SOUTH AMBOY – URSB (United Roosevelt Savings Bank) Executive Vice President David Van Steyn and Senior Vice President of Lending Gary McEldowney of a $6,000 check to the South Amboy Parade Committee for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade scheduled for March 20, 2022, and a $6,000 check to the Fireworks Committee for the fireworks scheduled for July 2, 2022 for a total donation of $12,000 *Photo by Katherine Massopust

3/2/22 Council Meeting

By: Katherine Massopust

SOUTH AMBOY – There was a moment of silence for the people of Ukraine at the beginning of the meeting.

There was a presentation by URSB (United Roosevelt Savings Bank) Executive Vice President David Van Steyn and Senior Vice President of Lending Gary McEldowney of a $6,000 check to the South Amboy Parade Committee for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade scheduled for March 20, 2022, and a $6,000 check for Celebrate our Stars and Stripes for the fireworks scheduled for July 2, 2022. Representatives from the Parade Committee and Fire Works Committee were present. This was a total of a

$12,000 donation from United Roosevelt Savings Bank.

There was also a donation of $500 for the people of Ukraine from the South Amboy Parade Committee.

Business Administrator Glenn Skarzynski explained that there was a $1.8 million bill to the State of New Jersey to cover dredging, but the city will receive $1 million back for the ferry slip. He stated that the city is funding out of the money they received to offset the dredging. 

B.A. Skarzynski stated that when a developer in town decided not to plow the snow near his property, the city took care of the situation and issued a $900 fine to the management company. He stated that this was important because of a school bus stop near the property, and it was a safety issue. 

Council Comments:

Councilwoman Zusette Dato stated her feelings about the invasion of Ukraine, “I think we are all shocked. My grandparents came from Ukraine. All they want to do is live in peace. Mothers and young children – men asked to fight the war. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers. If you can make a donation, please do.”

Council Vice President Christine Noble said, “Keep Ukraine in your prayers. The Parade Committee – you do an incredible job. South Amboy is very proud of you.” Noble then stated, “The beach looks fantastic.” 

B.A. Skarzynski added, “The lights and cameras are all up and operating.”

Councilman Brian McLaughlin stated, “I want to thank URSB Bank for their donation. It is good to see the Covid numbers dwindling. Keep Ukraine in your prayers. I would like to thank the first responders.”

Councilman Tom Reilly said, “I want to thank the volunteers who got recognized for one of the nicest events in town. I want to thank the food pantry volunteers and donors.” He then asked about the illegal palate operation and about a few blighted properties. He also asked if something could be done for government week at the April Council meeting. “I’d like people to know what role government plays in our town. I’d like to engage our high school students in civic education and civic pride – maybe an essay contest. I’d think that would tie in nicely.”

Mickey Gross thanked URSB Bank for their nice work and Barry Rosengarten for the work he does on the Fireworks. “I’d also like to thank the First Aid, Fire Department, and First Responders. Say a prayer for our friends in Ukraine.”

Mayor Fred Henry thanked the Parade Committee and Fireworks Committee. “You are always amazing. Thank you for what you do. Our hearts and prayers go out to Ukraine. I hope we can come together to support the people.”

B.A. Glenn Skarzynski stated that South Amboy is one signature away to go for the Ferry and that dredging will be at the same time. “Be patient. If you need anything of city hall. We are ready and willing to help. We have two sizable Ukrainian Communities: Carteret and Sommerset. You can send funding and support.”

Public Portion:

Greg Babolack asked what phase Station Bay was at. 

B.A. Skarzynski stated the only thing is Building #1.

Mayor Fred Henry stated that at this point, only they applied for two buildings, and they only sold the first. “There are two lots there.”

Babolack asked what does the future holds for this property and is it open for a PILOT?

B.A. Skarzynski stated that it is negotiable. 

Robert Mickiewicz spoke next. He asked about an abandoned apartment on Roosevelt Street.

B.A. Skarzynski answered, “You will be delighted to know that in 3 weeks, some preliminary industry (is moving in).”

Mickiewicz stated that kids were playing on the property. 

Skarzynski stated if he sees kids there, call code enforcement immediately. 

The council went into closed session at 6:38 p.m. All council members were present.