August 6, 2012 – Packet - Borough of Hightstown

AUTHORIZING THE INSTALLATION OF A STAGE IN ASSOCIATION PARK
WHEREAS, Ryan Lanphear has approached the Borough to build a stage in Association Park as an Eagle Scout
project; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Lanphear has made a presentation to the Borough Council, Parks and Recreation Commission, and
Planning Board for the stage in Association Park; and
WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Commission has thoroughly reviewed and approved said plan; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Lanphear has made application to the Planning Board, who has thoroughly reviewed said plan and
recommended same to Council for approval; and
WHEREAS, the funds for this project will be provided through fundraising activities designated specifically for this
project by the Boy Scout or for future Parks and Recreation programs and facilities by the Parks and Recreation
Commission; and
WHEREAS, all permits and inspections as required by the Construction Official of the Borough shall be
implemented as a requirement of this project; and
WHEREAS, the rules and regulations associated with the use of the stage will be established by the Parks and
Recreation Commission with final approval by the Borough Council; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council has thoroughly reviewed and approved said plan and are supportive of the
Eagle Scout project, and finds that such a stage would benefit the Hightstown Borough community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Hightstown that the
building of a stage in Association Park as an Eagle Scout Project, as proposed by Ryan Lanphear, is hereby authorized
and that all permits and inspections as required by the Construction Official of the Borough shall be implemented as a
requirement of this project.
Mayor Kirson called a ten minute recess at 9:45pm. The meeting re-convened at 9:55pm.
Ordinance 2012-07 Final Reading and Public Hearing An Ordinance Amending and Supplementing Section 2-
19, Entitled “Police Department,” of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Hightstown, New
Jersey” in order to Create the Position of “Special Law Enforcement Officer” and to Prescribe Appropriate
Terms, Conditions and Regulations Associated Therewith.
Councilmember Thibault recused himself from discussion and vote on this ordinance
Mayor Kirson reviewed the ordinance and the Police Director explained the duties of the Special Officers and noted
that they are fully trained and more economical; they will be part-time positions which are paid hourly.
The Mayor opened the Public hearing on Ordinance 2012-07 and the following individuals spoke:
Eugene Sarafin, 628 S. Main Street – inquired whether retired police officers already collecting pension would be hired
or are you hiring young people who need work.
The Police Director responded that it would depend upon the applications received and who is most qualified; law
details the guidelines.
Mr. Sarafin noted that he objects to hiring retirees, we need to hire young unemployed Police Officers.
Scott Caster, 12 Clover Lane – noted he has faith in Council and trusts them.
George Zhelesnik, 7 Ely Court – noted that he is a retired police officer and suggested that the special officer position
be monitored closely over the next couple years so if additional officers are needed, they get hired. He supports the
ordinance.
The Police Director advised that the ordinance is modeled after state law and that special officers can only supplement,
not replace, police officers; they must also be appointed every year.
July 16, 2012 - 11 -