Whereas, the Borough Administrator was advised by former Fire Chief Joe Stitley via email that the SOGs meet applicable Federal and State regulations and standards, including those promulgated by the Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health Act (PEOSHA), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety; and

Whereas, the SOGs were provided to current Fire Chief Ken Bowden on March 18, 2026, for internal departmental review; and

Whereas, the Borough Council finds that the adoption of comprehensive, professionally developed Standard Operating Guidelines is in the best interests of the Borough and its residents;

Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Somerville, County of Somerset, State of New Jersey, as follows:

Section 1. Adoption of Standard Operating Guidelines. The Borough Council of the Borough of Somerville hereby adopts the Standard Operating Guidelines of the Somerville Fire Department, as developed with the assistance of RCD Group and provided by the Fire Department on December 24, 2025, a copy of which is incorporated herein by reference and shall be maintained on file in the Office of the Borough Clerk.

Section 2. Authority of Fire Chief. The Fire Chief is hereby authorized and directed to implement the Standard Operating Guidelines and to take such actions as may be necessary to ensure compliance therewith by all Fire Department personnel.

Section 3. Amendments. The Fire Chief may recommend amendments to the Standard Operating Guidelines as operational needs or changes in applicable law or standards require. Any such amendments shall be submitted to the Borough Administrator to be disseminated to the Borough Council for review and approval prior to adoption.

Section 4. Supersession. This Resolution and the Standard Operating Guidelines adopted herein supersede any prior rules, regulations, policies, or guidelines of the Somerville Fire Department that are inconsistent herewith.

Section 5. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance with applicable law.

Resolution 26-0706-210

Approving Tax Sale Costs 2026

Whereas, N.J.S.A. 54:5-19.1 authorizes electronic tax sales pursuant to rules and regulations to be promulgated by the Director of the Division of Local Government Services; and