PARSIPPANY — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice confirmed that seven individuals have been charged in connection with a large-scale prostitution operation involving illicit massage parlors operating across multiple towns in New Jersey and New York.
Among those charged is Zongan Lin, 50, of Lake Hiawatha, who authorities allege played a significant role in the operation by using his massage license to obtain and maintain business licenses for several locations connected to the alleged criminal enterprise.
Lin, along with Jessica Yan Xiong, 50, of Oakland Gardens, and Zitian Zhang, 34, of New Hyde Park, faces first-degree racketeering, first-degree money laundering, second-degree leader of organized crime, promoting organized street crime, and promoting prostitution charges.
Also charged are Thowleong Chew, 43, of Flushing; Min Li, 41, of Flushing; Ricardo Botti, 56, of Oak Ridge; and Alfredo Sibaja-Sanchez, 53, of West Milford. Charges range from racketeering and money laundering to promoting prostitution.
According to court documents, Xiong allegedly operated multiple illicit massage parlors, including Yan’s Massage and Reiki in Newfoundland, JW Holistic Spa in Fair Lawn, Star Massage and Reiki in Hillsborough, Kyoto 14 in Passaic, Violet Spa in Williamstown, and Sunny Spa in New Brunswick.
Authorities allege Lin held business licenses for several of these locations, including Star Massage and Reiki, Kyoto 14, and Violet Spa, despite prior prostitution-related enforcement actions. Investigators say Lin also maintained residences and business ties in Parsippany, Lake Hiawatha, and East Hanover that were searched as part of the investigation.
Zhang is accused of managing multiple locations with Xiong, while Chew and Li allegedly transported women and supplies between spas. Surveillance, online reviews, and financial analysis reportedly revealed the locations were used for prostitution, with more than $500,000 in illicit proceeds identified through cash seizures and bank deposits.
On December 2, 2025, law enforcement executed coordinated search warrants at numerous locations across New Jersey and New York, including a residence in Lake Hiawatha associated with Lin. More than $150,000 in cash and evidence of illicit massage operations were seized.
“This investigation dismantled a sophisticated criminal network that exploited women and generated substantial illegal profits,” Attorney General Platkin said.
If convicted, first-degree racketeering charges carry potential sentences of 10 to 20 years in state prison, subject to the No Early Release Act.
Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: 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.
Members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education will hold a regular session and reorganization meeting on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Dr. Frank A. Calabria Education Center, located at 292 Parsippany Road.
According to the official public notice, the meeting agenda will include reorganization of the Board, personnel matters, award of bids, payment of bills, transfer of funds, and general business items. Action may be taken on these matters and on any additional items that become known following publication of the notice and are included on the agenda.
The Superintendent’s Bulletin for the meeting is available online through the district’s website.
Meet Titan: New Belgian Malinois Joins Morris County Sheriff’s Canine Unit
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office has officially welcomed a new four-legged member to its Canine Section with the addition of Titan, a five-month-old Belgian Malinois who has already begun training for future patrol and explosive detection duties.
Sheriff James M. Gannon announced the newest canine officer on December 23, noting that Titan was donated to the Sheriff’s Office after being evaluated for temperament, workability, and suitability for law enforcement service. The young Malinois was originally surrendered to Garden State K9 by a family who found the energetic puppy too challenging to manage. After a thorough assessment, trainers determined Titan showed exceptional promise for patrol and scent detection work and sought to place him in a professional working environment where he could thrive.
Titan has been paired with Detective Corporal Marc Adamsky and has already begun the critical bonding process and early-stage training. At this stage, training is focused on building confidence, sociability, and drive, using food and toy rewards to reinforce learning and performance. Over time, Titan will be trained in obedience, tracking, evidence recovery, suspect searches both on and off leash, explosive odor detection, criminal apprehension, and handler protection.
Detective Corporal Marc Adamsky and Titan
The training process will continue until Titan achieves certification in both explosive detection and patrol techniques. These certifications will be conducted through evaluations by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office as well as the United States Police Canine Association, ensuring the canine team meets rigorous performance standards. Titan is expected to begin working on the road and responding to calls for service at approximately two years of age.
Once fully certified, Titan is slated to replace Detective Corporal Adamsky’s current partner, Canine Tim, a nearly nine-year-old veteran trained in narcotics detection and patrol techniques who has served with distinction alongside the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team. Tim’s service record sets a high bar, one the Sheriff’s Office is confident Titan will meet in the years ahead.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office currently operates with seven canine handlers and twelve canines trained across multiple disciplines. In November alone, the Canine Section responded to 742 calls for service, underscoring the vital role these highly trained teams play in public safety throughout the county. With his training underway, Titan is expected to continue that tradition of excellence.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2026. Click here to view the magazine.
Finally, the Barberio era has come to an end. Ironically, but not surprisingly, it ended with a Superior Court Judge concluding that Mayor Barberio “failed to present factual evidence supporting claims of voting irregularities”. Apparently, despite his wild claims of voting irregularities, Mr. Barberio could not supply a single certification or affidavit from any voter asserting that they did not execute and cast their ballot.
During his on again off again Mayoral terms, Mayor Barberio often found “facts” to be annoying preferring instead to rely on his peculiar brand of bluster and double talk and the smooth talking and self-serving attorneys and out-of-town PILOT seeking developers who eagerly befriended him.
Mr. Barberio has one last chance to repair his already damaged legacy. He can do so by conceding defeat, by congratulating Mr. Desai and by calling on all of his supporters to support the Mayor-elect in his efforts to restore pride and prosperity to Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — A local family is rallying support after a sudden house fire on December 22 left longtime residents Jon and Nancy and their son Justin without a home.
According to the family, all occupants escaped the fire safely. However, the blaze caused extensive damage, destroying the house and nearly all personal belongings, including clothing, furniture, and other essentials accumulated over many years.
The fire comes at an especially difficult time for the family, following a year marked by health-related challenges. Family members described the loss as overwhelming, noting that while insurance will assist with some expenses, it does not cover all immediate and long-term costs associated with displacement and rebuilding.
The family is currently focused on securing temporary housing, replacing essential items, and navigating the recovery process.
In response, a fundraiser has been established to help offset urgent expenses and ease the financial burden during the rebuilding period. Contributions of any amount are appreciated, and those unable to donate are encouraged to share the fundraiser to help spread awareness.
The family expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of kindness, prayers, and community support during this difficult time.
Mayor James Barberio, disputing the election that certified Pulkit Desai as the new mayor, continues to seek judicial review.
PARSIPPANY — A Superior Court judge on Tuesday dismissed a legal challenge to the Parsippany-Troy Hills mayoral election, ruling that former Mayor James R. Barberio failed to present factual evidence supporting claims of voting irregularities. The decision clears the way for Democrat Pulkit Desai to assume office in January.
In a written ruling issued December 23, Superior Court Judge Noah Franzblau dismissed Barberio’s verified election contest with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled. Franzblau also ordered Barberio to pay the prevailing candidate’s legal fees.
“(Barberio) has not provided either a certification or affidavit from any voter asserting that they did not execute and cast their ballot,” Franzblau wrote.
Desai defeated Barberio by 80 votes in the November 4 general election.
Allegations Rejected by the Court
Barberio, the Republican incumbent, filed multiple post-election actions seeking a recount and recheck. Earlier petitions were dismissed by another judge for procedural defects, including failure to meet statutory deadlines. Barberio later filed a verified contest alleging that illegal votes were counted, legal votes were rejected, and irregularities occurred with mail-in, provisional, and in-person ballots.
Assertions that ballots were cast in the names of deceased voters
Arguments that mail-in ballots missing required inner envelopes should have been counted
Judge Franzblau rejected those claims, finding that Barberio relied largely on allegations made “upon information and belief” and failed to submit sworn statements from any voters asserting their ballots were improperly cast, rejected, or forged. At oral argument, Barberio’s attorneys acknowledged they had not obtained statements from any of the voters named in the complaint denying that they voted.
Mail-In Ballot Rules Upheld
The court also ruled that election officials properly rejected mail-in ballots lacking inner envelopes, citing New Jersey statutes requiring signature verification. Without the required envelopes, Franzblau wrote, boards of election are legally prohibited from counting those ballots.
Claims that undelivered sample ballots were evidence of illegal voting were likewise dismissed. The judge noted that returned sample ballots can occur for routine reasons such as voter relocation or postal issues and do not, on their own, demonstrate fraud or misconduct. In several cases cited by Barberio, the identified voters did not vote at all.
Parsippany Focus previously published the names of individuals listed in the election lawsuit. Following publication, the outlet received numerous calls from residents who expressed concern about being included in the article and strongly asserted that they had legally cast their ballots. Several callers stated they were upset that their names appeared in connection with the legal challenge and emphasized that they properly participated in the election.
Attorneys’ Fees Ordered
Under New Jersey election law, courts may award attorneys’ fees when an election contest lacks evidentiary support. Desai’s attorney, Raj Parikh, has been directed to submit a fee application within ten days.
Desai is scheduled to be sworn in as mayor on January 3.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Senate has approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio aimed at protecting the independent contractor status of real estate professionals while allowing them to continue receiving commission income through limited liability companies (LLCs).
The measure, known as S-4889/A-5978, amends existing state law to clarify that real estate agents may accept commission payments through an LLC without jeopardizing their classification as independent contractors—an issue that surfaced following new registration requirements enacted last year.
According to Pennacchio, the bill is designed to ensure real estate professionals can preserve their independence while benefiting from federal tax deductions available to independent contractors.
“This bill ensures that New Jersey real estate professionals can keep their independence while taking full advantage of federal tax benefits,” Pennacchio said. “It’s a simple, common-sense fix that will protect realtors’ hard-earned money while making New Jersey a more business-friendly state.”
Industry advocates raised concerns that the prior registration changes could have unintentionally forced real estate professionals into employee status, potentially eliminating access to important federal tax advantages. The newly approved legislation addresses those concerns by clearly defining that commissions paid through an LLC do not alter a realtor’s independent contractor standing.
With Senate approval secured, the bill now advances through the legislative process as New Jersey lawmakers continue efforts to balance worker protections with flexibility for small businesses and independent professionals across the state.
Jacob M., a student at The Calais School, is thriving thanks to the support of the Calais Foundation’s 12 Plus and Work-Based Learning programs—an inspiring example of how community giving helps students with disabilities build confidence, independence, and a path toward a successful future.
HANOVER — The Calais Foundation has launched its 2025 Year-End Appeal, calling on the community to help transform the lives of students with disabilities at The Calais School. This year’s campaign shines a spotlight on the inspiring journey of Jacob M., a Calais student whose story exemplifies the power of belief, opportunity, and community support.
Every child has untapped potential waiting to be discovered. For Jacob, that journey began with uncertainty. When he first enrolled at The Calais School, the prospect of independent living or succeeding in a fast-paced work environment seemed out of reach. Through the unwavering support of The Calais Foundation and The Calais School’s 12 Plus and Work-Based Learning programs, Jacob began to gain confidence in his abilities and envision a future filled with possibility.
A pivotal moment in Jacob’s journey came through a work-based partnership with Johnny’s Pizzeria, where he gained hands-on, real-world experience. There, Jacob learned the importance of teamwork, managing pressure, and taking pride in his work. With encouragement from Chef Al-Nissa Salaam in The Calais School’s Culinary Program, Jacob embraced the belief that determination and hard work could open doors he once thought were closed.
Jacob’s accomplishments were celebrated this past spring when he was honored at the Calais Foundation Gala. Shortly thereafter, he began an exciting new chapter—living independently and pursuing his passion at Universal Technical Institute.
Today, Jacob is thriving. He is building a career, living independently, and shaping a promising future. His journey highlights the transformative impact of Calais Foundation programs and the generosity of donors who make these opportunities possible.
“When you give to The Calais Foundation, you’re not just making a donation—you’re investing in potential,” said Richard Gentles, President of the Calais Foundation. “You’re helping students with special needs gain the confidence, skills, and independence they need to thrive.”
Jacob’s success is a powerful reminder that community support changes lives. Contributions to the Calais Foundation 2025 Year-End Appeal directly fund programs that help students and young adults with special needs reach their fullest potential.
On Tuesday night, Parsippany’s town council approved a staggering $117 million PILOT tax break for the developers of the PARQ project. The entire PILOT evaluation process lasted only two weeks, which was not enough time for the council or the public to perform due diligence. The public was at an even greater disadvantage because, despite being promised that the financials associated with the PILOT would be posted on Parsippany’s website, the public first had access to PILOT information on the same night the final vote on the PILOT was taken.
It’s been two years since Parsippany issued its last PILOT. During that time, the PARQ developers completed the first phase of the project, consisting of 275 apartments and 75 luxury townhouses at the same PARQ location, WITHOUT a PILOT. Now, only weeks before Parsippany’s affordable housing plan is scheduled for review by the state, the developer declared that the next phase of the PARQ project is not financially viable unless they receive a PILOT. I believe that the timing was deliberate and intended as a form of extortion. Caving in to the pressure of the upcoming state review, the council approved the PILOT by a 4-1 vote and the conventional taxpayers of Parsippany will be $117 million poorer over the next 30 years as a result.
Unfortunately, the loss of tax dollars was not the only damage done from granting the PARQ PILOT. During the council meeting, I don’t believe that the members who voted in favor of the PILOT ever realized that the project they were approving had almost doubled in size. According to Parsippany’s court-approved affordable housing plan, 120 affordable units are required to be built in this phase of the PARQ project. The 4:1 ration of market rate to affordable units then allows 600 total units to be constructed at the site. However, the unit numbers listed in the PILOT agreement are 254 affordable and 1100 total units. The council was made aware of this discrepancy at the meeting, but never explained how or why the project was expanded so much, and then voted for it anyway.
At various times during the council meeting, the mayor and the council members complained about the destructive impact that the affordable housing mandate was having on all aspects of Parsippany- traffic, infrastructure, water system, school system, etc. Yet they inexplicably voted to allow the PARQ developer to build 500 more apartments than required by the state. I can see how council members might be pressured into giving a PILOT tax break, but allowing 1100 apartments to be built when only 600 are required is unconscionable, especially to the residents of Lake Parsippany.
Once an ordinance is passed, there is a period after approval during which it can be contested. If residents make their voices heard on this issue, the new mayor and council will scale back the ordinance to 120 affordable units and 600 total units, which Parsippany is actually responsible for.
The boxes are all outside and under surveillance 24/7. They resemble a USPS Blue Mailbox, but are Red, White & Blue, and display "Morris County – Official Ballot DropBox."
MORRIS COUNTY — Voters in the 11th Congressional District can securely deposit their Mail-In Ballot for the Special Primary Election at an official ballot drop box starting now through 8:00 p.m. on February 5.
Drop boxes are available 24/7 and are monitored to ensure the security of your vote.
Board of Elections Ballot Drop Box 10 Court Street, Morristown Located across the street outside the front entrance to the Morris County Courthouse
Boonton Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 155 Powerville Road, Boonton Located outside the main entrance
Butler Borough Ballot Drop Box 10 High Street, Butler Located at the entrance next to the stairs
Chatham Borough Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 54 Fairmount Avenue, Chatham Borough Located at the south side entrance
Chatham Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 58 Meyersville Road, Chatham Township Located at the front entrance
Denville Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 1 St. Mary’s Place, Denville Located outside the main entrance
Dover Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 37 North Sussex Street, Dover Located in front of the building
East Hanover Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 411 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover Located in the parking lot near the back door
Florham Park Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 111 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park Located at the entrance to the Police Department
Hanover Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 1000 Route 10, Whippany Located outside the main entrance
Jefferson Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 1033 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge Located outside the main entrance
Kinnelon Borough Town Hall Ballot Drop Box 130 Kinnelon Road, Kinnelon Located by the front entrance
Madison Public Safety Complex Ballot Drop Box 62 Kings Road, Madison Located in Commuter Parking Lot 3
Mendham Borough Ballot Drop Box 3 Cold Hill Road South, Mendham Located outside the front entrance
Montville Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 195 Changebridge Road, Montville Located in front of the municipal building
Morris Plains Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains Located outside the entrance
Morris Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 50 Woodland Avenue, Morris Township Located at the rear of the building by the middle entrance
Morristown Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 200 South Street, Morristown Located in the rear parking lot by the right-side entrance
Mount Arlington Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 419 Howard Boulevard, Mount Arlington Located on the left side near the courtroom entrance For use only during the January 27, 2026 Special School Election
Parsippany Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany Located outside the main entrance facing Route 287
Pequannock Municipal Complex – Senior House Ballot Drop Box 530 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Pequannock Located adjacent to the municipal building outside the main entrance to the Senior House
Randolph Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 502 Millbrook Avenue, Randolph Located outside the main entrance
Rockaway Borough Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 1 East Main Street, Rockaway Borough Located to the left of the front entrance
Rockaway Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 65 Mount Hope Road, Rockaway Township Located outside the Police Department
Town of Boonton Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box 100 Washington Street, Boonton Located by the front entrance
PARSIPPANY — Holiday cheer filled the air at The Learning Experience, located at 1159 Parsippany Boulevard, when Santa Claus made a special visit on Saturday, December 22, delighting children, families, and staff alike.
Dressed in his classic red suit and greeted with smiles and excitement, Santa arrived to spread seasonal joy throughout the center. Young learners eagerly shared their Christmas wishes, posed for photos, and enjoyed the festive atmosphere created just for them. Laughter, holiday music, and bright decorations transformed the school into a winter wonderland for the afternoon.
Teachers and staff at The Learning Experience helped make the event memorable by creating a warm, welcoming environment that celebrated the magic of the season while reinforcing the center’s focus on family, community, and childhood joy.
Parents looked on as their children experienced a moment many will remember long after the holidays, capturing photos and making memories as Santa took time with each child.
The visit was another example of how The Learning Experience brings learning, fun, and community together—especially during the most magical time of the year.
A festive stocking hangs proudly on display, adding a cheerful touch of holiday magic and helping set the seasonal spirit throughout the space.Guests of all ages gathered with Santa Claus, sharing smiles, laughter, and holiday cheer during the festive celebration.
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Rainbow Lakes Fire Company elected their 2026 Business and Fire Officers during the company’s monthly meeting held on December 5, 2025. The newly elected officers will serve a one-year term beginning January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026.
Rainbow Lakes Fire Company operates under a dual-officer leadership structure, with two distinct but equally vital groups guiding the organization. Together, these officers ensure both the operational readiness and administrative strength of the volunteer fire company.
The Business Officers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administrative and financial operations of the organization. Their duties include managing budgets, records, compliance, and other essential business functions that allow the company to operate efficiently and sustainably.
The Fire (Truck) Officers, meanwhile, lead the company’s emergency response operations. These officers are tasked with managing firefighting activities, emergency incident responses, training, and on-scene leadership, ensuring the safety of both firefighters and the community they serve.
The election of officers marks an important step each year for the Rainbow Lakes Fire Company, reinforcing its commitment to strong leadership, accountability, and continued service to the Parsippany community.
Truck Officers-
Fire Chief: Jeffery Pikor Deputy Chief: Corey Martin Captain: Alex Phostole Captain: Nolan Keena Lieutenant: Russell Greuter Lieutenant: Joe Reeber, Jr.
Business Officers-
President: Russell Greuter Vice President: Greg Robinson Secretary: Anthony Tomasso Treasurer: Mark Rabson
Jason Wetzel, Betty Lagitch, Addie Ruffino, Cathy Cerbo and Kerry Guzman
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills recently visited Independence360, a program of Spectrum360 that specializes in special education and adult services for individuals with autism and related challenges.
During the visit, the Woman’s Club presented a $500 donation to Kerry Guzman, Senior Director of Development, and Jason Wetzel, Program Director of Independence360. The funds will be used to purchase gym equipment to support the health, wellness, and daily activities of program participants.
Spectrum360 provides individuals with autism and related challenges with specialized programs and supports designed to help them realize their aspirations, lead fulfilling lives, and actively engage with their families and communities. The organization offers a range of services that promote independence, personal growth, and community inclusion.
Donations such as this are made possible through the Woman’s Club’s ongoing fundraising efforts, including its highly successful Tricky Tray fundraiser held in July 2025.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a proud member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC)—the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the nation and state. Through these affiliations, members participate in education, leadership development, and community service initiatives that benefit local and regional communities.
General meetings of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills are held every fourth Monday of the month from September through April at 6:30 p.m. Those interested in learning more about upcoming activities are encouraged to contact Ginny at (973) 887-0336, visit parsippanywomansclub.org, email [email protected], or follow the club on Facebook and Instagram.
MORRIS COUNTY — Sheriff James M. Gannon presided over a ceremony at the Morris County Correctional Facility, which included the recognition and promotion of eleven Correctional Police Officers from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections. The listed sworn personnel received promotions: Warden Anthony Lotz, Captain Thomas Markey, Captain Michael Schweizer, Lieutenant Robert Doriety, Lieutenant David Jenkins, Lieutenant William Williams, Sergeant Jillian Schweizer, Sergeant Michael Provenzano, Sergeant Richard Dalesandro, Sergeant Jason Simpson, and Sergeant Mike Molde.
Warden Anthony Lotz
In 2002, Warden Anthony Lotz was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections and went on to graduate from the Passaic County Police Academy in July of 2004. Throughout his tenure, he served in several Housing Units as well as the Intake Unit, earning a promotion to Sergeant in December 2011. In that role, he supervised operations as both a Housing Unit Sergeant and later as the Classification Unit Sergeant. He was promoted to Lieutenant in August 2016 and advanced to the rank of Captain in October 2019. Warden Lotz recently served as the Administration Captain, overseeing administrative operations for the facility. Warden Lotz takes over the role of Warden from Warden Christopher Klein who proudly served as Warden from August 2013 to December 2025 where he was responsible for the daily oversight of over 180 sworn and non-sworn members of the Bureau’s three divisions: Administrative Division, Support Services Division and Security Division.
Captain Thomas Markey
Captain Markey began his service as a Correctional Police Officer in 2006, where he quickly earned a reputation for professionalism, sound judgment, and a strong sense of duty. He has served in the ranks of Corporal, Sergeant, and Lieutenant primarily working on shift. In addition to his leadership responsibilities, Captain Markey serves as one of the department’s firearms instructors, ensuring that officers receive comprehensive, safety-focused, and skill-driven training. He also leads the Resiliency Program Officer (RPO) program for the agency. As he steps into the role of Security Captain, Tom Markey brings with him more than two decades of dedication, technical skill, and integrity.
Captain Michael Schweizer
Captain Michael Schweizer was hired as a Correctional Police Officer for the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections in 2000. While at the jail, he worked many different posts and excelled at learning several different positions. In January 2012, Captain Schweizer was promoted to Sergeant where he was assigned as a Housing Sergeant and Control Center Sergeant. In July 2014, he was promoted to Lieutenant where he was assigned as the Shift Commander for several years. In the summer of 2017, Captain Schweizer took over as the Support Services Lieutenant where he remained until his current promotion of Captain. Mike has been a member of the Special Olympics Torch Run for 7 years, and he will be riding in his 6th Police Unity Tour in May of 2026.
Lieutenant Robert Doriety
Lieutenant Doriety was hired for Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections in August 2001. He was initially assigned as a relief officer where he worked multiple areas of the jail. Lieutenant Doriety was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in November 2012 where he was assigned as a Housing Sergeant, Control Sergeant, and then later assigned the role of Classification Supervisor in 2016. In 2021, Lieutenant Doriety was assigned the role of Security Sergeant where he remains today. In addition to his daily duties, Bob is actively a firearms instructor and a member of the Sheriff’s Motor Unit. Lieutenant Doriety looks forward to continuing his career with this promotion to Lieutenant and will remain in the Security Division where some of his responsibilities include the Classification Department, Intake Unit, Facility Gang Unit, and Facility Security.
Lieutenant David Jenkins
Lieutenant David Jenkins was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections in 2005. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2012. Lieutenant Jenkins has served in various roles within the Bureau, and most recently served as Control Sergeant. Lieutenant Jenkins looks forward to continuing serving the department in his new role.
Lieutenant William Williams
Lieutenant William Williams’ law enforcement career began in 2002 when he was hired as a Corrections Officer at the Warren County Correctional Facility. He graduated from the Camden County Correctional Academy in 2003. Lieutenant Williams was employed there until he was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections in 2006. Lt. Williams was a relief officer at the facility, primarily working various posts until he became the permanent Housing Unit Officer on 3-Alpha. This position dealt with all day-to-day activities that occurred in the housing unit. Lieutenant Williams remained in this position for several years, until he was promoted to Sergeant in February 2014. As a Housing Sergeant, he oversaw any issues involving inmates in the facility. Lieutenant Williams is looking forward to continuing his career as a Shift Commander at the facility.
Sergeant Jillian Schweizer
In April of 2007. Sergeant Schweizer was offered a job as a Social Worker for the Morris County Correctional Facility marking the start of her career in criminal justice. After a short time, Sergeant Schweizer decided that she had a passion to become a Corrections Officer and was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Bureau of Corrections in August of 2009. She has worked various positions within the correctional facility, but the last ten years of her career have been spent handling all the payroll duties for various unions and over 200 employees. Promoted to the rank of Corporal in 2021, she enjoyed being able to mentor new employees and help ease their transition into corrections. Sergeant Schweizer is the department’s Resiliency Programs Officer, which works in conjunction with Cop2Cop to help break the mental health stigma in law enforcement. Sergeant Schweizer is also an FBI trained Crisis/Hostage Negotiator for Morris County, an MOI certified instructor at the Public Safety Training academy and the Equal Opportunity Coordinator within the Bureau of Corrections. Sgt. Schweizer is looking forward to the opportunity to supervise and help motivate new employees, while continuing to learn and grow in her new position.
Sergeant Michael Provenzano
Sergeant Michael Provenzano began his law enforcement career in November 2012 and has continually served with dedication, professionalism, and integrity with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. Sergeant Provenzano has served multiple key assignments, including the Intake Unit, the 3rd Floor Corridor, and Housing Unit 2Delta. He has also proudly served on the Morris County Honor Guard. In addition to his operational roles, Sergeant Provenzano dedicated ten years to the PBA Local 298 board, serving as both Trustee and Vice President, further demonstrating his commitment to his fellow officers and the department’s mission. Sergeant Provenzano is known for his calm demeanor under pressure, strong leadership qualities, and dedication to mentoring newer officers. His promotion reflects over a decade of outstanding service and unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the community.
Sergeant Richard Dalesandro
Sergeant Richard Dalesandro attended Pennsylvania State University where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in May of 2016. In 2019, he was accepted to the Juvenile Justice Commission Correctional Police Academy in Sea Girt. Upon graduating in July of 2019, he started working at the New Jersey Training School for Boys in Jamesburg until March of 2020 when he was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections. Since hired as a Correctional Police Officer, Sergeant Dalesandro has been the permanent officer assigned to 3D and 3D-MCU housing units. Sergeant Dalesandro looks forward to the responsibilities in his new role as Sergeant.
Sergeant Jason Simpson
Sergeant Jason Simpson began working after graduating high school as an auto mechanic. While working full-time, he began taking evening classes at County College of Morris where he would graduate with an associate’s degree in criminal justice. In August 2006, he was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections. After graduating from the Bergen County Police Academy, Sergeant Simpson worked Housing Unit 3D for a total of six years. In 2012, he was assigned to the Medical Officer position where he worked for 13 years. In October 2024, Sergeant Simpson was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Recently in March 2025, he was awarded the position of Transports. Jason has been employed with the Sheriff’s Office for 20 years and is ready for his new promotion to Sergeant.
Sergeant Mike Molde
Sergeant Mike Molde began his law enforcement career in June 2009 and has consistently demonstrated professionalism, leadership, and a commitment to excellence throughout his sixteen years of service. Sergeant Molde has held a variety of critical roles within the correctional facility, starting on the housing tiers before moving to Intake, where he developed advanced expertise in criminal street and prison gang dynamics. Sergeant Molde’s proficiency in this area led to his selection for the Gang Intelligence Unit, where he contributed to major operations including raids, surveillance initiatives, and specialized gang-related training events. Sergeant Molde has also served as a departmental firearms instructor, further reflecting the trust placed in his skills and judgment. In 2021, he was promoted to Detective Corporal within the Internal Affairs Unit, where he conducted sensitive investigations requiring a high degree of integrity, discretion, and analytical ability. Now promoted to Sergeant, he brings a proven record of leadership, operational experience, and dedication to supporting both the mission of the department and the development of the officers under his command.
Students in CCM’s engineering programs benefit from hands-on learning, modern labs, and affordable pathways to top four-year universities.
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) has been named one of the Top Twenty-Five New Jersey State Schools for Engineering Majors Seeking Strong Value by Rebellion Research Advisors, L.P., a registered investment adviser and not-for-profit educational research think tank. The recognition highlights both four-year and two-year institutions across New Jersey for exceptional returns on investment for engineering students, many of whom go on to secure high-paying positions in energy, pharma, software and transportation.
CCM’s engineering programs emphasize quality instruction and real-world application.
“CCM’s recognition reflects the college’s commitment to high-quality STEM education, strong faculty expertise, modern labs and equipment, and affordable pathways that reduce financial barriers while opening doors to top-tier, baccalaureate engineering programs,” said Virginia Rich, dean of the School of Business, Mathematics, Engineering & Technologies at CCM.
This commitment is reflected in CCM’s certificate of achievement programs, many of which can be completed in just a few semesters, with credits that may be applied toward an associate degree at CCM. The college also maintains strong transfer pathways with numerous respected four-year institutions, enabling engineering students to seamlessly continue their education at NJIT, Rutgers, Rowan, Stevens, Cornell, New York Tech, RIT, RPI, and other universities.
According to Thomas Roskop, chairperson of CCM’s department of Engineering Technologies & Engineering Science, “At CCM, we take great pride in offering one of the strongest and most affordable pathways for aspiring engineers. Our programs deliver a rigorous technical foundation and open doors to top engineering schools across New Jersey and beyond. This recognition reflects the exceptional rigor of our instruction and the drive of our students. More importantly, it reinforces that CCM is truly one of the best places to launch a successful engineering career.”
That momentum is reflected in enrollment trends at CCM. Over the past three years, the A.S. in Engineering Science program grew by 40%, while enrollment in the A.A.S. in Electronics Engineering Technology program increased by 27.5%.
For more information about CCM’s engineering programs, click here.
CCM students work with advanced equipment in state-of-the-art engineering labs.
Recent coverage of the December 16 Township Council meeting framed the PARQ discussion as a dispute over transparency. If transparency is truly the concern, residents deserve clarity — not competing narratives
At the December 18 meeting of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education, it was confirmed on the public record that no formal offers for land, a school building, or binding financial terms related to the PARQ redevelopment have ever been received by the Board. That fact matters.
During the December 16 Council meeting, Paul Carifi stated that developers had previously offered land, school construction, and per-student funding, and that the Board of Education declined those offers without informing the public. However, no written documentation, correspondence, resolutions, or formal proposals supporting those claims have been produced.
The only written material submitted to the school district was a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) provided by the Township in May 2025. That document was not a formal offer, was not presented for Board action, and did not constitute a negotiable proposal for land, a school facility, or binding financial terms.
The Board of Education did respond formally. Through its attorney, the Board submitted a Proposed Ordinance outlining a lawful and transparent framework for addressing school impacts related to PILOT developments. That ordinance was not acknowledged or replied to by the Township until 4:01 p.m. on December 15, 2025 — less than 24 hours before the Council meeting where claims of rejected offers were made.
Just to let you know, offers discussed verbally, during site tours, or conveyed to a single Board member are not formal offers. The Board of Education is a nine-member governing body, and no individual member has authority to negotiate or act on its behalf.
Since November 2023, multiple Board of Education members have attended Township Council meetings. During that time, there has been no formal outreach or negotiation initiated by Township leadership regarding school construction, land donation, or PILOT revenue sharing. Council President Carifi has never contacted the Board — formally or informally — to discuss such proposals.
It is also notable that Frank Neglia, the Council Vice President and a former Board of The Education President understands that formal offers must be presented in writing to the The board as a body is addressed through a public process. I don’t think any such offers were ever transmitted.
If the Mayor or Council believes formal offers were made, the solution is straightforward: produce them and place them on the public record.
Observers of Parsippany Town Council Meetings are used to spirited debate but can be forgiven for being caught off guard by the surprises on December 16.
In Tuesday’s Town Council meeting, Alison Cogan, the President of the Parsippany Board of Education (BOE), made a statement regarding the two PILOT Projects to be considered and voted on in Tuesday’s meeting. Among the important points made:
• This Ordinance could produce 400 students in addition to students from prior PILOT agreements. • The BOE has tried unsuccessfully for the last two years, to reach agreement with the town on a revenue sharing agreement. • There is no evidence that the financial incentive of a PILOT is necessary to redevelop under the existing Redevelopment Plan. • No financial agreement supporting the proposed Ordinance was made available to the public before the meeting. • Voting on this PILOT with no opportunity to review the underlying Financial Agreement and without any revenue-sharing agreement with the BOE in place is improper, premature, short-sighted, and is not in the best interest of Parsippany.
After Mrs. Cogan spoke, the audience was treated to Council President Carifi’s statement. It was then the audience learned of the great altruism of the Parq developer. According to Mr. Carifi, the developer offered to give land to the BOE and there would be PILOT money to build a new state-of-the-art school and the BOE said no. There was nothing to say ‘No” to as no details of this great generosity were provided in writing by the town, for the BOE to consider but it did provide a good talking point for Mr. Carifi.
Mr. Carifi further mentioned the $10K per student offer the town had submitted to the BOE in May. That offer did not include 1515 Route 10, nor were future PILOT’s included. Contrary to Mr. Carifi’s claim, the BOE did not say no to this offer but before responding with a counter proposal, an OPRA request was sent to the town on June 4 for PILOT contracts the town had with developers. Normally the deadline for responding to an OPRA request is 10 days. However, the town requested an extension to July 8. A response merely required electronic copies of existing contracts, which were already stored electronically. After the contracts were received on July 8, a counter proposal for $15K per student was submitted by the BOE that would include 1515 Route 10 and future PILOTs. The Mayor and the town chose to not respond to the counteroffer by the BOE until November, conveniently after the election. Once the Mayor responded at 4:00 pm on December 15, his counter of $12K per student was so riddled with caps and contingencies as to be unacceptable to all 9 members of the BOE.
The town has consistently used delay tactics such as bogus audit requests to get past milestones such as primaries, elections, and an alleged immunity deadline to to ram through a deal that benefits the town at the expense of the school district. These tactics are not consistent with a collaborative relationship.
The building of a school is not only a more expensive and front-loaded project than educating students, but the building of the school does nothing to alleviate the recurring costs to educate a child over the 30-year term of the PILOT. The school district requires an increased revenue stream in the form of a per student agreement that aligns closely with the additional costs incurred by the school district. Why would anyone think the town would make a larger contribution in PILOT funds for a school when they had to be dragged kicking and screaming to enter into a smaller revenue per student agreement sought by the BOE?
A major shortcoming in the Town Council meeting was the refusal to provide financial information on the PILOTs to the public in advance of the meeting. Even without those numbers, problems were apparent. First the claim by the financial expert, Michael Hawley of NW Financial Group, who cited the projected Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 4.65%. He asserted the IRR on the project is below the risk-free rate of return and therefore unacceptable. While he is correct in principle that an IRR below the risk-free rate of return is unacceptable and should not be pursued, the estimated IRR of 4.65% is currently above the current risk-free rate of return of 4.13%. Under the widely used Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM), the risk-free rate usually employed to calculate the price of an asset is the interest rate on 10 Year US Government Bonds. The current interest rate on the 10-Year Bond is 4.13%. While an IRR of 4.65% is not particularly robust, it is demonstrably more than 4.13%. While it is likely the yield on the 10-year bond was higher when the forecast was prepared than it is now, that number was not disclosed. The forecast should have been updated to reflect the current risk-free rate as the return on the project would be higher.
Some of the questions that could have been asked if the public had received the projections in advance include:
• What discount rate was used? The higher the discount rate, the lower is the Project Value. • Why aren’t there preferred lending rates on PILOT projects that would transfer a portion of the cost away from the school district to lenders? • Were accelerated depreciation schedules incorporated into the forecast? That has a positive impact on taxable income • The rep of NW Financial cited that the Net Operating Income was divided by 5% (which is a back of the envelope way to calculate the value of an asset into perpetuity) to arrive at Project Value. However, dividing $23,273,328 by 5% is not $423,151,412, it is $465,466,560. Why the $42.3 million difference?
There was also discussion of the significant difference cited between 400 projected students vs. 151 per the Rutgers study. That uncertainty is why the BOE has long sought a shared revenue per student agreement with the town. The following items were up for negotiation.
• The amount per student attending school and living in a PILOT project. • Limitations on the total amount paid (Caps on the payout to the schools?) • What PILOT projects are included and not included in the revenue share • Are future PILOT’s (including the PILOT just voted on) included in the revenue share? State legislators realize the flaws in the PILOT legislation. S3915 seeks to provide a remedy to the flawed tax abatement legislation by Requiring “municipalities to share certain payments in lieu of property taxes with school districts; informs counties, school districts, and DCA of certain information related to property tax exemptions and abatements.”
Usually missing from the vocabulary of politicians is “priority.” The Mayor and the Town Council have never put out a vision of what they plan to do with the extra money they are receiving with the PILOT money, at least not publicly. Whatever they have in mind, they consider it a higher priority than education so the public should know what that priority is, to decide if it is more important than education. Given the lack of transparency and collaboration from the town, the incoming administration faces a low bar to clear.
New Jersey’s minimum wage will rise to $15.92 per hour on January 1, 2026, marking the final scheduled increase under Governor Phil Murphy before Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill takes office, as the state continues tying wage adjustments to inflation.
TRENTON — New Jersey’s minimum wage will increase once again in 2026, marking the final scheduled boost under Governor Phil Murphy before he leaves office.
Beginning January 1, 2026, the minimum wage for most workers across the state will rise to $15.92 per hour, an increase of 43 cents from the current rate. Since Murphy took office in 2018, the minimum wage will have increased by $7.32 per hour, fulfilling his pledge to reach—and exceed—the $15 benchmark by 2025.
Different wage structures will continue to apply to certain categories of workers, including farm laborers, tipped employees, and caregivers, some of whom are expected to see larger or phased-in increases under existing state law.
“Eight years ago, Governor Murphy pledged a stronger, fairer economy, and we’re delivering on this commitment by raising New Jersey’s minimum wage again,” said New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo.
The 2026 increase will be the last enacted before Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill is sworn into office during an inauguration ceremony scheduled for January 20, 2026, in Newark.
New Jersey’s minimum wage adjustments are tied to inflation following the achievement of the $15 threshold, ensuring future increases continue to reflect changes in the cost of living for workers statewide.
How can a PILOT be given for a minimum affordable, rather than more designated affordable low-income, say. 50-100 units for example. The developers already own the land, nature/god made that, and rent, and fees are unearned income extracted from wage earners for living space.
These Developers Remedy Threats in cases like the one that took place in PTH, which are corporate coups over civil society. How can good land use be simply tossed aside? If the developments are concentrated as they should be, why then minimum affordable, this will then, contrary to what Carifi is saying, happen after all, more units in the next round, unless they lower the rents in the vacant unrented units.
Can’t help feeling this whole lame duck last minute PILOT jam, was a premeditated staged event with Inglesino as a ringleader, the appearance of the Housing Master Wizard of Oz on the screen, had to retract her PILOTs of else threat, when confronted by a direct question from Councilman McGrath. The whole courtroom like session, aided and abetted the fear the developers were instilling.
Only Political Courage could have challenged these tactics. Parsippany had done everything to meet it’s 4th round obligation, and settled for a minimum in affordable units. In my opinion this whole episode, of a sudden PILOT during a lame duck council should of been looked into as a Court Challenge. Since when does Housing Obligations depend of PILOT? In blighted areas of poverty, perhaps, but Parsippany?
Highlands Conformance does give legal shields; this may have been an opportunity to look into this option, an opportunity lost, due to a time quirk; a time quirk not given the good faith of an extension, to look into the sudden failure of the developer not to met the obligation, as was set in motion? Again, if PILOT Deals are essential in meeting housing obligations, this should have been known. Mayor Barberio has made it clear (since June) that Parsippany knew of no other PILOTs in the works, then suddenly Pearl Harbor!
* Ben Spinelli NJ Highlands Council Executive Director has trumpeted the fact that the market rate units needed to in order to meet the number of required affordable units will far exceed the carrying capacity of the Highlands. There is no magic wand that will resolve this conflict. However, the reason we succeeded in amending the recent Affordable Housing Reform Act, which finally recognized the need to limit growth in the Highlands, was because of the impacts to the Highlands resources if numbers assigned by the state applied in the Highlands.
If Parsippany has the Highest Water Deficit in the watershed, and our aquifer is already being depleted due to past poor landuse and continued consumption, and depletion, how can developers be given free reign in further impacts as they please in a developers remedy? What portion of any of the housing units are regional obligations, and what benefits can Parsippany obtain from sending municipalities? Parsippany is in overdeveloped in need of redevelopment, not blighted. This is where the corporate rateable chase has brought us. There is no escape, only obligation; however the obligation must not be one-sided. The formula ratio 20 to 4 is substandard in its need and background of the actual economy and what it brings people in their wages, benefits and overall costs.
The cry about more children also seems strange would not the increase come more from residential homes, in my neighborhood in Hiawatha, Oneida Ave, there are plenty of kids in the area, waiting for school buses. Carifi and Inglesino language like welfare, and Newark like, or Inglesino past Town Hall Housing Class, beginning with Newark “Riots”, and not the actual circumstance of the Mount Laurel Community being disenfranchised is also racist in tone.
Developers don’t do PILOTs because it benefits US.
Parsippany appears not to have considered some of the following: To avoid these negative impacts, a number of towns are putting plans in place where they fulfill their AH obligation directly, using a combination of techniques, including the following.
•Rehabilitation of existing substandard housing stock •Creation of accessory apartments, shared senior housing or elder cottage housing; •Special needs/group homes; •“Buy downs” of existing housing; •Bonus credits for family rental units; •Regional Contribution Agreements (RCAs); •Creation of assisted living residences.
Economy can not exist in a vacuum outside the laws of nature. As a species, and a society we are doing ourselves in. Only Political Courage can have any chance. Economy is a political decision made for the collective in it’s justice and equity.
