Fantasia, Crabb depart Franklin council seats

FRANKLIN — The Borough of Franklin held what Mayor Nick Giordano called a “special” meeting on Friday, Dec. 21, to finalize a few items before the new year.
It also was the last meeting for both Council President Dawn Fantasia and Councilman Phillip Crabb. Fantasia will be joining the county Board of Chosen Freeholders while Crabb did not seek re-election.
Fantasia gave a long good-bye thanking many people.
“I have learned so much from everyone, particularly about budgeting," Fantasia said. "We governed with our heads. I am proud to be have been here the past 3 years. Thank you for a great ride." Council Member Crabb said,
“Thank you for the privilege of being able to focus on the Borough of Franklin,” Crabb said.
Many a ‘thank you’ and well wishes were given to them as they begin their new endeavors. Mayor Nick Giordano thanked President Fantasia for “taking a leap of faith” and told Crabb, “We will still work together with you since you will be on the Mineral Museum Board.”
During Council meeting, 4-year contracts were approved for both Police Chief Gregory Cugliari and Police Captain Seamus Geddis, running from Jan. 1, 2019 to Dec. 31, 2023.
Much discussion occurred regarding a 3-year Tax Collection Department shared service agreement with Wantage Township. Although Franklin Borough is in the process of training someone, the motion was approved, noting that the tax collector training can be a lengthy one.
Borough Attorney John Ursin, attending via conference call, explained there is an annual opt out if notice is given by a certain date
The Temporary Zoning Officer shared service agreement conversation resulted in a tabling until the 1st meeting in the New Year. Hamburg needs a zoning officer, so Franklin and Hamburg are considering a temporary shared service agreement. Although conversation also occurred earlier at the December 11th meeting, Council still could not come to resolution.
Council Member John Postas was hoping by the next meeting that Borough Administrator Alison Littell McHose could “provide more scope, solid and tangible information.”