Pedestrian Struck, Killed By Vehicle On Route 46

PARSIPPANY — A pedestrian was fatally struck by a vehicle on Route 46 on Monday, April 8, authorities said.

The incident occurred in Parsippany at Route 46 and North Beverywck Road, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office said.

The road was closed as the investigation continues but since has reopened.

Parsippany Focus will update as soon as details are available.

Special Meeting: Parsippany’s 2024 Budget

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township will Review and Discuss the Mayor’s 2024 Budget Recommendations on Tuesday, April 9, starting at 5:30 p.m.

Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided in accordance with the requirements of the Open Public Meetings Law by filing the notice in the Office of the Township Clerk and by posting the meeting notice on the bulletin board at the Municipal Building on March 27, 2024, where it has remained posted since that date. A copy of this notice appeared in The Daily Record on April 1, 2024, and was faxed to The Star-Ledger on March 27, 2024. 

5:30 – 5:45 – 2024 Budget Summary – Administration & Finance

5:45 – 6:30 – Police Department

6:30 – 7:15 – Public Works, Parks and Engineering Departments

7:15 – 8:00 – Planning, Zoning and Building Departments

8:00 – 8:30 – Water Department

8:30 – 9:00 – Sewer Department

9:00 – 9:30 – Knoll Utility

Click here to download the agenda.

Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez

Parsippany Residents Applaud Musella at Packed Town Hall Meeting

PARSIPPANY — Over a hundred residents from Parsippany gathered at the main branch of the Parsippany Public Library on Saturday, April 6 to interact with Councilman Justin Musella on various local hot-button issues — ranging from overdevelopment in the township to traffic congestion overburdening Lake Parsippany, to a much-needed solution to the arduous, drawn-out permitting process.

Residents actively participated during the extensive interactive question-and-answer session with many in the audience noting the constructive dialogue empowered them and fostered a sense of community involvement among attendees.

Justin Musella

Musella has been holding monthly “office hours” with residents since his election to the Township Council in 2021. Now Musella is offering residents a more expansive platform to express their opinions and grievances in detail and collaborate on potential solutions. The conversational format of Musella’s town hall is in stark contrast to the traditional township council format that only allows residents five minutes of speaking time without any response from or dialogue with township officials. Many times, the five-minute public speaking time at council meetings is arbitrarily shortened by the sitting Council President, as was the case during many controversial township proposals including the highly controversial PILOT projects.

Timothy Berrios

Parsippany Board of Education members were on hand to speak about their ongoing feud with the mayor regarding the impact of the PILOTs on their funding. Board Member Tim Berrios addressed the crowd saying, “Unfortunately the Mayor continues to ignore the Board of Education and has not responded to our many attempts to meet.” Musella emphasized that a collaborative approach to the Board of Education would bring many benefits to the taxpayers of the town as “There are millions of dollars in savings by sharing services and the only people the mayor is hurting by punching down at the Board of Education are the working families of the town.” Musella was also asked for some advice for blue-collar municipal workers on getting a fair contract from Mayor Barberio, to which he quipped “They should hire John Inglesino as their attorney since we all know the magic he can work on the (mayor’s) administration.”

Assemblyman Brian Bergen

Assemblyman Brian Bergen joined Musella’s town hall offering residents additional insight into how state and local governments collaborate on a wide array of matters and how his office’s constituent services help residents navigate around the complex state sub-agencies. 

The meeting ended with residents thanking Musella for caring about residents during a time
when other municipal officials avoided answering tough questions. There were also calls from the audience for Musella to run for mayor which was met by a long, robust applause from the crowd.

SAX Appoints Rob Owen as the Firm’s First Chief Information Officer and Practice Leader of SAX Technology Advisors 

PARSIPPANY — SAX LLP – a Top 100 accounting, tax, and advisory firm – has announced that Rob Owen has joined the company as its first Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Practice Leader of SAX Technology Advisors. Rob, a veteran information technology executive, will spearhead the strategic direction and oversight of the firm’s technology infrastructure. With more than two decades of enterprise architecture and leadership experience, Rob will be responsible for the internal IT vision and road map, playing a pivotal role in aligning technology initiatives with the firm’s business objectives.

SAX is located at 389 Interpace Parkway.

The creation of the CIO position and subsequent appointment of Rob aligns with SAX’s initiative to integrate technology and innovation to best serve clients.

“Rob’s appointment is a natural progression and strategic move of our firm given our ongoing expansion in technology, in-house at SAX, and through services that greatly benefit our clients,” said SAX CEO and Managing Partner Joseph Damiano. “Rob’s proven track record in this arena and his wealth of knowledge and resources will help SAX increase efficiency and automation across our IT infrastructure, allowing us to better deliver on our clients’ most critical missions.”

SAX Digital Transformation

Rob will spearhead SAX’s digital transformation, taking over the continued effort to modernize the firm’s technological footprint with artificial intelligence and a digital transformation strategy. As CIO, he will amplify growth by building SAX’s advisory services and empowering clients by providing access to top-tier fractional CIO, CTO, and CISO business expertise and solutions in IT consulting, managed services, AI / ML, next-generation technologies, and cybersecurity.

“I am excited to join the SAX team and expand the firm’s technological capabilities while also contributing to the goal of sustained growth,” said Rob. “I firmly believe SAX is in a prime position to become the ‘envy of the industry’ by utilizing technological innovations to enhance internal efficiencies and further exceed clients’ expectations, helping them grow. It will ultimately assist us in our goal of becoming a top 50 firm in a few short years.”

Before joining Sax, Rob served as the Chief Architect & Executive Vice President of Sales Operations at CDI LLC, a leading provider of platforms for digital business. Rob helped grow the company from $75 million to $1 billion before it was sold in February 2024. He is passionate about his work and maintains a constant state of learning, whether in technology or pursuing hobbies such as reading, practicing Jiu-Jitsu, or indulging in his love for muscle cars. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 2001.

About SAX LLP

SAX LLP is a Top 100 accounting, tax, and advisory firm serving the needs of privately held companies, family-owned businesses, nonprofit organizations, and high-net-worth individuals. With offices in Parsippany, NJ, Ewing, NJ, New York City, NY, and Mumbai, India, SAX has specialized expertise that benefits clients in our largest vertical markets. SAX provides added value to clients through advisory services that include but are not limited to Cybersecurity and Managed IT, Investment Banking, Transaction Advisory, HR Consulting, Valuation, Forensic & Litigation, and Wealth Management. SAX has been nationally ranked and listed among the Top Accounting Firms by NJBIZ, INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA), Accounting Today, and Forbes. For more information click here.

Make a Difference: Volunteer for the Boonton Reservoir Cleanup on Earth Day

Looking to give back to your community this Earth Day?

Click here to register for the Boonton Reservoir Cleanup! on Saturday, April 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

If you’ve ever driven on I-287 between Boonton and Parsippany, you’ve surely seen the Jersey City Waterworks behemoth. The Jersey City Waterworks, more commonly named “The Boonton Reservoir”, has long been a vital drinking water source for Jersey City and other local towns and a staple landmark for both Parsippany and Boonton. However, this massive body of water has faced extreme environmental neglect through excessive plastic pollution on its shores for many years. Bottles, bottle caps, toys, sports equipment, food wrappers, buckets, drinking straws, cigarette packaging, drug paraphernalia, plastic bags, hair combs, deck chairs, writing, and eating utensils have all surfaced in great numbers on the shores of the reservoir. Although plastic waste is the most abundant, various other items including sheet metal, tires, broken glass, chain-linked fencing, mylar balloons, clothing, cleaning products, and 50-gallon drums are also polluting the area. 

The biggest concern, however, is microplastics. To briefly summarize, plastic photodegrades by breaking down into smaller pieces over time instead of biodegrading. Once material becomes less than 5mm in size, they are then classified as ‘microplastics’. Microplastics have been found in living organisms including humans all over the world. They are easily transferred through drinking water and come from so many products like those mentioned above. Microplastics are especially lethal to marine species too. Due to their small size, fish and other marine species often confuse them for food, like roe and phytoplankton. When consumed, blockages occur in their digestive tracts and airways. Much like the renowned images of seagulls choking on six-pack rings, fish are being caught with microplastics choking their internal organs. The shores of the reservoir are covered in swaths of microplastics which not only threaten the marine ecosystem but Jersey City’s drinking water too. According to Veolia Environmental, the Boonton Reservoir currently supplies over 274,000 residents per day with drinking water. We must remember that our global environment is a shared space, and as we continue to neglect the Boonton Reservoir, Jersey City will experience its worst burdens. 

If this concerns you, then sign up for the Boonton Reservoir Cleanup on Saturday, April 20th! The event takes place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Participants will have the opportunity to celebrate Earth Day while giving back to their global environment. Moreover, you will be able to experience a mesmerizing hidden gem in Parsippany and help preserve Jersey City’s drinking water once and for all. For more information on how to participate, go follow our Instagram and Facebook pages @boontonrescleanup. There you will find information on how to participate, and insight on how this pollution affects our local ecosystem.

Every action reacts. We have one planet and one chance!

April Marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month

PARSIPPANY — On April 1, Child Abuse Prevention Month begins. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany launched the campaign by creating a pinwheel garden display at Parsippany Town Hall.

“Let’s unite to raise awareness in our community about the significance of guaranteeing excellent childhoods for all children, as they are the cornerstone of our future,” said Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Carol Tiesi.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany initiated the campaign by establishing a pinwheel display at Parsippany Town Hall. Photo by Matthew O’Leary.
At Parsippany Town Hall, Carol Tiesi, President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, places a pinwheel. Photo by Matthew O’Leary.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio will issue a Proclamation at the Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 16, officially designating April as “Child Abuse Prevention Month.”

At Parsippany Town Hall, Mayor James Barberio positions a pinwheel. Photo by Matthew O’Leary.

April signifies National Child Abuse Prevention Month, spearheaded by Prevent Child Abuse America. In 2024, the theme “Building A Hopeful Future, Together” underscores the importance of fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for children and families nationwide.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany advocates for the power of prevention and the significance of community support. They are committed to guaranteeing that all children grow up in safe, stable, and nurturing environments. Their mission revolves around addressing the structural and social determinants of health and well-being, such as poverty and systemic racism, aiming to establish a more equitable society where every child thrives.

For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.

Matthew O’Leary places a pinwheel at Town Hall. Photo by Frank Cahill

Exciting News: Floor and Decor Set to Open in Parsippany!

PARSIPPANY — Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development, revealed that Floor and Decor has finalized a lease in the Troy-Hill Shopping Center, replacing the former Esporta Fitness.

Spanning 56,478 square feet, Floor and Decor is poised to become a significant addition to the area and is known as the foremost retailer in high-growth, hard-surface flooring, Floor & Decor caters to homeowners and professionals alike. Typically, the warehouse store and design center employ a team of approximately 50 full-time and part-time associates.

On August 15, 2023, Esporta Fitness closed its doors. (Click here to read related article).

In a recent article in Parsippany Focus, the Troy Hills Shopping Center has seen a series of retail closures, totaling nearly 74,000 square feet of vacated space. The sequence began with the Dollar Store, followed by Esporta, iStore by St Moritz, Sport Clips, and most recently Berry Bowls. Additionally, a former Subway outlet had already been vacant before these closures. (Click here to read a related article).

Parsippany Focus will provide updates on the grand opening date once details are released.

Savor the Flavor: Annual Roast Beef Dinner at Parsippany United Methodist Church

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany United Methodist Church will host its annual Roast Beef dinner on Saturday, April 20 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

These dinners started about 60 years ago as a fundraiser for the church and have continued almost every Spring since then.

Church members volunteer to prepare every aspect of the dinner from Roast Beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetables, rolls with butter, cole slaw, and the best homemade desserts!!

It’s a great time of fellowship and fantastic food. Tickets can be purchased at the door for just $18.00 for adults, $15.00 for seniors, and $8.00 for children under 12. Take-out dinners can also be provided. Enjoy a homemade dinner and dessert made with love from us to you.! All are welcome!!!

Parsippany United Methodist Church is located at 903 South Beverwyck Road.

Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Welcomes Newest Member

PARSIPPANY — On Monday, March 25, at the General Meeting of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills, Alona Reyes became the latest member installed by Janice Carrubba, Co-Chair for Membership. So far in 2024, the club has welcomed five new members, with Alona being the latest addition!

Alona is thrilled to be joining the dynamic group of volunteers united in fellowship and service, dedicated to advancing projects that yield positive results in education, culture, and civic betterment within the community. She eagerly anticipates making a meaningful contribution and collaborating with the club members.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), which are the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. General Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month September through April at 7:00 p.m.  If you would like to attend our next General Meeting to find out more about what the club does, call Ginny at (973) 887-0336. Click here to view the website. E-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, or follow on Facebook and Instagram.   

Wipe the Slate Clean: Morris County Bar Association’s Free Expungement Clinic

MORRIS COUNTY — The Criminal Practice Committee of the Morris County Bar Association is running a free expungement clinic from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 2 at Calvary Baptist Church, 10 Martin Luther King Avenue, Morristown.

Volunteer attorneys through the Morris County Bar Association will meet with members of the public who seek to have their records expunged. Assistant Prosecutors will volunteer as well to assist in the legal process. The Morris County Bar Foundation will provide free lunch to members of the public who come to the clinic. Staff from the Sheriff’s Office will provide information on various social service programs.

The Clinic will also provide information about:

  • Free Narcan
  • Substance Use Services
  • Mental Health Services
  • Social Services Benefits
  • Re-Entry Services