A.
Business Administrator. There shall be a Department
of Administration, the director of which shall be known and designated
as the Business Administrator. The Business Administrator shall have,
exercise and discharge the functions, powers and duties of the Department.
(N.J.S.A. 40:69A-44 et seq.)
B.
Appointment; qualifications; residence of Business
Administrator.
(1)
Appointment. The Mayor shall appoint the Business
Administrator with the advice and consent of City Council.
(2)
Qualifications. The Business Administrator shall be
chosen solely on the basis of executive and administrative qualifications
with special reference to the actual experience in, or the knowledge
of, accepted practice in respect to the duties of the office as set
forth herein.
(3)
Residency. At the time of the appointment, the Business
Administrator need not be a resident of the City or state, but during
tenure of office, the Business Administrator may reside outside the
City only with the approval of Council.
C.
Responsibilities. The Department, under the direction
and supervision of the Mayor and as performed by the Business Administrator;
shall:
(1)
Assist in the preparation of the budget;
(2)
Administer a centralized purchasing system; as provided
elsewhere;
(3)
Be responsible for the development and administration
of a sound personnel system;
(4)
Perform such other duties as the Mayor and Council
may prescribe; and
(5)
Supervise, subject to the direction of the Mayor,
the administration of each of the departments established by ordinance.
For this purpose, the Business Administrator shall have the power
to investigate the organization and operation of any and all departments,
to prescribe standards and rules of administrative practice and procedure,
and to consult with the heads of the departments under the jurisdiction
of the Department of Administration, provided that with respect to
any Department of Law and Department of Financial Administration,
the authority of the Business Administrator under this subsection
shall extend only to matters of budgeting, personnel and purchasing.
(N.J.S.A. 40:69A-44)
D.
Duties of the Business Administrator. The duties of
Business Administrator shall be as follows:
(1)
Attend all City Council meetings.
(2)
Perform as Purchasing Agent of the City, in absence
of separate appointment by the Mayor.
(3)
Coordinate and supervise the administration of each
department as allowed by statute and code.
(4)
Administer the City's insurance program.
(5)
Assist in the preparation and implementation of the
budget.
(6)
Control and manage the lease, sale and rental of City-owned
real property, subject to the requirements of the New Jersey statutes,
governing lease, rental or sale of City-owned property.
(7)
Develop and administer a personnel program.
(8)
Perform any other duties as required by the Mayor
and Council.
E.
Office of Purchasing Agent. Within the Department
of Administration shall be an Office of Purchasing Agent as provided
in 3-14.
F.
Budget preparation.
(1)
The City budget shall be prepared by the Mayor with
the assistance of the Business Administrator. During the month of
May, the Mayor shall require all department heads to submit requests
for appropriations for the ensuing budget year and to meet with the
Mayor and Business Administrator at public hearings which shall be
held during that month.
(2)
Budget requests shall be in such form and detail as
the Business Administrator shall prescribe.
(3)
The Mayor and the Business Administrator shall consult
with the Department of Financial Administration and the City Auditor
to ensure compliance with state law, including a budget document with
a capital section, showing a budget of capital projects proposed or
continued, together with a projection of projects for the next six
years and the costs and financing anticipated for the capital improvements.
(4)
The budget shall include a proposed current expense
budget, a proposed capital budget and such explanatory comments, exhibits
and schedules as the Mayor deems necessary or desirable to explain
the budget plan and shall be submitted to Council in the form required
by law.
G.
Council action. The Council shall consider and act
upon the Mayor's proposed budget and may adopt a temporary budget
in accordance with the requirements of Local Budget Law (N.J.S.A.
40A:4-1 et seq.).
H.
Budget administration.
(1)
The Business Administrator shall supervise the administration
of each annual budget. Budget appropriations shall be controlled by
an encumbrance system. Each department head shall plan and administer
the department's program within its budget.
(2)
If at any time during the budget year the Business
Administrator shall ascertain that the City government is faced with
the probability of incurring a cash deficit for the current year,
the Business Administrator shall reconsider the work programs and
allotments of the several departments. Upon such reconsideration and
with the approval of the Mayor, the Business Administrator may reduce
budget allotments to forestall as far as possible the making of commitments
and expenditures in excess of the revenues to be realized during the
fiscal year. The Business Administrator shall file with the Chief
Financial Officer a copy of such reduced allotment, and the Chief
Financial Officer shall control all expenditures within the limits
thereof.
(3)
The Business Administrator shall recommend transfers
from one line item or budget category to another as allowed by Local
Budget Law.
I.
Purchasing generally.
(1)
A purchase of any supply, material or equipment or
contractual services for a department shall be made by the Department
of Administration, pursuant to a written requisition from the department
head whose department will be charged and only after said purchase
amount has been encumbered by the Chief Financial Officer.
(2)
All such purchases or purchase contracts shall conform
to applicable requirements of state statutes for competitive bidding.
When purchases are made without competitive bidding as allowed by
state statute, the Purchasing Agent shall obtain, whenever possible,
at least three price quotations from the items purchased and shall
record and maintain such quotations in his office for at least two
years from the time they are furnished.
(3)
No department shall have a petty cash fund except
the following: the Department of Police in the amount of $800, the
Department of Administration in the amount of $100, and the Department
of Recreation and Public Affairs in the amount of $300. Upon submission
of vouchers to the Business Administrator showing the use of moneys
expended from the petty cash fund, the Business Administrator may
request payment from the Chief Financial Officer to maintain the balance
in the petty cash fund as set forth above.
[Amended 3-15-2016 by Ord. No. 16-04]
(4)
Each department head shall designate, by writing filed
with the Business Administrator, the name of employees in the department
authorized to receive supplies, materials and equipment. The person
so designated shall accept deliveries and sign for them only where
the goods are in exact conformity with the order. Should there be
any doubt as to the quantity or quality, the receiving employee shall
immediately notify the department head for appropriate action. If
any supplies, materials or equipment are rejected, the department
head shall immediately notify the Business Administrator.
(5)
Emergency purchases. The Business Administrator shall
establish, upon approval of the Mayor, a procedure for the purchase
of any item or items required for the immediate protection of the
public health, safety, morals or welfare, which will permit such emergency
purchases to be made for specific purposes in the manner as set forth
in N.J.S.A. 40A:11-6.
J.
Contracts generally. Within the limits of available
appropriations, the Mayor is authorized to negotiate and execute contracts
and other legally binding obligations of the City upon the approval
of Council. Any such document shall be signed by the Mayor, attested
by the Municipal Clerk and approved by the City Solicitor for legal
form and sufficiency. Purchase orders, for which a formal contract
is not required by the Charter, may be executed by the Mayor or Business
Administrator within limits of available funds without further approval.
[Amended 9-19-2017 by Ord. No. 17-20]
K.
Award of contracts. Upon contracts let by public competitive
bidding, the Council may, upon recommendation of the Business Administrator
with respect to all contracts other than public works contracts, and
upon recommendation of the Director of Public Works with respect to
public works contracts, let the contract in the manner prescribed
by the provisions of the laws of the State of New Jersey, City Charter
and ordinances, including, when required, the certification of the
Chief Financial Officer.
L.
Personnel management.
(1)
All appointments and promotions in the civil service
of the City as defined by state statutes shall be made according to
merit and fitness in accordance with the requirements of the Constitution,
statutes and applicable regulations of the State of New Jersey.
(2)
The Business Administrator shall prepare a system
of personnel rules and policies for consideration by the Council,
subject to the requirements of the State Civil Service System. Such
rules and policies may be adopted by the Council by resolution, shall
be compiled in a Personnel Manual and shall include provision for:
(a)
The classification of all City position based on the
duties, authority and responsibility of each position with adequate
provision for reclassification of any position whenever warranted
by changed circumstances;
(b)
A pay plan for all City positions;
(c)
The policies and procedures regulating reduction in
force and removal of employees;
(d)
The hours of work, attendance regulations and provisions
for sick and vacation leave;
(e)
The policies and procedures governing persons holding
provisional appointments;
(f)
The policies and procedures governing relationships
with employee organizations;
(g)
Policies regarding in-service training programs;
(h)
Grievance procedures as set out in state statute and
New Jersey Administrative Code; and
(i)
Other practices and procedures necessary or desirable
to the administration of a sound personnel system.
M.
Local Registrar.
(1)
Establishment. There shall be within the Department
of Administration an Office of the Local Registrar, which shall contain
a Local Registrar who, under the supervision and direction of the
State Registrar, shall be responsible for the vital statistics within
the City. Council may also appoint a Deputy Registrar.
(2)
Qualification. No physician, midwife or funeral director
shall be appointed as Local Registrar. The Municipal Clerk may serve
as Local Registrar.
[Amended 9-19-2017 by Ord. No. 17-20]
(3)
Appointment and certification. The Local Registrar
shall be appointed by City Council and pursuant to provisions of Title
11A and any other provisions set forth by the Department of State.
(4)
Vacancy. If for any reason, the office is vacant or
deemed vacant, the Municipal Clerk shall act as Local Registrar until
the appointment and certification of a successor.
[Amended 9-19-2017 by Ord. No. 17-20]
(5)
Duties and responsibilities. The Local Registrar shall
strictly enforce the statutes relative to the registration of vital
statistics, which shall include the making of a complete and accurate
copy of each birth, marriage and death certificate registered in his
office, to be preserved in his office as the local record and the
transmission to the State Registrar of all original certificates.
The Local Registrar shall enforce all rules and regulations for the
registration of vital statistics as directed by the State Registrar.
(N.J.S.A. 26:8-1 et seq.)[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Original Section 2-24.16, Office
of Economic Development, which immediately followed this section,
was repealed 12-28-1998 by Ord. No. 98-9.
N.
Division of Collections.
(1)
Head. There shall be within the Department of Administration
a Division of Collections, the head of which shall be the Tax Collector.
(2)
Appointment and qualification of Tax Collector. The
Tax Collector shall be appointed by the Mayor, with the advice and
consent of Council. No person shall serve as Tax Collector if that
person serves as a member of City Council. No person shall be appointed
or reappointed unless that person holds a valid Tax Collector's Certificate
issued pursuant to state statute.
(3)
Term. The Tax Collector shall hold the office for
a term of four years from January 1 next following the appointment.
Vacancies, other than due to the expiration of the term, shall be
filled by appointment for the unexpired term.
(4)
Tenure; removal.
(a)
Any person who shall have been reappointed to said
office upon completion of one full term of four years shall have tenure.
(b)
Removal of any Tax Collector shall be governed by
applicable state law including N.J.S.A. 40A:9-145.8 and shall include,
as a definition of good cause, the failure to meet state continuing
education requirements.
(5)
Review. City Council or the Mayor may request a review
by the Director of the Division of Local Government Services of the
behavior and practices of a Certified Tax Collector, pursuant to N.J.S.A.
40A:9-145.5.
(6)
Duties and powers. The Tax Collector shall have, perform
and exercise all functions, powers and duties as are provided by general
law and ordinance, including without limitation thereto:
(a)
The preparation and mailing of tax bills, enforcement
of tax collections by tax sales and otherwise, and the maintenance
of tax accounting records in such manner as may be prescribed or approved
pursuant to law; and in furtherance thereof.
(b)
The receipt and collection of all current and delinquent
real and personal property taxes, with penalties and interest pursuant
to law.
(c)
The making or causing to be made and certifying of
searches for tax, water and other liens on real property as may be
authorized by law and the charging and collection for the use of the
City the fee required pursuant to law for any such search, and the
Division may appoint or designate one of its employees as Official
Tax Searcher to perform these functions within the Division.
(d)
The billing, receipt and collection of water, sewer
and solid waste accounts as determined by and pursuant to ordinance.
(8)
Central cashier. Within the Division of Collections
shall be a central cashier's office. All cash receipts and payments
to the City, except fines imposed for traffic violations or otherwise
in the Municipal Court, shall be received and accounted for by the
Tax Collector who shall, by the next ensuing bank day after their
receipt, deposit them to the credit of the proper account. This shall
include, without limitation thereto, all tax payments, sewer and water
charges and rents, license, permit and inspection fees, filing fees
and all other revenue receipts of any department.
O.
Division of the Treasury.
(1)
Within the Department of Administration shall be a
Division of the Treasury, whose head shall be the City Treasurer.
(2)
The City Treasurer shall be appointed by the Mayor
with the advice and consent of City Council for a term of four years.
(4)
City Council may grant tenure whenever a person shall
have held the office for 10 consecutive years. If City Council fails
to grant tenure, a petition may be filed for a referendum vote on
tenure (N.J.S.A. 40A:9-152). If tenure is granted, removal shall be
governed by applicable state law, including N.J.S.A. 40A:9-152.[3]
[3]
Editor's Note: Original Section 2-24.19, Office
of Community Development, which immediately followed this section,
was repealed 12-28-1998 by Ord. No. 98-9.
Q.
Affirmative Action Officer. The City's Affirmative
Action Plan shall be implemented by the Affirmative Action Officer,
appointed by the Mayor. The Business Administrator may serve in this
capacity.
R.
Division of Housing and Code Enforcement.
(1)
Division of Housing and Code Enforcement generally.
There shall be a Division of Housing and Code Enforcement, the head
of which shall be the Supervisor, who shall be appointed by the Business
Administrator, with the consent of the Mayor and pursuant to the provisions
of Title 11A of the state statutes.
(2)
Responsibilities. The Division of Housing and Code
Enforcement shall be responsible generally for the enforcement of
regulations, ordinances or codes addressing residential premises or
dwellings, dwelling units or rooming units within the City and for
the enforcement of the State Uniform Construction Code[5] or any other codes affecting property or structures or
dwellings in the City.
(3)
Employees; qualifications.
(a)
The Division shall consist of the Housing Officers,
the State Uniform Construction Code Official, the Plumbing Subcode
Official, Electrical Subcode Official, the Elevator Subcode Official,
the Fire Protection Subcode Official and any other subcode officials
or employees as may be necessary to conduct the work of the Division.
(b)
Each position within the Division of Housing and Code
Enforcement shall be filled by a person qualified for such position;
each official position created in enforcing the State Uniform Construction
Code shall be qualified for such position as required by the State
Uniform Construction Code, as amended. More than one position may
be held by the same person, provided that person is qualified to hold
such position.
(4)
Duties. The Division shall:
(a)
Administer all building and construction codes as
they pertain to the City.
(b)
Conduct and perform all inspection duties, as required
by the State Uniform Construction Code, any subcodes, the 2015 International
Property Maintenance Code, or any other ordinances addressing buildings
and structures and their use and occupancy, other than those inspections
allocated to the Division of Fire and Fire Safety by this code.
[Amended 8-18-2020 by Ord. No. 20-13]
(c)
Enforce all laws and ordinances establishing occupancy
standards to protect the health and safety of persons using or occupying
buildings or other structures.
(d)
Maintain the Registry of Premises recording the owners
of buildings within the City containing two or more dwelling units;
(e)
Enforce the ordinances and regulations addressing
flood hazards and flood hazard areas within the City.
(f)
Enforce all ordinances addressing abandoned motor
vehicles, other than those ordinances and laws allocated to the Division
of Police.
(g)
Consolidate and coordinate all regulatory inspections
relating to building and structures and real property which are not
vested in any other department or division by the Administrative Code
and, as to the latter, provide for cooperative inspection and enforcement
so far as practicable.
(h)
Ensure collection of all fees payable for inspections
made by the Division which shall be paid in advance of the inspection
to the central cashier.
A.
Department of Financial Administration generally.
There shall be a Department of Financial Administration responsible
for the financial administration of the City.
B.
Chief Financial Officer. The director of the Department
of Financial Administration shall be the Chief Financial Officer,
responsible for the proper financial administration of the City under
the Local Government Supervision Act (N.J.S.A. 52:27BB-1 et seq.);
the Local Bond Law (N.J.S.A. 40A:2-1 et seq.); the Local Budget Law
(N.J.S.A. 40A:4-1 et seq.); the Local Fiscal Affairs Law (N.J.S.A.
40A:5-1 et seq.); the Local Public Contracts Law (N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1
et seq.); and such other statutes, and such rules and regulations
promulgated by the Director of the Division of Local Government Services,
the Local Finance Board, or any other state agency, as may pertain
to the financial administration of the City.
C.
Qualifications and appointment of Chief Financial
Officer or Temporary Chief Financial Officer.
(1)
Qualifications. The qualifications for the position
of Chief Financial Officer shall be those established and set forth
in N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.2 et seq. and no person shall be appointed or
reappointed as Chief Financial Officer unless he or she holds a Municipal
Finance Officer Certificate issued pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.1
et seq. (N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.13) No person who serves as a member of
the governing body of the City shall serve as Chief Financial Officer
of the City. (N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.6)
(2)
Appointment. City Council shall appoint the Chief
Financial Officer pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.10.
(3)
Temporary Chief Financial Officer. When a vacancy
occurs in the office of Chief Financial Officer, the Mayor, with approval
of City Council, may appoint a person who does not hold a Municipal
Finance Officer Certificate to serve as temporary Chief Financial
Officer for a period not to exceed one year and commencing on the
date of the vacancy. However, a person so appointed may, with the
approval of the Director of the Division of Local Services, be reappointed
as Chief Financial Officer following the termination of the temporary
appointment for one additional year. The City shall not have a Temporary
Chief Financial Officer for more than two consecutive years. (N.J.S.A.
40A:9-140.13.f)
D.
Term of office; tenure.
(1)
Term of office. The term of office shall be for four
years, which shall run from January 1 in the year in which the Chief
Financial Officer is appointed. (N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.10)
(2)
Tenure. Any person who has served in the position
of Chief Financial Officer for a period of four consecutive years
and who is reappointed as the City's Chief Financial Officer and who
holds a Municipal Finance Officer Certificate issued in accordance
with N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.1 et seq. shall be granted tenure of office
upon filing with the Clerk of the City and with the Division of Local
Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs a notification
evidencing his compliance with this section. N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.8.
Thereafter, that person shall continue to hold office during good
behavior and efficiency, and shall not be removed therefrom except
for just cause, and then only as set forth in the code or state statutes.
E.
Removal from office. A Chief Financial Officer having
tenure shall not be removed from office except for just cause.
(1)
Removal from office upon written complaint.
(a)
The written complaint setting forth the charge or
charges against the Chief Financial Officer shall be filed with the
Municipal Clerk and the Director of the Division of Local Government
Services ("Director"), and a certified copy thereof shall be served
upon the person so charged. The Director shall thereafter designate
a hearing date before the Director or his designee, which shall be
not less than 30 days nor later than 60 days from the date of service
of the complaint. The hearing date may be extended by the Superior
Court for good cause shown upon the application of either parry.
[Amended 9-19-2017 by Ord. No. 17-20]
(b)
The person so charged and the complainant shall have
the right to be represented by counsel and the power to subpoena witness
and documentary evidence, together with discovery proceedings.
(c)
The Superior Court shall have the jurisdiction to
review the determination of the Director, which Court shall hear the
cause de novo on the record below and affirm, modify or set aside
such determination. Either party may supplement the record with additional
testimony subject to the rules of evidence. (N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.9)
(2)
Removal from office by revocation or suspension of
certificate. Any Municipal Finance Officer Certificate may be revoked
or suspended by the Director for dishonest practices or willful or
intentional failure, neglect or refusal to comply with the Constitution
of the State of New Jersey or laws relating to municipal finances
or other good cause. The City Council together with the Mayor may
request a review by the Director of the behavior or practices of a
certified Municipal Finance Officer. The Director may also initiate
a review of the behavior or practices of a certified Municipal Finance
Officer if the Director finds it advisable to do so through the normal
exercise of his statutory duties and responsibilities. No certificate
shall be revoked or suspended except under a proper hearing before
the Director or his designee after due notice. If the Municipal Finance
Officer Certificate of a person serving as a Chief Financial Officer
or Municipal Finance Officer shall be revoked, such person shall be
removed from his office or position by the Director, the office or
position shall be declared vacant, and the person shall not be eligible
to hold that office or position or to make application for a recertification
for a period of five years from the date of revocation. (N.J.S.A.
40A:9-140.12)
F.
Duties of the Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial
Officer shall:
(1)
Have custody of all investments and invested funds
of the City or in possession of the City in a fiduciary capacity except
as otherwise provided by law and keep such funds, and all moneys of
the City not required for current operations, safely invested or deposited
in interest-bearing accounts.
(2)
Supervise the administration of the City debt and
the receipt and delivery of City bonds and notes for transfer, registration
or exchange subject to provisions of the Local Bond Law (N.J.S.A.
40A:2-1 et seq.) or other law.
(3)
Develop, maintain and enforce a uniform system of
accounts, including forms, standards and procedures for all departments.
(4)
Establish and maintain the City's central bookkeeping
and accounting records according to generally accepted accounting
principles and in accordance with the requirements of the Director
of the State Division of Local Government Services.
(5)
Maintain accounts of all cash receipts and disbursements
and make reports in accordance with the system of accounts approved
or prescribed by the Director of the State Division of Local Government
Services and prepare a monthly statement of all moneys received and
expended and of the unexpended and unencumbered balance in each account
for the information of the City Council, the Mayor, the Business Administrator
and the general public.
(6)
Review each proposed expenditure and commitment to
be made on behalf of any department for conformity with state law,
the Charter and City ordinances and authorize only such expenditures
and commitments, including claims, bills and demands so as to conform
to all requirements of the Administrative Code. (N.J.S.A. 40:69A-48)
(7)
Audit all receipts and disbursements of City government,
including each department and preaudit all bills, claims and demands
including payroll upon the City.
(8)
Control all expenditures to assure that budget appropriations
are not exceeded and maintain such books and records as may be required
for the exercise of budget control, including an encumbrance system
of budget operations and expenditures only upon written requisition.
(N.J.S.A. 40:69A-48)
(9)
Provide specific notification to the Business Administrator,
Mayor and Council when conditions arise which may reveal insufficient
funds in any account balance or which may lead to or result in audit
discrepancies or comments.
(10)
Make disbursements of City funds with every warrant
check made payable to the order of the person entitled to receive
the same and shall specify the purpose for which it is drawn and the
account or appropriation to which it is chargeable and shall bear
such signatures as are required by the Administrative Code. (N.J.S.A.
40:69A-48)
(11)
Prepare any records, reports, studies or schedules
requested by the Mayor, Business Administrator or City Council, including
reports for the preparation of the budget or the determination of
the cost of performance of each program or activity, measured in such
work units as may be appropriate thereto.
(12)
Perform such other duties and responsibilities as
required for proper administration of the City's finances in accordance
with the statutes and code.
G.
Payment
of claims; presentation to City Council.
[Amended 9-17-2017 by Ord. No. 17-20; 12-18-2018 by Ord. No. 18-25]
(1)
The
Chief Financial Officer shall prepare for each regular meeting of
City Council a list of all bills, claims and vouchers which have been
received through the close of business on the Wednesday next preceding
the meeting and since the last preceding list was compiled. Such list
shall be prepared in sufficient copy for each member of Council, and
for the Mayor and Business Administrator, and at least one copy shall
be filed with the Municipal Clerk as a public record open to examination
in the Clerk's office. No bills shall be paid except for the payroll
until the listing of bills has been approved by resolution of the
Council.
(2)
In the
event a regularly scheduled City Council meeting is not held as scheduled
due to cancellation or lack of a quorum, the Chief Financial Officer
is hereby authorized to issue payments on any recurring account as
deemed necessary and appropriate with such payments being submitted
for subsequent approval by City Council at its next meeting.
I.
Independent annual audit. The Council shall cause
to be made an annual audit of the City's accounts and financial transactions
as required by law. Such annual audit shall be made by a registered
municipal accountant of New Jersey selected by the Council. (N.J.S.A.
40A:5-4)
A.
City Solicitor; appointment. There shall be a Department
of Law, the head of which shall be the City Solicitor. The City Solicitor
shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of City
Council and shall serve during the term of the Mayor, who makes the
appointment, and until the appointment and qualification of a successor.
The City Solicitor shall receive such compensation as shall be provided
by separate ordinance. [N.J.S.A. 40:69A-43(a) and (b)] Reference to
"City Attorney" shall mean "City Solicitor."[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Reference to "City Attorney"
have been changed to "City Solicitor" in this chapter and the rest
of the Code of the City of Bridgeton.
B.
Powers and duties generally. The powers and duties
of the City Solicitor shall be as follows:
(1)
Draft or approve as to form and sufficiency of all
legal documents, contracts, deeds, ordinances and resolutions made,
executed or adopted by or on behalf of the City.
(2)
Conduct appeals from orders, decisions or judgments
affecting any interest of the City as the City Solicitor or Assistants
may determine to be necessary or desirable, or as directed by the
Mayor or City Council.
(3)
Subject to the approval of the Mayor and City Council,
have the power to enter into any agreement, compromise or settlement
of any litigation in which the City is involved.
(4)
Render opinions in writing upon any question of law
submitted to the Department of Law by the Mayor, the City Council,
the Business Administrator or the head of any department, with respect
to their official powers and duties.
(5)
Maintain a record of all actions, suits, proceedings
and matters which relate to the City's interest, and report thereon
as the Mayor or City Council may require.
(6)
Have such other and different functions, powers and
duties as may be provided by Charter or ordinance.
(7)
Supervise and direct the work of such additional attorneys
and technical and professional assistants as the City Council may
authorize for special or regular employment in or for the City.
C.
Assistant City Solicitors.
(1)
Appointment. The City Solicitor, with the approval
of the Mayor, shall appoint Assistant City Solicitors to serve during
the term of office of the City Solicitor appointing them.
(2)
Powers and duties. An Assistant City Solicitor shall
render services and provide legal representation of and to the City
as the City Solicitor assigns. The City Solicitor may assign an Assistant
City Solicitor to act in the place of the City Solicitor in the event
of the absence or disqualification of the City Solicitor.
(3)
Absence of the City Solicitor or vacancy in the Office.
During the absence or disability of the City Solicitor, an Assistant
City Solicitor shall possess the powers and perform all the duties
of the City Solicitor. In the event of the death or resignation of
the City Solicitor or of the occurrence of a vacancy in the office
for any other reason, an Assistant City Solicitor shall act as the
City Solicitor until the office is duly filled pursuant to the Charter.
D.
City Prosecutor.
(1)
Appointment. The City Prosecutor shall be appointed
by the Mayor with the advice and consent of Council and shall serve
during the term of the Mayor who makes the appointment. The City Solicitor
or an Assistant City Solicitor may also serve as the City Prosecutor.
One or more Assistant City Prosecutors shall be appointed by the Mayor
with the advice and consent of Council and shall serve during the
term of the Mayor who makes the appointment.
[Amended 8-21-2007 by Ord. No. 07-10]
(2)
Duties. The City Prosecutor shall conduct prosecutions
and trials for violations heard in the Municipal Court, including
violations of City ordinances, complaints of any department and violations
of rules and regulations duly promulgated by any department. The City
Prosecutor, the City Solicitor or the Assistant City Solicitors may
prosecute appeals in the Superior Court from convictions in the Municipal
Court.
E.
Special counsel. Whenever the City Solicitor deems
the interests of the City so require, the City Solicitor may, with
the approval of the Mayor and Council and within the limits of available
appropriations, appoint special counsel to assist the City Solicitor
in the preparation, trial or argument of such legal matters or proceedings
as the City Solicitor may determine. If the City Solicitor should
be disqualified with respect to any matter, the Mayor shall appoint
special counsel with the approval of City Council to represent the
City for and with respect to such matter.
F.
Records and papers. All papers, documents, memoranda,
reports and other materials relating to the administration of the
Department of Law shall be and remain the property of the City. Upon
the termination of services with the City, the City Solicitor shall
forthwith surrender to any successor all such property together with
a written consent to substitution of the successor in all legal actions
and proceedings then pending to which the City is a party. The Assistant
City Solicitor or special counsel shall have a like duty and obligation
upon the termination of service with the City.
[Added 12-28-1998 by Ord. No. 98-9]
A.
Department generally. There shall be a Department
of Development and Planning, the head of which shall be the Director
of Development and Planning. Within the Department, there shall be
the following offices:
B.
Responsibilities. The Department, under the direction
and supervision of the Director and the Mayor shall:
(1)
Prepare, create, and develop an economic development
strategy for the City.
(2)
Prepare an Economic Development Marketing Plan.
(3)
Insure that the City gets its fair share of grants
and other funding sources to carry out its development activities.
(4)
Report to the Mayor on the development and progress
of all economic development projects within the City.
(5)
Consult and coordinate with all City departments any
Economic and Community Development activities within the City.
(6)
Supervise all employees within the Department to insure
efficiency and maximize productivity.
C.
Office of Community Development.
(1)
There shall be within the Department of Development
and Planning an Office of Community Development.
(2)
The Office of Community Development shall preserve,
promote and develop the City's interests in the areas of housing,
public facilities, neighborhood improvements and community services.
(3)
The Office shall be responsible for research, application
and administration of state, federal and private grant funding for
the programs sponsored by the City.
(4)
The Office shall work with other City departments,
offices or agencies in securing funding for their operations and programs.
(5)
The Office shall create and maintain a data bank of
all existing businesses and commercial establishments within the City
of Bridgeton, and the Office of Community Development and Office of
Economic Development shall work together to disseminate and coordinate
the use of such information to promote business and economic development
within the City.
[Added 7-15-2008 by Ord. No. 08-2]
D.
Office of Economic Development.
(1)
There shall be within the Department of Development
and Planning an Office of Economic Development.
(2)
The Office shall promote the industrial, commercial
and other economic development of the City in accordance with the
directives of the Department of Development and Planning and the Mayor.
(3)
The Office shall work with the various departments,
agencies, boards or commissions, in promoting the City's economic
development.
(4)
The Office shall administer all economic or business
loans or assistance programs involving the City.
(5)
The Office shall create and maintain a data bank of
all existing businesses and commercial establishments within the City
of Bridgeton, and the Office of Community Development and Office of
Economic Development shall work together to disseminate and coordinate
the use of such information to promote business and economic development
within the City.
[Added 7-15-2008 by Ord. No. 08-2]
E.
Office of Planning.
(2)
Powers and duties. The officer shall:
(a)
Make master plan studies and analyses and report thereon
to the Mayor, Council and Planning Board.
(b)
Study the operation and effect of land use controls
and their administration within the City and report thereon to the
Mayor, Council and Planning Board.
(c)
Review and report on all Planning Board applications.
(d)
Consult and coordinate with various city officials
on planning, economic development or housing issues.
(e)
Provide such expert, technical and other staff services
to the Planning Board, City Council, special committees or other City
departments and agencies as may be requested from time to time and
within the limits of available appropriations.
(3)
Attendance at meetings. The City Planner shall attend
all regular meetings of the Planning Board.
[Amended 10-6-2003 by Ord. No. 03-5]
A.
Department of Public Works generally. There shall
be a Department of Public Works, the head of which shall be the Director
of Public Works, who may be the City Engineer. Within the Department,
there shall be the following Divisions:
B.
Principal Public Works Manager. Within the Department
of Public Works, there shall be named a Principal Public Works Manager,
who shall be appointed by the Mayor with advice and consent of Council.
The person appointed shall hold a Public Works Manager Certificate
and shall not be a member of City Council; the person shall comply
with all other requirements of N.J.S.A. 40A:9-154.6.
C.
Each Division shall be headed by a Supervisor. A Supervisor
may head more than one Division.
D.
Department functions generally.
(1)
The Department of Public Works shall provide for the
proper and efficient conduct of all public works functions of the
City government, and shall provide technical and engineering advice
and assistance to other City departments as needed.
(2)
Subject to the Charter and ordinances, it shall administer
and control the following functions, and the construction, operation
and maintenance of public works, improvements, facilities and services
relating thereto:
E.
Division of Engineering. There shall be within the
Department of Public Works, a Division of Engineering, the head of
which shall be the City Engineer.
(1)
City Engineer. The City Engineer shall be appointed
by the Mayor with the advice and consent of City Council and shall
serve during the term of the Mayor appointing the City Engineer and
until the appointment and qualification of a successor. The City Engineer
shall receive such compensation as shall be provided by separate ordinance.
[N.J.S.A. 40:69A-43(a) and (b)]. The City Engineer, prior to his appointment,
shall hold a professional degree in civil engineering from a recognized
school or college of engineering and shall be a licensed professional
engineer recognized by the State of New Jersey. The City Engineer
shall attend all regular meetings of the Planning Board and, when
requested, City Council meetings.
(2)
The Division of Engineering, under the direction and
supervision of the Director of Public Works, shall:
(a)
Be responsible for the preparation of all plans and
specifications for public works and improvements undertaken by the
City either on force account or by public contract;
(b)
Supervise the performance of all contracts for public
works, and certify the amounts due and payable;
(c)
Provide and maintain surveys, maps, specifications
and operating records with respect to all public property, works and
facilities owned or operated by the City government;
(d)
Supervise and direct the installation and administration
of departmental records, payroll and inventory controls and cost analysis;
(e)
Establish standards and procedures for the control,
use and care of all City-owned equipment, materials and supplies in
the custody of the Department;
(f)
Exercise general supervision over and coordinate engineering
and technical activities and services of all departments;
(g)
Maintain, in conjunction with the City Tax Assessor,
the City Tax Map on a current basis.
F.
[4]Division of Water and Sewer; duties, functions and responsibilities.
The Division shall:
[Added 12-1-2009 by Ord. No. 09-04]
(1)
Operate
and maintain the water supply and distribution system of the City;
(2)
Maintain,
repair, test and set water meters; maintain service maps and records;
install and repair water mains, service connections, valves and appurtenances;
(3)
Install,
maintain and service all fire hydrants in the City subject to the
approval of the Fire Department;
(4)
Operate
and maintain the City's intercepting sewers, sewage pumping stations
and all other sanitary and storm sewer installations, and install
and repair sewer mains, lines and appurtenances;
(5)
Work
with the Division of Collections in the Department of Administration
to facilitate billing and collecting of water and sewer accounts;
(6)
Perform
any other duties as set forth in the ordinances regulating the City's
water and sewer services or as directed by the Mayor.
G.
Division of Streets and Roads. Within the Department
of Public Works there shall be a Division of Streets Roads, the head
of which shall be the Supervisor, who shall be appointed by the Director,
with the consent of the Mayor and pursuant to the provisions of Title
11A of the state statutes. Under the direction and supervision of
the Director of Public Works, the Division shall:
(1)
Maintain and repair all public streets, City bridges,
culverts and drains within the City;
(2)
Undertake new road construction projects, which are
to be performed by the Department on a force account;
(3)
Maintain all City streets in a clean and safe condition,
free of obstructions and hazards and remove snow and ice therefrom
as required;
(4)
Install, operate, repair and maintain street traffic
signs, lines and markers and paint control signals;
(5)
Provide for the storage, servicing, repair and maintenance
of City-owned motor vehicles other than fire engines and police vehicles,
supervise such work as may be done with respect thereto pursuant to
contract; and control the use and maintenance of motor vehicles owned
by the City, through vehicle operating records, cost studies and replacement
schedules;
(6)
Operate, maintain and repair City-owned public parking
areas and facilities;
(7)
Regulate the construction, alteration and repair of
sidewalks, curbs and gutters, and encroachments by objects and structures
above and below public streets and sidewalks, to prevent interference
with the public use thereof and to maintain reasonable standards of
maintenance and repair;
(8)
Supervise the administration of streetlighting studies
and prepare recommendations, plans and programs with respect thereto.
H.
Division of Public Buildings and Grounds. Within the
Department of Public Works there shall be a Division of Public Buildings
and Grounds, the head of which shall be the Supervisor, who shall
be appointed by the Director, with the consent of the Mayor and pursuant
to the provisions of Title 11A of the state statutes. Under the direction
and supervision of the Director of Public Works, the Director shall:
(1)
Provide custodial and janitorial services for the
City Hall and City Hall Annex;
(2)
Operate, maintain, repair and manage City property,
including City Hall, City Hall Annex and other office quarters except
that each department of the City shall be responsible for the operation
and management of all property owned by the City and used by the department
for its sole and exclusive purposes;
(3)
Maintain and repair City public grounds, including
the City's parks.
I.
Division of Solid Waste. Within the Department of
Public Works there shall be a Division of Solid Waste, the head of
which shall be the Supervisor, who shall be appointed by the Director,
with the consent of the Mayor and pursuant to the provisions of Title
11A of the state statutes. The Director, with the consent of the Mayor,
may appoint a person to coordinate and facilitate the recycling activities
within the City. The Division of Solid Waste shall supervise the collection,
removal and disposal of garbage and refuse and recyclables as set
forth in the City's ordinances.
[Added 11-21-2006 by Ord. No. 06-12;
amended 12-1-2009 by Ord. No. 09-04]
A.
Division of Water and Sewer generally. There shall
be a Division of Water and Sewer, the head of which shall be the Director
of the Division of Water and Sewer.
B.
The Division shall:
(1)
Operate and maintain the water supply and distribution
system of the City.
(2)
Maintain, repair, test and set water meters; maintain
service maps and records; install and repair water mains, service
connections, valves and appurtenances.
(3)
Install, maintain and service all fire hydrants in
the City subject to the approval of the Fire Department.
(4)
Operate and maintain the City's intercepting sewers,
sewage pumping stations and all other sanitary and storm sewer installations,
and install and repair sewer mains, lines and appurtenances.
(5)
Work with the Division of Collections in the Department
of Administration to facilitate billing and collecting of water and
sewer accounts.
(6)
Perform any other duties as set forth in the ordinances
regulating the City's water and sewer services or as directed by the
Mayor.
[Amended 4-19-1999 by Ord. No. 98-15; 5-6-2002 by Ord. No. 01-11; 10-6-2003 by Ord. No. 03-5; 7-3-2007 by Ord. No. 07-1; 12-4-2007 by Ord. No.
07-18; 12-4-2007 by Ord. No. 07-19; 1-6-2009 by Ord. No. 08-18]
A.
Appropriate authority. The Business Administrator,
or in his absence or inability to act, the Mayor, shall act as the
other appropriate authority in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-118
to determine policies for the Police Department of the City of Bridgeton
and act as hearing officer for same.
B.
Organization and duties. The Department of Police
shall consist of a Chief of Police and such members and officers as
Council shall deem necessary. The Department shall:
(1)
Preserve the public peace; protect life and property;
prevent crime; detect, arrest and prosecute offenders against the
penal laws and ordinances effective within the City; and preserve
order at all elections and public meetings and assemblages.
(2)
Administer and enforce laws and ordinances to regulate,
direct, control and restrict the movement of vehicular and pedestrian
traffic, and the use of the streets by vehicles and persons, to protect
the safety and facilitate the convenience of motorists and pedestrians
and to make and enforce rules and regulations not inconsistent with
the Charter and ordinances for such purposes.
(3)
Remove or cause to be removed all nuisances in the
public streets, parks and other public places, inspect and observe
all places of public amusement or assemblage and all places of business
requiring any state or municipal license or permit and report thereon
to the appropriate department.
(4)
Provide for the attendance of its members in court
as necessary for the prosecution and trial of persons charged with
crimes and offenses, and cooperate fully with the law enforcement
and prosecuting authorities of federal, state and county government.
(5)
Operate a training program to maintain and improve
the police efficiency of the members of the Department.
(6)
Make, administer and enforce rules and regulations
for the deposition, conduct and discipline of the Department.
(7)
Provide such police assistance as may be necessary
to any other department for its proper functioning.
(8)
Provide such reports to the Mayor or City Council
as is requested by the Mayor or Council in addition to monthly and
yearly reports of police matters.
(9)
Enforce parking ordinances of the City and enforce
all parking ordinances.
(11)
Provide for a process of interviewing prospective law enforcement
officers seeking employment with the Bridgeton Police Department that
allows for the Mayor and the Council President, or his/her designee
from City Council, to attend one such interview session in the hiring
process of each officer candidate and provide such input to the Police
Chief as each deems necessary to represent the interests of the community
as its elected representatives.
[Added 9-15-2020 by Ord.
No. 20-17]
C.
Organization and personnel of the Department of Police.
(1)
Chief of Police. The head of the Police Administration
shall be the Chief of Police, who shall report to the Mayor through
the Business Administrator and shall be responsible for the efficiency
and routine day-to-day operations of the Department and for the preparation
of reports as required herein.
(2)
Chief of Police duties. The Chief of Police shall
administer and enforce rules and regulations and special emergency
directives for the disposition and discipline of the force and its
officers and personnel; have, exercise and discharge the duties of
the Department of Police; prescribe the duties and assignments of
all subordinates and other personnel, including special law enforcement
officers; delegate such of his authority as he may deem necessary
for the efficient operation of the force; operate a training program
to maintain and improve the police efficiency of the members of the
Division (N.J.S.A. 40A:14-118).
(3)
Chief of Police additional duties. The Chief of Police
shall also establish and maintain the efficient operation of the Department
organize, control and maintain all property and resources of the Department;
maintain a constructive and informative relationship with the public,
community organizations, media and other law enforcement agencies;
and advise the Business Administrator, in writing, of any difficulties
or problems in the enforcement of any ordinance.
(4)
Organization. The Department shall be organized according
to such table of organization as established by the appropriate authority
and prescribed by separate Salary Ordinance.
D.
Control of stolen or abandoned property. The retention
and disposal of all property coming into possession and custody of
the Police Department and alleged to be found and recovered or unclaimed
or abandoned shall be governed by N.J.S.A. 40A:14-157, as amended,
with the exception of motor vehicles, which shall be governed by N.J.S.A.
39:10A-1 et seq.
E.
Special law enforcement officers.
(1)
Appointment. Special law enforcement officers may
be appointed by the Business Administrator for terms not to exceed
one year, and the appointments may be revoked by the Business Administrator
for cause after adequate hearing on charges filed by the Chief of
Police unless the appointment is for four months or less, in which
case the appointment may be revoked by the Business Administrator
without cause or hearing, upon recommendation by the Chief of Police.
Nothing hereby shall be construed to require reappointment upon the
expiration of the term.
(2)
Qualifications. No person shall be appointed as a
special law enforcement officer unless such a person meets the qualification
requirements of N.J.S.A. 40A:14-146.10.
(3)
Certification. No person shall commence serving as
special enforcement officer unless he has been certified by the Police
Training Commission as provided in N.J.S.A. 40A:14-146.11.
(4)
Classification.
[Amended 4-23-2013 by Ord. No. 12-40]
(a)
Designation.
Persons appointed special law enforcement officers shall, upon appointment,
be designated as either a Class 1 or Class 2 special law enforcement
officer as more fully defined in N.J.S.A. 40A:14-146.11 and shall
upon such designation be authorized to perform all the duties set
forth in the respective classifications unless the Chief of Police
limits the duties of the law enforcement officer.
(b)
Class
1 officers shall have the power to issue summonses for disorderly
persons and petty disorderly persons offenses, violations of municipal
ordinances and violations of Title 39 of the Revised Statutes and
any other duties permitted by statute.
(c)
Number.
No more than 15 persons shall be designated as Class 1 special law
enforcement officers. The number of persons designated as Class 2
special law enforcement officers shall not exceed 25% of the total
number of regular police officers.
(5)
Firearms. The carrying of firearms by special law
enforcement officers shall be strictly governed by N.J.S.A. 40A:14-146.14b.
(6)
Hours. The City may designate one special law enforcement
officer who is not governed by limitations on hours employed as set
forth in N.J.S.A. 40A:14-146.16a. All other special law enforcement
officers may work no more than 20 hours per week except as follows:
(a)
Without limitation as to hours during period of emergency;
(b)
A special law enforcement officer may be assigned
for no more than 20 hours per week to provide public safety and law
enforcement services to a public entity, in addition to not more than
20 hours per week performing the duties pursuant to this section;
and
(c)
For hours to be determined by the Chief of Police
while assigned to public safety duties for a private entity, pursuant
to N.J.S.A. 40A:14-146.14b.
(d)
For hours to be determined by the Chief of Police,
not to exceed 48 hours per week, during the seasonal period from June,
July, August and September, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:14-146.a(1).
(7)
Regulation. All duly appointed special law enforcement
officers shall be subject to ordinances and rules and regulations
governing the Department of Police of the City of Bridgeton and the
Special Law Enforcement Officers Act (N.J.S.A. 40A14-146.8 et seq.).
(8)
Fee. The City has the right, pursuant to N.J.S.A.
40A:14-146.13, to charge a reasonable fee to be hereinafter fixed
by the Business Administrator for equipment and uniforms supplied.
F.
Police Chaplain.
[Added 2-18-2014 by Ord. No. 13-16]
(1)
Position
created. The position of Police Chaplain for the City of Bridgeton
Police Department is hereby created in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-141.
The position will be a volunteer position. The position of Chaplain
shall be under the appropriate authority and subject to the control
of the Chief of Police.
(2)
Appointment. The Chief of Police may recommend to the Mayor persons that he/she believes meet the qualifications of N.J.S.A. 40A:14-141 as well as the rules and regulations of the City of Bridgeton Police Department with reference to Chaplains, if any. All applicants for the position of Chaplain shall be reviewed by the Chief of Police, Senior Police Chaplain and Chaplain liaison to determine his/her qualifications in accordance with this Subsection F and shall make recommendations to the Mayor regarding the appointment as Chaplain. The Mayor shall appoint Chaplains in accordance with this Subsection F with the advice and consent of City Council.
(3)
Qualifications.
Any person appointed as Chaplain shall be an ordained clergyman in
good standing in the religious body from which he/she is selected.
The Chaplain shall have basic training and shall be a certified Police
Chaplain credentialed in accordance with the rules and regulations
of the City of Bridgeton Police Department and shall be qualified
in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-141.
(4)
Duties
of Police Chaplain. The duties of Police Chaplain shall include but
not be limited to assisting the City of Bridgeton Police Department
in death notifications, station house adjustments and any other duties
that may be assigned by the Chief of Police.
(5)
Rank
and salary. Any person appointed as Chaplain shall serve in that capacity
without rank or salary.
(6)
Term
of office. A person appointed as Chaplain shall serve for a period
of one (1) year from date of appointment and shall continue to serve
in that capacity until he/she is either terminated or reappointed
with the recommendation of the Chief of Police.
[Added 1-6-2009 by Ord. No. 08-18]
A.
Appropriate authority. The Business Administrator,
or in his absence or inability to act, the Mayor, shall act as the
other appropriate authority in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-7 to
determine policies for the Fire Department of the City of Bridgeton
and act as hearing officer for same.
B.
Department of Fire. The Department of Fire shall have
exclusive jurisdiction over the control, lighting and extinguishment
of any conflagration which occurs within the City limits. The Department
shall:
(1)
Make, administer and enforce rules and regulations
for the control, disposition and discipline of the Department and
its officers and employees and within the limits of available appropriations
for the establishment and maintenance of fire stations and the disposition,
use and care of its equipment and apparatus.
(2)
Provide fire-fighting service for the extinguishment
of fires and the necessary and incidental protection of life and property
throughout the City and upon vessels in any waters within the City
or upon any dock, wharf, pier, warehouse, or other structure bordering
upon or adjacent to such waters.
(3)
Direct or cause any vessel moored to or anchored near
any dock or pier or in any waters within the City to be removed to
and secured at such place as shall be designated by the Fire Chief
whenever any such vessel shall be afire or in danger of igniting,
or may be, by reason of its condition or the nature of its cargo,
a menace to life or property.
(4)
Designate and fix the location of fire signal stations
in the City and operate, repair and maintain a City fire alarm and
signal system.
(5)
Investigate the cause, circumstances and origin of
fires and report to the Department of Police and to the County Prosecutor
every case of suspicion of arson.
(6)
Have power to inspect and test any automatic or other
fire alarm system or fire-extinguishing equipment.
(7)
Be authorized to enter upon, without fee or hindrance,
all premises, grounds, structures, buildings, vessels and passages
whenever necessary in the performance of its duties.
(8)
Operate a training program to maintain and improve
the fire-fighting efficiency of the members of the Department.
(9)
Investigate and oversee or plan the disposal of fire
hazards and violations.
(10)
Enforce observation of fire prevention regulations
and rules at places of public gatherings.
(11)
Provide fire assistance as may be necessary
to other departments or divisions and other jurisdictions.
C.
Organization and personnel of the Department of Fire.
[Amended 4-20-2021 by Ord. No. 21-7]
(1)
Fire Chief. The head of the Fire Department shall be the Fire Chief,
who shall report to the Mayor through the Business Administrator.
(2)
Duties.
(a)
The Fire Chief shall:
[1]
Be responsible for the efficient day-to-day operations of the
Department, including but not limited to personnel, departmental procurement,
maintenance of equipment, supplies, and apparatus, and maintaining
of all required records and reports on behalf of the Department.
[2]
Administer and enforce rules and regulations, as well as special
emergency directives as may be required from time to time, based on
operational needs and circumstances including but not limited to deployment
of personnel and equipment, duty assignments, delegation of authority,
and formulation of policies and procedures as necessary.
[3]
Implement and operate an effective training program to maintain
and/or improve the firefighting abilities and capacities of all subordinate
personnel emphasizing efficiency, safety, and best practices.
[4]
Develop and/or maintain a constructive and informative relationship
with the general public including but not limited to community organizations,
schools, media outlets, and citizens, and promoting fire safety and
prevention through such relationships.
D.
Bureau of Fire Prevention. Within the Department of
Fire there shall be a Bureau of Fire Prevention, which shall be known
as the local enforcing agency of the Uniform Fire Code pursuant to
the Uniform Fire Safety Act, P.L. 1983, c.383 (N.J.S.A. 52:27D-192
et seq.).
(1)
The Bureau of Fire Prevention shall:
(a)
Enforce the Uniform Fire Code in all buildings,
structures, and premises within the City other than one- and two-unit
owner-occupied dwellings used exclusively for dwelling purposes and
buildings, structures, and premises owned or operated by the federal
government, interstate agencies or the State of New Jersey.
(b)
Comply with all pertinent requirements of the
Uniform Fire Safety Act and the Uniform Fire Code (N.J.A.C. 5:70-1
et seq.).
(c)
Carry out the periodic inspections of life hazard
uses required by the Uniform Fire Code on behalf of the Commissioner
of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
(2)
The Bureau of Fire Prevention shall be under the direct
supervision and control of a Fire Official who shall report to the
Chief of the Fire Department.
(3)
Appointments, qualifications, term of office, removal
of personnel in the Bureau of Fire Prevention.
(a)
Fire Official. The Fire Official shall be certified
by the State of New Jersey and shall be hired by the Business Administrator
with the approval of the Mayor.
(b)
Inspectors and other employees. The Bureau of
Fire Prevention shall have at least one paid inspector. Inspectors
and other employees of the Bureau of Fire Prevention shall be hired
by the Business Administrator with the approval of the Mayor upon
recommendation of the Fire Official. All life hazard use inspectors
shall be certified by the State of New Jersey.
(c)
Legal counsel. The City Council shall specifically
appoint legal counsel to assist the Bureau in enforcing the Uniform
Fire Code.
(d)
Term of office. The Fire Official shall save
for a term of three years. Any vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired
term.
(e)
Removal from office. The Fire Official, inspectors
and other employees of the Bureau of Fire Prevention shall be subject
to removal by the Business Administrator for just cause. Before removal,
all persons shall be afforded an opportunity to be heard by the City
Council or a hearing officer designated by the same.
(4)
Fire Investigation Unit. There is hereby created a Fire Investigation
Unit within the City of Bridgeton Fire Department, Bureau of Fire
Prevention. Members of the unit shall be assigned by the Chief of
Fire, from the full-time paid firefighters within the Fire Department
and Chief of Police from police officers who are qualified in arson
investigation.
[Added 6-23-2015 by Ord.
No. 15-15]
(a)
Duties. The Fire Investigation Unit shall be responsible for
investigating all fires and explosions within the jurisdiction of
the City of Bridgeton, as well as any outside jurisdictions that may
be established through shared service agreements.
(b)
Regulation and control. The regulation and control of the Fire
Investigation Unit shall be pursuant of guidelines and training criteria
as directed jointly by the Chief of Police and Chief of Fire.
(c)
Joint Arson Task Force. Within the Fire Investigation Unit there
is hereby established a Joint Arson Task Force. This shall be comprised
of full-time police and fire investigators of the City of Bridgeton
Police and Fire Departments assigned by their respective Chiefs. The
purpose of the task force is to provide for the cooperative investigation
of arson, suspicious fires or explosions within the City of Bridgeton.
E.
Office of Emergency Management There shall be an Office
of Emergency Management, the head of which shall be the Emergency
Management Coordinator. The office shall be responsible for the preparation
and implementation of emergency management operations within the City
(App. A:9-40.1 et seq.).
(1)
Emergency Management Coordinator.
(a)
Appointment and term. The Mayor shall appoint
the Emergency Management Coordinator (EMC) from among the residents
of the City. The EMC shall serve a term of three years, with a condition
of the appointment and right to continue for a full term that the
EMC shall have successfully completed at the time of his appointment
or within one year immediately following the appointment the current
approved home study course and the basic emergency management workshop.
(b)
Vacancy or removal.
[1]
The failure of an EMC to fulfill the requirements
of his appointment within the prescribed period shall disqualify the
EMC from continuing in the office and thereupon a vacancy in said
office shall be deemed to have been created.
[2]
The Governor of the State of New Jersey may
remove the EMC at any time for cause. In such event, the Mayor shall
appoint a new EMC with the approval of the Governor. If the Mayor
shall not appoint an EMC within 10 days after such office shall become
vacant, the Governor may appoint a temporary EMC, who shall serve
and perform all the duties of that office until such time as a new
EMC shall be appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the Governor.
(c)
Function. The EMC shall be responsible for the
planning, activating, coordinating the conduct of emergency management
operations within the City. The EMC shall be a member of the local
Emergency Management Council and shall serve as its Chair.
(d)
Emergency operations plan. The EMC shall prepare
a written emergency operations plan (EOP), with appropriate annexes
necessary to implement the plan, which shall conform to all relevant
federal statutes, rules or regulations and shall identify significant
hazards affecting the City. The EOP shall be based upon criteria,
objectives, requirements, responsibilities and concepts of operation
to implement all appropriate protective remedial measures to be taken
in response to a potential or actual emergency as determined by the
State Director of Emergency Management. The EOP shall be reviewed
and updated at least every two years.
(e)
Local disaster emergency. The EMC may proclaim
a state of local disaster emergency within the City whenever, in the
EMC's opinion, a disaster has occurred or is imminent. The EMC, in
accordance with regulations promulgated by the State Director of Emergency
Management, shall be empowered to issue and enforce such orders as
may be necessary to implement and carry out emergency management operations
and to protect the health, safety, and resources of the residents
of the City.
(2)
Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator. The EMC shall
appoint a Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator with the approval
of the Mayor. The Deputy EMC shall serve for a three-year term running
simultaneously with that of the EMC. The Deputy EMC, whenever possible,
shall be appointed from among the salaried officers and employees
of the City.
F.
Division of Emergency Medical Services. There shall
be a Division of Emergency Medical Services, which shall fall under
the Fire Department and be supervised by the Fire Chief.
A.
Department, generally. There shall be a Department
of Recreation and of Public Affairs, the head of which shall be the
Director of Recreation and Public Affairs. The Director may appoint
a Deputy Director of the Department with the approval of the Mayor.
Within the Department, there shall be a Division of Tourism and Division
of the Zoo.
B.
Department functions generally. The Department of
Recreation and Public Affairs shall:
(1)
Administer and operate playgrounds, facilities for
indoor and outdoor sports, and athletic and recreational programs
and activities for children and adults;
(2)
Administer and operate facilities, functions and activities
relating to recreation, public relations, public affairs, and special
events;
(3)
Use public school property by agreement with the Board
of Education, to the extent that such property may be adaptable and
available for recreational programs and purposes of the Department;
(4)
Plan and develop additional public recreational area
and facilities;
(5)
Plan, develop and administer the City's public relations
program, including planning, developing and disseminating publicity
about the City and, if asked or directed, working with other departments
to develop and release public information about the City;
(6)
Oversee, direct and promote the City Zoo;
(7)
Develop and encourage tourism to and within the City.
C.
City Zoo. Within the Department, there shall be the
City Zoo whose activities and services shall be directed by the Zoo
Curator, who reports directly to the Director of Recreation and Public
Affairs.
D.
Recreation Committee. Within the Department there
shall be a Recreation Committee to consist of 11 members to be appointed
by the Mayor to serve at the pleasure of the Mayor. The Committee
shall provide for its own organization and shall consult and advise
with the Mayor, Council and Director with respect to recreation policies,
programs and activities within the City and shall conduct recreation
programs and activities in the City under the supervision of the Director.
E.
Charges and fees.
(1)
The Department may sponsor, arrange and provide for
the giving of indoor and outdoor exhibitions, concerns, games and
contests and may use and employ public property for such purposes.
The Department may charge and collect for the use of the Department
a reasonable admission fee for each person entering or using facilities,
exhibits, concerts, games or contests provided under this section
when authorized by the Director, and such proceeds shall be used to
further the programs of the Department generally.
(2)
The Department may provide for parking near activities
conducts by the Department and may use and employ public property
for such purposes. The Department may charge and collect for the use
of the parking facilities and the proceeds from the parking facilities
shall be used to further the programs of the Department generally.
F.
Rules and regulations.
(1)
The Department may adopt reasonable rules, regulations
and bylaws for the conduct of all persons while on or using such public
property devoted to recreational uses. Any person who shall violate
any such rules, regulations or bylaws shall be adjudged to be a disorderly
person.
