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 George Johnson of the Lighthouse of Deliverance of Blackwood.

Director Cappelli asked everyone to remain standing and called upon Felicia Beverly to perform the National Anthem.

Director Cappelli then called upon Girl Scout Troop #515 from Sumner Elementary School and Tanya Wilson, Troop Leader to lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.

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 the Board of Freeholders meets each month either in the County Seat, here in Camden, or in one of the municipalities outside the County Seat. The Director said we welcome you and look forward to your participation. We will begin tonight’s meeting by recognizing members of the Camden City Governing Body. Councilman Angel Fuentes came forward. The Director called upon Freeholder Nash to come forward as well.

PRESENTATION

Director Cappelli said on behalf of the Board of Freeholders, we are very proud to say that the Governing Body in the City of Camden does an outstanding job for the citizens of Camden day in and day out. The Director said we all know and read about all the problems in Camden City and it is the Mayor and Council that have to deal with these problems and still have great things happening in Camden City. He thanked the Mayor and Council for doing a great job every day. The Director then handed Councilman Fuentes a check for $5,861.12 for the City’s recycling efforts.

Councilman Fuentes thanked the Freeholders and everyone for coming out this evening to Camden City. The Councilman thanked the Freeholders on behalf of the Mayor and Council for the $5,861.12 check. Thank you very much.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Freeholder Cream welcomed everyone. Freeholder Cream called upon Rob Mauriello to come forward as well. Freeholder Cream said she is grateful for the opportunity to name the Employee of the Month in our Department. She said Rob Mauriello is the Director of Buildings & Operations, and it just so happens that the gentleman who is receiving honors is vacationing in Mexico. The Freeholder said I will just tell you a little bit about our Employee of the Month, Ronald Sambucci. She said Mr. Sambucci is employed as Senior Electrician at Lakeland. He is widowed and raised two children by himself. She said he is an accomplished musician. He operates New Jersey Transit Trains as a second job. His son is also a train engineer for New Jersey Transit. She said Ron enjoys hunting and fishing. Freeholder Cream said that Mr. Sambucci has been an employee of the County since April 26, 1982, over twenty- five years. He serves also as a fire officer in Haddon Heights and we are very proud from the Department of Building & Operations to present Ron Sambucci with this wonderful award. She said we will see that he gets the Proclamation and a Savings Bond. Freeholder Cream said without our workers the Freeholders would not be able to do our jobs. Freeholder Cream called upon Rob Mauriello to say a few words.

Mr. Mauriello said Ron is a dedicated employee and I accept this Proclamation on Ron’s behalf. He thanked the Freeholders.

COMMUNITY AWARD

Director Cappelli called upon Roger Barker and his wife, Jessie to come forward. The Director said every month we try to recognize people from the community who are doing something special for the community. The Freeholder Director said tonight it is a privilege to honor Roger Barker. He said that Roger and his wife, Jessie, have just celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. The Director said Roger grew up at a time when respect and service were expected by members of the community as standard procedure. Mr. Cappelli said Roger was the oldest child in his family to graduate from High School in Virginia. He served in the South Pacific during World War II and he and his wife moved to Camden after the War and began raising their family. The Director said he has always made sure that his voice is heard by government. He takes his civic responsibility very seriously and he has been registered to vote for 61 years. Roger is very active in the Union, Local 676, in Camden. He has a very large family and serves as mentor to all his family and friends. The Director said on behalf of the Board of Chosen Freeholders, we thank you for your years of service.
Mr. Barker thanked the Freeholders and said it is good to be here with everyone this evening.

PROCLAMATION

Freeholder Cream said I am back up here again – it’s not because I was born here in Camden City and a resident for many years; it’s not that at all. She said I am here to honor two lovely women who have worked untiringly and volunteered their time for the Camden County Cultural & Heritage Commission. Freeholder Cream called upon Mary Finley Rugarber and Barbara Coscarello to come forward.

Freeholder Cream said all the Freeholders know and understand how very important it is to have people like you who volunteer your services and to be a part of what we represent here in Camden County. She said these two ladies have between them over 25 yeas of community service and volunteerism to the Camden County Cultural & Heritage Commission. Freeholder Cream said we want to take time tonight to thank them and to give honor to them for their undying love that they have for their County and for the constituents in Camden County in order to try to make it a better place. The Freeholder said we honor both of you tonight. She said they have wonderful resumes of their work. They have been very instrumental in raising money for the Cultural & Heritage Commission. They come highly qualified; they are talented young women who see the need to give back to their community. Freeholder Cream said she thinks that all of us can take from what they have done so that we can be better people in our community by helping those who are less fortunate.
It is very important, especially to help our children these days. Freeholder Cream then called upon the Commission’s Executive Director Sandra Barnes, who is responsible, along with others, who have been the Director of the Cultural & Heritage Commission. Freeholder Cream said it was she who thought of this wonderful idea to honor these two young ladies who are retiring. The Freeholder said I don’t know how we are going to replace them. It’s going to be very difficult but we are asking tonight for other wonderful volunteers who will give of their time to the Cultural & Heritage Commission. The Freeholder said it is a lovely place and said she doesn’t think many people know about it. She said it is in our Parks and we give wonderful programs, have art exhibits and it is beautiful. The Freeholder then called upon Sandra Barnes to say a few words.

Ms. Barnes said it is my privilege to honor these two ladies. She said they were there for her when she took the job. She said it would have been that much more difficult had they not been there. This is an opportunity for me to say, “Thank You” because of all the things that we do at the Cultural & Heritage Commission for art, history, culture – everything is about people. She said it is her pleasure to thank Mary Rugarber and Barbara Coscarello. Thank you so much.

Freeholder Cream presented the Proclamations to Ms. Rugarber and Ms. Coscarello. She said these are to be cherished as we cherish you. Thank you.

GIFT DONATION

Director Cappelli said as we go from town to town every month, we ask the Governing Body for the name of a non-profit organization who is doing something special in their town, deserving of a small gift from the Freeholders. The Director said the City of Camden nominated the Hispanic Family Center of South Jersey. He said this is the largest Hispanic agency serving the community for over 30 years. He said the Governing Body said they are very deserving of this award. The Director then called upon Elsa Candelario, Executive Director to come forward and thanked her for her service.

Ms. Candelario welcomed everyone and said she would like to thank the Freeholders for this acknowledgement. She said our organization without the Freeholders’ support and the State of New Jersey and the support of the Community, we would not be here doing the work it does. She also wanted to thank in particular Freeholder Rodriguez who attended an event that they had last month, which was starting an empowerment and civic engagement program. She said she is happy to report that four people in the last several months became U.S. Citizens. She said we helped them to prepare for the citizenship test. She thanked Cathy Gavin and Councilman Fuentes. She said again, without the funding support as well as the community, we couldn’t do the work that we do. Thank you very much. She said, “Mi casa es su casa – my home is your home”. She said in January, we are going to be starting a family success center and we are inviting everyone to that kick-off. She said we don’t have a specific date yet but it will be announced at another meeting. She said that is a very important program that deals with child abuse prevention. She urged everyone to come and join them for that and thanked the Board for this gift.

CEDS STATEMENT

Director Cappelli said, “We have a period of discussion and comment regarding the Camden County CEDS Plan. Over the last several months, the County has been working with the public community and business leaders to update our comprehensive economic development strategy. This is an important process not only because the development of this document enables certain communities in our County to apply for federal funding but it also serves to guide the economic growth in our County in a coordinated manner. The CEDS process should lead to an overall economic development system fueled by effective programs – viable community projects and the combined expertise and resources of the community, business and local government. In order to be successful, we need the public’s input. Tonight, we have copies of the draft plan available and folks from our team are here to answer any questions you might have. We have Mike Zumpino from TRIAD Associates, Sandi Kelly and Ed Fox from the Improvement Authority as well. You can also view the document and send comments, via email, by visiting our website at www.camdencounty.com If there are any public comments on the Plan, we can hear them right now or you can pick the Plan up in the back of the room”

There was no public comment. Director Cappelli continued with the agenda.

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. Deputy Director McDonnell made a motion to adopt the Minutes with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call:

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

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 Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

Director Cappelli announced that the next order of business is the addition of two walk-on Resolutions, which are also First Readings, as follows:

WALK-ON RESOLUTION 1

PUBLIC HEARING - RESOLUTION OF THE COUNTY OF CAMDEN IN THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY AUTHORIZING A GUARANTEE BY THE COUNTY OF A PAYMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST ON THE COUNTY GUARANTEED REVENUE BONDS (COUNTY CAPITAL PROGRAM) “SERIES 2007” TO BE ISSUED IN THE AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $15,000,000.00 BY THE CAMDEN COUNTY IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING THE ACQUISITION AND INSTALLATION OF CERTAIN CAPITAL EQUIPMENT AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN CAPITAL INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS IN, BY AND FOR THE COUNTY.

WALK-ON RESOLUTION 2

PUBLIC HEARING - RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS OF THE COUNTY OF CAMDEN, NEW JERSEY PROVIDING THE COUNTY’S CONSENT TO (I) THE FINANCING OF THE ACQUISITION AND INSTALLATION OF CERTAIN CAPITAL EQUIPMENT AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN CAPITAL INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS IN, BY AND FOR THE COUNTY (II) THE ISSUANCE BY THE CAMDEN COUNTY IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY OF ITS COUNTY- GUARANTEED REVENUE BONDS (COUNTY CAPITAL PROGRAM) “SERIES 2007” IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $15,000,000.00 FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING THE COUNTY PROJECT AUTHORIZED HEREBY AND (III) THE LOAN AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE COUNTY AND THE AUTHORITY IN CONNECTION WITH THE FINANCING AUTHORIZED HEREBY (IV) CERTAIN OTHER MATTERS RELATED THERETO AND PURSUANT TO N.J.S.A. 40:37A-56.

Public Hearing for both resolutions will be held on November 26, 2007, 4:30 p.m. in the Camden County Freeholder Board Conference Room, 16th Floor, City Hall, 520 Market Street, Camden, New Jersey 08102.

MOTION TO WALK-ON

The Director asked for a Motion to walk both Resolutions on
the Agenda this evening. Freeholder Rodriguez made a motion to
walk-on both resolutions with a second by Deputy Director
McDonnell and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

MOTION TO ADOPT

The Director asked for a Motion to adopt both Resolutions
on First Reading. Freeholder Nash made a motion to adopt both
Resolutions on first reading with a second by Freeholder Cream
and on roll call, all Freeholders voted aye.

Director Cappelli stated that the next portion of the meeting is open to the public for discussion of resolutions to be acted upon tonight. He said there will be another public hearing later in the meeting at which members of the public can ask any questions they want regarding the business of Camden County, however, this particular portion is limited to discussion of the Resolutions to be acted on this evening. The Director then declared the public hearing open.

Mrs. Williams of Camden addressed the Freeholder Board regarding Resolution 80. She asked if the $70,400.00 was to repair Wiggins Park. Director Cappelli responded and said it was to repair the stage at Wiggins Park. Mrs. Williams expressed her concern about repairing the stage and felt that the sidewalks should be repaired as well. She said she fell last year the sidewalks are uneven near the trees and it is a public hazard.

Karl Walko, President of Council #10, addressed the Freeholders with regard to Resolution 60, Budget Transfers. He said that there is a transfer of $125,000.00 for the medical examiner. He had a question on what the money is for – since the medical examiner is now over in Gloucester County.
Deborah Silverman Katz responded and said we share services with Gloucester County and Camden County Medical Examiner. Mr. Walko said his question is what is the expense.

M. Holly Cass responded and said we were not certain in the beginning of the year if we were going to pay all of the investigators at that point so when we budgeted, we under budgeted at that point. She said when we negotiated Gloucester County negotiated an increase for the employee and that was part of our share. Mr.Walko interjected and asked if it was for the contract settlement for those employees in Gloucester County. Ms. Cass responded and said this is the second year of that contract and this was part of our share. Mr. Walko then asked were some of those employees not supposed to be there? Ms. Cass said when we negotiated the contract we were not certain we were going to need all the employees but we agreed that we did.

Mr. McClean of Camden addressed the Freeholders and asked about Resolution 32. He asked if this program is going through Camden Police also. The Director responded and said it goes through the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office. He said they may engage the Camden City Police but it primarily goes through the Prosecutor’s Office. He asked if the $240,000.00 is going to be used for going to trials. The Director responded and said it is for programs to prevent gang violence. The Director advised that this is just authorizing the application for a grant. He said we have not received a grant yet. It just authorizes the Prosecutor to apply for the grant. Ms. Silverman Katz interjected and said this program is to reduce gun violence by forging partnerships between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in the community. It goes to the Prosecutor’s office on an annual basis. It is strictly for the reduction of gun violence.

Mr. McClean asked about Resolution 46 and asked if this is the new complex of the County Jail being moved out of the City.
The Director responded and said this is for the Camden County Probation Department and parts of the Camden County Sheriff’s Department.

Mary Cortez of Camden United addressed the Freeholders with regard to Resolution 70 regarding printing of the ballots. Ms. Cortez said please there are a lot of lay people who do not understand the wording that is put at the bottom. They are not able to exercise their right to vote correctly because they don’t understand the questions at the bottom. She thinks every town should have it clearly written in simpler terms. She said I would love my people to understand what they are voting for and they have a right to this. Director Cappelli asked if she was referring to public questions. She acknowledged that is correct. The Director said this particular Resolution is strictly for the printing of the primary election ballot for the President in 2008. He said he doesn’t think there will be any public questions on that particular ballot but when the public questions are presented to us, it is actually the State who creates the wording of the questions and by Law, we have to print whatever they give us. We cannot change what they give us. Ms. Cortez then said she is worried about the Spanish version. Whoever is translating it, they should translate it to the majority of the Spanish in Puerto Rican. Thank you.

Seeing no one wishing to have further comment, Director Cappelli asked for a motion to close the public hearing. Deputy Director McDonnell made a motion to close the public hearing with a second by Freeholder Nash 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 11 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Nash with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

1. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for municipal courtroom construction, in an amount of $199,500.00.

2. Resolution authorizing a substitution, in the amount of $17,233.00 for the provision of janitorial equipment and supplies.

3. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and Amsan, L.L.C., for the provision of janitorial supplies, in an amount not to exceed $993.15 – CAF #9900134920.

4. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and Stanley Security Solutions, for the provision of repairs to the fire tower doors in the Administration Building, in an amount not to exceed $13,287.00 - CAF #9900134925.

5. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and Presstek, Inc., for an annual maintenance agreement on a digital plate maker, in an amount not to exceed $4,048.00 – CAF #9900134622.

6. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (5th year option), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and AT&T, for provision of the County’s long distance and regional toll calling plan.

7. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(3), by and between the County of Camden (Division of Operations) and Nextel Communications of the Mid Atlantic, Inc., for cellular phone service and related equipment, in an amount not to exceed $48,706.20.

8. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and Garrison Architects, for architectural/engineering services for City Hall Municipal Courtrooms, in an amount not to exceed $199,500.00. Funding is contingent upon the passage of the Chapter 159 Resolution.

9. Resolution authorizing payment, by the Camden County Library System to West Publishing Corp., in an amount not to exceed $1,800.00; and Innovative Interfaces, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $11,200.00 for the provision of library systems and materials – CAF #’s 9900134591, 9900134593.

10. Resolution authorizing a contract amendment, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Buildings & Operations) and US Security Associates, for the provision of additional security services for the Camden County Library System, in an amount not to exceed $12,000.00 – CAF #9900135138.

11. Resolution authorizing a reappointment to the Camden County Technical Schools Board of Education.

Resolution 12 was adopted upon motion by Freeholder Nash with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call:

12. Resolution authorizing reappointments to the Camden County College Board of Trustees.

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

Resolutions 13 and 14 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Cream with second by Freeholder Nash and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

13. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Supportive Regional Highway Planning Program 07-08, in an amount of $38,584.00.

14. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Transit Support Program 07-08, in an amount of $40,000.00.

Resolution 15 was adopted upon motion by Freeholder Cream with a second by Freeholder Rodriguez and on roll call:

15. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and SAR Automotive Equipment, for lift repairs, in an amount not to exceed $200.00 – CAF #9900134928.

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

Resolutions 16 through 50 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Rodriguez with second by Freeholder Cream and on
roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

16. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (State Contract A-40905), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Works) and H.A. DeHart & Son, for the provision of replacement dump truck equipment, in an amount not to exceed $57,980.00 – CAF #9900134918.

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

18. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Recreational Trails Program at Slims Ranch, in an amount of $25,000.00.

19. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Recycling Tonnage Rebate Fund, in an amount of $108,180.00.

20. Resolution authorizing a substitution, in the amount of $35,000.00 for various park improvements.

21. Resolution amending the Camden County Boathouse Room Reservation Policy.

22. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Parks) and Rutgers University, Camden, for the management and maintenance of the Cooper River Driving Range.

23. Resolution accepting the recommendation, of the Open Space Preservation Trust Fund Advisory Committee, to accept the donation of open space, (Block 2703 - lot 1, and 2704 – lot 1) in the Township of Winslow.

24. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, Project Safe Neighborhoods Anti Gang Initiative Grant, in an amount of $175,813.00.

25. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative 07-08, in an amount of $484,905.00.

26. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the State Facilities Education Act 07-08, in an amount of $184,500.00.

27. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the State Homeland Security Grant 07-08, in an amount of $784,858.16.

28. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (Bid A-45), by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Sheriff) and Oakwood Uniform Company, for the provision of uniforms, in an amount not to exceed $47,877.50 - CAF #9900131411.

29. Resolution rejecting Bid A-42, (Extradition Services - Office of the Sheriff), due to a non-compliant bidder.

30. Resolution authorizing a Lease Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Prosecutor) and Enterprise Leasing, for the provision of various Joint Camden Task Force vehicles, pursuant to a Bid Waiver dated 9/25/07, granted by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, in an amount not to exceed $301,322.00. Funding is contingent upon receipt of funds pursuant to the HIDTA Grant.

31. 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 Safe Neighborhood Grant Program, in an amount of $48,936.00.

32. 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 Gang Prevention Coordination Assistance Grant Program, in an amount of $240,000.00.

33. Resolution ratifying 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 County Prosecutor’s Community Justice Program, in an amount of $100,000.00 ($75,000.00 – Federal funds, $25,000.00 – County matching funds).

34. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (State Contract A-67874), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) and Ray’s Sport Shop, Inc., for the provision of safety vests, in an amount not to exceed $29,014.14 – CAF #9900134486.

35. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) and Genesis Centers, for the provision of Drug Rehabilitation services, in an amount not to exceed $180,009.00 - CAF #9900135152.

36. Resolution authorizing an amendment of a contract, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) and Carter Globel Lee, for the provision of additional jail growth management services.

37. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) and Pulitzer and Bogard Associates, for the provision of specific jail growth management services, in an amount not to exceed $120,000.00 - CAF #9900135140.

38. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to a competitive contract Request For Proposals #07-02, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) and CFG Health Services, for the provision of medical, psychiatric, and psychological services for the inmates of the Camden County Correctional Facility, in an amount not to exceed $8,540,000.00 - CAF#9900135151 for $711,666.66. Balance of funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 temporary and permanent budgets.

39. Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application, by the County of Camden (Department of Corrections) to the New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services, for Expanded and Integrated HIV testing at County Correctional Facilities, in an amount of $74,680.00.

40. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Youth Center) and Amsan, L.L.C., for the provision of trash can liners, in an amount not to exceed $496.25 – CAF #9900134662.
41. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (State Contract A-62188), by and between the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety) and Ergoflex Systems, Inc., D/B/A Xybix Systems Inc., for the provision of 9-1-1 Workstations for the Communications Center, in an amount not to exceed $156,549.32 – CAF #9900135112.

42. Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application, by the County of Camden (Youth Center) to the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, for the State Facilities Education Act, in an amount of $333,000.00.

43. Resolution authorizing the submission of an application, by the County of Camden (Youth Center) to the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, for the State Facilities Education Act, JDIA Supplemental Grant, in an amount of $484,905.00.

44. Resolution authorizing the submission of an application, by the County of Camden (Office of the Fire Marshall) to the US Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, for the 2007 Fire Prevention and Safety Grant in an amount of $100,000.00.

45. Resolution authorizing the acceptance, by the County of Camden (Department of Public Safety), of a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria, for use by the Camden County Fire Police, from the Borough of Haddonfield at a cost of $1.00.

46. Resolution authorizing an Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the Superior Court of New Jersey, Camden Vicinage, for the joint provision of space planning services for the new justice complex.

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

48. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Women, Infants and Children Grant, in the amount of $1,266,300.00.

49. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the Personal Assistance Services Program, in an amount of $26,823.00.

50. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for the 2007 Area Plan Grant, in an amount of $93,866.00.

Resolution 51 was adopted upon motion by Deputy Director McDonnell with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call:

51. Resolution authorizing an award of contracts, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by an between the County of Camden (Department of Health & Human Services) and various provider agencies, for the provision of nutrition and social service programs under the Area Plan Health Grant, in an amount not to exceed $3,638,816.00.

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

Resolutions 52 and 53 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Cream with a second by Freeholder Nash and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

52. Resolution authorizing the submission of a renewal application, by the County of Camden (Division of Senior and Disabled Services) to the New Jersey Department of Human Services, for the New Jersey Personal Assistance Services Act Grant in an amount of $698,548.00.

53. Resolution authorizing the submission of an application, by the County of Camden (Division Health & Human Services) to Community Planning and Advocacy Council, for the Peer Grouping Grant funds for the Camden County Day Center in an amount of $75,000.00.

Resolution 54 was adopted upon motion by Freeholder Cream with a second by Freeholder Greco and on roll call:

54. Resolution authorizing a 3rd year option Agreement, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Senior and Disabled Services) and the Union Organization For Social Services, to manage the Senior Safe Housing Program for the period 1/1/08 through 12/31/08 at no cost to the County.

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

Resolutions 55 through 62 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Greco with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

55. Resolution authorizing an Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (Department of Health & Human Services) and the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Bureau of Housing Inspections, for inspection of multiple dwellings.

56. Resolution in support of an increase in the allocation of Chapter 51 dollars from $9 million to $18 million for the provision of alcohol education, rehabilitation, and enforcement services to Camden County residents who are in need.

57. Resolution in support of the funding for the South Jersey Initiative, for the continuation of addiction services for Camden County young people up to age twenty four.

58. Resolution authorizing the submission of an application, by the County of Camden (Division Health & Human Services) to the Centers for Disease Control, for the Bioterrorism Preparedness Grant, in an amount of $528,323.00.

59. Resolution rejecting Bid A-44 (Web-based Inspection and Reporting System) due to a non-compliant bidder.

60. Resolution authorizing Budgetary Transfers in the 2007 Current Fund Budget.

61. Resolution authorizing the procurement of actuary services for the County of Camden, pursuant to a competitive contract process per N.J.S.A. 40A:11-4.1 et. seq.

62. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-15, by and between the County of Camden and Kronos, for the provision of badge terminals, in an amount not to exceed $26,900.00 - CAF #9900134583.

Resolution 63 was adopted upon motion by Freeholder Rodriguez with a second by Freeholder Greco and on roll call:

63. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (2nd year option), by and between the County of Camden and Commerce Banc Insurance Services, for the provision of employee/retiree benefits administration services, in an amount not to exceed $55,000.00 - CAF #9900134948.

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

Resolutions 64 through 82 were adopted upon motion by Freeholder Greco with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

64. Resolution inserting Chapter 159 funds into the budget for 2008 Workforce Learning Link funds, in an amount of $269,677.00.

65. Resolution authorizing a substitution, in the amount of $80,651.00 for the Camden County Store Expansion project.

66. Resolution authorizing a substitution, in the amount of $300,000.00 to provide financing for redevelopment services at the Camden County Lakeland Complex.

67. Resolution establishing a Dedication by Rider for the Camden County Commodity Resale System.

68. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (State Contract A-81239), by and between the County of Camden (Board of Taxation) and Gateway, for the provision of laptop computers for the PAMS program implementation, in an amount not to exceed $39,800.52 – CAF #9900134987.

69. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (State Contract A-81247), by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Surrogate) and Dell Marketing, L.P., for the provision of scanner software packages, in an amount not to exceed $27,436.36 – CAF #9900135246.

70. Resolution amending the contract, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Clerk) and Colorsource Inc., as per unit prices, for the provision of ballot printing for the 2008 Presidential Primary, in an amount not to exceed $128,249.19. Funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 temporary and permanent budgets.

71. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Office of the Clerk) and Colorsource Inc., for the provision of ballot printing and related services for the 2008 Primary, General, and School Board elections, in an amount not to exceed $336,860.22. Funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 temporary and permanent budgets.

72. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the Camden County Improvement Authority, for the joint provision of redevelopment services for part of the Camden County Lakeland Complex, in an amount not to exceed $293,638.00. Funding is contingent upon the passage of the substitution of funds.

73. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the Camden County Board of Social Services, for the joint use of the Camden County Human Resource System.

74. Resolution authorizing an Interlocal Services Agreement, by and between the County of Camden and the Sterling High School, Board of Education, for the provision of consultation services related to County voice and data technical services.

75. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (State Contract A-81241), by and between the County of Camden and Dimension Data, for the provision of Smartnet Maintenance for Camden County Servers, in an amount not to exceed $49,124.83 – CAF #9900135210.

76. Resolution authorizing an amendment of a contract, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Office of Community Development) and Generations, Inc., for the provision of additional affordable housing, in an amount not to exceed $100,000.00 – CAF #9900134740.

77. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Office of Community Development) and the Township of Berlin, for the provision of a rental rehabilitation program and affordable housing project, in an amount not to exceed $100,000.00 – CAF #9900134741.

78. Resolution authorizing an award of contract, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, by and between the County of Camden (Office of Community Development) and Gloucester Township Housing Finance Corporation, for the provision of senior citizen housing, in an amount not to exceed $500,000.00 – CAF #9900134917.

79. Resolution ratifying an amended contract, by and between the County of Camden (Division of Special Events) and Circuit Lighting Inc., for the provision of additional lighting production services for the Sundown Music Series, in an amount not to exceed $1,337.32 – CAF #9900134955.

80. Resolution ratifying payment by the County of Camden (Division of Special Events) to Proof Productions, Inc., for various repairs to the Wiggins Park stage, in an amount not to exceed $70,400.00 – CAF #9900135242

81. Resolution authorizing an award of contract (Bid A-40), by and between the County of Camden (Division of Special Events) and Proof Productions, for the provision of maintenance and repairs to the Wiggins Park stage, in an amount not to exceed $77,000.00 - CAF #9900135223.

82. Resolution authorizing a Memorandum of Understanding, by and between the County of Camden (One Stop) and Volunteers of America, Delaware Valley Correction Services Division, for the provision of workforce development services to offenders/exoffenders.

Resolution 83 was adopted upon motion by Freeholder Nash with a second by Freeholder Rodriguez and on roll call:

83. Resolution authorizing a Memorandum of Understanding, by and between the County of Camden (One Stop) and the Camden County Adult Basic Skills Consortium, for the provision of basic skills services for the period 7/1/07 through 6/30/08.

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

Resolutions 84 and 85 were adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Cream with a second by Deputy Director McDonnell and on roll call, all Freeholders voted aye.

84. Resolution authorizing a month to month lease extension, by and between the County of Camden (One Stop) and 2600 ME Holdings L.L.C., for the One Stop Parenting Program, for the period 11/1/07 through 3/31/08, in an amount not to exceed $14,300.00 - CAF #9900135006.

85. Resolution authorizing a Lease Agreement, by and between the County of Camden (One Stop) and 2600 ME Holdings L.L.C., for a total of 25,736 square feet for the period 4/1/08 through 3/31/13, in an amount not to exceed $1,778,076.00 – CAF #9900134998 for $82,877.01. Balance of funding is contingent upon the availability and appropriation of funds in the 2008 through 2013 temporary and permanent budgets.

Resolution 86 was adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Rodriguez with a second by Deputy Director McDonnell and on roll call:

86. Resolution authorizing the purchase of newspapers, and placement of various advertisements, by the County of Camden, in the Courier Post Newspaper.

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

Resolution 87 through 93 were adopted upon motion made by Freeholder Greco with a second by Freeholder Cream and on roll call, all Freeholders present voted aye.

87. 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 $794.50 – CAF #9900134769.

88. Resolution authorizing a award of contract, by and between the County of Camden (Office of County Counsel) and Gann Law Books, for subscription renewal in an amount not to exceed $1,574.75 – CAF #9900135218.

89. Resolution authorizing award of contracts, pursuant to a publicly advertised Request For Proposals, for the provision of Special Counsel Conflict Services to the County of Camden.

90. Resolution authorizing pay increases for designated unclassified and classified employees.

91. Resolution authorizing Auto Liability Settlements.

92. Resolution authorizing General Liability Settlements.

93. Resolution authorizing Worker Compensation Settlements.

Resolution 94 – No Motion made - the resolution fails.

94. Resolution acknowledging personnel actions requested by or on behalf of constitutional or statutory offices.

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

Jean Milhouser, member of the Camden County Council#10 and Trustee for the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office addressed the Freeholder Board. Ms. Milhouser said on behalf of the clerical staff at the Prosecutor’s Office, she would like to inform the Freeholders that since last month’s Freeholder meeting, we have met again at the bargaining table trying to come to an agreeable contract. She said she would like to reiterate that their group has made great strides at the negotiating table by agreeing to share the responsibility of co-pay for health care premiums by paying higher doctor’s co-pays and by paying higher co-pays for prescriptions. She said now we feel it is the County’s turn to step up to the occasion. She said we also feel that some progress has been made and we are cautiously optimistic for our next scheduled meeting November 29th. Ms. Milhouser said we can only hope that you have been thoroughly informed of the last meeting and will send a positive message back to the negotiator so that we can end this two year debacle. Thank you.

Karl Walko,President of Council #10 addressed the Freeholders and said that Jean is a lot better spokesperson than he is. He said Jean is probably more optimistic and I am more cynical than she is. Mr. Walko said it is important that the Board understands that this bargaining unit has made significant concessions in health benefits with an expectation that there is settlement and there’s going to be a response from the County that matches the two other settlements over there. It can’t be just what you want out of those other settlements – and not what you don’t want. They got to it and he feels they made more concessions than perhaps he would like to see them make, but he thinks that it is time for the County to step up and close the deal because contract negotiations can move along and then fall back too. He doesn’t want to see this negotiation fall back.

Mary Cortez of Cramer Hill, Camden addressed the Board once again and said she is a member of Camden United, an organization of City-wide representation. She asked, “Did many of you find it very dark in this neighborhood”? She said this is the norm in all of Camden; ideal for theft, burglary, rape and drug sales, but it isn’t difficult to spot outsiders. She said a white crown Victoria drives up, the driver sticks up three fingers, goes around the block and picks up a stash and heads towards the main street. She said Rutgers students hike to North Camden, why? She said the City of Camden is in such sad and serious conditions because people of power and money abandoned it a long time ago, while we who remain, have kept the City still palpitating. She said don’t trick us out of our paid homes; call us to the table, we count. She said our hard-earned pennies have gone and still do go to our little castles. Progress means nothing if the people are abused for prospective revenues. We, residents, know how to rebuild our City. She said Cooper Hospital is one that stole our money of the $175 million dollars of recovery money that came in from the State and now it wants to take 100 families to go I don’t know where – maybe to Cherry Hill, if they can afford it? She said this is all with City Hall and CEO Davis’ approval. She said, you, the Freeholders, are invited to sit down with us, Camden United, and take down notes. Thank you.

Ms. Williams of Camden addressed the Freeholders once again and asked if the County still hires young people for the Summer Youth Program. Director Cappelli responded and said we do hire a limited number of youth in the Parks. Ms. Williams said she knows some young people who can use summer jobs. The Director instructed her to call his office in the Spring. He will let her know when the applications are ready to be processed. He said it would also be posted on the County’s website. Her next question was her concern about security at public housing. She said we need more security cameras and more lighting. She said as the woman who spoke earlier said, we have a drug problem. She said the Camden Police cannot do it all by themselves. She said we need help from the County. She said you are spending a lot of money; please give some to help us with public housing.

Mr. McClean of Camden United addressed the Freeholders once again. Mr. McClean said with regard to the streets that belong to the County – Broadway, Mt. Ephraim and asked if the County is responsible for cleaning those streets. The Director said if it is a County road, it does fall on the County. Mr. McClean said if you get a chance to ride down Broadway, the streets are horrendous. Mr. McClean said he called the County Parks office today and addressed the deplorable condition at the Park with broken glass. The Director asked which Park in particular? Mr. McClean said Newton Creek and he didn’t know if that was a City Park. He also referred to North Camden Park and the Director responded that is a City Park as well. Mr. McClean asked if the County has a regular clean-up crew. The Director said we do and the County Parks are cleaned on a regular basis. Freeholder Nash said if you have any issue with a park that you feel is not clean enough, you call us and we will come out there and clean it. Freeholder Nash said it is on a regular schedule but sometimes there might be events there or parties that we are not aware of and we will come out the next day and clean it but we have to know about it. Mr. McClean mentioned a letter that comes out from the County saying the streets are to be cleaned once a month. Mr. McClean asked if that could be done more often – twice a month. The Director said he is not quite sure about what letter he is speaking of but if the streets are in disrepair or need to be cleaned, just call and we will make sure it gets done. Mr. McClean then questioned Freeholder Ripa about the conditions at the County Jail about how people are being locked up on minor charges. He said it is horrendous how the County jail can be run like this. He asked if there is anything the Freeholders can do regarding this problem. Freeholder Ripa responded and said the jail is the recipient of the Court system. Freeholder Ripa said we don’t go out and gather up people and put them into jail. The Court system says you go to jail. He said it is our responsibility to house you, feed you and protect you as best we can. We do not have the right or the ability to say that is only a minor offense, you’re out of here! We can’t do that. Director Cappelli interjected and said that being said, we have been working actively with the Judges, with the Prosecutor, with local Police Departments to reduce the population in the jail. We brought the electronic bracelet program to Camden County that has reduced some of the population. He said we are continuously working on ways to lower the population because we believe it is way too populated. He said we also believe that there are too many people in jail for minor offenses who just seem to be processed a little bit more quickly; their cases be looked at more quickly. He said there are a lot of alternatives we are looking at but we agree it is a problem and we are working on it.

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

The Director then called upon the Freeholders for their comments.

Freeholder Cream said she would like to congratulate Deputy Director Ed McDonnell and Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez on their stunning victory at the last election. She said we are very happy to have you as a part of this Freeholder Board and you bring a lot to the constituents of Camden County and we are proud to have you. Freeholder Cream said she would also like to thank the Freeholder Board – this is the first time that we have met in this beautiful library. Freeholder Cream said for those of you who do not know, this Freeholder Board put $4 million dollars into this library at her request. She said I asked them because I saw the need for a library to be built in the City of Camden. Freeholder Cream said we haven’t had a library in this City in over 100 years. This is the first library to be built in this City in 100 years and it is because of this Freeholder Board’s vision, because of their concern and their commitment to the citizens of Camden, they put $4 million dollars up for this beautiful library. Freeholder Cream thanked her colleagues for their kindness, thoughtfulness and concern to the City. She said this library is built in an area of Camden where we have many schools and that is where a library should be built. We have a large concentration of people in this area – that’s also where a library should be built. Freeholder Cream said she is sure that the citizens of Camden, especially here, do appreciate this library because education is very key to the many things we are talking about tonight that are negative kinds of things. Education is power. Freeholder Cream said she was born here in the City of Camden, she was educated in the City of Camden and she loves the City. She said she just wants all of you to know how very much I appreciate it and it is a joy to be here in this facility tonight. Thank you very much for that.

Freeholder Nash said Freeholder Cream said it best but the truth is that this library is a consequence of Ms. Cream’s amazing effort and her dedication to the children of this City. He also wished Freeholder Cream a very Happy 29th Birthday! Freeholder Cream interjected and advised everyone it was her 81st birthday last Tuesday! Freeholder Cream also thanked the people from Camden City who sent her a bouquet of beautiful roses for her birthday. Freeholder Nash also congratulated his colleagues who won re-election; it was a great victory. He wished everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Freeholder Ripa thanked all the County employees and even those who are still in contract negotiations. He said I feel your pain, I have been there and I am sympathetic to your needs but all of you County employees, all of you do such a great job. You go above and beyond the call – you County employees are what make us look good. He also congratulated Deputy Director McDonnell and Freeholder Rodriguez on their re-election. He thanked everyone for coming and wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. God bless you all!

Freeholder Rodriguez thanked everyone for coming here this evening. She said when she comes here in the City, it’s like coming home. She said she went to school here. She said they didn’t have a library and they had to go to Rutgers to read books. She said there are a lot of good people who live in the City – honest, hardworking people. She said she wants to thank all the people here because one thing she has seen as a Freeholder is their commitment to the betterment of the City. She said each and every individual who came forward to speak this evening are really committed to seeing that Camden flourish and prosper. She said that is what she has seen over the past three years as Freeholder. Freeholder Rodriguez thanked all the Freeholders for their commitment. She thanked all the employees for putting the constituents first is what most of them do to make us look good. They are doing the right thing. She thanked City Council and all the leadership in the City. She thanked everyone for being here and the people who came up to voice their opinion. Thank you.

Freeholder Greco congratulated his colleagues on their re-election. The Freeholder wished Freeholder Cream a Happy Birthday. He said he thought it was her 18th birthday, but he had the numbers backwards! He said she gets younger and younger and I just feel older and older! Freeholder Greco said he never lived or worked in the City of Camden but my wife has worked in the City for the last 34 years as a teacher. She worked at Lanning Square, Davis School, Yorkship and Fetters. He said she comes home everyday with a story. He said my wife never brings home bad, negative stories. They are always nice stories about kids who do wonderful things in school. He said she goes to school everyday with a smile and she comes home everyday with a smile so some things going on in Camden are good! The Freeholder said he has seen it everyday for the last 34 years. He said he wanted to say that – it is all positive stuff. He wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

Deputy Director McDonnell thanked everyone for coming. He thanked Council President Fuentes for being here. He wished everyone a great Thanksgiving.

Director Cappelli said he also wants to congratulate Deputy Director McDonnell and Freeholder Rodriguez for their tremendous victory a couple of weeks ago. He also said he would like to recognize some of the good things that happened in Camden County over the past month. He said we had a mentoring summit here in Camden City where we invited Reverend Wilson Goode, Big Brother/Big Sisters, Volunteers of America. He said Camden County is going to use all of its resources to attract new mentors into these organizations to hopefully mentor some of the children in Camden City. He said so far we have 35 volunteers and we really haven’t made a full-fledged effort yet to recruit volunteers. The Director also recognized Anthony Bucchi, his aide, who did a great job putting together that mentoring summit. The Director said we also had the shredding event which Gina Forte and members of Constituent Services ran on a cold Saturday morning in Cherry Hill. He said hundreds of people came with their documents to be shredded at the Woodcrest Speed-line station. The Director said we had a couple of good events for Veterans. He congratulated Norm Sooey and thanked Caren Fishman. He said we opened the Camden County Veterans Cemetery at the Harleigh Cemetery here in Camden and we also dedicated Veterans’ Island at Cooper River in Pennsauken. He said these were two great things for our Veterans and Norm and Caren worked very hard on those projects. The Director said he had the opportunity to attend the Virtua Hospital event last week where they announced their plans for a new hospital in Voorhees. He said that will be a half billion dollar investment here in Camden County in bringing state of the art medical care to residents of our County. The Director said he also had an opportunity to tour U.M.D.N.J. at their research facility in Stratford. He said they are providing the worlds leading research on geriatric care and on sexual abuse of children care. It is just amazing on some of the things that are happening in Camden County that you don’t know about. He said, of course, the expansion at Cooper Hospital will be another hundreds of millions of dollars invested here in the City and the County. A lot of good things are happening in Camden County! He thanked the County employees for all the hard work they do day in and day out on behalf of the residents of Camden County. The Director wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

There being no further business, Freeholder Greco made a motion to adjourn with a second by Freeholder Nash at 8:00 p.m. and all Freeholders present voted aye.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Szczesniewski
Clerk of the Board