Montague Committee holds public performance review of Zoning and Code Enforcement officer

The Montague Township Committee held a public performance review Dec. 9 after Zoning and Code Enforcement officer Mr. Hutnick requested that his personnel discussion be held in open session.

Mayor Zitone and other committee members laid out concerns uncovered during Mr. Hutnick’s prior medical leave, including approvals that did not conform to township code, inconsistent identification and enforcement of zoning violations, and monthly enforcement reports that lack sufficient detail to track resolution. Attorney Rossmeissl reminded the room that while the Open Public Meetings Act generally permits executive-session discussion of employee performance, the employee had requested a public forum, which the Committee honored.

Committee members identified several specific problems. The Mayor said advice previously relied upon regarding regulation of shipping containers proved incorrect; the Land Use Board Attorney has since clarified classification and accessory-structure rules. Committee members also cited a zoning permit on Old Chimney Ridge Road that had a material modification not included on original plans yet was approved in March 2025, resulting in apparent noncompliance with rules limiting principal residential structures on a single lot.

Mr. Hutnick acknowledged relying on checklist-based reviews rather than comprehensive plan reviews and said he had not consistently revisited properties after issuing compliance letters. He reported that he has issued summonses in some cases and recently secured two $50,000 fines in separate proceedings, though collection may be affected by existing liens. He also said he has begun inputting historical enforcement data into the SDL complaint-tracking system and committed to more complete, timely entries going forward.

The Committee pressed for clearer documentation and proactive follow-up, including monthly reports that list enforcement actions taken, notices issued, follow-up inspections, and disposition of outstanding violations. Members discussed escalating chronic noncompliance to Superior Court where appropriate. Mr. Hutnick disclosed he recently underwent cervical-spine surgery, has two additional spinal operations scheduled pending Worker’s Compensation and surgeon availability, and estimated any leave could last two to four months; he agreed to keep the Municipal Clerk informed so the township can plan coverage.

Mayor Zitone concluded the discussion by emphasizing expectations for improved recordkeeping, more proactive zoning oversight, and diligence in enforcing property maintenance. The Committee said it will monitor progress and requested more detailed monthly enforcement reports.