[1972 Code §§ 23-1, 23-4; New; Ord. No. 05/16 § 1]
The Board of Health shall consist of seven members who shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council. In addition to the seven regular members, there shall be two alternate members appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 26:3-3. Alternate members shall be designated at the time of appointment by the Mayor as Alternate No. 1 and Alternate No. 2.
[1972 Code §§ 23-2, 23-4; New; Ord. No. 05/16 § 2]
a.
Regular members shall be appointed for a term of three years commencing on the first day of January; however, terms of members shall be so arranged that the term of not more than three members shall expire in any one year. Alternate members shall be appointed for a term of two years commencing on the first day of January; however, the terms of the alternate members shall be so arranged that the term of not more than one alternate member shall expire in any one year.
b.
An appointment to fill a vacancy of either a regular member or an alternate member shall be made by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council, but only to fill the unexpired term.
[1972 Code § 23-3; New; Ord. No. 2018-04 § 1]
The Board of Health shall appoint a Registrar of Vital Statistics, Secretary, Health Inspector and such other officers and assistants as it may deem necessary. The term of Registrar of Vital Statistics shall be for three years and until a successor is appointed. All appointees shall be governed by the rules of the Board of Health. The Health Inspector shall promptly report to the Board of Health every violation of health ordinances and health laws coming to his view or knowledge. The Board of Health shall designate, from their own membership, one member to serve as Chairman.
[1972 Code § 23-4; Ord. No. 2018-04 § 2]
a.
Pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 26:3-3, two alternate members shall be appointed to the Watchung Borough Board of Health.
b.
Each alternate member shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council. Alternate members shall be designated at the time of appointment by the Mayor as Alternate No. 1 and Alternate No. 2.
c.
The terms of the alternate members shall be for two years. The term of not more than one alternate member shall expire in any one year. A vacancy occurring otherwise than by expiration of term shall be filled by the Mayor.
d.
An alternate member shall not be permitted to act on any matter in which he has either directly or indirectly any personal or financial interest.
e.
An alternate member may, after public hearing if he requests one, be removed by the Borough Council for cause.
f.
An alternative member may participate in discussions of the proceedings of the Board of Health, but may not vote except in the absence or disqualification of a regular member. A vote shall not be delayed in order that a regular member vote instead of an alternate member. In the event that a choice must be made as to which alternate member is to vote, Alternate No. 1 shall vote first.
[Ord. No. 96/03]
a.
Authority to Execute. The Board of Health of the Borough of Watchung is authorized to execute an agreement with the Middle Brook Regional Health Commission for the provision of professional health services to the Borough.
b.
Health Officer and Sanitary Inspector. Pursuant to subsection 2-38.3, the Middle Brook Regional Health Commission Health Officer is hereby appointed as Health Officer and Sanitary Inspector for the Borough of Watchung with such appointment being terminable consistent with the terms of the aforesaid contract.
c.
Compensation. The compensation to be paid to the Middle Brook Regional Health Commission under the aforesaid contract shall be as set forth in the agreement.
d.
Effective Date. This section shall take effect upon its passage and publication according to law, and upon the adoption of appropriate ordinances similar hereto by the other municipalities involved in the Interlocal Services Agreement.
[Ord. No. 2018-04 § 3]
a.
Schedule of Meetings. The Chairman of the Board of Health of the Borough of Watchung shall annually, within the first two weeks of January, schedule a minimum of four quarterly meetings which will be posted on the Borough Website. Such meetings may be cancelled by the Chairman, within one week thereof. Notice of any cancellation must be posted on the Borough's Website.
b.
Minutes. The Secretary of the Board of Health of the Borough of Watchung shall keep minutes of all meetings of same. All minutes will be transmitted to the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Watchung within one week after approval. All such minutes are government records within the scope of the State's Open Public Records Act.
[Ord. No. 2018-04 § 4]
The Board of Health shall expend no funds and shall incur no expenses except to the extent and for the items and purposes specified in the annual Borough budget approved by the Borough Council.
[1972 Code § 14-1; New]
There is hereby established in and for the Borough of Watchung an Environmental Commission to be known as the Borough of Watchung Environmental Commission, for the protection, development or use of natural resources located within the Borough, including water resources, to preserve and enhance the rural residential aspects of life in the Borough of Watchung.
[1972 Code § 14-2; New; Ord. No. 2018-09 § 1]
The Borough of Watchung Environmental Commission shall consist of seven members who shall be appointed by the Mayor. One member shall be a member of the Planning Board. All members must be residents of the Borough of Watchung. The term shall be for three years, and if a vacancy shall occur otherwise than by expiration of term, it shall be filled for the remainder of the unexpired term by mayoral appointment. Members shall serve until the appointment of their respective successors in office. All members shall serve without compensation. Members of the Environmental Commission shall appoint, from their own membership, one member to serve as Chairman and one member to serve as Secretary.
[1972 Code § 14-3; New; Ord. No. 2018-09 § 2]
The Borough of Watchung Environmental Commission shall have the following powers and duties:
a.
The Environmental Commission has power to conduct research into the use and possible use of the open land areas of the Borough and may coordinate the activities of unofficial bodies organized for similar purposes, and may advertise, prepare, print and distribute books, maps, charts, plans and pamphlets which, in its judgment, it deems necessary for its purposes.
b.
The Environmental Commission shall keep an index of all open areas, publicly or privately owned, including open marshlands, swamps and other wetlands, in order to obtain information on the use and/or preservation of such areas.
c.
The Environmental Commission may recommend to the Planning Board plans and programs for inclusion in a Borough Master Plan, and plans and programs for the development and use of open areas.
d.
The Environmental Commission shall have the power to study and make recommendations concerning open space preservation, water resources management, air pollution control, solid waste management, noise control, soil and landscape protection, environmental appearance, marine resources and protection of flora and fauna. Copies of all applications to the Planning Board and Board of Adjustment shall be forwarded to the Environmental Commission prior to public hearing.
e.
The Environmental Commission shall develop strategies to utilize the Open Space Trust Fund in an efficient and economical manner in order to maximize opportunities to provide all the residents of the Borough of Watchung with parklands and green zones, to protect ecologically sensitive areas, to preserve flora and wildlife, to preserve farmland and to protect land of scenic, historic and cultural value while simultaneously creating public outdoor recreational opportunities for the Borough.
f.
The Environmental Commission shall design and make available a packet of materials to the public detailing the benefits from gifts and/or bequests of land or an interest therein to the Borough.
g.
The Environmental Commission shall prepare the following plans in the event Open Space Trust Fund monies will be used in the areas indicated, for adoption by the Borough Council:
1.
Plan for selection of additional lands for acquisition for recreation and conservation purposes subject to approval by the Mayor and Council.
2.
Plan for projects to develop or maintain lands acquired for recreation and conservation purposes.
3.
Plan for selection of farmland for acquisition for farmland preservation pursuant to the provisions of the Agriculture Retention and Development Act (N.J.S.A. 4:1C-11) or any other law enacted for the purpose of preserving farmland.
4.
Plan for selection of historic preservation projects.
Upon authorization of the Borough Council, Open Space Trust Fund monies may be used to pay the cost of preparing and adopting the plans referenced above.
h.
The Environmental Commission shall be responsible for advising the Borough Council as follows:
1.
Recommending to the Borough Council sites to be utilized for open space purposes.
2.
In preparing its above recommendation, the Environmental Commission shall:
(a)
Review the Master Plan and the ordinances of the Borough.
(b)
Review Borough tax maps, Planning Board and Board of Adjustment applications and other information which may assist the Environmental Commission in determining which tracts may be utilized for recreational use, i.e., playgrounds, ballfields, and hiking trails, etc.
i.
The Environmental Commission shall work in conjunction with the Recreation Commission, whose responsibilities also include the acquisition of property for open space, environmental or recreational purposes, and the Historical Committee, whose responsibilities also include matters pertaining to historic sites. Before any recommendation regarding the purchase of open space or historic property is made to the Borough Council, that recommendation will be presented to the Recreation Commission and Historical Committee for their comment, which comment will be forwarded to the Borough Council with the Environmental Commission's recommendation. The Environmental Commission will also consult with any other committee, commission or other body it deems appropriate.
j.
Reports. The Environmental Commission shall periodically report in writing to the Borough Council and, at the request of the Borough Council or by the Environmental Commission's initiative, appear before the Borough Council to report on its activities.
k.
The Environmental Commission shall research and recommend to the Borough Council alternatives for grant funding which may be available to assist the Borough Council in its purchase of land.
[1972 Code § 14-4]
The Environmental Commission may, subject to the approval of the Borough Council, acquire property, both real and personal, in the name of the Borough of Watchung, County of Somerset, by gift, purchase, grant, bequest, devise or lease for any of its purposes, and shall administer the same for such purposes subject to the terms of the conveyance or gift. Such acquisitions may be to acquire the fee or any lesser interest, development right, easement (including conservation easement), covenant or other contractual right (including a conveyance on conditions or with limitations or reversions) as may be necessary to acquire, maintain, improve, protect, limit the future use of or otherwise conserve and properly utilize open spaces and other land and water areas in the Borough aforesaid.
[1972 Code § 14-05; Ord. No. 2018-09 § 3]
a.
Schedule of Meetings. The Chairman of the Environmental Commission shall annually, within the first two weeks of January, schedule a minimum of four quarterly meetings which will be posted on the Borough Website. Such meetings may be cancelled by the Chairman, within one week thereof. Notice of any cancellation must be posted on the Borough's Website.
b.
Minutes. The Secretary of the Environmental Commission shall keep minutes of all meetings of same. All minutes will be transmitted to the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Watchung within one week after approval. All such minutes are government records subject to disclosure in accordance with the State's Open Public Records Act.
[1972 Code § 14-6]
The Environmental Commission shall expend no funds and shall incur no expenses except to the extent and for the items and purposes specified in the annual Borough budget approved by the Borough Council.
[Ord. No. 2018-09 § 4]
No member of the Environmental Commission shall participate in any discussion or vote on any recommendation relative to sites within 200 feet of his or her property (which he or she owns or has any interest in or which a related party or business associate may have an interest in). Members of the Environmental Commission shall be subject to the Local Government Ethics Act. Definitions in Local Government Ethics Act shall apply to the Environmental Commission.
[1972 Code § 36-1; Ord. OR:10/07 § 1]
It is hereby established in the Borough a Recreation Commission to be known as the Borough of Watchung Recreation Commission which shall consist of seven regular members and two alternates, Alternate No. 1 and Alternate No. 2, all to serve without compensation. One of the seven regular members shall be a member of the Borough Council who will be appointed by the Mayor. The Mayor shall also nominate and appoint, with the advice and consent of the Council, the additional six regular members, for a total of seven regular members and two alternates, Alternate No. 1 and Alternate No. 2 of the Recreation Commission. The Recreation Commission may appoint Deputy Commissioners who shall act as liaisons between the Recreation Commission and such volunteer recreational groups as the Commission may recognize.
[1972 Code § 36-2; Ord. No. OR:10/07 § 2; Ord. No. 2018-10 § 1]
Six regular members, exclusive of the Council member, residents of the Borough shall be appointed to the Recreation Commission as Commissioners for a term of five years. However, terms of the Recreation Commissioners shall be staggered so that the terms of not more than two members shall expire in any one year. Members of the Recreation Commission shall serve in office until their successors have been duly appointed. The Councilmember appointed by the Mayor shall serve for such period as is designated by the Mayor or until the Councilmember's term of office expires. The Recreation Commission shall designate, from their own membership, one Commissioner to serve as Chairman and another Commissioner to serve as Secretary. Deputy Commissioners shall serve for such time as the Recreation Commission may determine in their discretion. The alternate members shall also be residents of the Borough and shall serve for a term of five years except that the initial terms of the alternates shall be staggered, with Alternate No. 1 being appointed to an initial term of five years and Alternate No. 2 being appointed to an initial term of three years, and thereafter the alternates shall be appointed for five years.
[1972 Code § 36-2; Ord. No. OR:10/07 § 2; Ord. No. 2018-10 § 2]
The Recreation Commission shall supervise all public playgrounds and recreation facilities and activities of the Borough, and may cause surveys to be made to be submitted to the Mayor and Council with recommendations for the improvement, maintenance or expansion of recreation facilities in the Borough. The Recreation Commission shall also work with the Environmental Commission, whose responsibilities also include the acquisition of property for open space, environmental or recreational purposes, and the Historical Committee, whose responsibilities also include matters pertaining to historic sites. Before any recommendation is made to the Borough Council, that recommendation will be presented to the Environmental Commission and Historical Committee for their comment, which comment will be forwarded to the Borough Council, with the Recreation Commission's recommendation. The Recreation Commission will also consult with any other committees, commissions or other body it deems appropriate. The Recreation Commission shall recognize, in its discretion, voluntary recreation groups of citizens of the Borough, and appoint Deputy Commissioners to act as liaisons for such groups. The Deputy Commissioners shall establish schedules for review by the Recreation Commission in order to reasonably allocate the resources of the Borough's recreation facilities and maintain those facilities in proper order.
[1972 Code § 36-4]
The Mayor and Council, at their discretion, may hire such supervisory personnel for the purpose of planning and supervising playground activities and other recreation facilities. There shall be a Recreation Director who shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Council, and who shall serve for a term of one year from the date of his appointment and until a successor is appointed and qualified. The Recreation Director shall receive such salary as is determined by resolution of the Mayor and Council, and which salary shall be in lieu of all fees, costs and any other allowances for services as Recreation Director. The Recreation Director shall perform such functions and duties as shall be prescribed by this section, including the coordination with the Mayor and appropriate councilmatic committee of the scheduling of the recreation facilities and their maintenance.
[1972 Code § 36-5; Ord. No. 2018-10 § 3]
The Watchung Recreation Commission shall expend no funds and shall incur no expenses. The Borough Council may authorize the expenditure of funds by specifying such expenditures in the annual budget. All expenditures as budgeted shall be approved by the Borough Council.
[Ord. No. 2018-10 § 4]
a.
Schedule of Meetings. The Chairman of the Recreation Commission shall annually, within the first two weeks of January, schedule a minimum of four quarterly meetings which will be posted on the Borough Website. Such meetings may be cancelled by the Chairman, within one week thereof. Notice of any cancellation must be posted on the Borough's Website.
b.
Minutes. The Secretary of the Recreation Commission shall keep minutes of all meetings of same. All minutes will be transmitted to the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Watchung within one week after approval. All such minutes are government records subject to disclosure pursuant to the State's Open Public Records Act.
[1972 Code 43-1; Ord. No. 2018-11 § 1]
There is hereby established in the Borough a Traffic and Beautification Commission to be known as the Borough of Watchung Traffic and Beautification Commission. The Commission shall consist of not less than nine members nor more than 11 members, all to serve without compensation, one of whom shall be a member of the Borough Council appointed by the Mayor. The Mayor shall nominate and, with the advice and consent of the Council, appoint the remaining members of the Traffic and Beautification Commission. All members shall be residents of the Borough. The Traffic and Beautification Commission shall designate, from their own membership, one member to serve as Chairman and another member to serve as Secretary.
[1972 Code § 43-2; Ord. No. 2018-11 § 2]
Appointments shall be for a term of one year. The members shall hold office until their successors have been duly appointed. The Councilmember appointed by the Mayor shall serve for such period as is designated by the Mayor or until the Councilmember's term of office expires.
[1972 Code § 43-3]
The duties of the Traffic and Beautification Commission shall be as follows:
a.
To render advice to the Mayor and Council concerning the planting, care and control of shade and ornamental trees, shrubbery and other landscaping upon and in the public streets, highways, public buildings and parks within the Borough.
b.
To recruit and direct organizational and individual interest in the aesthetic improvement of the Borough.
c.
To provide a vehicle for the continuity of the efforts of the municipality to maintain the rural atmosphere.
d.
To cause surveys and studies to be made concerning traffic flow and traffic conditions within the Borough and to make recommendations concerning same to the Mayor and Council.
[1972 Code § 43-4; Ord. No. 2018-11 § 3]
The Traffic and Beautification Commission shall expend no funds and shall incur no expenses. The Borough Council may authorize the expenditures of funds by specifying such expenditures in the annual budget. All expenditures as budgeted shall be approved by the Borough Council.
[Ord. No. 2018-11 § 4]
a.
Schedule of Meetings. The Chairman of the Traffic and Beautification Commission shall annually, within the first two weeks of January, schedule a minimum of four quarterly meetings which will be posted on the Borough Website. Such meetings may be cancelled by the Chairman, within one week thereof. Notice of any cancellation must be posted on the Borough's Website.
b.
Minutes. The Secretary of the Traffic and Beautification Commission shall keep minutes of all meetings of same. All minutes will be transmitted to the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Watchung within one week after approval. All such minutes are government records subject to disclosure in accordance with the State's Open Public Records Act.
[Ord. No. 01/07]
It has been determined that it is in the best interests of the Borough of Watchung to create a Library Advisory Committee to serve in an advisory capacity to the Mayor and Council.
[Ord. No. 01/07; Ord. No. 2018-07 § 1]
There is hereby established in the administrative and executive services of the Borough, the Library Advisory Committee to act as a liaison between the Borough of Watchung and the Somerset County Library Commission and to perform such other functions as shall be appropriate for the continuation of a public library within the Borough. The Library Advisory Committee shall consist of the Mayor or the Mayor's designee, the Borough's Superintendent of Schools or the Superintendent's designee, one member of the Council to be appointed by the Mayor for a term of one year, and six members appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the Borough Council. Each member appointed by the Mayor, other than the Councilmember, shall serve for a term of three years and until a successor is appointed and qualified; except that, of those six first appointed, two members shall serve for three years, two members shall serve for two years, and two members shall serve for one year. The Director of the Borough of Watchung Library shall be an ex officio member of the Library Advisory Committee.
[Ord. No. 01/07; Ord. No. 2018-07 § 2]
At its first meeting each year the Library Advisory Committee shall elect a President and Secretary each to serve a term of one year or until their successors are elected.
[Ord. No. 01/07]
The powers and duties vested in the Library Advisory Committee include, but are not limited to, the following:
a.
To serve as a liaison between the Somerset County Library and the Mayor and Council.
b.
To make recommendations, including recommendations for the Borough Library budget, to the Mayor and Council, the Somerset County Library and the Somerset County Library Commission.
c.
To ascertain the opinion and desires of Borough residents regarding library services and facilities.
[Ord. No. 01/07]
Recommendations of the Library Advisory Committee are to be first submitted to the Mayor and Council before being forwarded to the Somerset County Library and the Somerset County Library Commission.
[Ord. No. 01/07]
The Library Advisory Committee shall be separate and distinct from any private library board. A private library board is any board not appointed by the Mayor and Council.
[Ord. No. 2018-07 § 3]
a.
Schedule of Meetings. The President of the Library Advisory Committee shall annually, within the first two weeks of January, schedule a minimum of four quarterly meetings which will be posted on the Borough Website. Such meetings may be cancelled by the President, within one week thereof. Notice of any cancellation must be posted on the Borough's Website.
b.
Minutes. The Secretary of the Library Advisory Committee shall keep minutes of all meetings of same. All minutes will be transmitted to the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Watchung within one week after approval. All such minutes are government records subject to disclosure pursuant to the State's Open Public Records Act.
[Ord. No. 2018-07 § 4]
The Library Advisory Committee shall not receive and maintain funds for its own use, except as specified in the annual Borough Budget approved by the Borough Council. Additionally, the Library Advisory Committee shall expend no funds and shall incur no expenses except to the extent and for the items and purposes specified in the annual Borough budget approved by the Borough Council.
[Ord. No. 00/08; Ord. No. OR:13/02; Ord. No. 2017-07; amended 11-6-2025 by Ord. No. 25/20]
a.
There is hereby established in and for the Borough of Watchung a Historical Committee to be known as the Borough of Watchung Historical Committee. The Committee shall consist of nine members and two alternate members designated at the time of appointment as "Alternate No. 1," and "Alternate No. 2," all to serve without compensation. The Mayor shall nominate and, with the advice and consent of the Council, appoint the members of the Historical Committee, said members to be residents of the Borough. In addition to the nine and two alternate Historical Committee members, the Mayor shall appoint a member of the Borough Council as liaison.
b.
Lifetime Emeritus Membership. The Mayor, with the advice and consent of the Council, may appoint honorary, lifetime emeritus membership to the Historical Committee, which is a special, lifelong membership status granted to individuals who are no longer actively participating in the Committee but maintain their affiliation and benefits granted after years of active membership and/or significant contributions to the Historical Committee and the Borough of Watchung.
[Ord. No. 00/08; Ord. No. OR:13/02; Ord. No. 2017-07]
Appointment of the nine citizens of the Borough as members, and two citizens of the Borough as alternates, shall be for a term of one year, and said members shall hold office until their successors have been duly appointed. If a vacancy shall occur other than by expiration of term, it shall be filled as provided by appointment of the Mayor, with the advice and consent of the Borough Council for the unexpired term. The Councilmember appointed by the Mayor shall serve for a period to correspond with the Councilmember's term in office.
[Ord. No. 00/08; Ord. No. 2017-07; Ord. No. 2018-05 § 1]
The Committee shall organize immediately upon its appointment and elect from its members a Chairman, Vice-chairman and Secretary at its annual organization meeting.
[Ord. No. 00/08; Ord. No. 14-09; Ord. No. 2018-05 § 2; Ord. No. 2019-02]
The powers and duties vested in the Historical Committee shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
a.
Research and record pertinent data relating to the history of the Borough of Watchung.
b.
Document, list and mark, where appropriate, historic buildings and sites within the Borough.
c.
Make recommendations to the Borough Council for the preservation or acquisition of historic sites.
d.
Advise residents of the Borough and the public as to points of interest of its historical heritage.
e.
Develop programs relating to the history of the Borough. Plans for any such programs shall first be brought to the Borough Council for approval prior to any announcement and/or implementation.
f.
Operate the Texier House Museum subject to approval by the Borough Council.
g.
Complete construction, maintain and operate the 9/11 Memorial all subject to approval by the Borough Council prior to any announcement and/or implementation.
[Ord. No. 2019-02]
h.
The Historical Committee shall also work with the Environmental Commission and Recreation Commission, whose responsibilities also include the acquisition of property. Before any recommendation is made to the Borough Council, that recommendation will be presented to the Environmental Commission and Recreation Commission for their comment, which comment will be forwarded to the Borough Council, with the Historical Committee's recommendation. The Historical Committee will also consult with any other committees, commissions or other body it deems appropriate.
[Ord. No. 00/08]
The Historical Committee shall expend no funds and shall incur no expenses. The Governing Body of the Borough may authorize the expenditures of funds by specifying such expenditures in the annual Borough budget. All expenditures as budgeted shall be approved by the Governing Body.
[Ord. No. 2018-05 § 3]
a.
Schedule of Meetings. The Chairman of the Historical Committee shall annually, within the first two weeks of January, schedule a minimum of four quarterly meetings which will be posted on the Borough Website. Such meetings may be cancelled by the Chairman, within one week thereof. Notice of any cancellation must be posted on the Borough's Website.
b.
Minutes. The Secretary of the Historical Committee shall keep minutes of all meetings of same. All minutes will be transmitted to the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Watchung within one week after approval. All such minutes are government records within the scope of the State's Open Public Records Act.
[Added 5-2-2024 by Ord. No. 24/06]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former § 2-44, Wildlife Management Advisory Committee, adopted by Ord. No. 04/21, as amended, was repealed by Ord. No. 21/07, 7-15-2021.
[Added 5-2-2024 by Ord. No. 24/06]
In order to assist the Borough of Watchung to be more environmentally and "green" friendly, and preserve and promote the Borough's sustainable and "green" practices, economically, socially and environmentally, there is hereby established and created an advisory committee on sustainable and "green" practices to be known as the "Green Team Advisory Committee" of the Borough of Watchung.
[Added 5-2-2024 by Ord. No. 24/06]
a.
The Green Team Advisory Committee so created shall consist of seven total members, who shall be employees and/or residents of the Borough. All members shall be appointed by the Mayor, with the advice and consent of the Borough Council. Each member shall be chosen with consideration to their qualifications and fitness for service with regard to sustainable practices and environmental preservation.
b.
The terms of membership shall be for a term of three years. All terms shall begin as of January 1 of the year of their appointment and expire on December 31 of the last year of their term. Initially appointments to the Green Team Advisory Committee shall be staggered so that no more than three members are to be appointed/reappointed in any year.
c.
In January of each year, the Green Team Advisory Committee shall select from its members one member to serve as its Chairperson, one member to serve as its Vice Chairperson, and one person to serve as its Secretary, who shall all served for a period of one year.
d.
Vacancy. Any vacancy occurring other than by expiration of the term shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment for such member.
e.
All members and officers of the Green Team Advisory Committee shall serve without compensation.
f.
The Mayor may elect a liaison from the Borough Council, with the advice and consent of the Council, to the Green Team Advisory Committee.
[Added 5-2-2024 by Ord. No. 24/06]
a.
The Green Team Advisory Committee shall perform the following functions and duties:
1.
Review and advise the Mayor and Borough Council on green initiatives and environmental impacts to the community from ordinances, zoning, regulations and administrative functions of the Borough government;
2.
Make recommendations for changes to Borough ordinances and/or policies that would assist with the Borough's economic, social and environmental sustainability, and advise of the best practices that promote such activity;
3.
Conduct community and educational programs studies to promote sustainable energy and responsible waste management practices;
4.
Assist the Borough in achieving certifications from Sustainable Jersey, including any and all required registration with Sustainable Jersey or other similar State program;
5.
Advise the Mayor, Borough Council, and administration on the availability of grant programs and economic initiatives relating to sustainable practices; and
6.
Make recommendations to the Mayor and Borough Council with regard to any purchase or contract for the promotion of sustainable practices within the Borough, with the final decision whether to enter or award such purchase or contract being at the sole discretion of the governing body;
7.
Carry out other related duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Borough Council.
8.
Make an annual report to the Mayor and Borough Council during December of each year setting forth, in detail, its operations and recommendations covering the preceding 12 months.
b.
The Green Team Advisory Committee shall not have any powers or authorities other than those set forth herein. Specifically, the Committee shall not have the power or authority to expend public funds, pledge the credit of the Borough or enter into contracts on behalf of itself or the Borough.
[Added 5-2-2024 by Ord. No. 24/06]
a.
As an advisory committee, meetings of the Green Team Advisory Committee is not subject to the Open Public Meetings Act; however, is encouraged to obtain input from the public in a manner as the Committee deems appropriate for the circumstances.
b.
The Green Team Advisory Committee shall keep accurate minutes of its meetings and activities; and approved minutes shall be filed with the Borough Clerk.
c.
A majority of the membership of the Committee shall constitute a quorum for the holding of a meeting of the Committee.
[Ord. No. OR:13/08]
A CERT Team is hereby established in the Borough of Watchung. The CERT Team shall be under the supervision and control of the Borough Emergency Management Coordinator or designee.
[Ord. No. OR:13/08]
The mission, organization and purpose of the CERT Team is to provide volunteer services for natural and other disasters under the direction of the Emergency Management Coordinator to supplement and assist Police, Fire and Emergency Management Services response to a disaster.
[Ord. No. OR:13/08]
CERT Team members shall be volunteers approved by the Borough Council upon recommendation of the Emergency Management Coordinator. To be considered eligible, a volunteer must be at least the minimum age required to obtain the Federal Emergency Management Administration training or 16 years of age, whichever is older, and reside or work within the Borough of Watchung.
[Ord. No. OR:13/08]
All CERT Team members will receive approximately 20 hours of initial basic-level training as required by the Federal Emergency Management Administration and will include:
[Ord. No. OR:13/08]
Other volunteers, who are not members of CERT, may volunteer to assist the Emergency Management Coordinator during emergencies. These volunteers shall perform tasks as assigned by the Emergency Management Coordinator during emergencies. All volunteers shall be under the control and direction of the Emergency Management Coordinator or designee.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
The Office of Emergency Management is hereby established in the Borough of Watchung in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. App. A:9-41.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
The Mayor shall appoint a Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator from among the residents of the Borough. The Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator shall serve for a term of three years.
As a condition of appointment and the right to continue for the full term of the appointment, the Coordinator shall successfully complete the current approved Incident Command System Courses within one year of appointment (and any required continuing education courses). The Emergency Management Coordinator shall be directly responsible to the Mayor. The duties and responsibilities of the Emergency Management Coordinator are as follows:
a.
Planning, activating, coordinating and conducting emergency management operations within the Borough;
b.
Serving as a member and Chair of the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC);
c.
Proclaiming a state of local disaster emergency, when, in the Coordinator's opinion, a disaster has occurred, or is imminent in the Borough;
d.
Issuing and enforcing such orders as may be necessary to implement and carry out emergency management operations and to protect the health, safety, welfare and resources of the residents of the Borough in accordance with regulations or directives promulgated by the State Director of Emergency Management;
e.
Providing leadership in the field of emergency management to the Borough. As such, the Coordinator is responsible for Emergency Management Program, administration and program development encompassing the four phases of Emergency Management - Mitigation, Preparedness, Response and Recovery. The Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator shall also be responsible for the following:
1.
Program Administration.
(a)
Insure that the Office of Emergency Management is available on a 24 hour basis.
(b)
Supervise the day-to-day operations of the Office of Emergency Management.
(c)
Insure that the Borough meets all requirements for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Emergency Management Assistance Program; including meeting goals agreed to in the annual work plan, maintaining a currently approved Borough Emergency Operations Plan and providing the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management with quarterly program status reports, if applicable.
(d)
Prepare, submit and justify the annual Borough Emergency Management budget.
(e)
Secure County, State and Federal technical and financial assistance available through the County Office of Emergency Management.
(f)
Personally attend at least 75% of the scheduled County Office of Emergency Management meetings. The Coordinator must assure representation at all other County Emergency Management meetings.
(g)
Maintain a continuing knowledge of all Municipal, County, State and Federal laws and plans concerning emergency management.
(h)
Maintain adequate files, records and correspondence relating to emergency management activities.
(i)
Interact with the County Emergency Management Coordinator regarding:
(j)
Coordinate with the Borough agencies and departments regarding their emergency management responsibilities.
(k)
Implement policies and procedures regarding Emergency Management.
(l)
Conduct at least two LEPC meetings annually.
(m)
Receive and react to weather emergency notifications.
(n)
Cooperate with the National Warning System (NAWAS) Program.
(o)
Comply with all directives, rules and regulations issued by the State Office of Emergency Management.
(p)
Conduct a minimum of one exercise per year, providing a minimum 30 day advance notice through the County Office of Emergency Management to the State Office of Emergency Management.
(q)
Administration of Community Rating System.
2.
Program Development.
(a)
Recruit, organize, coordinate and train a staff to administer the following Emergency Management functions and programs:
(1)
Alerting, warning and communications;
(2)
Damage assessment;
(3)
Emergency operating center;
(4)
Emergency public information;
(5)
Evacuation;
(6)
Fire and rescue;
(7)
Hazardous materials;
(8)
Health and medical;
(9)
In-place shelter;
(10)
Law enforcement;
(11)
Public works;
(12)
Radiological protection;
(13)
Resource management;
(14)
Social Services.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
The Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator(s) shall be appointed by the Emergency Management Coordinator with the approval of the Mayor. The Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator(s) shall be responsible directly to the Emergency Management Coordinator. Whenever possible, the Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator(s) shall be appointed from among the salaried officers or employees of the Borough.
The duties of the Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator(s) shall be prescribed by the Emergency Management Coordinator.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
The Mayor shall appoint an LEPC of not more than 15 members. The members of the LEPC shall hold office at the will and pleasure of the Mayor. The membership of the LEPC may consist of representatives from five major groups:
a.
Borough Council;
b.
Police, fire, first aid, health, environmental, public works, emergency management;
c.
Broadcast or print media;
d.
Community groups;
e.
Owners/operators of facilities subject to SARA Title III.
The LEPC shall assist the Borough in the development of Emergency Management Plans.
The LEPC is authorized to assist in the supervising and coordination of disaster control activities.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
A CERT was established in Section 2-45, titled "Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)," of the Revised General Ordinances of the Borough of Watchung. The CERT shall be an entity within the Office of Emergency Management and shall be under the supervision and control of the Borough's Emergency Management Coordinator or his designee.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
This Section 2-46 is an exercise by the Borough of its governmental function for the protection of the public peace, health and safety. During an emergency, neither the Borough nor agents and representatives of the Borough, nor any individual, receiver, firm, partnership, corporation, association or trustee nor any of the agents thereof, in good faith carrying out, complying with or attempting to comply with any order, rule or regulation promulgated pursuant to the provisions of this Section 2-46, shall be liable for any damage sustained to persons or property as the result of said activity.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
Where consistent with the context in which used in this Section 2-46, words importing the singular shall include the plural; words importing the plural shall include the singular; and words importing one gender shall include all other genders.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
Should any provision of this Section 2-46 be inconsistent with the provisions of any prior ordinances of the Borough, the inconsistent provisions of said prior ordinances are hereby repealed.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
Captions contained in this Section 2-46 have been inserted only for the purpose of facilitating reference to the various sections, and are not intended and shall not be utilized to construe the intent and meaning of the text of any section.
[Ord. No. 14/15]
This Section 2-46 is not intended to nullify any current appointments to the positions of Emergency Management Coordinator and Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator(s). These appointments remain in effect until their current terms expire.
[Ord. No. 2015-01]
The Uniform Shared Services and Consolidation Act, N.J.S.A. 40A:65-1 et seq., authorizes any Local Unit of the State of New Jersey to enter into a contract with any other Local Unit or Units within the State for the joint provision within their territorial jurisdictions of any service which any party to the agreement is empowered to render with its own jurisdiction.
A Local Unit authorized to enter into an agreement under N.J.S.A. 40A:65-4 may enter into a Mutual Police Aid Agreement.
Local Units of the State are authorized under N.J.S.A. 40A:14-156 et seq., in the event of an emergency, to provide police assistance outside their territorial jurisdictions in order to protect life and property or to assist in suppressing a riot or disorder.
N.J.S.A. 40A:14-156.1 provides that Local Units may enter into an agreement for reciprocal ordinances relating to shared police services in the case of emergencies, and such agreement may provide for reimbursement such as for officers and personnel, equipment, land, and the like, and other such provisions as allowed by statute.
Police officers have the general authority to answer a call or assist in a contiguous municipality pursuant to neighboring municipalities' practice of covering for each other when necessary to perform police duties, and no ordinance or formal mutual police aid agreement is necessary to implement mutual aid in such contiguous communities(see cases such as State v. Montalvo, 280 N.J. Super. 377 (App. Div. 1995).
Instances shall occur where assistance will be necessary from non-contiguous municipalities, and the purpose of a Mutual Police Aid Agreement is to address the guidelines for such instances.
While it is acknowledged that Borough of Millstone and Borough of Rocky Hill do not have police departments and rely upon the New Jersey State Police for primary law enforcement service and response, both Local Units do request mutual police aid from police departments of neighboring Local Units.
The participating Local Units have determined that it is in their best interest and benefit that each agree to render mutual police aid to any requesting Local Unit pursuant to the terms and conditions of a Mutual Police Aid Agreement.
The Mayor and Council of the Borough of Watchung, upon recommendation by the Police Chief of the Borough, deemed it in the best interest for the safety and well being of all residents to enter into a Mutual Police Aid Agreement with participating municipalities within Somerset County and the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office and the Somerset County Sheriff's Department.
[Added 9-5-2024 by Ord. No. 24/14]
[Added 9-5-2024 by Ord. No. 24/14]
a.
Pursuant to the authority granted to local municipalities by resolution of the County of Somerset, State of New Jersey, and consistent with N.J.S.A. 52:17B-169, et seq., and N.J.A.C. 13:90-2.1, et seq., the Borough of Watchung hereby establishes a Youth Services Commission to be known as "The Watchung Borough Youth Services Commission."
b.
Purpose and responsibilities.
1.
It shall be the purpose of the Watchung Borough Youth Services Commission to encourage, coordinate and integrate existing services for youth at risk of or already involved in the juvenile justice system by determining the needs of at-risk youth in their community, developing and proposing new innovative programs to meet the identified needs and informing the public of the availability of service to meet those needs.
2.
The Commission shall work collaboratively with the Somerset County Youth Services Commission in their responsibility of assessing the needs of youth within the Borough of Watchung in order to develop appropriate prevention and intervention strategies that address those issues.
3.
In carrying out this purpose, the Commission shall fulfill the following responsibilities:
(a)
Provide an open forum to foster communication, education and information concerning problems and opportunities that exist within the community for youth;
(b)
Assess the needs of the community's youth;
(c)
Advise on and recommend planning, policy and programs for the community's youth;
(d)
Explore various resources to meet the local community needs; and
(e)
Assist in the development of a plan of action to implement recommended programs to the Borough.
c.
Guiding principles of the Commission should include:
[Added 9-5-2024 by Ord. No. 24/14]
a.
The Youth Services Commission shall consist of a minimum of seven members, with a maximum of 15 members. The Commission shall consist of, but not limited to:
1.
A member of the Watchung Borough Council;
2.
A representative of the Watchung Borough School District;
3.
A representative of the Recreation Committee;
4.
A Police Officer;
5.
A member of the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO);
6.
Other members-at-large who are residents and/or employees of the Borough of Watchung and the Watchung Borough School District having an interest in youth.
b.
All members of the Commission shall be appointed by the Mayor, with the advice and consent of the Borough Council. Each member shall be chosen with consideration to their qualifications and fitness for service with regard to the purposes and responsibilities of the Commission as defined in this section. In order to achieve the goals of the Commission, the direct involvement of a cross-section of local government, education, law enforcement and community leaders who live and/or work in the Borough is of preference.
c.
Members of the Commission shall be appointed to serve for a term of three years or until their successors be appointed, with the exception that the terms of a member of the Borough Council and School District shall be annual and consistent with their respective terms of office. All terms shall begin as of January 1 of the year of their appointment and expire on December 31 of the last year of their term. Initially appointments to the Commission shall be staggered so that no more than three members are to be appointed/reappointed in any year, with the exception of the members of the Borough Council and School District.
d.
The Officers of the Commission shall consist of a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer, who shall be elected by the general membership at the annual reorganization meeting, and shall serve for a period of one year.
1.
Chairperson. This member shall preside at all meetings, prepare the meeting agenda, appoint special committees to address specific issues and serve as an ex-officio member of all committees.
2.
Vice-Chairperson. This member shall, in the absence of the Chairperson, assume the responsibilities of the Chairperson.
3.
Secretary. This member shall take minutes of the proceedings at all meetings, sent the minutes to the membership, and send the approved minutes to the Borough Clerk for acknowledgment and acceptance by the Borough Council. This member shall also provide for adequate notice of all meetings in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act.
4.
Treasurer. This member shall periodically file with the Borough Council a report giving a complete account of all financial transactions and a statement of activities showing the expenditure of public funds and the receipts, expenditure of fees, and charges collected. A separate budge account shall be maintained to record money and tangible personal property donated for current use. The Treasurer shall keep adequate records of all funds for long term projects handled by the Commission. The Commission shall approval all vouchers for the expenditure of funds of any character. The Treasurer shall report on the status of the funds at each meeting. In lieu of the need for a Treasurer, the Borough Chief Financial Officer will assume these duties.
e.
Vacancy. Any vacancy occurring other than by expiration of the term shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment for such member.
f.
All members and officers of the Youth Services Commission shall serve without compensation.
[Added 9-5-2024 by Ord. No. 24/14]
a.
The Youth Services Commission shall perform the following functions and duties:
1.
Provide an open forum to foster communication, education and information concerning problems and opportunities that exist within the community for youth;
2.
Advise on and recommend the planning and development of programs for youth;
3.
Serve as the functioning body in the development of plans in the areas of youth services;
4.
Assess the needs of the community's youth throughout the calendar year;
5.
Identify service gaps and priorities;
6.
Explore various means and resources to meet the local community needs;
7.
Assist in the development of a plan of action to implement recommended programs;
8.
Advise the Mayor, Borough Council, and administration on the availability of grant programs and economic initiatives relating to youth services;
9.
Make recommendations to the Mayor and Borough Council with regard to any purchase or contract for the promotion of youth services within the Borough, with the final decision whether to enter or award such purchase or contract being at the sole discretion of the governing body;
10.
Carry out other related duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Borough Council; and
11.
Prepare and provide an annual report to the Mayor and Borough Council during December of each year setting forth, in detail, its operations and recommendations covering the preceding 12 months.
b.
The Youth Services Commission shall coordinate its efforts with the Somerset County Youth Services Commission and shall be guided by the rules and regulations adopted thereby, including but not limited to the procurement of grants consistent with this section and in furtherance of the purpose and mission of the Commission.
c.
By-laws; Subcommittees.
1.
The Youth Services Commission shall adopt and establish By-laws to govern the Commission, within the parameters and authorities granted in this section. The By-laws shall be reviewed and updated, if necessary, on an annual basis, and shall be subject to approval by the Borough Council. At a minimum, the By-laws shall include the following (consistent with the terms of this section):
(a)
Name of Commission.
(b)
Purpose and Function.
(c)
Objectives.
(d)
Organization, including Commission descriptions.
(e)
Membership and Terms of Office.
(f)
Officers.
(g)
Duties of Officers.
(h)
Nomination and Election of Officers.
(i)
Meetings (Conduct, Cancellation or Addition of Meetings).
(j)
Other considerations of Members.
2.
The Youth Services Commission shall have the power to establish standing and ad hoc subcommittees as needed, including, but not limited to, an adjustment subcommittee consisting of persons qualified by experience and training to assist in and coordinate the efforts of police, school and other agencies to provide guidance and counsel to youth with incipient behavior and to cooperate with the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part, having jurisdiction when cases arise in which official adjudication of delinquency seems indicated.
d.
Budget; Funding; Expenditures.
1.
The Youth Services Commission shall have a budget as authorized by the Borough Council.
2.
The Youth Services Commission is authorized to submit applications for grant funding, subject to the approval of the Borough Council.
3.
On a periodic basis, but at least quarterly, the Youth Services Commission shall submit a detailed accounting of all anticipated expenditures to the Borough Council for review and approval. Goods and services cannot be procured by the Commission without approval from the Borough Council.
4.
The Youth Services Commission shall not have any powers or authorities other than those set forth herein. Specifically, the Commission shall not have the power or authority to expend public funds outside of its budget, pledge the credit of the Borough or otherwise incur indebtedness, or enter into contracts on behalf of itself or the Borough, without the approval of the Borough Council.
[Added 9-5-2024 by Ord. No. 24/14]
a.
Meetings of the Youth Services Commission shall comply with the requirements of Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A. 40:4-6, et seq.; and shall follow the Roberts Rules of Order.
b.
The Youth Services Commission shall hold a re-organization meeting each calendar year, to be held on or before January 10th of each year, at which time the Commission shall establish is regularly scheduled meeting dates, and elect is officers. The Commission shall schedule a minimum of six meetings in a calendar year.
c.
The Youth Services Commission shall keep accurate minutes of its meetings and activities; and approved minutes shall be filed with the Borough Clerk.
d.
A majority of the current appointed members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for the holding of a meeting of the Commission.
e.
All decisions of the Commission shall be decided by a simple majority vote of those present at a meeting.