The meeting was called to order by Director Louis Cappelli, Jr. at 7:00 p.m. The Director asked the Clerk to call the roll and the following Freeholders answered to their name:

PRESENT: CREAM, GRECO, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL, CAPPELLI

The Director stated that adequate notice of this meeting has been provided in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act.

Director Cappelli asked everyone to rise for the invocation and called upon Pastor William Cook of Mount Calvary Union Church of Runnemede.
Director Cappelli then asked everyone to remain standing for a moment of silence and asked everyone to keep in their thoughts the men and women in the United States Military and their families.
Director Cappelli then called upon Kathryn Cook of the Triton High School Chorale to come forward to sing the National Anthem.

Director Cappelli advised that the County has available, if requested, large print agendas for the visually impaired. The Director explained that if anyone requires one to please see the Clerk of the Board.

Director Cappelli welcomed everyone. The Director said we are very pleased to be here this evening in Runnemede. Director Cappelli said it is the practice of the Freeholders to hold our meetings each month in one of the municipalities outside of the County seat of Camden so that all members of the public will have full access to the meetings of the Board. He said as is the custom during our road meetings, we will begin tonight’s meeting by asking Mayor Betteridge and members of Borough Council to come forward to thank them for hosting tonight’s event. The Director called upon Freeholder Nash to come forward as well.

PRESENTATION

Director Cappelli said on behalf of the entire Board of Freeholders, I would like to thank Mayor Betteridge and the members of Council for inviting us tonight. He said he knows he speaks on behalf of the entire Board when he says how fortunate residents of Runnemede are to have leaders as Mayor Betteridge and Council people. He said this has always been a very progressive town, a forward-thinking town. He said we are seeing a lot of progress on the Black Horse Pike with respect to community and economic development. The Director said Runnemede is a wonderful community and he has always considered it his second hometown because his Dad was Principal for Triton High School for many years.
Director Cappelli said to the Mayor and Council, we have some gifts for you as well tonight. The Director said, first, the residents of Runnemede have done such a tremendous job recycling. They have recycled 248 tons of paper, 292 tons of glass, metal and plastic products. He said because of those efforts, we are able to give the Borough of Runnemede a rebate check in the amount of $5,447.00. Freeholder Nash presented the Mayor and Council with a ceremonial check.

The Director then called upon Freeholder Rodriguez to come forward with a Community Development Block Grant check in the amount of $35,120.00 and presented that to the Mayor as well.
Mayor Betteridge welcomed everyone to the Borough of Runnemede. She said we are delighted that you have taken time from your busy schedule to come out for this important meeting. She said on behalf of the entire Borough Council, she wishes everyone a very Happy Holiday and a prosperous New Year. The Mayor then introduced Council members who were present: Anthony Beatrice, Council President; Mike Kisielewski and Bernie Moore. Mayor Betteridge thanked Director Cappelli for the Board’s generosity and said the Freeholders are always welcome to the Borough. The Mayor then wished everyone a Happy and successful New Year.

GIFT DONATION

Director Cappelli said it has been the practice of the Freeholder Board to ask the Governing Body wherever we have a meeting to name a non-profit organization in town which has done a great job in supporting the community worthy of a small donation. He said the Mayor and members of Council have selected the Friends of the Runnemede Public Library. Director Cappelli called upon Faith Cook, President of Friends of the Runnemede Public Library to come forward. The Director went on to say that the Friends of the Runnemede Library meet once a month at the Library to discuss and plan activities for the community. He said everyone is invited to come out on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Library to help out.
Ms. Cook thanked the Freeholders for this gift.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Freeholder Rodriguez came forward and called upon Deborah Hall. Freeholder Rodriguez said this month we will be honoring Deborah Hall as Employee of the Month. Freeholder Rodriguez then asked for Dr. Cho, Health Officer and Patrick Shuttleworth, Director of the Health Department to come forward as well. Freeholder Rodriguez said every month we select an employee who has been outstanding and a shining example. Freeholder Rodriguez said this month it was her turn to select an employee. She said what she does is ask her Director and leaders in the Department who has been an outstanding employee. There was no doubt that everyone picked Debbie Hall. Freeholder Rodriguez said she was happy to hear it was Debbie but wasn’t surprised. She said Debbie has always been there to help and is a go between to get things organized. She said she asked Dr. Cho to be here this evening because he nominated Debbie Hall. She then called upon Mr. Shuttleworth.
Patrick Shuttleworth said Debbie Hall is someone who does a great job in this County. She works for the Health Officer and some of the issues she deals with aren’t the most pleasant but she handles them professionally. He said, for example, when we had the 9/11 incident and that tragedy of Anthrax, Debbie took hundreds of calls and she handled everyone professionally, she took the care and time to make sure everyone had the right information about what to do and how to protect themselves. He also recalled an incident of meningitis at Camden Catholic years ago and she took calls from parents, teachers and principals and she handled those calls herself. He said she is the front line for our Department. He said it is a very difficult job and she does an outstanding job and because of her professionalism, her experience and manner, she makes people feel at ease and it makes our lives a lot easier. Mr. Shuttleworth said Debbie does a tremendous job and when we asked for nominations for excellent employees, it was Debbie hands down. He thanked Debbie for all she does.
Dr. Cho said he works closely with Debbie Hall. He said she handles all the phone calls and is his “gate keeper”! He said Debbie represents our County well. He then thanked her.
Freeholder Rodriguez said her surprise after she heard Debbie’s name as being nominated Employee of the Month, was that Debbie was never named Employee of the Month before this. Freeholder Rodriguez said on behalf of the entire Freeholder Board, the Director of the Health Department and Health Officer, congratulations!
Ms. Hall thanked Dr. Cho who she worked with for over thirteen years. She said everyone calls her “Mrs.Cho”. She thanked Patrick Shuttleworth and said she enjoys working with him and Dr.Cho. She said it is a pleasure working with Freeholder Rodriguez and thanked her co-workers. She said it is great to live and work in Camden County.
Director Cappelli congratulated Ms. Hall.

COMMUNITY AWARD


Freeholder Greco called upon the representatives of the Runnemede Parent/Teacher Association to come forward. Freeholder Greco said the Runnemede Parent/Teacher Association looks after three schools K through 8. He said anyone who works in schools knows the value of the PTA. He said it is they who keep raising funds for all kinds of different events. He said every Principal knows a good PTA makes a huge difference in schools. Freeholder Greco said he has worked for the Gloucester County Public School District for the last thirty-four years. He said his first elected position was as Treasurer in 1989. He said he was then involved in the process. The Freeholder said he has been involved with the PTA himself and knows first hand the value of the PTA. The Freeholder then read the Proclamation.

PROCLAMATION

Deputy Director McDonnell came forward and called upon Mary Alice Curley and her family to come forward. The Deputy Director said he has known Mary Alice for many years. He said he knew her family before he met her. He said they worked together at the Audubon High School years ago. He said she was a great football coach both there and at Haddon Township High School. The Deputy Director said we could honor her because she has six beautiful children, we could honor her because of her 14 grandchildren, for the great work she does in the City of Camden in helping Father Doyle with all the work she does with helping the poor. He said there are so many things about her that we could honor – one of the most important of which is that she has been married to Tom for 53 years – now that’s an accomplishment. The Deputy Director said being married to anyone for 53 years is a long time. He said the reason we are honoring her this evening is that for 25 years Mary Alice has run a bookstore in Collingswood, which is called the Collingswood Book Trader. He said if you know it, it is a great store. He said you can take a used book in there and get a discount to buy another. He said it is a great business but the best part is that this store that Mary Alice has run for 25 years was just voted, “The Best Book Store in New Jersey” by the Philadelphia Inquirer Neighbors Circle Award. He said this award is just the latest distinction in Mary Alice’s life beyond all the good things she is truly a wonderful person and said they have been friends for a long time. He said when he told Director Cappelli she was being honored this evening, the Director said what a great lady she is. He said all of us feel the same way. He then congratulated her.
Mary Alice Curley thanked the Freeholders, her friends and family.

PROCLAMATION

Freeholder Nash came forward and welcomed everyone. Freeholder Nash said this is a very special award because we watch the news and we hear about some of the youth in our community that are not upstanding citizens. He said the press always focuses on the bad of the young people in our community. Freeholder Nash said we are going to recognize four young people who are outstanding. Freeholder Nash then called upon Principal McBride to come forward and called upon James and Sean McGee, Kevin McEdmondson and Krista Iuliucci to come forward also.
Freeholder Nash said these four children attend St. Mary’s School of Williamstown and are constantly reminded to buckle up in the school bus. He said on October 5, there were 14 students in a school bus and there was a terrible accident where the bus ran out of control, jumped the curb, hit a tree, knocking the bus driver unconscious. The Freeholder said these four students were on the bus; they were quick thinking; they were reminded of their responsibilities toward the younger students on the bus. They are three eighth graders and a sixth grader, who helped the younger children on the bus. He said they opened the emergency door at the back of the bus and got all the younger children off the bus to safety and using their cell phones they called 911 and the parents of all the students. The Freeholder said they participate in a program at their school that pairs older students with younger buddies and act as role models for the younger children. Freeholder Nash said because of your heroic deeds and your acts of bravery, we honor you as our Community Volunteers of the Month and Community Heroes of the Month. He then congratulated them.
Principal McBride said we are also very proud of these students. She said they reacted in a wonderful way and took care of the younger children first. They did what they had to do and we are very proud of them. Thank you for honoring them.
Freeholder Nash then presented each student with a Proclamation.

PROCLAMATION

Freeholder Rodriguez called upon Mary Ann Boccolini, President/CEO and Joanne Rosen, Vice President Marketing & Development of Samaritan Hospice to come forward. Freeholder Rodriguez said this is a very special Proclamation. She said last month was Hospice Month. She said she would like to take the time to read the Proclamation because this organization does great things.
Freeholder Rodriguez thanked this organization for helping people who are getting to the end of their life, which is a difficult hard time. The Freeholder had personal experience with their acts of kindness and said how helpful they were to the family as well.
Ms. Boccolini thanked Freeholder Rodriguez. She said if anyone has ever received Samaritan Hospice services over the twenty-seven years, she said she would like to thank them on behalf of their entire staff for the honor of being allowed into your homes at such an intimate time. She said we are not really a medical service, we have medical people but transition from this world is not a medical event but a life event. She said we give the family support and offer hope and peace for that transition along with that medical care. She thanked Freeholder Rodriguez and all the Freeholders in recognizing what we do for Camden County. We are very grateful to the Freeholders for their generosity. She said it is an honor for us to serve you. Thank you.
Ms. Rosen said she would like to thank all the elected officials in Camden County – Freeholder Rodriguez, the entire Freeholder Board and Director Cappelli who helped us. She thanked Cathy Gavin and Joy Merullo and the Surrogate, Patricia Jones. She said they have all been instrumental in helping us get the word out to the citizens of Camden County about their services being fully covered by Medicare. She thanked everyone for their help and support and wished everyone a good year and a Merry Christmas.

PROCLAMATION

Director Cappelli called upon Pastor Glen Marshall and his family to come forward. The Director said at our September meeting in Somerdale, we wanted to recognize and give the community award to the Park Avenue Community Church and Pastor Marshall. The Director said there was a problem with scheduling and we couldn’t do it that night. The Director said this community award is very well deserved. He said the Somerdale Governing Body nominated them for this award. He said this group is responsible for helping to sponsor events for the Somerdale 75th Anniversary, Easter Egg Hunt, Somerdale Day but more importantly, he said, this group has very big hearts. They distribute groceries twice a week and provide childcare. Their church mission is to give credit to God and to improve the quality of life for anybody who asks for it. The Director said to Pastor Marshall thank you for all the great work that you do and we are very proud and honored to recognize you with this Community Award.
Pastor Marshall said on behalf of the congregation, we are honored to be recognized with this Proclamation. He said we don’t do what we do to toot our own horn. We serve in the name of Jesus as disciples of Jesus. He said the Church is supposed to be a community asset and we are supposed to be a community asset because God has called us to demonstrate the goodness of his Kingdom in word and deed. He said we take that seriously. He then thanked Mayor Passanante and Sommerdale Council members who recommended us for this award. It is our pleasure to serve Somerdale, the crossroads of South Jersey. Thank you very much.

PROCLAMATION

Freeholder Rodriguez called upon Joyce Nelson to come forward. Freeholder Rodriguez said we don’t generally present Proclamations to just anybody who retires. She said Joyce is very special and we are proud to present this Proclamation to her. Freeholder Rodriguez said Joyce Nelson has been working with the Salvation Army for over 37 years and she has been running our Meals on Wheels Program. She coordinates a program which has 400 to 500 employees who provide services to municipalities. She said it is a huge program and Joyce coordinates it. Freeholder Rodriguez said on behalf of the Board of Chosen Freeholders, I am very privileged to have you working for our community. She said on behalf of the Community, thank you. She then presented her with the Proclamation and the Freeholder then read the Proclamation.
Major Kane came forward to say a few words. Mr. Kane said one of the mottos of the Salvation Army is “Compassion in Action”. He said for the last 37 years, Joyce has been exactly that to your great-grandparents, your grandparents, parents and maybe to some of you. He said we have served through the Salvation Army the Camden County Nutrition Project. He said the Salvation Army is losing you but we know the family is so proud of you as well. God bless you and we are so thankful that we had your service.
Joy Merullo said on behalf of all the Seniors in Camden County and the families and the staff of the Division of Senior Services, we want to thank you for all the years you have put in and you will be missed. Congratulations.
Joyce Nelson said I started out as a young wife and young mother, thinking I would just help out with the Seniors. She said I was with the Salvation Army for so long that now I am a senior citizen. She said now I am able to have one of those meals that I have been serving for 37 years. Joyce said it has been a pleasure and has been a blessing for her. She said the Lord sent her to the right place at the right time. She said at that time the motto was “Heart to God and Hand to Man” and that is what I tried to do all of these years. She said now the new motto is ‘Do the most good” and we certainly have and I trust and pray that we can continue to do that. She then introduced her family. She said I am very grateful and very blessed. Thank you.
Director Cappelli congratulated Mrs. Nelson.

Director Cappelli continued with the agenda.

RESOLUTION i

PUBLIC HEARING – RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE UPDATED CAMDEN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

Director Cappelli declared the public hearing open. Seeing
no one wishing to speak, Freeholder Nash made a motion to close with a second by Freeholder Cream and all Freeholders present voted aye.

MOTION TO ADOPT RESOLUTION i

Director Cappelli asked for a motion to adopt Resolution i. Deputy Director McDonnell made a motion to adopt Resolution i with a second by Freeholder Rodriguez and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

MINUTES

The Director said the next order of business is the Minutes of our previous meeting and asked for a motion to accept the Minutes as presented. Freeholder Cream made a motion to adopt the Minutes with a second by Deputy Director McDonnell and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

CORRESPONDENCE

The Director then asked the Clerk of the Board if there was any correspondence. The Clerk answered that there was no correspondence.

COMPTROLLER

The Director then asked for a motion to adopt the Comptroller’s Report. Deputy Director McDonnell made a motion to adopt with a second by Freeholder Nash and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

The Director announced that the next portion of this meeting is open to the public for discussion on the Resolutions that the Freeholders are going to be acting upon this evening. He said there will be another public session after the meeting, at which time the public can ask any questions they want regarding the business of the County or anything else they wish to talk about. The Director said that he asks that this portion of the public hearing be limited to the Resolutions that the Freeholders are going to be voting on.

The Director then declared the public hearing open. Seeing no one, Deputy Director McDonnell made a motion to close the public portion with a second by Freeholder Cream and all Freeholders present voted aye.

The Director said that at our Caucus on Tuesday evening, the Board of Freeholders reviewed the resolutions to be acted upon tonight. He said it was at that time that the Board discussed items to be voted on and we will be voting on resolutions in blocks based on unanimous consent of the Freeholders.

RESOLUTIONS

Resolution 1 through 10 were adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell with a second by Freeholder Greco and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

1. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and Simplex Grinnell, for repairs on the alarm detection systems in various County buildings in an amount not to exceed $3,649.00 – CAF #’s 9900133914, 9900134278.

2. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and James Doorcheck, Inc., for the provision of a Courthouse interior door and exterior freight elevator doors in an amount not to exceed $4,205.76 – CAF #9900135412.

3. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to a solicitation of quotations, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and William Scotsman, for the provision of three (3) storage containers in an amount not to exceed $13,359.00 – CAF #9900135586.

4. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings and Operations) and Verizon New Jersey, Inc., for the installation of a Frame Relay T-1 circuit for the Office of the Superintendent of Elections in an amount not to exceed $453.00, and the up-grade of a Frame Relay circuit for the Office of Information technology in an amount not to exceed $2,916.00 – CAF #’s 9900135854, 9900135855. Remainder of funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 through 2012 temporary and permanent budgets.

5. Resolution authorizing an award of contracts, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and ACE Auto Parts, and Cruisers Auto Sales, and rescinding a contract with Brian Brogan pursuant to the September 2007 vehicle auction.

6. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5 (dd), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and L3 Communications, for the provision of annual maintenance on the County’s x-ray machine in an amount not to exceed $26,000.00 – CAF #9900135870.

7. Resolution authorizing an Agreement (2nd Year option), pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and U.S. Security Associates, for the provision of security services at various Camden County facilities and locations.

8. Resolution amending a Lease, by and between the County of Camden and Bloom Organization of South Jersey, LLC, adopted November 26, 2007 to correct a typographical error.

9. Resolution appointing a member to the Camden County Library Commission.

10. Resolution approving personnel actions requested by or on behalf of Freeholder Cream.

Resolution 11 was adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call:

11. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Region-wide Transportation GIS 07-08 program in an amount of $25,000.00.

AYE: CREAM, GRECO, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL
ABSTAIN: CAPPELLI

Resolutions 12 through 15 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Ripa with second by Deputy Director McDonnell and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

12. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and Winner Ford, for the purchase of truck equipment parts in an amount not to exceed $78.26 – CAF #9900135844.

13. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and Sherwin Williams Company, for the provision of paint in an amount not to exceed $3,245.00 – CAF #9900135480.

14. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and Grainger, Inc., for the provision of hardware supplies in an amount not to exceed $2,508.08 – CAF #9900135847.

15. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (Bid B-12), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and Asphalt Paving, for the base recycling and resurfacing of Third Avenue (CR715) in the Twp. of Waterford; Egg Harbor Road (CR702) in the Borough of Lindenwold; and Erial-New Brooklyn Road (CR706) in the Twp. of Winslow in an amount not to exceed $1,922,783.25 – CAF #9900135612.

Resolution 16 was adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell, with second by Freeholder Rodriguez and on roll call:

16. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (Bid B-11), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and DeFalco & Bisconti, Inc., for the reconstruction of Blackwood/Clementon Road (CR 534), Phase IV, in the Twp. of Gloucester, and the Boroughs of Pine Hill and Lindenwold in an amount not to exceed $4,601,985.31 – CAF #9900135611.

AYE: CREAM, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: GRECO

Resolutions 17 through 19 were adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell, with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

17. Resolution authorizing a Change Order (No. 1 & Final, Bid B-1), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and Carr & Duff, Inc. for the Federally Funded Haddonfield/Berlin Road (CR561) signalization/optimization project, in the Twp. of Cherry Hill, in an amount not to exceed $149,230.00. Funding is contingent upon approval and receipt of funds by the Federal Highway Administration.

18. Resolution ratifying a contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and IEW Construction Group, for the emergency purchase of construction services for the repairs to the State Street Bridge, in the City of Camden.

19. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and various municipalities, for snow plowing/ice control on various County roads.

Resolution 20 was adopted upon motion by Freeholder Greco, with a second by Freeholder Rodriguez and on roll call:

20. Resolution consenting to the relocation of a New Jersey Transit bus stop from its current location on Broadway, at Camden County College to a location one block south on Broadway in the City of Camden.

AYE: CREAM, GRECO, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: MCDONNELL

Resolution 21 was adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell with second by Freeholder Rodriguez and on roll call:

21. Resolution consenting to Ordinance 0-07-30 for the provision of a traffic control signal at Sicklerville Road (CR 705) and Hickstown Road (CR 688) in the Twp. of Gloucester.

AYE: CREAM, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: GRECO

Resolutions 22 through 52 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Cream, with a second by Freeholder Greco and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

22. Resolution approving personnel actions requested by or on behalf of Freeholder Greco.

23. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Parks) and Rutgers, the State University of NJ, for the management, operation and supervision of the Camden County Boathouse for the period January 1, 2008 though December 31, 2012.

24. Resolution authorizing an amendment to the Green Acres Project Agreement, between the County of Camden (Department of Parks) and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, for the Camden Waterfront Urban Park.

25. Resolution authorizing a contract amendment, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Environmental Affairs) and FCR Camden, Inc., establishing tipping fees and revenue sharing.

26. Resolution authorizing recycling rebates to Camden County Municipalities for various recycled materials for 2006.

27. Resolution approving personnel actions requested by or on behalf of Freeholder Nash.

28. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for Community Emergency Response Team Training in an amount of $2,000.00.

29. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for Howarth-Shinn Restitution in an amount of $59,715.98.

30. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Law Enforcement Officers Training & Equipment Fund, Program Income in an amount of $3,986.14.

31. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner & Response Team program in an amount of $52,033.00.

32. Resolution authorizing a substitution in the amount of $11,000.00 for paving services for the Department of Corrections parking lot.

33. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Corrections), and Motorola Company (State Contract A-53804), for the provision of 62 replacement radios in an amount not to exceed $65,416.00 – CAF #9900135626.

34. Resolution ratifying an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) and Ikon Office Solutions for supplies and services provided in 2006 in an amount not to exceed $1,678.00. Funding is available in the 2006 reserve fund.

35. Resolution ratifying an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) and Ikon Office Solutions, for supplies and services provided in 2007 in an amount not to exceed $3,874.65 – CAF #9900135839.

36. Resolution ratifying payment to J.M. Oliver, Inc., by the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) for the provision of HVAC repairs in the Camden County Correctional Facility in an amount not to exceed $27,496.91 – CAF #9900135853.

37. Resolution authorizing award of contracts, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, for the provision of Special Counsel services for Sheriff’s Deed preparation.

38. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (Bid A-48), by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Sheriff) and PTS of America, LLC, for the provision of extradition services.

39. Resolution amending an award of contract (Bid A-45), adopted November 15, 2007, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Sheriff) and Oakwood Uniform Co., for the provision of additional uniforms in an amount not to exceed $8,828.00 – CAF #9900135215.

40. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Prosecutor) and the City of Camden, for reimbursement of the annual salary for the Supersession Executive for the period July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008 in an amount of $175,000.00.

41. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Prosecutor) and Dell Marketing LP (State Contract A-81247), for the provision of computer equipment and services in an amount not to exceed $45,859.92 – CAF #9900135865.

42. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Prosecutor) and Dell Marketing LP (State Contract A-81247), for the provision of computer equipment and services in an amount not to exceed $13,271.81 – CAF #9900135864.

43. Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application, by the County of Camden (Office of the Prosecutor) to the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, for the Project Vision program in an amount of $43,750.00.

44. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Youth Center) and Robinson Textiles, for the provision of clothing in an amount not to exceed $846.10 – CAF #9900135785.

45. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Youth Center) and BSN Sports, for the provision of sports equipment and supplies in an amount not to exceed $799.63 – CAF #9900135768.
46. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to publicly advertised solicitation of quotations (Q-6), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) and Cross Current Corp., for the provision of annual CAD software maintenance services, for the Camden County Communications Center in an amount not to exceed $94,400.00 – CAF #9900135866.

47. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to publicly advertised solicitation of quotations (Q-7), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) and Cross Current Corp., for the provision of annual records management system software maintenance services, for the Camden County Communications Center in an amount not to exceed $27,500.00 – CAF #9900135867.

48. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) and Nextel Communications (State Contract A-64429), for the provision of Blackberry telephone and data services, for the Office of Emergency Management in an amount not to exceed $44,000.00 – CAF #9900135858.

49. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to a solicitation of quotations, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) and Franklin Trailer Inc., for the purchase of two cargo trailers, for the Office of Emergency Management in an amount not to exceed $13,228.00 – CAF #9900135846.

50. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (Bid A-49), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) and Wolfington Body Co. Inc., for the provision of an emergency vehicle for the Office of Emergency Management in an amount not to exceed $99,083.00 - CAF #9900135869.

51. Resolution rejecting Bid A-46. I.D. System, for non-compliant bidder.

52. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (Bid A-51), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) and Kidde Fire Trainers, Inc., for the provision of repairs to the Fire Training Center propane burn simulators in an amount not to exceed $67,965.00 – CAF #9900135874.

Resolution 53 was adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell, with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call:

53. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) and the Board of Commissioners of Fire District Number 5, Lambs Terrace.

AYE: CREAM, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: GRECO

Resolutions 54 through 73 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Nash, with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

54. Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application, by the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) to the New Jersey Citizens Corps, for the Community Response Team grant in an amount of $2,000.00

55. Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application, by the County of Camden (Park Police) to the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, for the Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund grant in an amount of $10,515.56.

56. Resolution authorizing the execution of a Memorandum of Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the Camden County Park Police FOP #76.

57. Resolution approving personnel actions requested by or on behalf of Freeholder Ripa.

58. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Area Plan Grant ’08, Program Income in an amount of $542,584.00.

59. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Child Care Resource & Referral ’07-’08, Program Income in an amount of $24,284.76.

60. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the HIV Counseling & Testing Referral ’08 program in an amount of $144,906.00.

61. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Health & Human Services) and Southern New Jersey Perinatal Cooperative, to support the Regional Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Coalition in an amount not to exceed $30,000.00 – CAF #9900135372.

62. Resolution authorizing award of contracts, to Community Planning and Advocacy Council to provide management services for various Human Service programs in an amount not to exceed $349,535.00. Funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 temporary and/or permanent budgets.

63. Resolution authorizing award of contracts, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Health & Human Services) and various approved agencies, for the provision of various health and human services, in an amount not to exceed $300,000.00. Funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 temporary and permanent budgets.

64. Resolution authorizing an Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Health & Human Services) and Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center for the operation of the Bergen Lanning Health Care Center.

65. Resolution rejecting Bid A-50 due to a non-compliant bidder and awarding a contract for a Web-based Inspection and Reporting System to Garrison Enterprises, Inc., pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(3), in an amount not to exceed $83,900.00. Funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 temporary and/or permanent budgets.

66. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Environmental and Consumer Health Services) and the City of Camden, for the provision of hazardous materials/emergency response services for CY’08.

67. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Environmental and Consumer Health Services) and William Scotsman, Inc., for the provision of a storage container for hazardous materials in an amount not to exceed $4,453.00 – CAF #9900134586.

68. Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application, by the County of Camden (Department of Health & Human Services) to the New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services, for the Public Health Priority Funding grant in an amount of $333,276.00.

69. Resolution approving personnel actions requested by or on behalf of Freeholder Rodriguez.

70. Resolution authorizing the cancellation of checks in various County checking accounts.

71. Resolution authorizing the cancellation of certain reserve and receivable balances for grant accounts.

72. Resolution authorizing budgetary transfers in the 2007 current fund budget.

73. Resolution authorizing the contract renewal of various Camden County Health Care Plans and their Third Party Administrators.

Resolution 74 was adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call:

74. Resolution amending an award of contract (2nd Year option), by and between the County of Camden and Commerce Banc Insurance Services, to correct the address and the provision of services.

AYE: CREAM, GRECO, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: NASH

Resolution 75 was adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell, with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

75. Resolution amending an agreement, by and between the County of Camden and Sungard HTE, Inc., for the provision of additional services in an amount not to exceed $73,597.08 – CAF #9900135838.

Resolution 76 was adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell, with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call:

76. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, (Bid A-57) by and between the County of Camden (Division of Purchasing) and Office Basics, Inc., for the provision of office supplies for various Camden County departments and participating municipalities in the Camden County Cooperative Pricing System.

AYE: CREAM, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: GRECO

Resolutions 77 through 83 were adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Ripa with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders voted aye.
77. Resolution authorizing payment, by the County of Camden (Superintendent of Elections) to International Election Systems Corporation, for the delivery and pickup of voting machines in an amount not to exceed $37,314.00 – CAF #9900134919.

78. Resolution amending an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Superintendent of Elections) and County Business Systems to change the name to Affordable Interior Systems C/O County Business Systems.

79. Resolution authorizing the appointment of a Camden County Qualified Purchasing Agent.

80. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Home Investment Partnership ’07-’08, Program Income in an amount of $205,996.00.

81. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Smart Steps ’07-’08 program in an amount of $12,038.00.

82. Resolution authorizing a substitution in the amount of $250,000.00 to provide funding for the purchase of a high density filing system.

83. Resolution authorizing a substitution in the amount of $150,000.00 to provide funding for the provision of professional land development services at the Lakeland Complex.

Resolution 84 was adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Ripa with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call:

84. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and Camden County College, for the provision of customer service training in an amount not to exceed $67,000.00 – CAF #9900135813.

AYE: CREAM, GRECO, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: MCDONNELL

Resolutions 85 through 87 were adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Greco with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

85. Resolution ratifying the extension of the Project Development Agreement, by and between the County of Camden, the City of Camden, the Camden Redevelopment Agency, and Campbell Soup Company for a term ending on February 22, 2008.

86. Resolution authorizing an Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the Camden County Improvement Authority, for the provision of professional land development services in an amount not to exceed $150,000.00. Funding is contingent upon the passage of the substitution Resolution.

87. Resolution authorizing an Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the New Jersey State Courts, Camden Vicinage, for the emergency procurement of a high density filing system.

Resolutions 88 and 89 were adopted upon motion made by Deputy Director McDonnell with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call:

88. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the South Jersey Transportation Authority, for the provision of City Hall and EDS Towers Perrin Shuttle services in an amount not to exceed $30,000.00 - CAF #9900135859.

89. Resolution authorizing payment to the South Jersey Transportation Authority, for shuttle service and fuel charges for the City Hall/EDS Towers Perrin Shuttle Service in an amount of $19,699.38. Funding is available in the 2006 Reserve Fund.

AYE: CREAM, GRECO, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: NASH

Resolutions 90 and 91 were adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Rodriguez with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

90. Resolution authorizing a Competitive Contracting Process, for the Office of Community Development for 2008 as per N.J.S.A. 40A:11-4.1, 1 et seq., to procure various services needed pursuant to CDBG, HOME, and ESG.

91. Resolution authorizing a month to month lease extension, by and between the County of Camden (Office of Community Development) and Winner Ford, for four (4) vehicles, pending re-procurement of same.

Resolution 92 was adopted upon motion by Freeholder Cream with a second by Freeholder Rodriguez and on roll call:

92. Resolution authorizing a award of contact (2nd Year option), by and between the County of Camden (Office of Public Affairs) and Winning Edge Communications, in an amount not to exceed $800,000.00. Funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 temporary and/or permanent budgets.

AYE: CREAM, GRECO, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: MCDONNELL

Resolutions 93 through 97 were adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Nash with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

93. Resolution authorizing an award of contact, by and between the County of Camden and Dimension Data ( State Contract A-81241), for the provision of equipment and Cisco servers for the Office of the Superintendent of Elections in an amount not to exceed $29,279.91 – CAF #9900135860.

94. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the New Jersey Department of Personnel, Division of Human Resource Development Institute, for the provision of a records management training workshop in an amount not to exceed $1,099.00 – CAF #9900135725.

95. Resolution amending an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the Camden County Board of Social Services, for the provision of Human Resources Software and Hardware, License, training, installation, project management, and annual maintenance in an amount not to exceed $57,276.00.

96. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (Bid A-52), by and between the County of Camden and SunGard H.T.E. for the provision of proprietary hardware/software up-grades for the Human Resources (LIB2) for the Camden County Board of Social Services in an amount not to exceed $57,276.00 - CAF #9900135871.

97. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the County Clerk) and County Business Systems, for the re-installation of systems furniture in an amount not to exceed $225.00 – CAF #9900135479.

Resolution 98 was adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Cream with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call:

98. Resolution authorizing the execution of a Lease Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the County Clerk) and PREIT Services LLC, authorized agent for Cherry Hill Center, LLC, for the provision of space for the County Store at the Cherry Hill Mall. Funding is contingent on the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 through 2018 temporary and/or permanent budgets.

AYE: CREAM, GRECO, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, MCDONNELL, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: NASH

Resolutions 99 through 101 were adopted upon motion made by Deputy Director McDonnell with a second by Freeholder Ripa and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

99. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (State Contract A-69978, A-57005), by and between the County of Camden (Office of the County Clerk) and Groupe LaCasse, LLC and Haworth, C/O Bellia Office Furniture, for the provision of office furniture for, the County Store at the Cherry Hill Mall in an amount not to exceed $62,614.80 – CAF #’s 9900135780, 9900135782.

100. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (State Contract A-81247), by and between the County of Camden (Office of the County Clerk) and Dell, Inc., for the provision of 32 computers in an amount not to exceed $38,920.00 – CAF #9900135849.

101. Resolution authorizing a Competitive Contracting Process for the Office of Special Events to procure entertainment services.

Resolution 102 was adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Ripa with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call:

102. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Special Events) and Camden County College, for the use of the Dennis Flyer Theater for the 2008 Winter Concert Series.

AYE: CREAM, GRECO, NASH, RIPA, RODRIGUEZ, CAPPELLI
ABSTAIN: MCDONNELL

Resolutions 103 through 116 were adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Greco with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

103. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Special Events) and J. Levins Design, Inc., for website design and modification services in an amount not to exceed $1,020.00 – CAF #9900135751.

104. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Special Events) and Greater Philadelphia Media, Inc. (WMGK, WJJZ Radio), for advertising the Camden County Winter Concert Series in an amount not to exceed $8,000.00 – CAF #9900135753.

105. Resolution ratifying an amended contract, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Special Events) and Starlite Productions, for the provision of additional sound production services for the Sunset Jazz Music Series in an amount not to exceed $125.00 – CAF #9900134988.

106. Resolution ratifying an amended contract, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Special Events) and Summit Alliance, L.L.C., for the provision of additional production services for the Middle County Music Series, in an amount not to exceed $500.00 – CAF #9900134954.

107. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (One Stop) and the City of Camden Police Department, for the provision of security at the One Stop, Mt. Ephraim Ave., Camden, in an amount not to exceed $79,170.00 – CAF #9900135761 for $39,585.00. Balance of funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 temporary and/or permanent budgets.

108. Resolution authorizing a Sub-Lease, by and between the County of Camden (One Stop) and The Center For Family Services at no cost, for the provision of parenting program services.

109. Resolution amending the Camden County Workforce New Jersey Area Contract PY 2007, adopted July 18, 2007 for the revision of funding and contract execution approval.

110. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between Camden County (Office of County Counsel) and Largemoor Film Service, for the purchase of litigation photographs in an amount not to exceed $392.50 – CAF #9900135826.

111. Resolution authorizing Agreements, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals to Barker, Scott & Gelfand; Brown & Connery; and Leitner, Tort & DeFazio for provision of Special Counsel on-going litigation services.

112. Resolution authorizing settlement by the County of Camden in a matter entitled Chase v. Camden County et al Docket #L-2585-06.

113. Resolution authorizing Auto Liability Settlements.

114. Resolution authorizing Worker Compensation Settlements.

115. Resolution authorizing General Liability Settlements.

116. Resolution approving personnel actions requested by or on behalf of Freeholder Director Cappelli.

Resolution 117 – No Motion made - the resolution fails.

117. Resolution acknowledging personnel actions requested by or on behalf of constitutional or statutory offices. NO MOTION - FAILS

The Director said that concludes the Resolutions. He then opened the meeting to the public for discussion on any issues.

Robert Parker of Blackwood, New Jersey, identified himself as Vice President of PBA 351, Department of Corrections, and addressed the Freeholders. Mr. Parker said their lawyer was unable to attend this evening due to a family emergency. Mr. Parker said he wanted me to read this for the public record.
“Dear Freeholders,
I am writing to you on behalf of my client, the Camden County Department of Corrections, PBA Local 351, to bring your attention to the deplorable and dangerous condition, which presently exists at the Camden County Jail and to demand that you take immediate and decisive corrective actions. Right now there are two problems at the Camden County Jail. First, the jail is understaffed with Corrections Officers and secondly, the jail is overcrowded. The Warden has requested 86 additional Corrections Officers. He has only been authorized to hire 40 additional Corrections Officers who will not complete their training until June or July, 2008 and as a result, the Corrections Officers are currently being required to work an excessive amount of hours in violation of their contract. The Corrections Officers are supposed to work only one overtime period per pay period but are being ordered to work three to five overtime periods per pay period. Any Officer who refuses to work extra overtime faces a three-day suspension. Due to this unfair policy, which is in clear violation of the Corrections Officers’ contract, some officers have been required to work three consecutive sixteen hour days. Additional use of vacation time, personal days, comp/sick time by the Corrections Officers is nearly impossible. The Corrections Officers have experienced many problems as a result of this excessive number of hours that they are being required to work. For instance, the Corrections Officers are lacking sleep and are fatigued. Morale is low among the Corrections Officers. Certain Officers have experienced cardiac problems and also a number of Corrections Officers have experienced marital problems due to the number of hours they are required to work. The fact that the jail is operating at 150% to 200% of capacity is making matters worse. Each Corrections Officer is required to take on more responsibility because the ratio of Corrections Officer to inmate is out of balance. Also a number of inmates and Corrections Officers recently came down with MRSA, a potential deadly bacterial infection. Measures must be taken immediately to reduce the amount of overtime, which the Corrections Officer is being required to work and ease the overcrowding of the jail. The safety of the Corrections Officer is being jeopardized by these conditions. If the Freeholders don’t take swift and decisive actions, the Corrections Officers will have no other choice but to take the appropriate legal action against the County.

Respectfully submitted,
Fred M. Klasky”

Mr. Parker said you see behind us an extension of our family. What you don’t see is how this affects our health, us and our family. It is not just a security and safety issue for the residents of Camden County, it is a quality of life issue.

Director Cappelli thanked Mr. Parker. The Director said as you know back in September, a few of their Union Leaders, Freeholder Ripa, the Warden, Ross Angilella and himself met and we heard your difficulties and we heard the problems you were having and we recognize the impact it has been having on your entire staff. The Director said we are taking some swift and decisive action. We are going to hire 40 officers; the Warden has requested the 40 officers. We are going to follow his plan. He assures us that this will provide much relief to most of you and that this will make the jail much safer for all of you. Based on his recommendations, we are going to hire 40, we think that it will help to alleviate the problem. We were very hopeful that by now we would have the population down. As you know, we have been working very closely with the Judiciary, the Prosecutor and with Police Departments throughout the County. We have implemented some alternate sentencing but frankly, we need to do more of that. We need to create a better criminal justice system in Camden County. One that is much more efficient; one that does not overburden the jail. It is currently overburdening the jail and we recognize that. He said we are working closely with the Prosecutor and the Judiciary to do that. It is probably, since I have been Freeholder Director, the issue I spent most time on – we recognize the problem and we hope to fix it and we are sure these 40 officers will have a big impact.

Walter Radlinger, President of PBA 351, addressed the Freeholders and said he would like to reiterate what Mr. Parker just said. Mr. Radlinger said we want to have a set number for officers. He said we have a turnover rate of four officers per month. Are we going to go one for one or are we going to have a set standard number?
Director Cappelli said here is what we are going to do. We are not going to set a staffing number. We are going to hire the 40, which by the way, will bring you to the highest level ever for the jail. It will be the most Corrections Officers that have ever been employed in the history of the jail. If that is not enough and we are still having these problems and there are still safety concerns, we will hire more. We are not setting any numbers in stone, if there is a need to hire more, we will hire more. Mr. Radlinger asked if this was going to be the policy of the Freeholders to pay out overtime instead of setting staffing numbers? Director Cappelli responded and said obviously, the policy we are setting is that we are trying to eliminate overtime and have staffing where we think it should be. I can’t stress that enough by now, we truly thought the population would be down. We had given the Judiciary and the Prosecutor many different resources to bring that population down. More needs to be done that way. So, because we did not reach the lower levels of population we were hoping for, we now have a problem that we are recognizing and are dealing with it. If there is still a problem in six months, we will hire more. If there is a problem in three months, we will hire more, he said. We will see where it goes.
Mr. Radlinger said the problem is not the number of inmates. We still need the same amount of officers to run the jail. If we have 300 inmates or 6,000 inmates, we still need the same. We need a commitment from you for one for one. Every time we lose a person, we need to fill that person. If you are giving us 40 people, as of now, we are not going to see them until June. We have 285 officers now and by the time we get them in June, we will probably lose anywhere from 10 to 14 officers, which already takes us down. We need your commitment that we will receive one for one for every officer that leaves. Director Cappelli said we will take that under advisement. We have not discussed that particular issue but we will.
Mr. Radlinger said we are being held to time off by administration, which is in clear violation of our contract of comp days, administration days. He said we are allowed to have two per month but because of the fact that we are understaffed, the officers have to put in overtime because we can’t get the time off in order to enjoy our families or to rest up. It is a direct violation of our contract by our administration and we need your help. We need you to step in and help us with that. Also, we are at a point now where MRSA is running rampant in the jail. We have an officer right now who was diagnosed with MRSA. We read in the paper that school kids are dying from it. We are taking this home to our families. The building is falling apart around us. We need money to either reconstruct the building or build a new facility. We feel we are overworked, understaffed and under appreciated. He said we have given our heart and soul to this community to try to rehabilitate these inmates and make a better way for ourselves and we are being hindered by 10% here and 90% by our administration. We need your help before we have another Joel Seidel incident. We don’t want that. As you can see behind me, we have the most officers and this is making us stronger, this is not going to stop us. We are going to move forward, whether we have your help or somebody else’s help. Thank you.
Director Cappelli said I know you may be overworked but you certainly are not under-appreciated. I can assure you that this Board of Freeholders appreciates all the hard work you do. We know we put a big burden on you and conditions are difficult and I can say with certainty that every man and woman in that jail performs an outstanding service on behalf of the residents of Camden County and we do appreciate all the hard work you do.

David Gordon of Sicklerville addressed the Freeholders. Mr. Gordon said he has been a Camden County employee at the Corrections Department for 13 years. He said he doesn’t totally agree with President Radlinger and Vice President Parker. He said he just wanted to thank the Board for the additional 40 officers.
Director Cappelli thanked him.

Sgt. John Vernon, Camden County Department of Corrections, of Haddon Township addressed the Freeholders. Mr. Vernon said I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Freeholders for the additional 40 officers. I see by us working together with the Freeholders, the Administration, PBA 351, we have a common goal, a common focus. People have a mutual understanding, common respect and I believe we are on the right road to make things happen and make things work. I greatly appreciate it as a nice little Christmas present you have given us. Thank you so much.

James White of Pine Hill, member of PBA 351, addressed the Freeholders. Mr. White said excuse my reluctance to thank you for anybody because when I was President of the Union in 2005, we came to the Freeholder Board and asked you for 50 extra officers. You promised us 25 right away and we never got them; then in 2006 you told us we were supposed to get another 25. So, with budget numbers of 252 we were supposed to be up to 302 by 2006. He said it is coming up to 2008 and our budgeted number is only 265. We don’t have the officers that you promised us the last time you promised us this. Please understand my reluctance to say thank you until I actually see the bodies in the jail because the last time you promised them, we never got them.
Director Cappelli said he disagreed with Mr. White – his numbers were all wrong.

Karl Walko, President of Council 10, addressed the Freeholder Board and said he speaks for over 1,000 County employees. He said at times Council 10 and Camden County have different views. Council 10 has tried to act professionally in our relationship. Mr. Walko said he wanted to express his anger and frustration that Council 10 and its members have not always been treated the same way. He said, specific events this afternoon required me to address the Board after attempting to address the larger issue in other ways on a number of different occasions. After sending a schedule of 2008 Shop Stewards meeting to Human Resources, the staff was told that the County would not permit County Shop Stewards to attend the eight meetings per year. He said these meetings have occurred at the same time and same frequency as long as anyone can remember. He said he got a call about the schedule, not from the administrator, not from the Human Resources Director but from an Assistant in Human Resources. He said Council 10 considers this a term of employment and expects to be successful. He said I am not here to ask the Board for a favor. However, I want you to hear Council 10’s frustration so that you are completely aware. He said this is not the first time something like this has happened. He said both sides are disappointed and we are wasting time, energy and money on this issue, which frankly is without good cause. This is a lack of understanding of the history of the relationship and the application of the Law in the Human Resources Department. We hope to minimize the conflict but it is quite unnecessary to have to do it in the first place. We want you to be aware how we feel.
Director Cappelli asked if Mr. Walko checked his email this evening. Mr. Walko responded, he did not. The Director said at 5:11 p.m. tonight, there was an email sent to you – saying to please disregard the attached email below. All of Council 10 representatives listed in your December 10, 2007 memo will be approved to attend the scheduled meetings as listed. I will have Mr. Gorman inform the Supervisors and sorry for the inconvenience. It was signed by Frank Cirii. The Director said apparently there was some mistake and it was corrected. Mr. Walko said he expects that part of the correction was the result of our attorney calling County Counsel. The Director said he is not aware of any conversations but just so you know it has been corrected. Mr. Walko said if this was the first time, I wouldn’t be here but there has been a pattern with this kind of stuff. We haven’t been treated with respect. There is a lack of understanding of the Law and the history and the relationship. I am tremendously frustrated and I have spent a lot of time fixing these kinds of things, which I should not have to fix. I should not be here, there should not be a second call – it should have been addressed; I should have gotten the call – I should have said, go talk to your attorney and someone should have talked to the attorney and it should have been resolved. He said I didn’t have these issues before; I have them now and they continue to come up and waste a lot of our time. He said the Labor Management Committee at the Retreat this year plans to focus on communications. It is the problem that we have. Communications isn’t just saying talk louder and louder. That doesn’t work – we have to have back and forth. Ross Angilella interjected and said to Mr. Walko that he has his cell phone number, his office number and you could have called me. Mr. Walko said I don’t expect to call you on every one of these issues. It is the time that it takes. Mr. Angilella said it was a mistake and it was rescinded but I am sorry that you’re upset; you could have called me and I would have taken care of that in 30 seconds. Mr. Angilella said it is called communication – you have my cell number, you have my home number and you have my office number. Mr. Walko said the problem is not working it out; it is the time it takes. Mr. Angilella said it would have taken 30 seconds. Mr. Cirii interjected and said Mr. Walko could have called him as well. Mr. Angilella said to Mr. Walko, “It was a mistake and I apologize”. Mr. Walko said he accepts the apology. The Director apologized as well. Mr. Walko said I just wish we can minimize these conflicts in the future.

Robert DelSordo of Runnemede addressed the Freeholder Board about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We are the homeport of the Battleship New Jersey; we are very proud to have that Battleship in our community. He said we are also the nearest County to the Liberty Bell and said to keep that in mind because those who may or may not know there is a Commission that has been appointed to either replace or repair the tomb that is now known as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier that is in Washington, D.C. He said the Commission will make a determination based upon a grassroots activity. Some of you may not be aware of that but they are looking for support from the grassroots to ascertain whether our federal government should replace the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier or repair it. The problem is it is made up of marble and the marble is cracking. Mr. DelSordo suggested to the Freeholders that they take this under advisement to get a resolution put together because his own personal feeling is that the tomb was placed in 1921 as a matter of respect to World War I Veterans. Those Veterans are not here anymore; we are losing not only the World War I Veterans but we are losing World War II Veterans on a regular basis. He said he thinks it would be a travesty to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier just thrown away and put another concrete monument there. Mr. DelSordo asked the Freeholders to sincerely consider having a resolution from our County asking to have the Tomb of the Unknown repaired so it can maintain its own place of honor. Thank you.
Director Cappelli thanked Mr. DelSordo and asked Gina Forte to take this up with Norm Sooy.

Scott Stansman of Pennsauken addressed the Freeholders and wished everyone a happy holiday. Mr. Stansman thanked the Freeholders and the Warden for hiring the 40 additional officers and hopes they continue to work together.

There being no other public comment, the Director asked for a motion to close the public portion. Deputy Director McDonnell made a motion to close the public portion with a second by Freeholder Nash and all Freeholders present voted aye.

The Director then called upon the Freeholders for their comments.

Freeholder Cream thanked the Mayor and members of Council for their hospitality this evening. Secondly, she said she would like to congratulate Deborah Silverman Katz on her recent appointment to becoming a Judge in this County. Freeholder Cream said she has served this Freeholder Board well; she is smart, has integrity and we know that she is going to do a fantastic job on the bench. Freeholder Cream said she knows as do the other Freeholders on the Board that we are just honored to have had you here and you have been a wonderful addition to this Board. The Freeholder said in addition to that, Eric Romolini, her aide, is getting married in January and I am very pleased about that. The Freeholder said we will be missing him at the January meeting because he will be away on his honeymoon. Freeholder Cream said we on the Freeholder Board want to congratulate you and wish you the very best. She said she is very proud of him and his intended! Freeholder Cream wished everyone a happy holiday.

Director Cappelli acknowledged Patricia Egan Jones, Camden County Surrogate.

Freeholder Nash said first to our friends and public officials from Runnemede, thank you for hosting us this evening. Freeholder Nash then congratulated Deborah Silverman Katz on her nomination. Freeholder Nash said he and Deborah went to Law School together. He said some people start as a young lawyer and become a Judge in the Superior Court and others stay as a Freeholder for sixteen years. He said congratulations to my good friend and a terrific lawyer. He wished everyone a very happy holiday and new year.

Freeholder Ripa thanked the community of Runnemede, the residents and the elected officials for their hospitality. Freeholder Ripa then thanked all of the aides and secretaries who do so much for us on a day-to-day basis. He said he would like to thank all of the Corrections Officers; to those who are happy with our decision and to those who are not happy with our decision. He said we will continue to work together and we will do everything possible to make it safe not only for the employees but also safe for the inmates. To our colleague, Deborah Silverman Katz, who will be sorely missed here, my congratulations. He said he believes she will be a phenomenal Judge and will do a fantastic job. Again, he thanked everyone and wished everyone a great holiday and a super new year.

Freeholder Greco said he also would like to thank the Borough of Runnemede. He said he had the opportunity to work with the Mayor and Council over his nine years as a member of the Black Horse Pike Board of Education and also for seven and a half years as a member of the Gloucester Township Council. He said they are a wonderful group of people who do nice things. He said he is happy to be here in Runnemede. Freeholder Greco wished all the residents of Camden County and all of the employees of Camden County, a safe and happy holiday season. He then congratulated Deborah Silverman Katz and wished her good luck.

Freeholder Rodriguez thanked Mayor and Council of the Borough of Runnemede for doing such a great job. She said she always enjoys coming to Runnemede. She said it almost feels like another home to her. Freeholder Rodriguez then thanked the residents who came out for this meeting. To Deborah Silverman Katz, the Freeholder said if you ever decide to change your mind, we would be very happy for you to come back! Freeholder Rodriguez then thanked all the employees for all their hard work and the services they provide for the community. She said you really make it happen, you really do it. We are very proud of the work that you do. She wished everyone a happy holiday and to please be safe and enjoy your families.

Deputy Director McDonnell wished everyone a happy holiday season and thanked everyone for being here.

Director Cappelli said he would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Deborah Silverman Katz. He said for him as a Freeholder, it certainly is a big loss but as a lawyer in Camden County, he said he can’t think of a person with more integrity or intelligence. He said she will be a great addition to the bench. He said, as a lawyer, he is really happy to have her as a Judge in Camden County. The Director then thanked his colleagues, the administration and the employees of Camden County. He said reflecting upon this year, he said we have had a tremendous year; we have provided more services than ever to many different residents throughout Camden County. He said at the same time, we have been holding the line on spending and that is because we have great leadership in our administration and great dedication with our employees. He thanked everyone for a great year, his colleagues included. The Director said we look forward to next year. He then wished everyone a happy holiday season.

There being no further business, Deputy Director McDonnell made a motion to adjourn with a second by Freeholder Cream at 8:20 p.m. and all Freeholders present voted aye.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Szczesniewski
Clerk of the Board