PARSIPPANY — The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has announced the Fiscal Year 2026 Clean Communities Grant allocations, with Parsippany-Troy Hills Township receiving the largest municipal award in Morris County at $133,975.65.

The funding is part of New Jersey’s statewide Clean Communities Program, which distributes more than $25.2 million annually to counties and municipalities to support litter cleanup initiatives, beautification projects, recycling education, volunteer cleanup events, and anti-litter campaigns.

Morris County as a whole will receive $118,239.02, while municipalities throughout the county were awarded additional direct grants based on population, roadway mileage, and housing data.

Parsippany’s allocation significantly exceeded all other municipalities in Morris County, reflecting both the township’s size and its ongoing commitment to maintaining clean public spaces, parks, roadways, and business corridors.

Among the largest municipal grants in Morris County were:

• Parsippany-Troy Hills Township — $133,975.65
• Mount Olive Township — $79,687.05
• Randolph Township — $71,096.29
• Rockaway Township — $67,256.38
• Jefferson Township — $66,344.96
• Morris Township — $64,462.39
• Roxbury Township — $63,780.11
• Washington Township — $63,444.89
• Montville Township — $60,834.86
• Denville Township — $50,786.58

Other Morris County municipalities receiving funding included Morristown, Hanover Township, Pequannock Township, Madison Borough, Dover Town, East Hanover Township, Florham Park Borough, Butler Borough, Chatham Borough, Boonton Town, Morris Plains Borough, and Wharton Borough.

Clean Communities funding is commonly used by municipalities to support public works cleanup operations, litter collection along local roadways, park maintenance, educational outreach programs, and volunteer-driven environmental initiatives. Many communities also use the funding to purchase cleanup supplies, recycling containers, and equipment designed to improve public spaces and reduce litter.

Local officials have often emphasized the importance of keeping Parsippany clean and attractive for residents, visitors, and businesses alike. The township regularly hosts community cleanup events and environmental initiatives aimed at preserving neighborhoods, parks, and commercial areas throughout the township.

The annual Clean Communities grants continue to serve as an important resource for municipalities across New Jersey in their efforts to improve environmental quality and promote community pride.

PARSIPPANY — ECLC of New Jersey recently received a warm community welcome at its new PRIDE Center in Parsippany as local officials and community leaders visited the facility to recognize the organization’s impact and continued commitment to serving individuals with special needs.

Among those attending the visit were Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai, Council President Judy Hernandez, Council Vice President Diya Patel, and Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee.

During the visit, Cahill presented ECLC with a commemorative plaque honoring the organization and its mission. One of the most meaningful moments came when a client was invited to read the plaque aloud, reflecting ECLC’s dedication to inclusion, empowerment, and giving individuals a voice.

“We’ve received such a warm welcome in Parsippany at our new PRIDE Center,” ECLC shared in a statement. “Thank you to everyone who stopped by and honored our organization.”

Cahill said, “ECLC is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with autism, Down syndrome, and other special needs. Serving more than 900 individuals across New Jersey, ECLC provides education, support, and opportunities that empower individuals to live fulfilling and independent lives.

“The addition of ECLC to Parsippany reflects the continued commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive community. Their presence will not only enhance local services but also strengthen the network of care and compassion available to residents.”

The new PRIDE Center further expands ECLC of New Jersey’s presence in the community and continues its longstanding mission of supporting children and adults with special needs through education, career development, and community-based services. ECLC is located at 40 Baldwin Road.

Founded in 1970, ECLC of New Jersey has spent more than five decades providing specialized education and support services for individuals with special needs. The organization operates schools in Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus, serving students from early childhood through young adulthood with individualized educational programs designed to foster academic, social, and life skills development.

In addition to its educational programs, ECLC offers an extensive network of adult services, including vocational training, transition programs, residential support, and community integration opportunities. Through job coaching and partnerships with local businesses, ECLC helps individuals gain valuable work experience while promoting independence and self-confidence.

The organization’s PRIDE Centers are designed to create welcoming spaces where adults with special needs can participate in enrichment programs, social activities, wellness initiatives, and life skills development. The Parsippany location will help expand access to these resources for families throughout Morris County and surrounding communities.

Community leaders noted that the addition of ECLC to Parsippany aligns with the township’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and supporting organizations that provide meaningful services to residents and families across the region.

PARSIPPANY — Get ready to slice into some fun as the community comes together for the upcoming Parsippany Pizza Challenge, a delicious event celebrating local pizzerias, friendly competition, and community spirit.

Local pizza shops will go head-to-head, showcasing their best pies for the coveted People’s Choice Award. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample a variety of pizzas and vote for their favorites.

The event is scheduled for Friday, May 29, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., at the Parsippany Police Athletic League, where six local pizzerias will compete for top honors and community bragging rights.

You can purchase tickets at these participating pizzerias include:

• Palermo’s Pizzeria
• Valentino’s Pizza
• Baldwin Pizzeria
• Tabor Pizzeria
• Jefry’s Pizza
• Parsippany’s Best Pizza

Tickets are available at the above pizzeria at a cost of $15.00 each. They are also available via VENMO – @KCGPFoundation (phone 6000) for $15.00 each. Or you can click here to order via credit card ($15.00 plus credit card fee), by clicking here.

Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, the event will feature:

• Family-friendly activities
• Local vendors and community organizations
• Opportunities to meet and support local business owners

Proceeds from the event will benefit local initiatives supporting youth and community programs.

Businesses interested in participating or sponsoring the event are encouraged to get involved. For more information or to participate, contact Frank Cahill at [email protected].

PARSIPPANY — At the Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 5, a Parsippany sanitation worker delivered an emotional and urgent message to township officials and residents, expressing gratitude for overwhelming community support while calling for stronger safety measures to protect municipal employees.

Michael Smith, a lifelong resident who lives on Vail Road and serves in the sanitation department, addressed the community with heartfelt remarks following a serious incident involving a fellow worker, Anthony.

Smith began by thanking residents for their extraordinary response. “The outpouring of support, the donations, the messages, the prayers — it has been overwhelming in the best possible way,” he said, noting that the response reflects the true spirit of Parsippany.

Anthony, described as a dedicated worker who serves the community in a largely unseen but essential role, continues to recover. Smith shared that despite undergoing multiple surgeries, Anthony remains in good spirits and has been surrounded by family, friends, and fellow members of the Department of Public Works and the Mount Tabor Fire Department. In a remarkable sign of progress, Anthony was able to stand less than a week after the accident.

While expressing gratitude, Smith also highlighted growing concerns among sanitation workers about job safety. He explained that the nature of the work—operating 40,000-pound trucks on narrow streets while navigating pedestrians, parked vehicles, and impatient drivers—creates both physical and mental strain.

“Out on the routes, things have changed,” Smith said, noting workers are moving slower, exercising more caution, and increasingly relying on horns to alert drivers attempting unsafe passes.

Smith urged residents to be mindful when encountering sanitation crews, reminding the public that sanitation vehicles were added to New Jersey’s Move Over Law in 2021. He asked drivers to keep a safe distance, avoid following too closely, and exercise patience.

“We’ve had far too many close calls,” he said, emphasizing that simple awareness from drivers can help prevent serious incidents.

The remarks also broadened to address traffic safety concerns throughout Parsippany, particularly along Vail Road. Smith pointed to frequent speeding in the area, noting the presence of multiple schools, apartment complexes, and crossing guard posts along the corridor.

He referenced the January 29, 2026 incident in which crossing guard Denise Rocco was struck while on duty, raising questions about what steps have been taken since to improve safety measures, including signage, crosswalk visibility, and protective equipment.

Smith called for a formal speed study on Vail Road and urged township officials, police, and the Traffic Committee to take a closer look at speeding issues throughout the community.

“In just the past few months, we’ve already seen two township employees’ lives changed forever,” he said. “It’s time to take a serious look at the speeding problem in our town.”

Despite the concerns raised, Smith closed his remarks by reiterating appreciation for the community’s compassion and unity during a difficult time.

“This is what community looks like,” he said.

PARSIPPANY — Despite rainy conditions on Sunday, April 25, area residents and supporters made a powerful impact in the fight against pancreatic cancer, raising more than $452,526 toward a $625,000 goal as part of the PanCAN fundraising effort.

The initiative, which supports the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), has brought together teams, families, and community members united in raising awareness and critical funds for research, patient support, and advocacy.

Leading the fundraising effort is Andy’s Avengers, which has raised $56,323.77 to date.

Other top contributing teams include:

• Team Cashman Young — $36,412.45
• Tony’s Tigers — $35,458.53

In addition to team efforts, several individuals have made significant contributions. Top participants include:

• Sharon Bittman — $35,897
• Karen Young — $35,158
• Bruce Kramer — $8,655
• Livvie Friedler — $6,440
• Deborah Cancelliere — $5,875
• Jonathan Pariot — $5,589
• Bruce Rothbard — $5,413
• Gail Kouril — $5,292
• Lynn Green — $5,237
• Linda Doherty — $5,237

Mayor Pulkit Desai attended the PanCAN Walk on April 25, joining residents in support of the organization’s mission.

“It was inspiring to stand alongside our residents at the PanCAN Walk and see our community come together in support and remembrance,” said Mayor Pulkit Desai. “Events like this highlight the strength of Parsippany and our shared commitment to funding research, improving early detection, and advancing treatment options. Together, we stand in hope and in the fight against pancreatic cancer.”

The event brought the community together, with volunteers and local police, fire, and EMS helping ensure a safe and successful day.

The impressive totals highlight the dedication of participants who continue to rally behind the cause, many of whom have been personally impacted by pancreatic cancer.

PanCAN is a national organization focused on improving outcomes for patients battling one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. Funds raised help support groundbreaking research, early detection initiatives, and vital resources for patients and their families.

Organizers say the momentum continues to build as the community pushes toward the $625,000 goal, demonstrating the strength and compassion of those committed to making a difference.

Residents are encouraged to continue supporting the effort as teams work together to bring hope to those affected by pancreatic cancer.

PARSIPPANY — The Township Council of Parsippany-Troy Hills approved a resolution authorizing the Township to submit an application for the 2026 Annual Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant funding through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The resolution, identified as Resolution R2026-107, confirms that Parsippany-Troy Hills is eligible to receive federal funding through the Department of Housing and Urban Development and outlines the Township’s participation in the Community Development Block Grant program.

According to the resolution, the Township developed a Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Action Plan in compliance with federal regulations and made the plan available for public review for a 30-day period prior to submission.

The resolution also notes that Parsippany-Troy Hills has been a member of the Morris County Consortium participating in HOME Investment Partnership Program activities since 1994.

Under the approved resolution, Mayor Pulkit Desai is authorized to submit the application for Community Development Funding and execute any certifications or documentation required by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Community Development Block Grant funding is commonly used by municipalities for programs and projects that benefit low- and moderate-income residents, including public infrastructure improvements, housing rehabilitation, accessibility projects, and community services.

PARSIPPANY — The Township Council of Parsippany-Troy Hills will tackle a full agenda at its Tuesday, May 5 meeting, highlighted by major infrastructure investments, the adoption of the 2026 municipal budget, and several community-focused initiatives.

Click here to download the agenda.

One of the most significant items is Ordinance 2026:19, which calls for $2.75 million in funding for 2026 road improvement projects, including the authorization of $2.619 million in bonds to finance the work. The ordinance will be heard on second reading and opened to public comment.

In addition, the Council will introduce a separate bond ordinance totaling $13.57 million for various capital improvements across the township, signaling continued investment in infrastructure and municipal facilities.

Council members are also expected to vote on Resolution R2026-105, formally adopting the 2026 Municipal Budget, a key milestone that will shape township operations and services for the year ahead.

The consent agenda includes several funding additions to the municipal budget, including allocations from the Drunk Driver Enforcement Fund, a Pedestrian Safety Grant, and proceeds from the National Opioid Settlement, all aimed at enhancing public safety and community well-being.

To support police operations, the Council will consider the purchase of five 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles, along with additional vehicle acquisitions including two Ford F-350 pickup trucks and one Ford Transit cargo van.

Additional business includes authorizing the township to submit an application for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, as well as a grant application for a Management Enhancement Review Program, both of which could bring additional resources into Parsippany.

Community-related approvals are also on the agenda, including permits for a fireworks display during the Mt. Tabor Children’s Day Celebration and licensing approvals for the Parsippany Animal Shelter and Petco.

Financial matters include authorization of approximately $1.65 million in payroll and $2.13 million in bills, reflecting the township’s ongoing operational commitments.

The meeting will also feature reports from Mayor Pulkit Desai, members of the Township Council, and various municipal officials, along with a public session allowing residents to voice comments.

The next scheduled Township Council meeting will be held on May 19 at 7:00 p.m.

• Mayor Pulkit Desai – (D) Term ends December 31, 2029
• Councilman Paul Carifi Jr. (R) Term ends December 31, 2027
• Council President Judy Hernandez (D) Term ends December 31, 2027
• Councilman Matthew Kavanagh – (D) Term ends December 31, 2029
• Councilman Matt McGrath– (R) Term ends December 31, 2027
• Council Vice President Diya Patel – (D) Term ends December 31, 2029

PARSIPPANY — Families from across Morris County are invited to celebrate community, inclusion, and accessibility at the upcoming Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair, hosted by the DAWN Center for Independent Living.

The event will take place on Sunday, May 17, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Central Park of Morris County, 1 Gov. Chris Christie Drive, Parsippany-Troy Hills. The resource fair portion will run from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., rain or shine.

Designed to bring the community together, the event embraces the theme “Spring Into Action: Inclusion in Full Bloom!” and will feature a wide variety of activities for all ages and abilities. Attendees can enjoy a community resource fair, food trucks, live music, STEM activities, games, prizes, and even a reptile show. A special appearance by Bluey will add to the family-friendly atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the day will be a wheelchair softball game at 3:00 p.m., showcasing adaptive sports and promoting awareness of inclusive recreation. The resource fair will conclude prior to the start of the game.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore DAWN’s Mobile Unit, which provides outreach and services directly to the community.

For more information, contact (973) 625-1940, ext. 210, or click here.

This event offers a meaningful opportunity for residents to connect with local organizations, access valuable resources, and celebrate the importance of inclusion in the Parsippany community.