Riverside Committee adopts resolution to enter closed session over contract negotiations

The Riverside Township Committee voted Oct. 7 to enter a closed executive session to discuss contract negotiations, adopting Resolution 2024‑#102 under the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act.

Mayor Kimble led the meeting and Township Clerk and Administrator Meghan Jack confirmed that public notice of the special meeting was posted Sept. 16, 2024, and delivered to the Burlington County Times and the Courier-Post. At roll call, Mr. Giovanetti, Mayor Kimble, Mr. Kirk, Mr. Marter and Mr. Peditto were recorded present.

The committee adopted the resolution authorizing an executive session "not open to the public" to discuss "Contract Negotiations," citing N.J.S.A. 10:4‑12. The certification appended to the resolution is signed by Susan M. Dydek, RMC, Riverside Township Clerk. The resolution text states deliberations held in closed session "may be disclosed to the public upon the determination of the Township Committee that the public interest will no longer be served by such confidentiality."

The motion to adopt Resolution 2024‑#102 was made by Mr. Giovanetti and seconded by Mr. Kirk; the motion carried. The meeting was later reopened at 6:40 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Giovanetti, seconded by Mr. Kirk, and the committee then closed the public portion again and adjourned on a motion by Mr. Giovanetti, seconded by Mr. Marter.

The committee did not disclose details of the contract negotiations during the public record. The resolution and certification in the minutes provide the formal authority for the closed session and note that the committee may reveal deliberations if it determines the public interest permits disclosure.