A Question of PILOTS and Designating Independence Fire Company Firehouse
for Historic Preservation
4/7/21 Business Meeting
By: Katherine Massopust
SOUTH AMBOY – The Resolution up for discussion designating the Independence Fire Company Firehouse for historic preservation was pulled at the request of Mayor Fred Henry.
Resolution 21-087 – Resolution to Waive Reading in Full of The Budget for the Calendar Year Ending December 31, 2021 was passed unanimously. Resolution No. 21- 088 Resolution to Introduce the Budget for the Calendar Year Ending December 31, 2021 also passed unanimously. The rest of the consent agenda passed unanimously except for Resolution 21-091 – A Resolution Authorizing the Submission of an Application to the Middlesex County 2021 Recycling Enhancement Grant Program. Council President Mickey Gross abstained because his office was administering the grant.
Council Comments:
Councilman Brian McLaughlin thanked the emergency services who continues to serve during the pandemic. “Please donate to the food pantry.” McLaughlin then expressed his displeasure because he was not notified about food donations of the Lucas family.
Business Administrator Glenn Skarzynski stated that Public Works has been instructed to complete everything on the list.
Councilman McLaughlin inquired on the status of the much-needed Fire Chief’s vehicles, “Can we order them?”
B.A. Skarzynski stated once the budget is approved that this can be done.
McLaughlin then complained that he was not informed about a meeting that took place discussing the plans for a new development in South Amboy. “I found out about it on Facebook. We are catering to a developer.” McLaughlin stated that illegal immigrants are often hired for these types of projects and if one gets hurt, the city pays.
B.A. Skarzynski answered McLaughlin, “That was not a city sponsored meeting. It was not a city event. It was made by the developer.”
McLaughlin was not happy about it, “I want to see something that is resident friendly – not developer friendly.”
Councilman Thomas Reilly thanked the food pantries and first responders for what they do at this difficult time. He then asked about the ordinance he requested be put on the agenda waiving late payment fees for water and sewer bills for seniors.
Law Director Francis Womack stated, “If you and I can touch base, there is something we can do.”
Reilly expressed his condolences to the O’Leary family on the passing of John O’Leary, father to former Mayor of South Amboy Jack O’Leary.
Reilly then asked about the status of the infamous Pigeon Palace. “When will it be torn down?”
Law Director Womack stated that the city is waiting on a court order.
Reilly then asked about the lawsuit with Venetian.
Womack answered that if what the city sends Venetian is acceptable, then the city will send a disposition.
Reilly then asked about the ongoing illegal palate operation.
Council President Mickey Gross answered Reilly, “I called the Code Enforcement Office. There are multiple summonses against the owner. Court is being held county wide on Zoom and a lot of people do not know how to use Zoom.
Law Director Womack also stated that many people do not know how to use Zoom.
Councilman Reilly said, “I hope so. This operation has been going on for years. I hope something is done soon. The developer who had a meeting on the Roosevelt Street is supposed to have 485 units. They are going to ask for a PILOT for all 3 buildings. It will block the view! They are asking for a PILOT. All the apartments are rentals. This is an impact on schools and first responders. I’d be really, really careful.”
Reilly then explained that he would be unable to attend the closed session scheduled for after the Business Meeting.
Councilman McLaughlin asked, “Have we reached out to other municipalities and ask them if they are in favor of PILOTS?”
B.A. Skarzynski answered, “Yes, throughout the state, PILOTS have been given out. In Woodbridge (for example). Two schools were renovated in Carteret – all involving PILOTS.”
Councilman McLaughlin asked, “How far away is this town from paid emergency services? That is going to be a burden.”
Councilman Reilly said, “Reach out to the Mayor of Jersey City and he will confirm how PILOTS hurt their city. After 20 years from now, the town will be like Jersey City – a tax burden on the residents. Reach out to Jersey City. It’s a perfect example.”
Councilman McLaughlin added, “I have a relationship with Mayor Steven M. Fulop. It works. There is a building on MLK Boulevard in Jersey City.”
Council Vice President Christine Noble gave her condolences to the O’Leary family. She then asked about the Division of Transit project on Main Street.
City Engineer Mark Rasimowicz stated it will be paved this summer.
Council Vice President Christine Noble then asked about emergencies in areas such as the county park.
B.A. Skarzynski answered, “For a 911 Call, it will be routed to Sayreville. All units will come there.”
Council President Mickey Gross gave his condolences to the O’Leary family.
Gross then spoke about the Covid vaccines, “We are going to put the latest information on the city’s website. Our seniors need to get shots, especially if those 65 years or older. Make sure seniors are aware of it. The sooner – we can get back to normal, the better.”
B.A. Glenn Skarzynski apologized to Historical Society of South Amboy. “The Independent Fire Company Firehouse is a landmark. Adding it to the historic preservation to the master plan (is important). Be aware of the complete depth of commitments it will be. One more bite to the apple will be when the council votes to get the status.”
Council President Gross stated, “We are en-route to make this a historic landmark. You have my support.”
Mary Szaro, who is President of the South Amboy Historic Preservation Commission stated, “This is thought to be our first designation of historic significance. It meets all the criteria.”
The Council went into closed session at 6:44 p.m. Councilwoman Zusette Dato was not present.
