Franklin, DPW reach impasse in dispute

FRANKLIN — Franklin Borough and its Department of Public Works have come to an impasse in their long dispute for a new contract for DPW workers.

Borough Administrator Jim Kilduff said after multiple attempts to resolve contract issues, the Department of Public Works agreed to file a notice of impasse, which will allow for future negotiations and a resolution of the DPW contract.

The DPW has been working without a contract for more than four years.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, former mayor and county freeholder Dick Durina encouraged the council to resolve the contract issue with the DPW.

Kilduff also reported that the litigation against the Franklin Zoning Board of Adjustment by DFS Partners, LLC, owners of the Franklin Shell Station, has been dismissed with prejudice, meaning the same case cannot be brought up again in court.

The owners also filed suit against the developer (CM Franklin) as a result of approval to construct an STS and Auto Zone store next to the Shell Station.

The foundation for the new Auto Zone is under construction. STS is expected to begin soon.

Without litigation, Eden Properties took title to the Elekes property will begin construction of a new Walgreens pharmacy on Route 23.