by the Borough of Matawan, Monmouth County, New Jersey.

How can you say no to the Borough employees after the Borough Council has given others benefits, perks or raises?

We are anxious to hear what the Council has to say tonight. Expect a whole lot of political BS tonight.

Hope to see you there.....

Matawan Borough Council Mtg 9/2/08 @ 7:30pm

Well folks hang on to your check books! Tonight there will be a Borough Council meeting at 7:30pm. Some members of the Council appear not to be concerned about the deficit by the way they are spending. Although the medical deficit is near $400,000. We don't know at this time what other line items are over budget, nor do we know what line items can be used to pay down the growing $400,000+ deficit. What we do know is we started out this year in the red for $125,000. The Finance Chairman, Michael Cannon, as of 8/22/08 explained that he does not know how much will be paid down (via use of other line items & how much the insurance would pick up)as the numbers were not yet available. Add to that deficit the bonding that is being done for the 2007-2008 Road Program, and any line items that are over budget (you can bet there are items that are over budget at this moment) and how much do you think we will have left over to pay down the deficit? More troubling is where is the money coming from to pay for any other line items that exceeded there budgeted amount? No one has explained to the residents how they will manipulate the line items. Keep in mind the only way to get more money for the overages is through TAXES. We are hoping the Council found a "pot of gold" to pay for their Agendas. Unfortunately, St. Patrick's Day isn't until March 2009. Guess we will have to wait until Nov. to see what unfolds.

Some but not all the Agenda items are:

1. Establishing a Recreation Advisory Committee

2. Matawan Police Department
a. Authorizing Police Chief James Alston's Contract
b. Authorizing Police Lieutenant Jason Gallo's Contract
c. Authorizing Police Lieutenant Benedict J. Smith, III Contract
d. Authorizing Police Chief to Undertake Preliminary Interviews for staffing of Police Dept.
e. Authorizing the purchase of a vehicle for the Matawan Police Dept.


3. Award of Contract for a COAH Administrative Agent

4. Appointing Business Administrator as the Municipal Housing Liaison

5. Maser Consulting Group - What would a meeting be without awarding Maser some engineering fees? So as you would not be disapponted they will be authorized to:

a. Provide Professional services for investigating potential purchasers of the Borough's Water allocation.

b. Authorizing Borough Engineer (Maser) to advertise to accept bids for the 2007-2008 Road Program. (Perhaps this fee is part of the no bid award of $300,000. authorized previously)

c. Authorizing Borough Engineer engineering/design, survey, construction administration and observation services Park Avenue Sanitary sewer rehabilitation

6. Award of contract for a fire alarm installation and monitoring syste am for the Matawan Police Department at 150 Main St.

7. Authorizing Memorial Day Parade Date.

All in all it should be an interesting meeting. Hope to see you there.......

WHERE IS THE MONEY COMING FROM? YOUR POCKET!

Commentary - Wonders will never cease. Last night's workshop/meeting was a poor example of municipal government in action. It is more like a 3 ring circus than a Council. Mayor Buccellato is telling everyone that the Borough is operating at a DEFICIT, a negative balance of $398,000. and yet the Council is still adding projects to the list of items they want to BOND. What is going to happen when year end rolls around and we are dealing with a larger deficit? Will our taxes rise again? It is becoming more and more obvious that this Council lacks the knowledge to budget properly and set priorities . Do they think we property owners are made of money? As was apparent by the residents from Oak Knoll Drive who came to the meeting to question the increase in their property taxes. Mayor Buccellato made arrangements for them to meet the following night with the real estate appraiser to discuss their revaluations. What will happen next year when all these BONDS have to be paid back coupled with the deficit which is increasing daily? If you think the property tax increase is high now wait till next year. There are more homes for sale in Matawan than ever before. If spending continues we just might be seeing more foreclosures. Ironically, certain factions of the press do not even report on the deficit. Perhaps a growing deficit of $398,000 isn't newsworthy.

More to follow.....

Matawan Workshop Meeting 8-19 Tues. at 7pm

The Matawan Borough Council Workshop meeting has been rescheduled to 8-19, Tues. at 7pm. To be followed by the Matawan Borough Council regular meeting at 7:30pm.

Let's see some teamwork from the Council in lieu of policking. If they can stay on target perhaps they can get through the Workshop Agenda. If they contnue bickering, politicking, playing the blame game, then they are doing a disservice to the residents of Matawan. What is more important than discussing the acquisition of Fire Department equipment? Switch items on the Agenda, Mayor. As the Recreation Committee has been sitting on the Recreation Ordinance for such a long time, why not switch that on the Agenda to the end. Park Rules & Regulations should not take that much time and would start the process to give residents relief from their current problem.

If the Council is serious about the welfare of Matawan, then they will act in a professional, dedicated manner, putting politics and personal agendas aside. Council people try to familiarize yourselves with correspondence/data on the Agenda. All too often we have witnessed delays in the Agenda as one Council person or another has stated they didn't get the memo, email or data. Come on now, let's get your stuff together.

When it comes to improving Matawan too many Council members argue, criticize and point their fingers at others. Let's say "NO" to partisanship!

Borough Council Meeting 6/17 at 7:30pm

Council meets tonight at 7:30pm at 201 Broad St., Matawan Community Center.

Old business: Ordinance 08-09 - An ordinance to create the position of Municipal Housing Liaison for the purpose of administering Borough of Matawan's Affordable Housing Program Pursuant to the Fair Housing Act.

Ordiance 08-10 - Amending and Supplementing Chapter IX, "Traffic," Schedule II, regarding parking prohibited along certain streets.

Consent Agenda: This list does not include all items.

Resolution 08-06-25 Authorizing the apppointment of Personnel Summer Recreaton Program 008.

Redemption of Tax sale Certficates (2)

Resolution 08-06-18 - Approving business license - Aby's Mexican Restaurant

Resolution 08-06-26 - Adopting an Employee Supplemental Insurance Benefits Plan

Hope to see you there....

Matawan Borough Council Mtg 6/5/08 @7:30pm

Tonight's Council Meeting will include but not limited to the following Resolutions:

Resolution authorizing the hiring of part time Summer Recreation Canoe Rentals.

Resolution to appoint Jason Gallo as Lieutenant Matawan Police Department.

Resolution to appoint James M. Alston as Chief of Police, Matawan Police Department.

Resolution appointing Madeline Scalzo as Deputy Court Administrator part time.

There should not be any problem with any of these resolutions being passed by the Council.

We wish all of the appointees the best of luck and success in their new positions.

Hope to see you at the meeting.....

Follow up to Borough Council Meeting 5/19

It was our pleasure to witness two Matawan Police Detectives receiving an Award from no less than the F.B.I. Det. Sgt. Smith and Det. O'Boyle were acknowledged for their assistance in bringing to justice the armed bank robbers who held up the Sun Bank and other banks in the area. As residents, we are proud to have such dedicated and distinguished Detectives on Matawan's Police Department.

School Budget - There was a reduction of $500,000. to the School Budget offered by the School Board. The Council voted to accept their offer. Aberdeen's Council also voted to accept the Budget. When you are dealing witn millions, $500,000. doesn't even make a dent.


New Restaurant in Borough - AJ Pizzle LLC, is replacing the former Copperleaf Grill at the strip mall on Rt. 34 and Main St. We welcome new business in Matawan and wish them the best of luck.

Borough Attorney - The Council appointed James G. Aaron, Esq. of Ansel, Zaro, Grimm & Aaron with one no vote by Councilwoman Clifton. The fee was announced at $115. an hour, which matched the amount quoted by Pat Menna, Esq. However, no mention was made pertaining to phone calls. Mr. Menna had quoted unlimited phone calls at no charge. Since it wasn't mentioned, we have to wonder if Mr. Aaron also agreed to unlimited phone calls. If not, then we will be paying $115. every time a member of Council/Borough Clerk/Borough Administrator, etc. places a phone call.


Labor/Special Litigation Attorney - Scott C. Arnette, Esq. was appointed with one no vote by Councilwoman Clifton. Councilman Mullaney added Special Litigation to the Labor Attorney's position.


Comment: In the event one of the other attorneys have a conflict of interest, then we would utilize the Special Litigation Attorney. The way we see it, it gives The Arnette Law Firm LLC, another way to make money off of Matawan. The Democratic majority wants to add to Northgrave, et al., by re-appointing them as Redevelopment Attorneys and adding Environmental Attorneys to their firm. The appointment of any other attorneys has been held off. Councilman Cannon advised Councilman Mullaney that money must be certified by the CFO in order to go forward with appointing any additional attorneys.


Financial Aid from Trenton - What a joke! We will be receiving $17,000 +/- in State Aid. We did file for discretionary aid. We all sent letters to Trenton asking Corzine not to punish the small towns & boroughs in NJ. Let's hope he receives many, many letters from taxpayers and reinstates our financial aid package. As we all know we are facing financial problems in Matawan along with all the other small towns.


Grants - Maser Consulting will be filing for a Grant from the D.O.T. for a Road Program. Along with a previously mentioned grant application presented by Fred Carr, Borough Administrator, this will be the second Grant Maser will be applying for on Matawan's behalf. Any financial assistance we can get is welcomed. Remember Grants are free money (excluding the time put into the application and presentation), Bonds must be paid back. Good luck to Fred Carr and Bill White, Engr., Maser Consulting with their presentation.



The Preserve on Route 79/American Properties - A Resolution for Affordable Marketing of Rental Unit has been held for clarification.

Resolution 08-09 was introduced to create a position of Municipal Housing Liaison for the Purpose of Administering Borough of Matawan's Affordable Housing Program pursuant to the Fair Housing Act.

Signs in the Borough - A resident stated lawn signs are still be posted on his property. He has appeared before the Council last year requesting a solution from the Borough. We agree these signs are all over the Borough and there should be an ordinance preventing these unsightly advertising signs.

Cancer Care - A Resolution was passed to create the Matawan Cancer Research Program spearheaded by former Councilwoman Donna Gould. The purpose of this program is to provide transportation for cancer patients to and from Doctor appointments, chemotherapy, etc. Assemblywoman Amy Handlin was informed by the American Cancer Society of the lack of transportation for Cancer patients.

Matawan Alliance - Oh where, oh where has the Matawan Alliance gone? At the last meeting Mayor Buccellato asked Councilman Mullaney if he had any news concerning the Matawan Alliance. Councilman Mullaney replied no. Then Councilman Malley stated someone from the Matawan Alliance would be at the next Borough Council meeting. Needless to say no one showed up. A question was raised as to the money collected by the Matawan Alliance purported to be for a Memorial for the victims of the Shark attack many years ago. Last year Mary Mullaney (Councilman Mullaney's wife) spoke on behalf of the Matawan Alliance. Followed by Renata Bonelli of Synergy Bank. While Mrs. Mullaney attends Council meetings, she was not forthcoming with any information. The question is what the big secret....what happened to the Matawan Alliance and the money collected? They did a good job with the Sharkfest, Cafe Swing Night, Annual Night Out, etc.

Don't forget Matawan's Memorial Day Parade will be held on Monday, May 26th beginning at St. Clements Church Parking Lot.

Hope to see you at the next Council meeting on Thursday, June 5, 2008 at 7:30pm.