Dear Editor:

As an Indian-American resident of Parsippany, I feel compelled to speak out about a deeply troubling and disrespectful practice that many families in our community have recently experienced.

The Barberio campaign has been placing political signs on the front lawns of Indian households across Parsippany—without our permission. This is not speculation. It has happened repeatedly on streets like Halsey Road, Jacksonville Road, Lawrence Drive, and Meadow Bluff Road. Many of us have had to remove these signs ourselves after discovering them on our private property.

One homeowner even captured Councilman Frank Neglia on their Ring camera placing a campaign sign without consent. This is unacceptable behavior from anyone—especially an elected official.

This pattern of behavior feels like targeted exploitation. Indian families appear to be specifically chosen for this unauthorized advertising, perhaps under the assumption that we won’t push back. Let me be clear: we see what is happening and will not stay silent.

This tactic reminds me of the shady vote-by-mail scheme involving Jigar Shah during the last election. Once again, it appears Indian residents are being used for political advantage without respect for our voices or property.

I am calling on the Barberio campaign to immediately cease this practice of unauthorized sign placement, particularly in front of Indian homes. It’s not only a violation of trust—it’s a form of sign pollution that disrespects our community.

To my fellow Indian neighbors: if you did not permit a campaign sign to be placed on your property, you have every right to remove it. Do not fear retribution or intimidation. Your home is your space, and no political campaign has the right to claim it without your consent.

We came to Parsippany for a better life, to raise our families in peace and dignity. We expect our elected officials—and those who want to be—to treat us with basic respect.

If your sign is missing from the front yard or someone has put a sign you didn’t approve of, please check your Ring camera to find out.

Parth Patel

PARSIPPANY — As the June 10 Republican primary approaches, Parsippany-Troy Hills is witnessing a contentious battle between incumbent Mayor James Barberio and Councilman Justin Musella, highlighting deep divisions within the local GOP.​

A Divided Republican Front
Mayor Barberio, 64, seeking a fourth term, has faced criticism from Musella and his supporters over issues like overdevelopment and tax incentives for developers. Musella, 32, who announced his candidacy last June, argues that the current administration has prioritized special interests over residents’ concerns. In response, Barberio emphasizes his experience and the town’s economic growth under his leadership.​

Morris County GOP Chairwoman Laura Ali’s (and owner of TapInto Parsippany) efforts to unify the party through a joint ticket were unsuccessful. Musella rejected the proposal and continued his campaign independently. ​

Candidates and Running Mates
Musella’s ticket includes Casey Parikh, a former Planning Board Chairman, and John Bielen, a business development professional. Both have been vocal about the need for change in local governance.

Barberio runs alongside incumbent Councilman Frank Neglia and Jigar Shah, the mayor’s liaison to the Indian American community. Their campaign focuses on continued development and fiscal responsibility. ​

Democratic Opposition
On the Democratic side, Pulkit Desai, a cybersecurity expert and president of the Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association, has been nominated for mayor. His council running mates are Matt Kavanagh, a Navy veteran and environmental advocate, and Diya Patel, a law student and Parsippany Hills High School alumna. ​

Upcoming Debate
The League of Women Voters of the Morris Area, in collaboration with the Daily Record and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Morristown Alumnae Chapter, will host a virtual Republican mayoral debate on Thursday, May 15, at 7:00 p.m. The forum will be livestreamed and available later on the League’s YouTube channel. The deadline for residents to submit questions for the candidates has passed.

“League-sponsored events are strictly nonpartisan,” the debate announcement states. “The League does not support or oppose any political candidate or party.”

The most recent intra-party dispute occurred in March, when Mayor James Barberio and his allies on the Township Council attempted to censure Councilman Justin Musella. The proposed censure stemmed from an incident during a 2023 traffic stop, in which Musella’s wife presented his business card to a township police officer after being pulled over for speeding. The effort sparked significant public backlash, culminating in a packed council meeting that required rescheduling due to overwhelming attendance. Ultimately, the council voted down the resolution.

In a notable political shift earlier this year, Morris County Republican Chair Laura Ali—who had previously supported Musella—threw her support behind Barberio. The endorsement marked a sharp departure from her prior criticism, when she described Barberio as “the highest-paid and least-qualified mayor in Morris County.”

Musella declined Ali’s offer, saying, “Our campaign to end the cycle of corruption, over-taxation, and taxpayer-funded overdevelopment in Parsippany, once and for all, cannot be intimidated.”

The GOP council candidates currently have no plans to debate. Parikh and Bielen agreed to take part in a League of Women Voters forum, but Neglia and Shah declined.

Parsippany Focus will share the video of the debate when it becomes available.

Dear Editor:

Justin Musella is one of the most reliable individuals I’ve encountered in Parsippany. He is candid and genuine and always greets you with a warm hug. He has done a great deal for our residents, especially by clearly explaining local issues that deeply impact our quality of life here.

Justin is committed to improving our town and truly wants to make Parsippany great again. I especially acknowledge his efforts within the Indian and South Asian communities. Since meeting Justin, I’ve seen him actively participate in numerous town events, such as Holi, Garba, and other cultural and social gatherings that matter to South Asians in our community.

Casey Parikh and John Bielen have also been great resources in spreading awareness. I’ve had friendly and warm-hearted conversations with them, and they care deeply about our town and its future. That’s why getting out and voting is more important than ever.

They show up when you need them—and that’s the kind of new way.

Umang Shah 

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Girls Lacrosse Team invites the community to show its support by stopping by their upcoming car wash fundraiser on Saturday, May 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Parsippany High School.

For just $5.00—with additional donations gratefully accepted—residents can get their vehicles cleaned while backing a great cause. All proceeds will go toward senior scholarships and the team’s end-of-season banquet, helping recognize student-athletes for their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

The Parsippany Red Hawk Lacrosse Club is organizing the fundraiser. The club has long supported youth and school-level lacrosse programs in the township. For those unable to attend in person, donations can also be made via Venmo @Parsippany-RedHawk.

Events like these not only help raise funds, but also strengthen the bond between Parsippany’s student-athletes and the broader community.

Come out, support the Red Hawks, and leave with a cleaner car!

MORRIS COUNTY — Cancer has become one of the leading causes of death among pets in the United States, with approximately 6 million new cancer diagnoses made in dogs and a similar number in cats each year. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately 1 in 4 dogs and 1 in 5 cats will develop cancer during their lifetime. The risk increases significantly in older pets, with nearly 50% of dogs over the age of 10 developing some form of cancer. 

Pet owners are encouraged to be vigilant for signs of cancer, such as unexplained weight loss, lumps, or changes in behavior, and to consult their veterinarians promptly if any concerns arise. By staying informed and proactive, pet owners can play a vital role in ensuring their companions receive the best possible care.

Longevity Veterinary Center is proud to announce the launch of its new Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test, a personalized, proactive screening tool designed to assess the likelihood of cancer development in dogs and cats within the next 6 to 12 months. This initiative comes at a critical time, as cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among pets in the United States.

The Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test is a simple blood test that analyzes key health markers to provide a personalized risk score ranging from 0 to 10 unique to your pet. This score reflects your pet’s overall health and potential risk of developing cancer shortly. 

In recognition of May being Pet Cancer Awareness Month, Longevity Veterinary Center is offering this test in a special promotion available through June 30, 2025:

• New Clients: Comprehensive wellness exam and Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test for $249.
• Existing Clients: Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test for $149, provided the pet has had an annual or biannual exam within the past 12 months.

“Our goal is to empower pet owners with the knowledge and tools to detect potential health issues early,” said Dr. Gerald Buchoff, veterinarian at Longevity Veterinary Center. “By identifying cancer risks sooner, we can take proactive steps to ensure the well-being of our beloved pets.”

The Pet Cancer Risk Assessment Test is recommended for all dogs and cats over the age of 5 and breeds known to have a higher predisposition to cancer.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact Longevity Veterinary Center at (973) 606-1101.

Dear Editor:

When hiring someone, you look at their past to understand what kind of future you’re getting. Voting should be no different.

Elections don’t need to be nasty. Candidates should focus on their plans—not personal attacks. Please tell us how you’ll make life better. Show us you’re listening.

We need leaders who talk to people across town—seniors, parents, teachers, business owners—and learn what really matters. Leaders who make sure our tax dollars are spent wisely all year, not just at budget time. They keep what works, fix what doesn’t, and cut what we no longer need.

Parsippany’s future depends on innovative, honest leadership. That’s why I’m voting for Justin Musella.

I’ve known Justin for over six years. He’s consistent, hardworking, and shows up—on time, every time. He’s not afraid to face tough questions, even from those who disagree with him. He’s not in it for favors—he’s in it to serve.

Justin listens, follows through, is organized, professional, honest, and truly committed to our community. He’s grown local Republican organizations, stepped up when needed, and always takes responsibility. That’s leadership.

Supporting Justin doesn’t mean I dislike the other candidate. I believe Justin Musella is the right person for the job—now.

He will represent all of us—not just his friends, not just a select few—but every resident in Parsippany. That’s what civic responsibility looks like, and that’s what we need in our next Mayor.

Susy Golderer

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Department has issued an urgent traffic advisory as milling and paving operations are set to begin on Monday, May 12, along a busy stretch of North Beverwyck Road, from Claudine Terrace near Foodtown to the Lake Shore Drive area.

Drivers can expect lane shifts and possible detours throughout the project. The roadwork is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements in the area and is expected to cause minor disruptions to traffic flow.

Despite the construction, all businesses along North Beverwyck Road will remain accessible, and officers will be on-site to assist with traffic and ensure safety for both motorists and pedestrians.

Motorists should allow extra travel time and caution when traveling through the construction zone.

Further updates will be provided as the project progresses.

PARSIPPANY — The Department of Transportation (DOT) substation on Route 202 (Littleton Road across from Kingston Road) received a significant upgrade this week that will please residents.

The DOT began reforesting the area, which had been a constant complaint of many residents. Councilman Musella met with the DOT in August 2024 to address the concerns of operating hours, machinery stationed, and reforesting the area. 

After many months of follow-up and planning, it was decided that a May planting would occur after the risk of frost faded.

Resident Karl Journey of Lake Parsippany, who spearheaded the initiative, said, “I want to thank Councilman Musella for taking the initiative on fixing the eyesore of the DOT substation. I complained to previous administrations about this issue going back to 2017, and nobody did anything.” 

PARSIPPANY — New Jersey families can now receive extra help feeding their children this summer through a new Summer EBT initiative. The program provides $120 in food benefits per eligible child, offering critical nutritional support when school is out.

Summer EBT is part of a federal effort to reduce child hunger during summer, when access to free or reduced-price school meals is unavailable. Benefits can be used at any location that accepts SNAP/EBT, including grocery stores, farmers markets, and other participating retailers.

The program is automatic for many families already enrolled in SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. Others may need to apply to receive benefits.

To find out if your child qualifies and to learn more about how to access benefits, visit NJ.gov/SummerEBT. The state also distributes promotional materials with a QR code linking to the program website.

With food prices rising, the Summer EBT program offers a much-needed resource to help ensure every child has access to healthy meals throughout the summer break.

Dear Editor:

It’s been 16 months since the PILOT projects were approved by the Town Council in January 2024, despite the citizens of Parsippany’s objections. At this week’s Town Council meeting, Mayor Barberio announced that a Memo of Understanding (MOU) related to the PILOT projects was sent to the Parsippany BOE. 

During the public meeting, Mayor Barberio disclosed several features of the proposed MOU. Possibly the most critical point he made is that the submitted MOU only includes PILOT projects approved in 2024 and does not include previous PILOT projects that he did not negotiate. This precludes 1515 Route 10, which is currently being occupied. While the number of students so far from that project is small, demographic projections suggest that over 200 students could come from this one property.

The Mayor correctly points out that the increase in tax revenue for the school district is capped at 2% per year, regardless of the change in ratables. However, he is profoundly mistaken in thinking there will be no impact on the school district. The school district will absorb the cost of educating children from 1515 Route 10.  At an average price per student of $20K to $25K, 200 students would result in an additional unfunded cost of $4 to $5 million annually. That the Mayor did not negotiate the 1515 Route 10 PILOT agreement is wholly irrelevant since the school district will still educate those children.  This arrangement will inevitably result in increased class sizes and reduced resources. While the Mayor made his announcement, several parents at the Board of Education meeting spoke up to voice their legitimate concerns over substantial class sizes.  Assuming the MOU portrayed by the Mayor eventually results in an actual shared revenue contract, no funds to the school will be forthcoming related to 1515 Route 10.  

Interestingly, the Proposed Town Budget did not include additional money for PILOT Revenue sharing.  That indicates the Town does not anticipate additional funds to the school district above the normal tax levy plus 2%. As has been previously pointed out, additional unfunded expenses of at least $4 to $5 million, EVERY YEAR for the next 30 years, will arguably devastatingly impact the school system, especially given anticipated systemic losses resulting from the mismatch of inflation combined with the 2% revenue cap.

Jack S. Raia

PARSIPPANY—BAPS Charities will bring its annual “Spirit of Service: Walk-Run” to Parsippany on Sunday, June 1. Over 300 participants will unite to support two vital regional healthcare institutions: Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Morristown Medical Center and the Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute.

The event will begin at 3 Entin Road and draw walkers and runners of all ages, including local leaders, first responders, and community advocates. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James R. Barberio is among the notable guests scheduled to attend.

This annual Walk-Run is part of a national initiative by BAPS Charities, which spans over 100 cities across North America, emphasizing unity, community service, and support for critical causes. Participants in Parsippany will help raise funds and awareness for Carol G. Simon Cancer Center’s mission to provide comprehensive and integrated cancer care, and for Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute’s efforts to deliver state-of-the-art heart care using advanced technology and clinical expertise.

The event also reflects BAPS Charities’ broader commitment to health, education, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian relief. Beyond the Walk-Run, the organization has supported food and blood drives, toy collections, and global disaster relief efforts, including aid during the Los Angeles wildfires and hurricanes Milton and Helene.

For over two decades, BAPS Charities has organized more than 1,000 walks across North America, creating lasting impacts in communities by fostering service, compassion, and social responsibility.

Registration is open, and all are encouraged to participate. Sign up at bapscharities.org.

Learn more about the organization’s work at bapscharities.org.