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The Assassination of the Commercial Market by COVID-19

By
Daniel S. C assese, CTA, SCGREA
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0
PARQ is one of the many residential properties formerly in the Lanidex Office Complex

PARSIPPANY — The residual effects of COVID -19 are still negatively affecting the commercial market. During the three-year period from March 2020 to May 2023 most employees were forced to work from home. The pandemic forced business meetings to be held virtually through multiple online platforms. In the years leading up to COVID-19, many real estate professionals and appraisers predicted a virtual workforce, but COVID-19 seemed to make it occur overnight. Due to this, many office buildings remained unoccupied, and some have already been demolished for apartments and warehouse buildings.

Prior to COVID-19, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township had a very active 12,000,000 square feet of office space, second only to the City of Newark, with many companies having their corporate headquarters located in Parsippany. During the last two years, 20 office buildings containing over 3,000,000 square feet of office space were scheduled or already have been demolished. One of these buildings, 8 Wood Hollow Road, was recently converted into a 101-room boutique hotel – Troy Hotel. In addition, over 2,000 new luxury apartments including PARQ, The Lexica, The Lawrence, District 1515, Ballentine Greens and Avalon Bay have either been completed or are under construction on vacant sites where office buildings once stood. There are seven warehouse buildings containing over 1,100,000 square feet, that are also planned or nearing completion on sites previously used as office space. There is even a Topgolf under construction which is scheduled to open June 2026, on Route 46 East where two office buildings once stood. In addition, over the last 12 months the Township Council approved numerous properties to be “In Need of Redevelopment”, eight of which were buildings containing over 600,000 square feet of office space.

This reduction in office space has also had a direct effect on the hotel market. With most meetings now being held virtually, in-person meetings have been reduced significantly, therefore there is less reason for business travelers to rent hotel rooms. Hotel occupancy rates have seen an increase since 2020 but they are still lower than pre–COVID-19 occupancy rates.

During the past year many companies have been requiring their employees to Return-To-Work (RTW). Some private companies are also beginning a hybrid schedule, with employees working 3 to 4 days in the office and one or two days from home. As of today, most New Jersey State office employees are required to work three days in the office and two from home. Companies like AT&T, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Tesla, Amazon, Home Depot, PNC Bank and others are going a step further requiring their employees to return to the office for the full five-day work week. Company executives feel that a return-to work policy will help boost employee productivity, while also allowing longer term employees the chance to mentor new employees. This new work schedule will eventually have a positive effect on the office market.

During COVID-19 (March 2020 to May 2023) the retail market was also hit hard since most of the retail shopping was done online. Many regional malls have already been forced to close and many more are having problems. This has led to the rise in the warehouse market, which explains why so many new warehouse buildings are being built. Major retail companies use local warehouses to store popular inventory closer to consumers. This is where the term “Last mile Delivery” came from. Some warehouses are being branded as Modern Logistic Facilities. They begin as National warehousing, then Regional warehousing and finally Urban warehousing which are located near consumers for the final delivery point. Many retailers are now guaranteeing overnight delivery, so it is very important that they have storage facilities in close proximity to consumers. New planned or under construction warehouse buildings, located in Parsippany, having a total square footage of over 1,114,000 are listed below on sites where office buildings are listed below on sites where over 1,101,000 square feet of vacant office buildings once stood.

1 Hilton Court was a 172,000 square foot office building constructed in 1990 and was occupied by Diachii Sanko pharmacy company. It has been demolished, and a new 122,664 square foot warehouse building is nearing completion to be occupied by US Auto Force.

7 Campus Drive was a 154,395 square foot office building constructed in 1982 and was occupied by Nabisco Brands in the 1990’s. It has now been demolished for a new 128,150 square foot warehouse building.

9 Sylvan Way was a 60,111 square foot office building constructed in 1983. It has been demolished for a new 67,219 square foot warehouse building.

3 Century Drive was a 71,941 square foot office building constructed in 1981. It has been demolished for a new 64,800 square foot warehouse building.

8 Lanidex Plaza was a 56,230 square foot office building constructed in 1980 and was previously occupied by Silox. It has been demolished for a new 140,031 square foot warehouse building.

169 Lackawanna Avenue was a 256,750 square foot office building constructed in 2001 and was originally occupied by New York Life Insurance. It has been demolished for a new 281,198 square foot warehouse building.

4 Wood Hollow Road is a 329,940 square foot office building constructed in 1980 that was granted approval to demolish the building and build a new 310,168 square foot warehouse building.

In Parsippany-Troy Hills Township there have been a few bright spots in the office market with companies leaving older office buildings and moving into office buildings that offer employee amenities such as fitness centers, cafes etc. This trend is known as renovation driven leasing. These moves have accounted for the recent leasing of over 330,000 square feet of office space.

Some examples of these are:

8 Sylvan Way – B & G Foods leased 31,000 square feet and Day Pitney leased 56,000 square feet
3 Sylvan Way – Acrisure Insurance leased 42,800 square feet
5 Sylvan Way – Porzio, Bromberg, & Newman leased 39,600 square feet.
4 Campus Drive – Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost & Botwinik leased 26,700 square feet and Summit Financial expanded their office area to a total occupancy of 42,000 square feet.
1 Sylvan Way – PBF Holding Company expanded their lease to include a total of 69,200 square feet
9 Entin Road – Provident Bank leased 23,000 square feet.

Other highlights include:

1269 Route 46 – a new 67,000 square feet Topgolf facility is scheduled to open in June of this year.
8 Wood Hollow Road – was once a 50,700 square-foot office building and it has now been converted into a 101-room boutique hotel to be branded as Troy Hotel by Wyndham.
6A Sylvan Way – a 100,000 square foot Lifetime athletic club is currently under construction is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2027.

Within the 25 square mile area of the Township, major highways intersect throughout the Township including Interstate 80, Interstate 287, Route 46, Route 10, Route 202 and Route 53. The Township offers easy access to major highways for companies looking to move to Parsippany -Troy Hills which has resulted in recent commercial growth.

Cassese, who has more than 47 years of experience in tax assessment and real estate appraisal, currently serves as the Tax Assessor for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.

Joint Venture Set to Break Ground on 281,000-Square-Foot Industrial Project at 169 Lackawanna Avenue

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
Greek Real Estate Partners, in a joint venture with The Hampshire Cos. and third-party capital and advised by Principal Asset Management, are developing a 281,215-square-foot industrial project at 169 Lackawanna Ave. in Parsippany, with substantial completion slated for early 2027.

PARSIPPANY — A joint venture is preparing to break ground on more than 281,000 square feet of new industrial space in Parsippany, in a project that will redevelop a former office property at 169 Lackawanna Avenue.

Greek Real Estate Partners said it is preparing for vertical construction at the site as part of a newly formed partnership with The Hampshire Cos. and third-party capital advised by Principal Asset Management. The move follows a $49 million recapitalization announced last week, along with a $30 million construction loan from Provident Bank.

The 281,215-square-foot warehouse will mark a new chapter for a site with a varied history, having served nearly a century ago as a candy and chocolate plant before becoming a data center for New York Life and, most recently, operating as a multitenant office building.

GREP acquired the then-occupied office building in 2023 and guided it through redevelopment and re-entitlement.

“We are excited to continue growing our presence in the Parsippany market and to redevelop this property alongside outstanding new partners,” said Alex Motiuk, director of acquisitions for Greek Real Estate Partners. “Few sites tell a story like 169 Lackawanna Ave. We are proud to carry it into its next chapter as a modern, highly functional industrial facility built for the users driving demand across the region.”

GREP acquired the then-occupied office building in 2023 and guided it through redevelopment and re-entitlement. The firm’s Greek Design|Build affiliate, serving as general contractor, has completed demolition and site clearing, putting the project on track for substantial completion in the first quarter of 2027.

Plans call for 40-foot clear heights, a 2,500-square-foot speculative office, 39 loading docks, two drive-in ramps and 3,000-amp, three-phase, 480/277-volt electrical service, along with parking for 144 cars and 30 trailers. The features are intended to support a range of industrial users, including those focused on regional distribution, last-mile delivery and supply chain operations, amid limited availability of modern Class A industrial space in that size range.

“We are pleased to partner with Greek Real Estate Partners and Principal Asset Management on the redevelopment of 169 Lackawanna Avenue, a project that reflects our continued conviction in northern New Jersey’s industrial market,” said Christopher Jon Imperatore of The Hampshire Cos. “It is especially exciting to collaborate with Greek, as both Greek and the Hanson families have been doing business in New Jersey for over 100 years.”

Imperatore added that with new supply constrained and demand for modern logistics space remaining strong, the partners believe the project is well-positioned to deliver a high-quality facility and long-term value in a tightening market.

Ryan Greer, vice president of commercial lending at Provident Bank, said the bank is pleased to support an experienced ownership and development group as it advances a market-leading Class A project.

Cushman & Wakefield’s John Alascio, TJ Sullivan, Chuck Kohaut and Nick Scibelli sourced the joint venture equity and debt for the transaction. KBC Advisors’ Marc Petrella, Andrew Siemsen and Sean Kelly are leading the leasing team for the property, which sits minutes from interstates 80 and 287 and routes 46 and 10.

The site is within a one-hour drive of more than 11 million consumers and benefits from proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport and the Port of New York and New Jersey, positioning it to serve last-mile, regional and national distribution users across northern New Jersey, New York City and the broader Northeast.

“We are proud to have arranged the full stack of financing for this exciting project on behalf of the outstanding Greek Real Estate Partners organization,” said Alascio, executive vice chair at Cushman. “169 Lackawanna Ave. will offer state-of-the-art industrial space in an infill, labor-dense northern New Jersey submarket.”

The Assassination of the Commercial Market by COVID-19

By
Daniel S. C assese, CTA, SCGREA
-
0
The Smyth at District 15Fifteen, Parsippany's newest luxury apartment building, welcomes residents with modern design, upscale amenities, and retail just steps away.

PARSIPPANY — The residual effects of COVID-19 are still negatively affecting the commercial market. During the three-year period from March 2020 to May 2023 most employees were forced to work from home. The pandemic forced business meetings to be held virtually through multiple online platforms. In the years leading up to COVID-19, many real estate professionals and appraisers predicted a virtual workforce, but COVID-19 seemed to make it occur overnight. Due to this, many office buildings remained unoccupied, and some have already been demolished for apartments and warehouse buildings.

Prior to COVID-19, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township had a very active 12,000,000 square feet of office space, second only to the City of Newark, with many companies having their corporate headquarters located in Parsippany. During the last two years, 20 office buildings containing over 3,000,000 square feet of office space were scheduled or already have been demolished. One of these buildings, 8 Wood Hollow Road, was recently converted into a 101-room boutique hotel – Troy Hotel. In addition, over 2,000 new luxury apartments including PARQ, The Lexica, The Lawrence, District 1515, Ballentine Greens and Avalon Bay have either been completed or are under construction on vacant sites where office buildings once stood. There are seven warehouse buildings containing over 1,100,000 square feet, that are also planned or nearing completion on sites previously used as office space. There is even a Topgolf under construction which is scheduled to open July 2026, on Route 46 East where three office buildings once stood. In addition, over the last 12 months the Township Council approved numerous properties to be “In Need of Redevelopment”, eight of which were buildings containing over 600,000 square feet of office space.

This reduction in office space has also had a direct effect on the hotel market. With most meetings now being held virtually, in-person meetings have been reduced significantly, therefore there is less reason for business travelers to rent hotel rooms. Hotel occupancy rates have seen an increase since 2020 but they are still lower than pre-COVID-19 occupancy rates.

During the past year many companies have been requiring their employees to Return-To-Work (RTW). Some private companies are also beginning a hybrid schedule, with employees working 3 to 4 days in the office and one or two days from home. As of today, most New Jersey State office employees are required to work three days in the office and two from home. Companies like AT&T, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Tesla, Amazon, Home Depot, PNC Bank and others are going a step further requiring their employees to return to the office for the full five-day work week. Company executives feel that a return-to-work policy will help boost employee productivity, while also allowing longer term employees the chance to mentor new employees. This new work schedule will eventually have a positive effect on the office market.

During COVID-19 (March 2020 to May 2023) the retail market was also hit hard since most of the retail shopping was done online. Many regional malls have already been forced to close and many more are having problems. This has led to the rise in the warehouse market, which explains why so many new warehouse buildings are being built. Major retail companies use local warehouses to store popular inventory closer to consumers. This is where the term “Last mile Delivery” came from. Some warehouses are being branded as Modern Logistic Facilities. They begin as National warehousing, then Regional warehousing and finally Urban warehousing which are located near consumers for the final delivery point. Many retailers are now guaranteeing overnight delivery, so it is very important that they have storage facilities in close proximity to consumers. New planned or under construction warehouse buildings, located in Parsippany, having a total square footage of over 1,114,000 are listed below on sites where over 1,101,000 square feet of vacant office buildings once stood.

The former Daiichi Sankyo building at Two Hilton Court

2 Hilton Court was a 172,000 square foot office building constructed in 1990 and was occupied by Diachii Sanko pharmaceutical company. It has been demolished, and a new 122,664 square foot warehouse building is completed, now occupied by US Auto Force.

Seven Campus Drive served as a former location of Centenary College.

7 Campus Drive was a 154,395 square foot office building constructed in 1982 and was occupied by Nabisco Brands in the 1990’s. It has now been demolished for a new 128,150 square foot warehouse building.

Originally occupied by General Motors, 9 Sylvan Way is a 60,111-square-foot, three-story office building that was built in 1988

9 Sylvan Way was a 60,111 square foot office building constructed in 1983. It has been demolished for a new 67,219 square foot warehouse building.

3 Century Drive was demolished

3 Century Drive was a 71,941 square foot office building constructed in 1981. It has been demolished for a new 64,800 square foot warehouse building.

8 Lanidex Plaza was a 56,230 square foot office building constructed in 1980 and was previously occupied by Silox. It has been demolished for a new 140,031 square foot warehouse building.

169 Lackawanna Avenue

169 Lackawanna Avenue was a 256,750 square foot office building constructed in 2001 and was originally occupied by New York Life Insurance. It has been demolished for a new 281,198 square foot warehouse building.

5 Wood Hollow Road

5 Wood Hollow Road is a 329,940 square foot office building constructed in 1980 that was granted approval to demolish the building and build a new 310,168 square foot warehouse building.

In Parsippany-Troy Hills Township there have been a few bright spots in the office market with companies leaving older office buildings and moving into office buildings that offer employee amenities such as fitness centers, cafes etc. This trend is known as renovation driven leasing. These moves have accounted for the recent leasing of over 330,000 square feet of office space.

Some examples of these are:

8 Sylvan Way – B & G Foods leased 31,000 square feet and Day Pitney leased 56,000 square feet

3 Sylvan Way – Acrisure Insurance leased 42,800 square feet

5 Sylvan Way – Porzio, Bromberg, & Newman leased 39,600 square feet.

4 Campus Drive – Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost & Botwinik leased 26,700 square feet and Summit Financial expanded their office area to a total occupancy of 42,000 square feet.

1 Sylvan Way – PBF Holding Company expanded their lease to include a total of 69,200 square feet

9 Entin Road – Provident Bank leased 23,000 square feet.

Other highlights include:

1269 Route 46 – a new 67,000 square feet Topgolf facility is scheduled to open in July of this year.

8 Wood Hollow Road – was once a 50,700 square-foot office building and it has now been converted into a 101-room boutique hotel to be branded as Troy Hotel by Wyndham.

6A Sylvan Way – was once a 215,535 square foot office building occupied by Avis/Budget. The site received approvals to demolish the office building and construct a 100,000 square foot Lifetime Athletic Club; which is currently under construction and is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2027.

4 Gatehall Drive is a 247,579 square foot office building constructed in 1989. On June 1, 2026, Toll Brothers was granted approvals to demolish the existing four-story office building and build 178 stacked and non-stacked luxury townhomes for sale (142 Market units and 36 Affordable housing units).

It is my professional opinion that after taking into consideration all the repositioning of existing vacant office buildings into apartment and warehouse buildings and all the future Township approved repositioning of existing vacant office buildings, I feel that the stabilized office vacancy rate for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township is 12.5%.

Within the 25 square mile area of the Township, major highways intersect throughout the Township including Interstate 80, Interstate 287, Route 46, Route 10, Route 202 and Route 53. The Township offers easy access to major highways for companies looking to move to Parsippany-Troy Hills which has resulted in recent commercial growth.

Daniel S. Cassese is tax assessor of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, is a professional, with over 47 years of experience in the field of tax assessment and real estate appraisal.

Topgolf to Open New Route 46 Location on July 3

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
The nearly completed three-level Topgolf facility in Parsippany features more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bar, private event spaces, a golf shop, and interactive technology-driven games. The entertainment complex is expected to open later this summer at 1269 Route 46.

PARSIPPANY — Topgolf will open its newest New Jersey location in Parsippany on July 3, bringing the sports and entertainment company’s latest venue design to Morris County just in time for the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Located at 1269 Route 46 near the intersection of Interstate 80 and Interstate 287, the three-level facility will be Topgolf’s third New Jersey location, joining existing venues in Edison and Mount Laurel. The Parsippany site will also be the company’s 102nd venue nationwide.

The three-level Parsippany Topgolf complex will offer more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays equipped with ball-tracking technology that allows guests to compete in a variety of interactive golf games. In addition to the golf experience, the venue will feature a full-service restaurant and bar, private event spaces, numerous televisions, and a retail golf shop. Designed for golfers and non-golfers alike, the facility combines sports, dining, and entertainment in a social atmosphere suitable for families, friends, and corporate gatherings. When it opens later this summer, Topgolf is expected to become one of the largest entertainment destinations in Morris County.

The venue is expected to employ approximately 350 to 400 people and will serve as the first location to showcase Topgolf’s newest prototype design, featuring enhanced entertainment options and personalized technology.

“We’re thrilled to debut the latest Topgolf sports and entertainment concept to Parsippany, expanding our presence in New Jersey,” said David McKillips, Topgolf CEO. “As the ultimate sports and entertainment leader, Topgolf is a gateway to golf for many first-time players, and we’ve now expanded our entertainment offering and technology personalization to welcome guests and players of all ages and skills.”

Among the new features is “My Bay, My Way,” a personalized experience available through the Topgolf mobile app. Guests will be able to customize their visit by ordering food directly to their bay, selecting television channels and saving game highlights.

The Parsippany venue will feature 102 climate-controlled hitting bays spread across three levels, along with lounge-style seating, a full-service restaurant and bar, private event spaces, a rooftop terrace and outdoor social areas.

Additional attractions include 20 arcade games, reimagined outfield targets and slopes, and more than 250 television screens throughout the facility.

The location will also include 24 dedicated game-day suites, significantly more than the typical number offered at other Topgolf venues. Each suite is designed to provide an immersive sports-viewing experience with multiple large-screen displays.

To celebrate the opening, Topgolf is offering several promotions. Guests who book and complete a one- or two-bay reservation between July 3 and July 17 will automatically be entered for a chance to win one year of free game play at the Parsippany location. In addition, the first 100 guests to visit on opening day will receive a $50 Topgolf gift card courtesy of Honda and Acura.

Topgolf officials said the new venue is designed to appeal to golfers of all skill levels, from first-time players to experienced golfers. The company’s Toptracer technology tracks each shot’s flight, distance and accuracy in real time, creating a competitive and interactive experience.

Reservations and additional information are available through the Topgolf website at topgolf.com/parsippany and the Topgolf mobile app.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Awarded $134,006 in State Recycling Grant

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills has been awarded $134,006 as part of $16.2 million in annual grants the Sherrill administration is distributing statewide to help communities improve recycling and waste reduction programs, the state Department of Environmental Protection announced.

The grants are based on the amount of recycling each community reported in 2023, the most recent year for which data is available.

Local recycling programs may use the funding to improve recycling centers, hold household hazardous waste collection events, add public recycling receptacles, maintain leaf composting operations and support recycling education programs.

“New Jersey is a national leader in conserving natural resources through strong local recycling programs that reduce pollution, create jobs and support a multi-billion-dollar recycling industry,” said Acting Commissioner Ed Potosnak. “These annual grants enable communities to grow and improve their programs while educating residents about the importance of recycling properly.”

The grants are funded through a $3-per-ton surcharge on trash disposed of at solid waste facilities statewide under the state’s Recycling Enhancement Act.

According to the DEP, New Jersey generated 21.7 million tons of solid waste in 2023, including municipal solid waste and non-municipal waste such as construction debris. Of that amount, 11.5 million tons were recycled, resulting in an overall recycling rate of 53%, a 1 percentage point decrease from the previous year.

The state recycled 3.4 million tons of municipal solid waste and disposed of 6.1 million tons, for a municipal solid waste recycling rate of 36%, down 2 percentage points from 2022.

DEP officials said each New Jersey resident, on average, disposed of 3.5 pounds of waste and recycled 2.1 pounds each day.

Parsippany-Troy Hills was among several municipalities statewide to receive grants of more than $100,000, a group that also included Newark, Jersey City, Edison, Woodbridge, Clifton, Paterson, Toms River, Lakewood and Vineland.

The DEP said New Jersey’s recycling industry contributes about $6 billion annually to the state economy and employs nearly 27,000 people.

Residents are encouraged to use the Recycle Coach app to check local recycling and trash collection schedules and learn what materials can be recycled in their communities.

New Jersey Senate Passes Bill Creating Crime of Political Violence

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
Senator Douglas J. Steinhardt

TRENTON — The New Jersey Senate has approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sen. Doug Steinhardt and Sen. Brian Stack that would create a new criminal offense for acts of political violence and require specialized training for law enforcement officers.

The measure, Senate Bill 1090, would establish the crime of political violence when a person commits, attempts to commit or conspires to commit a violent crime against an individual, a family member or another victim with the intent to interfere with or retaliate against a person because of that individual’s political affiliation or political expression.

Supporters of the legislation said the bill is intended to address politically motivated violence and intimidation while protecting participation in the democratic process.

“This political violence bill protects everyone—Conservative, Liberal, and Independent,” said Sen. Steinhardt, R-Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren. “No person should fear hate-fueled political violence for expressing their opinion, and anyone who resorts to such violence to silence that opinion will suffer the full weight of the law. Hate-fueled political violence hurts everyone and erodes the very principles on which our Republic was built.”

Steinhardt and Stack, a Democrat representing Hudson County, introduced the legislation on a bipartisan basis.

“I’m proud to stand with Doug on this critical legislation and will do everything I can to help move it through the legislative process,” said Sen. Stack. “Politically motivated violence is an attack on the foundation of our democracy. No one in this country should live in fear for speaking their mind, and elected officials must be able to govern free from threats, harassment, or attempts to silence them for their beliefs. This bill protects people’s rights to participate in our democracy freely and without fear. By imposing tougher penalties, we are making it clear: if you use violence to punish, deter, or silence a victim from engaging in political expression or participation, there will be consequences. Enough is enough; this kind of behavior has no place in a free society.”

In addition to creating the offense, the bill would require law enforcement training related to identifying and investigating politically motivated acts of violence.

The legislation now advances for further consideration in the state Legislature.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools Honors Teachers of the Year, Retirees, and 25-Year Staff Members

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools recently celebrated a group of outstanding educators and staff members whose dedication, service, and commitment have helped shape generations of students throughout the district.

The recognition ceremony honored the district’s Teachers of the Year, retiring staff members, and employees who have reached the remarkable milestone of 25 years of service in education.

District officials expressed their gratitude to the honorees, noting that their hard work, passion, and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact on students, families, colleagues, and the community as a whole.

Teachers of the Year were recognized for their excellence in the classroom, innovative teaching practices, and commitment to helping students achieve their full potential. Retiring educators and staff members were celebrated for careers devoted to guiding and inspiring young minds, while 25-year service recipients were honored for their decades-long commitment to education and student success.

“Today we celebrate the dedicated educators who have shaped countless lives and built the foundation of our community’s future,” district officials said. “We are honored to recognize our retiring teachers for their years of service, those reaching the milestone of 25 years in education, and our exceptional Teachers of the Year. Thank you for your commitment, passion, and the lasting impact you’ve made on students, families, and our entire school district.”

The event served as a reminder of the important role educators play in the lives of students and the enduring influence they have on future generations. Through their dedication and service, these honorees have helped strengthen the Parsippany-Troy Hills school community and continue the district’s tradition of educational excellence.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education to Meet June 23rd

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
Frank A. Calabria Education Center

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Calabria Education Center, 292 Parsippany Road, Parsippany.

The Board will convene in closed executive session at 5:30 p.m. to conduct the annual performance review and summary conference of the Superintendent of Schools. No action will be taken in public during the closed session.

The regular public session will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will include personnel matters, award of bids, payment of bills, transfer of funds, and general business items.

The Superintendent’s Bulletin is available on the district’s website at pthsd.k12.nj.us.

Governor Sherrill Signs Legislation to Improve Access to School Meal Programs

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
Governor Mikie Sherrill

TRENTON — Governor Mikie Sherrill has signed legislation requiring public schools to prominently display information about free and reduced-price school meal programs on their websites, making it easier for eligible families to access the benefits.

The new law (A3882/S3426) requires schools to post a link to the subsidized school meals application in a visible location on their website, along with a link to at least one informational video produced by the New Jersey Office of the Food Security Advocate.

Of the 689,149 students currently eligible for free and reduced-price school meals in New Jersey, 456,705 are directly certified — meaning they qualify automatically through enrollment in other assistance programs such as Medicaid or SNAP, with no additional paperwork required.

“Every child deserves access to nutritious meals, whether they are in the classroom or at home during the summer,” said Governor Sherrill. “This legislation will make it easier for families to find and access school meal programs by ensuring information is readily available when they need it.”

Governor Sherrill also announced that more than 681,000 eligible children across the state will begin receiving Summer EBT benefits in the coming days. The NJ Summer EBT program provides families with a one-time benefit of $120 per eligible child to purchase food at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized retailers during the summer months.

Families seeking to apply for school meals or Summer EBT benefits should contact their local school district. For eligibility information click here to visit the state’s Summer EBT portal.

Pennacchio, Bucco Bill Connecting Students to Firefighter Service Passes Senate

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
Senator Joe Pennachio

TRENTON — The New Jersey Senate has passed legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-Morris, Passaic) and Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-Morris, Passaic) aimed at addressing the state’s firefighter shortage by allowing high school students to earn health, safety, and physical education credits through completion of a county fire academy course.

To be eligible, a student must:

  • Be between the ages of 16 and 18
  • Complete an examination to become a junior firefighter, or equivalent
  • Commit to volunteering at their local fire department for two years

“New Jersey communities depend on firefighters to keep families safe, but departments across the state are struggling to recruit the next generation of firefighters,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “By allowing junior firefighters to receive health, safety, and physical education credits, we are promoting valuable educational opportunities for students outside the classroom while strengthening the pipeline of future first responders.”

“Encouraging young people to become junior firefighters not only helps address the first responder shortage, it also provides a hands-on learning experience that builds leadership, responsibility, and a commitment to community service,” said Sen. Bucco. “This bill takes a creative approach to recruitment by recognizing the real-world training and physical demands of firefighting as part of a student’s education.”

The full text of the bill, S-1343, is available by clicking here.

CCM Trustee Paul R. Licitra Receives Prestigious Statewide Leadership Award

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
County College of Morris Board of Trustees Chair Paul R. Licitra has been honored with the Ronald D. Winthers Trustee Leadership Award at the 2026 New Jersey Community College Awards, presented by the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC), on June 10, 2026.

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) Board of Trustees Chair Paul R. Licitra has been honored with the Ronald D. Winthers Trustee Leadership Award at the 2026 New Jersey Community College Awards, presented by the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC).

The award recognizes trustees whose extraordinary leadership, service, and advocacy have advanced the mission of community colleges and expanded opportunities for students. The annual awards celebrate excellence across New Jersey’s 18 community colleges, honoring individuals and organizations whose vision and leadership have strengthened communities statewide.

“I am deeply honored to receive this award, but the true reward has always been seeing students achieve their goals and build brighter futures for themselves and their families,” said Licitra. “Community colleges create opportunities that change lives every day. It has been a privilege to serve County College of Morris alongside dedicated trustees, administrators, faculty, staff and community partners who share a commitment to student success.”

Licitra has distinguished himself through decades of public service and an unwavering commitment to student success. A Vietnam veteran himself, he has been a passionate advocate for those who have served in the military. His support of CCM’s Veterans Resource Center has contributed to a 194 percent increase in veteran enrollment since its opening.

He was also instrumental in securing funding for four new facilities supporting high-demand programs in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and culinary science — expanding career pathways for students while addressing critical workforce needs throughout Morris County and New Jersey. Licitra is also a familiar presence at student performances, athletic competitions, and commencement ceremonies.

“Paul exemplifies the very best of community college leadership,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of County College of Morris. “His dedication to our students, veterans and community has helped shape the college’s growth and success. Whether advocating for transformative facilities or simply showing up to support students, Paul leads with passion, integrity and an unwavering belief in the power of education.”

For more information about CCM, visit www.ccm.edu.

Mountain Lakes Man Charged with DWI Following Traffic Stop in Parsippany

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

PARSIPPANY — A Mountain Lakes man was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated following a late-night traffic stop on Route 46 West, according to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department.

On April 8, 2026, at approximately 11:10 p.m., Ptl. Jesse Hughes observed a grey 2021 Audi Q7 make a left turn from Parsippany Boulevard onto Route 46 West while a red left turn arrow was illuminated, nearly striking another vehicle that had a green light. Hughes activated his emergency lights and conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 46 West, just prior to Waterview Boulevard. The vehicle took an unusually long time to pull over. Ptl. Ribaudo responded to assist.

Upon making contact with the driver, identified as Ronald S. Kramer, 66, of Mountain Lakes, Hughes noted signs of impairment. Kramer provided both a New Jersey and a New York driver’s license and fumbled while attempting to produce his registration and insurance card. Body worn camera footage was recorded throughout the stop.

Kramer was charged with the following:

  • Operating under the influence of liquor or drugs (39:4-50)
  • Consent to take samples of breath, record (39:4-50.2)
  • Refusal to submit to chemical test, penalties (39:4-50.4A)
  • Failure to observe a traffic control device (39:4-81)
  • Reckless driving (39:4-96)

The report was filed by Ptl. Jesse Hughes, Badge #479, and reviewed by Ptl. Gregory Bloete, Badge #476. The incident was assigned report number 26-019287.

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi Addresses Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi

PARSIPPANY — Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi recently spoke at a meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, covering a range of programs and services available to Morris County residents.

Grossi highlighted the county’s Property Fraud Alert program, which notifies property owners if any documents are recorded against their property — an important tool in protecting against deed fraud.

She also discussed the Morris County Senior Identification Card program, which provides seniors with an official form of identification, as well as Veteran ID Cards, recognizing the service of local veterans.

Additional topics included deed alerts, voter registration resources, and Operation Giveback, a program aimed at returning unclaimed assets to Morris County residents.

Residents interested in any of these programs can visit the Morris County Clerk’s website at www.morriscountyclerk.org for more information.

For more information about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, visit www.parsippanykiwanis.org.

Kiwanis Club of Denville Hosts Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Kiwanis Club of Denville will host a Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, June 21, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Gardner Field, 2 Savage Road, Denville.

The breakfast menu includes pancakes, eggs, and sausage for just $10.00 per person. Proceeds benefit the Kiwanis Club of Denville, which has been funding programs for the youth of Denville for over 75 years.

Founded in 1946, the Kiwanis Club of Denville continues its longstanding tradition of community service through events like this one.

Letter to the Editor: Parsippany Charged $4 Million to Repair Developer-owned Roads at Glenmont

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Letters to the Editor
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Dear Editor:

The Parsippany Town Council recently approved Resolution R2026-124 which authorizes the settlement of Parsippany’s lawsuit against Glenmont Commons Developers. Since the settlement was a product of mediation, the township had little choice but to accept the result – one that is highly unfavorable to the taxpayers. But accepting the settlement does not mean that the council cannot make amendments to the resolution that will protect Parsippany from a similar outcome in the future, and that will distribute the financial burden a little more equitably.

According to the terms of the settlement, Glenmont Commons shall pay $386,000 and Glenmont Commons Homeowners $125,000 toward the project of repairing the designated roads. Parsippany is responsible for all the work required to reconstruct these roads, as well as for providing any funding that exceeds the amount being paid by the developer and the homeowners.

The exact amount assessed to Parsippany was left unspecified in resolution R2026-124, but an estimate for the price tag of the entire project was provided at the October 22, 2024 town council meeting. At the 9-minute 20 second mark of that meeting, township attorney Michael Lavery stated that the cost to fully reconstruct the roads in question would be about $4.8 million. That leaves Parsippany taxpayers responsible for about $4.3 million of the total.

 Stated another way on a percentage basis, the entity that owns the property, Glenmont Commons Developers, will only pay for 8% of the project, while the Township of Parsippany, which has 0% ownership of the property, must pay for 90% of the project. I would love to know the mediator’s rationale in coming to that decision.

As I stated earlier, Parsippany is forced to abide by the mediator’s inexplicable allocation of accountability, which has set a precedent for other developers who own roads accessible to the public and have neglected to maintain them. But Parsippany can take two actions that will reduce the township’s liability in the future.

  1. Enact an ordinance that prohibits future development arrangements similar to Glenmont Commons.
  2. Have the township attorney draft a liability reducing document that protects Parsippany from any other Glenmont Commons-like situations that may currently exist.

There is also an amendment to the resolution that the council must make to slightly reduce the financial burden that is disproportionally being placed on the taxpayers. When the road reconstruction is completed, the market value of the homes in that neighborhood will increase. The council should include a clause in the resolution that, upon completion of the project, authorizes the tax assessor to increase the tax assessments on these homes. The added assessment would then proportionally reflect the increase in market value resulting from the road improvements.  

As a result of the mediator’s Glenmont decision, Parsippany taxpayers are on the hook for over $4 million in unreimbursed road repairs.  The governing body must take steps to make sure that this type of outcome never happens again.

Robert Venezia

Wifflemania Tournament Donates to Parsippany Food Pantry

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Lou Amato gives Parsippany Senior Center Director Marianne Cucchiara a check for Parsippany Food Pantry

PARSIPPANY — On Monday, June 15th, the Parsippany Food Pantry received an $800 donation on behalf of the Wifflemania Tournament, a beloved community tradition that has been part of Parsippany for 42 years.

The tournament, held on May 30 at Smith Field, drew more than 200 participants and fans. Tournament Commissioner and former Parsippany resident Nick Jannarone presented the check, which was delivered by Lou Amato, a member of the Parsippany Sons of Italy. Amato cooked food for the event’s attendees and the food was provided by Sons of Italy.

Parsippany Senior Center Director Marianne Cucchiara and Food Pantry Director Marissa Cintineo accepted the donation on behalf of the organization.

“I hope the money can make a difference and add value to those who need it,” said Nick Jannarone.

Those interested in participating in next summer’s Wifflemania Tournament can contact Nick Jannarone at [email protected].

Hathaway Questions Mejia’s “Capture Governing Power” Remarks, Contrasts Activist Politics with Results-Driven Leadership

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Press Release
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Joe Hathaway

MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey 11th District Republican nominee Joe Hathaway has released a new video responding to remarks made by Congresswoman Analilia Mejia in which she described her political playbook as “capturing governing power,” shaping narratives, identifying “villains,” and making demands.

The comments came during a progressive forum in which Mejia outlined what she called “the assignment” for organizers. Hathaway said the remarks provide voters with a revealing glimpse into Mejia’s dangerous views on politics and governance.

“Most people enter public service because they want to solve problems, improve their communities, and make life better for the people they represent,” said Hathaway. “What voters heard from Analilia Mejia was something much more sinister and calculated. In her own words, politics is about capturing power, injecting theories of change, identifying villains, and making demands. Her vision of leadership is a dark path that will lead us towards a dystopian, anti-American future.”

Mejia’s comments closely resemble the power-based organizing model popularized by activist and communist sympathizer Saul Alinsky and embraced by many radical progressive political movements, where political success is measured not simply by winning elections, but by suppressing dissent, controlling narratives, and executing government takeover to advance an ideological agenda.

Hathaway argued that such an approach is increasingly disconnected from the everyday concerns of families and that now is the time for a responsible, steady leader to represent New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District.

“Working families across New Jersey’s 11th District don’t want political extremism or ideological power struggles,” Hathaway continued. “They’re worried about rising costs, public safety, greater affordability, and building a better future for their children. As Mayor of Randolph, my focus was always on delivering results and bringing people together. Analilia Mejia talks about capturing power. I’m focused on fixing problems and returning our state to sanity. That’s the choice voters will have in November.”

The video is the latest in a series released by the Hathaway campaign highlighting what it describes as a growing contrast between Hathaway’s record of local leadership and Mejia’s increasingly activist-oriented approach to public office.

Joe Hathaway is the Republican nominee for Congress in New Jersey’s 11th District. Hathaway has served on the Randolph Township Council since 2022, and is the immediate past Mayor. He lives in Randolph with his wife Whitney, and their three young children.

Debra Weisberg Honored as New Jersey Professional Lawyer of the Year

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Debra Weisberg, founding partner of Hagan, Weisberg & Nunn, was honored as the Professional Lawyer of the Year by the New Jersey State Bar Association at the New Jersey Commission on Professionalism in the Law's annual Professionalism Awards Luncheon.

PARSIPPANY — Debra Weisberg, a founding partner of Hagan, Weisberg & Nunn, has been recognized as the Professional Lawyer of the Year by the New Jersey State Bar Association at the annual Professionalism Awards Luncheon hosted by the New Jersey Commission on Professionalism in the Law.

The prestigious award recognizes attorneys who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, integrity, and dedication to the legal profession.

Weisberg, a highly respected family law attorney, has spent more than three decades serving clients throughout New Jersey. Known for her legal expertise, professionalism, and compassionate approach, she has built a reputation as a trusted advocate for families navigating complex legal matters.

Colleagues at Hagan, Weisberg & Nunn praised Weisberg’s commitment to her clients and the legal profession, noting that she consistently demonstrates the values of professionalism and excellence that the award represents.

“We are incredibly proud to announce that our partner, Debra Weisberg, was honored as the Professional Lawyer of the Year,” the firm stated. “This prestigious recognition is a testament to Debra’s unwavering dedication, exceptional legal acumen, and the deep compassion she brings to her family law practice every single day.”

As a founding partner of the firm, Weisberg has played a significant role in shaping its reputation for excellence while mentoring attorneys and contributing to the broader legal community.

The Professional Lawyer of the Year Award is among the highest recognitions bestowed upon attorneys in New Jersey, celebrating those whose careers reflect outstanding professional conduct and service.

Parsippany’s Diya Patel Named to InsiderNJ’s Rising Generations List

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Diya Patel was named No. 22 on InsiderNJ's 8th Edition "Rising Generations" list, recognizing emerging leaders who are making an impact across New Jersey.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Diya Patel has been recognized as one of New Jersey’s emerging leaders, earning a place on InsiderNJ’s prestigious “Rising Generations” list as part of its 8th Edition Insider 100 rankings.

Patel was ranked No. 22 on the statewide list, which highlights young professionals, elected officials, advocates, and community leaders who are making a significant impact across New Jersey.

In announcing the honor, InsiderNJ noted that Patel’s election to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council in November 2025 made her one of the youngest elected officials in New Jersey. At just 23 years old, Patel won a council seat in Morris County’s largest municipality, a community where political control has shifted between Democrats and Republicans over the past decade.

Since taking office, Patel has quickly established herself as a visible and engaged member of local government. In January 2026, she was selected by her colleagues to serve as Vice President of the Township Council, giving her a leadership role in shaping policy and guiding council proceedings.

A lifelong Parsippany resident, Patel has been active in community service and civic engagement from a young age. Her election reflected a growing trend of younger residents becoming involved in local government and public service.

The InsiderNJ Rising Generations list recognizes individuals from across the state who are viewed as influential voices and future leaders in politics, government, business, advocacy, and public affairs.

Patel’s inclusion on the list places her among a select group of young New Jersey leaders whose work is helping shape the future of their communities and the state.

Andrew Phelps of Parsippany Named to University of Alabama Spring 2026 Dean’s List

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
Andrew Phelps, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, was a member of the Vikings Varsity Baseball team and earned a 3.8 grade point average during his high school career.

PARSIPPANY — Andrew Phelps of Parsippany has been named to the University of Alabama Dean’s List for the Spring Semester 2026.

A 2024 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Andrew maintained a 3.8 grade point average and was a member of the school’s Varsity Baseball team.

To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must be full-time undergraduates who earn a grade point average of 3.5 or above during the semester. A total of 14,306 students were recognized on either the Dean’s List or President’s List at the university for Spring 2026.

The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. The institution offers more than 200 degree programs and is home to more than 30 research centers.

For more information, visit news.ua.edu.

Parsippany Woman Charged With DWI Following Parking Lot Crash on Route 46

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

PARSIPPANY — A Parsippany woman was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated after striking a parked vehicle in a Route 46 parking lot late on the night of April 26.

According to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, officers responded to 1521 Route 46 East, the location of Dhaba Express, at approximately 10:58 p.m. for a report of a motor vehicle accident. Upon arrival, Ptl. Jesse Hughes made contact with the driver of the striking vehicle, identified as Lyndsey G. Floresbravo, 21, of Parsippany.

According to police, Floresbravo stated she had a flat tire and turned into the parking lot, where she struck a parked and unoccupied 2013 Lexus RX300 while attempting to park. The owner of the parked vehicle, Ahmed Eldewak of Branchburg, told officers his car had been parked and unoccupied at the time of the crash.

Officers reported that during the course of the investigation, Floresbravo’s account of events changed multiple times. When asked about alcohol consumption, she initially stated she had consumed one drink before changing her account to three shots and then to two margaritas.

Police reported detecting the odor of alcohol on Floresbravo’s breath and observing signs of impairment, including bloodshot and watery eyes, droopy eyelids, and slurred speech. Officers administered standardized field sobriety tests, which Floresbravo failed to complete satisfactorily. She was subsequently placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated.

Floresbravo was charged with driving while intoxicated, driving while intoxicated on school property or within 1,000 feet of a school, and reckless driving.

The incident was investigated by Ptl. Jesse Hughes of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department. Ptl. Harvey and Ptl. Golden also responded to the scene.

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 37 years.

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