PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Focus presents its annual 2015 in review. Aurora Information Security & Risk, Township Attorney John Inglesino, Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Captain James Carifi, Parsippany Hills Vikings and Parsippany High School Marching Band top the most read and searched for stories in 2015. Parsippany Focus features some of the most read stories below:

Community mourns Peter Hebberd, 17, who battled a brain tumor – January 3, 2015

Peter Edward Hebberd, passed away on Friday, January 2  as a result of complications during surgery to correct a malfunctioning Ommaya reservoir.

Peter’s mother, Roxanne Hebberd wrote “Our hearts are heavy, but we know he lives on in us, his immediate and extended family, his friends and as a believer, has eternal life in Christ.  Despite the efforts of the team at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, who loved and cared for him these past few years, simply nothing more could be done.  He, and we are at peace, knowing he is in the presence of his Father.”

Peter Hebberd, a 17 year old senior attending Parsippany High School, battled a recurrent brain tumor since 2003. He has endured 13 surgeries (seven of which were brain surgeries), three chemotherapy protocols, a feeding tube, shunt placement/failure, a medi-port, a staph infection, over 50 MRI’s, and countless PT, OT, and speech therapy sessions.

Parsippany Board of Education to swear in three board members – January 5, 2015

Parsippany Board of Education swore in three board members at its meeting on Tuesday, January 6.

Timothy Berrios, who was appointed by the Board to fill a seat vacated by Gary Martin in August, won an election in November along with former member Andrew Choffo and new comer George Blair. All three will hold a board seat until December 31, 2017.

The trio will be joining Mrs. Fran Orthwein, Mr. Frank Neglia, Dr. Frank A. Calabria; Mr. James Carifi; Mr. Joseph Cistaro and Mrs. Alison Cogan on the Board of Education.

Sharif Shamsudin and Susy Golderer lost their re-election bid in November, and their terms expired on December 31, 2014.

Morris County Expanding Video Court Conferencing – January 7, 2015

Morris County is expanding its use of video conferencing for certain court proceedings in both the superior and municipal courts.

With the approval of the Board of Freeholders, Morris County Chief Information Officer John Tugman has been working the judiciary, municipal officials and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office for more than a year to have the Internet video technology installed, tested and implemented.

The capability can be used anywhere and with any device that has Internet access such as tablets, PC’s and Smart Phones.

Morris County Freeholder Tom Mastrangelo said the idea is to reduce the need to transport inmates from the county correctional facility to the Morris County Courthouse in Morristown or to municipal courts across the county.

Town Council says adieu, adieu, adieu to mayoral appointments – January 8, 2015

At it’s annual reorganization meeting Tuesday night, the Township Council voted against the reappointment of special counsel Todd M. Galante, Esq, Labor attorney, Stephen E. Trimboli, Esq. and conflict attorney, Michael B. Lavery, Esq.  Township Attorney John Inglesino was also voted out, but per state statute will remain as a holdover.

Sources say that Galante, a long time supporter of Mayor Barberio, was Barberio’s original choice in 2010 to take over the helm as Township Attorney for Morris County’s largest municipality until then governor-elect Chris Christie and Morris County Republican Chairman John Sette interceded and “squeezed” Barberio into appointing Inglesino for the lucrative position.

“I will remain township attorney in a holdover capacity as I did last year,” Inglesino told the Daily Record on Wednesday. “I can tell you that the other attorneys voted down by three council members are outstanding attorneys who have represented the township’s interests extraordinarily well for many years.”

Sheriff Rochford cleared of all restraining order matters – January 8, 2015

Honorable Superior Court Judge Esther Suarez, Passaic County, signed an Order allowing the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office to return Sheriff Edward Rochford’s weapons, concluding a six month ordeal.

Previously. the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) filed against Sheriff Rochford by his estranged wife had been dismissed.

Passaic County Superior Court Judge John Selser dismissed the TRO against Sheriff Rochford based upon Diana Rochford’s request and representation that she did not feel threatened by the Sheriff. Despite the fact that the charges were dismissed, when a TRO is filed against a person in law enforcement, a lengthy procedure is necessary in order to regain the status quo.

Taxpayers pay Inglesino firm $600,000 and growing over dead-end Captain Carifi investigation – January 11, 2015

Parsippany Focus has learned Parsippany-Troy Hills Township will be doling out another $220,000 to township attorney John Inglesino for costs associated with his law firm’s retention of Aurora Information Security & Risk.  The information was obtained from documents Parsippany Focus received through OPRA (the state’s Open Public Records Act), court records, and interviews with current township officials and employees and former township officials.

As previously reported in the article, Barberio and Inglesino accused of Bribery and Official Misconduct. AGAIN!, Ingelsino hired Aurora services, without Council approval, at a rate of $200 per hour to assist the township attorney in the defense of a civil lawsuit filed by former Parsippany Police Captain James Carifi.  In that lawsuit, Captain Carifi alleged widespread workplace misconduct within in the police department, including that 13 out of 43 police laptops purchased by the department went missing in 2011.

What once began as a simple whistle-blower suit has evolved into claims of political retaliation, criminal investigations, attempted bribery, wrongful withholding of gun permits and pensions, mounting tensions among township employees at Town Hall and within the Parsippany Police Department, and the illegitimate hiring of a company not licensed by the New Jersey State Police to conduct private investigations.

The Vikings Football Team received Proclamations at Council Meeting – January 15, 2015

The Parsippany Hills North 2 Group III Championship Football Team attended the Township Council meeting on Tuesday, January 13 and was honored with three proclamations. The first proclamation presented to Coach Albano by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio. Then the Mayor presented Coach Albano with a “Key to Parsippany.”

Members of the Township Council, Paul Carifi, Jr, Council President; Robert Peluso, Vice President; Michael dePierro, Brian Stanton and Dr. Louis Valori then presented Coach Albano with a proclamation, followed by Senator Joseph Pennacchio with a proclamation on behalf of himself and Assemblywomen BettyLou deCroce and Assemblyman Jay Webber.

After the presentations, the Players, Parents and Coaches joined in a celebration of cake, Jimmy John cookies, coffee and refreshments compliments of Parsippany Focus.

Zoning Board of Adjustment holds Reorganization meeting – January 16, 2015

During the re-organization of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment, three new members were sworn in.  Mr. Sridath Reddy, Mr. Scot Jaskowitz and Mr. Dave Kaplan was sworn in.  Mr. Reddy was appointed to serve a four year term, while the other gentlemen were appointed as Alternates serving two year terms. In addition, Mr. Robert Iracane was sworn in to another four year term.

Immediately after being sworn in, Mr. Robert Iracane was voted in as Chairman, and Mr. George Kimmey as Vice Chairman.

Mr. Peter King, Esq,, was voted in as Board Attorney replacing George W. Johnson, Esq.

DeFillippo, Cesaro to Lead Morris Freeholder Board – January 20, 2015

The Morris County Board Chosen Freeholders on January 2 selected Kathryn A. DeFillippo to be the board’s director in 2015.

The freeholders then elected John Cesaro as the board’s deputy director.

The actions came during the freeholder board’s Stated Annual Meeting in Morristown, during which incumbent Hank Lyon was sworn in for his first full three-year term as a freeholder.

Parsippany Council Orders Immediate Financial Audit Into Excessive Spending on Computer Firm – January 21, 2015

The Parsippany Council has formally given the green light for a forensic auditor to move in and investigate monies Township taxpayers so far paid to a computer firm independently hired by township attorney John Inglesino without Council approval.

During the contentious regularly scheduled meeting last week (January 13, 2015), Councilman Lou Valori made good on his promise in comments made to Parsippany Focus that he would call for an independent forensic audit of the mounting bills Parsippany has been paying to Aurora Information and Security Risk based in New York City.  Aurora was hired in February 2013 to disk image the workplace hard drive of former Police Captain James Carfi.   When the council was notified four months after the firm’s hiring, nearly $50,000 had already been billed to the Township by Aurora through Inglesino’s law firm.

Last week, it was revealed that at least an additional $220,000 has been billed by Aurora.

“When I first became a Councilman in January 2014, at my very first meeting John [Inglesino] told us that approximately $80,000 had been spent so far between Aurora and Inglesino’s firm”, Councilman Louis Valori told Parsippany Focus.   “Here we are one year later, and we just found out that Aurora billed the town an additional $220,000 and it has been indicated to me that their bills alone are approaching $500,000.”

dePierro, Gragnani and Ferrara announces candidacy for Township Council – January 25, 2015

During his 32nd Annual Brunch on Sunday, January 25, at the Parsippany Hilton, Michael dePierro announced his candidacy and announced his two running mates, Vincent Ferrara and Loretta Gragnani.

dePierro has been a Parsippany Councilman since 1982, serving 32 years including terms as Council President and Vice President. He was also a member of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board for 22 years.

He is the only Parsippany elected leader inducted into the New Jersey League of Municipalities Hall of Fame.

Rauchberg Dental Group Celebrates 50th Anniversary – February 2, 2015  

Rauchberg Dental Group, a premier healthcare provider in Parsippany, is celebrating 50 years of service this year.

The practice was founded in 1965 by Dr. Joel Rauchberg with the belief that a healthy life starts with a healthy mouth. His son, Dr. Alan Rauchberg, joined the practice in 1993. Together they have built a comprehensive practice that includes family and cosmetic dentistry. With the recent addition of several specialists on staff, including an oral surgeon, gum, and root canal specialist, Rauchberg Dental Group has become one of the eminent practices in Northern New Jersey.

 Aurora bills Parsippany $601,678.77 – February 2, 2015  

Parsippany Focus has learned via open public record requests (OPRA) that computer expert firm, Aurora Information and Security Risk has provided bills to the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills (via Inglesino) for at least $601,678.77 through the end of 2014.  This is for work related to disk imaging the workplace hard drive of former Police Captain James Carifi.

To date, Aurora was paid through Inglesino, Pearlman, Wyciskala and Taylor, (“Inglesino Firm”) $20,082.60 (which included $1,902.60 NJ Sales Tax) and $17,835.43 (which included $1,165.15 NJ Sales Tax), $150,000.00 on December 23, 2014 (Check # 99,282) and Inglesino has an agreement with the town to pay an additional $5,833.33, over a 12 month period, which started on January 31, 2015, totaling $220,000.00.

“The Township is chartered under the Mayor-Council form of government pursuant to the Faulkner Act, N.J.S.A. 40:69A-31, et seq.  Under the Mayor-Council plan, only the Mayor is vested with the authority to negotiate and execute contracts on behalf of the municipality. See N.J.S.A. 40:69A40(g), (j).  The only exception is the employment of a registered municipal accountant by the Township Council to perform an annual audit.  See N.J.S.A. 40A:5-4 (emphasis added). However, the special audit requested by Township Council and directed by Councilman Valori is outside the scope of, and in addition to, the annual audit.  Accordingly, the Township Council is without authority to negotiate or direct that the Township enter into a contract with your firm for purposes of auditing legal fees, and I will not execute such an agreement.”

BOE considering turf fields; light towers and more – February 6, 2015

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education meeting on Thursday, February 19 will include a presentation by the architect and engineer about the proposed turfing of the high school fields, the rebuilding of the Parsippany High School track and the construction of lights towers at Parsippany High School and the refurbishment of the light towers already at Parsippany High School.

The meeting is scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m., but the BOE will be interviewing candidates to fill the two vacant seats. It is estimated they will start discussion on the fields at approximately 7:00 p.m.

Barberio quashes audit of Inglesino, Aurora – February 7, 2015

With a unanimous vote and encouragement by the township business administrator, the Council in late January passed a resolution which authorized an independent audit of the billing records of attorney John Inglesino and computer “expert”  Aurora Information and Security Risk (see story).

After a meeting with the auditor, Councilmen Valori and DiPierro, and Business Administrator Ellen Sandman, it appeared that the parameters of the audit were settled and ready to go.  However, Parsippany Focus has learned that Mayor James Barberio has recently and unilaterally quashed the audit.  In a letter to the auditor, Barberio in part wrote that

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes the employees of GAF to Parsippany – February 12, 2015

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC) prepared “welcoming packages” for the employees of GAF.

On Tuesday, February 10 Board Members Frank Cahill and Nicolas Limanov set up in the lobby of the cafeteria at GAF’s new corporate headquarters at One Campus Drive.

PACC distributed over 600 “Discover Greater Parsippany”  booklets containing information about Parsippany, its history and important telephone numbers.  Also included in the book is a directory of all PACC’s members.

14 Former BOE and Township employees are members of the $100K Club – February 20, 2015

New Jersey’s $100K Club of retired public officials has more than doubled in the past four years, according to a New Jersey Watchdog analysis of state Treasury pension data.

Parsippany-Troy Hills has 14 former employees in the top $100K Club. Included were the past three Police Chiefs, six other Police personnel, and five from the board of education.  Only one Parsippany female was included in the top $100K Club.

As 2014 ended, 1,988 retirees were collecting state pensions in excess of $100,000 a year — the elite “1-percenters” among New Jersey’s 285,000 retirees. (Click here for the list)  That number has grown quickly since 2010 when the count was 971.

Man gets 25 years for locking 71-year-old woman in car trunk in Parsippany – February 22, 2015

Declaring his crime “one of the most callous acts I’ve seen,” a Superior Court judge on Friday sentenced a 43-year-old East Rutherford man to 25 years in state prison for locking a 71-year-old woman in her car trunk during a carjacking in Parsippany.

Joseph DeFreitas, who pleaded guilty to a single charge of carjacking on November 18, admitted that he spotted the unnamed New Hampshire woman driving around, followed her, “flagged her down” and then “forced” his way into her car on December 29, 2012.

DeFreitas stole her jewelry and her credit cards, drove the car to an ATM and withdrew money from her account, and then locked her in the trunk and went on a shopping spree, authorities said.

Parsippany Rotary Distinguished Service Awards Banquet – March 2, 2015

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Rotary Club hosted their 51st Annual Distinguished Service Awards Banquet on Saturday, February 28.

This year’s, “Outstanding Citizen” award was presented to Dr. Frank Calabria. Calabria went to Seton Hall where he received his Bachelors in 1963 and his Master’s in Education in 1965. He received his PhD from Fordham University in 1991. Most of his professional career was spent at Sparta High School.

This year, three “Outstanding Educators” awards were presented.  Rebecca Lilienthal, Debra Seftel and Doreen Worthington received these honors.

The “Outstanding Business Person” award was presented to Frank Cahill, Parsippany Focus.  Frank has been the editor and publisher of Parsippany Focus since it started twenty-five years ago. Focus is now an on-line news source which covers everything that goes in Parsippany, including Town Administration, school system functions, meetings and sports, the good news about residents and the sad which includes accidents and crime, etc. Focus is the first place many residents go daily to see what is happening in our Township.

Paul Carifi announces re-election bid for Township Council; Visakay and Beehler join Carifi’s ticket – March 5, 2015

Paul Carifi, Jr. officially announced his candidacy for the Republican Party’s nomination to run for the Parsippany-Troy Hills township council for a second term. Carifi also introduced Parsippany residents and running mates Aida Visakay and John Beehler for the Tuesday, June 2 primary to a large crowd of supporters at a March 5 event at il Villaggio Restaurant in Morris Plains.

In attendance and supporting the candidates were Freeholders Dave Scarpichio, Doug Cabana, John Krickus and Tom Mastrangelo, Freeholder Candidate Debra Smith, Council Vice President Robert Peluso and Councilman Lou Valori. Also attending was Sedgefield Civic Association President Carlos Guzman.

Sheriff Rochford celebrates 50 years of service; receives Proclamation from Mayor Barberio – March 12, 2015

Sheriff Edward Rochford celebrated 50 years in office along with his annual St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza on Monday, March 2 at Zeris Inn, Mountain Lakes.

Ed is serving his 8th term as Morris County Sheriff. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office is celebrating its 275th year and Sheriff Rochford is celebrating his 50th Year in Law Enforcement.

As part of the event, many officials gave Ed proclamations and awards. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presented Ed with a proclamation naming March 2 as “Sheriff Edward Rochford Day” and a key to Parsippany. The proclamation appears at the end of this article.

Last year the Morris County Sheriff’s Office earned the Prestigious 2014 Triple Crown Award.

Captain Carifi wins again; Declared “vindicated” – March 12, 2015

In front of a packed courtroom this morning, Morris County Superior Court Judge Ahto ordered that retired Parsippany Police Captain James Carifi be issued a permit to carry a concealed weapon.

At issue, Parsippany Police Chief Paul Philipps had not submitted Part 2 of form SP-232 to the New Jersey State Police.  This form required Philipps to affirm whether or not Carifi had retired in good standing.  By not submitting the form, the State Police had to deny the issuance of Carifi’s permit.

But in a surprising turn of events, the Morris County Prosecutor’s office provided the signed and dated form for Judge Ahto.  On March 10, 2015, Chief Philipps confirmed that when Carifi retired from the Parsippany Police Department on April 1, 2013, he did in fact retire in good standing.

“We are extremely happy with the Judges decision today,” said Carifi’s attorney Edward Bilinkas. “We consider this an unconditional surrender.  I have been saying from day one that Captain Carifi retired in good standing and by the chief submitting the certification today vindicates James Carifi in this matter.”

Investigators dismiss ethics charges Parsippany council made against its own attorney – March 12, 2015

The state Office of Attorney Ethics has dismissed ethics charges filed by the majority of the township council against its own municipal attorney.

Township Attorney John Inglesino said in a news release Wednesday state investigators found no evidence to corroborate allegations his law firm had circumvented state or municipal campaign finance laws.

A resolution passed by Councilmen Paul Carifi, Lou Valori and Robert Peluso last March accused Inglesino and his law firm of directing political contributions to the campaign account of state Sen. Kevin O’Toole, who in turn contributed to the campaign fund of Mayor James Barberio. The councilmen effectively accused Inglesino and his firm of “wheeling,” a practice where political contributions are directed through an intermediary and then into the campaign account of the intended candidate.

Freeholders introduce budget with no county tax increase – March 15, 2015

The Morris County Freeholders have again developed a county budget with a zero percent increase in county taxes and that maintains critical county government services.

The freeholders, during their public meeting in Morristown on March 11, introduced a $329.53 million budget for 2015 with a total tax effort that is the same as last year’s $217,899,755 figure.

“This is the third budget in a row that has a zero percent tax increase,” said Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo, who chairs the Budget Subcommittee.

“In the midst of difficult economic times, we are continuing to give the taxpayers of Morris County the relief they deserve, while maintaining vital county services.”

Whole Foods Developer now wants to Build 666 Apartments at Waterview – March 24, 2015

Controversial developer RD Realty, through it’s attorney, Robert Kasuba, of the law firm Bisgaier Hoff, recently wrote a threatening letter to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council, Mayor, Township Clerk and members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board.  The letter dated March 20, 2015 in part states:

“Please accept this letter as formal notice that RD Realty is an interested party in the municipal compliance with its affordable housing obligations and proposes that Parsippany-Troy Hills and its planning board, including any attorneys, staff members, and consultants of each of the foregoing (collectively, “Parsippany”), include RD Realty on the service list for any communication with the court regarding any litigation concerning affordable housing issues….In addition, RD Realty hereby proposes that Parsippany include an inclusionary development totaling 666 residential units, of which at least twenty percent (20%) shall be affordable to low and moderate income households in accordance with the Uniform Housing Affordability Controls (“UHAC”), N.J.A.C. 5:80-26.1, et seq., on the above-referenced property as part of any compliance plan. For your consideration, we have included a concept plan depicting the proposed inclusionary development on this property.”

Accompanying the letter was a fully realized concept plan.  The plan for the Waterview lot includes 666 apartments, 1283 parking spaces and three entrance/exit onto the property.

Inglesino continues to charge Township for Aurora Bills – March 30, 2015

After two years, nearly $800,000 was charged to the Township for disk imaging the hard drive of former Parsippany Police captain James Carifi.

Last month Township Business administrator Ellen Sandman told Council members and the public that she had arranged for the Township to reimburse John Inglesino’s firm $220,000 in addition to nearly $50,000 that had already been paid by the Township.  This amount, a fraction of the total amount billed, was, per Sandman, an agreement that Aurora Information and Security Risk and Mr. Inglesino’s firm agreed to as “paid in full.”

Parsippany Focus has learned via OPRA requests that Mr. Inglesino’s firm continues to seek reimbursement for Aurora.  On March 1, 2015,  the Township was billed an additional $1400 for data preservation of the hard drive for January and February 2014.

Two years later the Board of Elections requests AG investigation into voter irregularities in Parsippany – April 15, 2015

In a letter dated March 10, 2015, the four Commissioners on the Board of Elections have formally requested an investigation into voting irregularities that purportedly occurred during the 2013 Primary Election in Parsippany. The four Commissioners are Chairman George Hanley; John Sette, Morris County Republican Party chairman; John Fox and Helen O’Connor.

Allegations of absentee ballot improprieties are nothing new in Parsippany with murmurings beginning when James Barberio defeated incumbent Michael Luther in 2009.

The letter written to the Attorney General’s office in Whippany states:

Over the last several years, we have spent a tremendous amount of time and effort in the courtroom due to questions raised regarding mail-in ballots used by local candidates and their representatives in the Township of Parsippany Troy Hills.

In 2011, Superior Court Judge Weisenbeck heard complaints from then-incumbent Morris County Freeholder Margaret Nordstrom that irregular absentees from Parsippany had robbed her of a Primary win. Weisenbeck’s ruling initially gave Nordstrom the nomination, though a series of other legal and political challenges eventually landed her challenger, Hank Lyon with her seat.

Super Democratic PAC enters Parsippany’s Republican Council Race – April 16, 2015

NJ political news website Politickernj.com is reporting that a Super PAC with ties to President Obama and Hillary Clinton has entered into the Parsippany GOP primary race for Town Council.

The PAC, called New Jersey’s Future Fund, has put out a flyer endorsing long time GOP Councilman Mike dePierro, Vincent Ferrara, and Lorretta Gragnani, is not listed on the Federal Election Commission website yet, but it’s Treasurer, Jennifer May, is a high-powered fundraiser for Democratic candidates, organizations and PAC’s across the country.  She was once the Finance Director for the late Congressman John Adler from Camden County.

“That Republican candidates would call themselves ‘true conservatives’ and then secure the backing a liberal Super PAC that is aligned with Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, as well as other liberal candidates and organizations across the country, is offensive to every Republican voter in Parsippany,” said Paul Carifi, Jr.

Saving Greystone: A New Jersey Landmark Set for Demolition – April 20, 2015

More than three hundred protesters rallied on Sunday, April 12th through central park in Parsippany in a last-ditch effort to stop the demolition of Morris County’s largest and most controversial historic building at the old Greystone psychiatric facility. The rally was organized by Preserve Greystone, a nonprofit group that is trying to halt the demolition. Last August the state treasury department awarded a 34.5 million dollar contract to demolish the main building and other structures. The demolition process began late April on the 675,000 square-foot main Kirdbride building of the old Greystone park psychiatric hospital.

New development planned for Route 10; hotel, restaurants, retail, office and residential – April 21, 2015

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council, at last weeks agenda meeting, voted to formulate a resolution to designate 1515 Route 10 (Lot 1.2, Block 200) as an Redevelopment Area pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:12A-1 et seq.

The property known as Intel Corporate Center, located at 1515 Route 10,  was recently sold to Stanbery Development, LLC.

The sale was arranged by Colliers International. It was reported Stanbery Development, LLC., paid $14.1 million for property.  The three-story buildings, which total 288,742 square feet, are currently triple net leased to the Intel Corporation through December 31, 2015. Intel, a global company and maker of semiconductor chips, has vacated the property.

Parsippany Dems tap three; Team announced for Primary Election – April 28, 2015

Nick Kumburis, Janice McCarthy and Greg Elbin have been endorsed by the Parsippany Democratic Committee to run for Town Council on the Democratic Committee Line.

The team of Kumburis, McCarthy and Elbin will work to build consensus on the Town Council to support an open and transparent town government that advocates for spending accountability and responsible development.

Retired Essex cop, a Parsippany resident, sentenced to 8 years for bank robbery – May 3, 2015

A 71-year-old retired Essex County Sheriff’s Office lieutenant was sentenced to eight years in jail for robbing a bank in Boonton last year, according to a report in the Daily Record. Harry Schnitzer pleaded guilty in December to second-degree robbery, a charge stemming from an April 30,2014 incident in which he entered the Santander…. 

Budget Hearings continue; OPRA request by Parsippany Focus for Proposed Budget denied – May 5, 2015

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., wants to remind residents that a special meeting for the 2015 Budget Hearings continues this evening, Tuesday, May 5. In addition to tonight, there is a meeting scheduled for Thursday, May 14 starting at 6:00 p.m.

In a related matter, Parsippany Focus filed and was denied an OPRA request for the Mayors Proposed Budget Worksheets 2015, which historically has been given out prior to the start of the Budget hearings, and has been posted on www.parsippany.net under “Transparency” section. Click here to review previous years.

It causes concern as to what the Barberio Administration must be hiding.  In previous years, Parsippany Focus, posted the proposed Budget Worksheets to keep the public informed and so the public had an opportunity to review the Budget prior to the hearings.  Actually, budget worksheets are available on the township website for years 2008-2014.

Township Clerk Yancy Wazirmas stated “We are in receipt of your OPRA request for “the Mayors Proposed Budget Worksheets 2015.”  The document you are seeking is an exemption under N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1: “Inter-agency or intra-agency advisory, consultative or deliberative material” so your request is denied.

James Stefel, 66, Past Chief of Parsippany Rescue & Recovery passed away – May 6, 2015

James J. Stefel, 66, passed away on Sunday, May 3, at Morton Plant Mease Hospital in Clearwater, Florida.

Jimmy was born in Newark and grew up in Irvington. He lived in West Orange before moving to Parsippany in 1990.  

Parsippany’s insurance broker linked to Super PAC and Mayor’s best friend – May 7, 2015

Insurance goliath John Graham and his son, Ryan are no stranger to local politics.  In March, the elder Graham was honored and inducted into the 2015 Essex County Democratic Committee Hall of Fame.  In addition to being heavily involved in Essex County politics, Graham has also previously served as national finance co-chair for Hillary Clinton when she ran for president in 2008, and also as state director for John Kerry, when he ran for president. 

Fairview Insurance, the agency Graham started in 1970 also happens to be the broker of record for the Township of Parsippany.  As the largest municipality in Morris County, Parsippany provides Fairview with hundreds of thousands of dollars each year in commission for directing the township into self-funding it’s own employee health and dental plan.

It was reported that life-long Barberio friend and supporter, actor, Daniel Margotta, has received at least $87,878 in compensation from Fairview and possibly as much as $324,529 beginning in 2011. Mr. Margotta’s Linkedin page makes no mention of being in the insurance industry.

Parsippany’s Paul Carifi, Jr. provides police training to national television host – May 13, 2015

The calls comes over police dispatch. A man and his ex-girlfriend have called police, because the new girlfriend’s standing in the man’s driveway, and they’re screaming at each other. Someone needs to de-escalate this situation. Here comes Chris Hayes. Wait … that Chris Hayes? The political commentator and host of MSNBC’s “All In with…

Parsippany resident, ex-teacher to be sentenced today for having sex with student – May 27, 2015

A onetime Parsippany resident who formerly taught music at a high school in Paterson is scheduled to be sentenced this morning in a sex case from 2010. Scott Van Hoven, now 48, pleaded guilty last month to performing sex acts with a 16-year-old female student in 2010. Van Hoven, who has recently been living…

Carifi, dePierro and Gragnani take Republican Primary – June 2, 2015

Unofficial results are Paul Carifi, Jr., 1529; Michael dePierro 1495 and Loretta Gragnani 1444.

Other candidates are John Beehler 1410, Vincent Ferrara 1404 and Aida Visakay 1338.

Nick Kumburis, Janice McCarthy and Greg Elbin won the Democratic ticket.

350 workers in Parsippany lose jobs at GlaxoSmithKline – June 4, 2015

The consolidation of GlaxoSmithKline’s and Novartis’ consumer health care businesses have cut 350 jobs of GlaxoSmithKline at their Littleton Road and Kimball Road locations.

“In March 2015, GlaxoSmithKline and Novartis combined their consumer health care businesses into a joint venture,” the notice specifies. “The need to meet established financial and synergy targets and eliminate duplication is critical to the success of the joint venture and will necessitate a reduction in headcount at the Parsippany locations.”

Coach Albano honored for his achievements – June 10, 2015

The first award presented was  the team award. The announcement of the team award from the Daily Record:

Matt Joyce turned and threw his arms straight up into the air. Angelo Gallego ran up to Ryan Shaw and lifted Shaw high off the MetLife Stadium turf. Coaches hugged. Players high-fived. Fans stood up and screamed. Before long, the stadium’s field was a sea of black, white, and blue. The Vikings concluded the 2014 season in a way that they never have before: with a state championship. Parsippany Hills held on for a pulsating 20-13 victory over Cranford in NJSIAA North 2 Group 3 for the first sectional football title in school history.

Zoning Board to hear site plan for 212 apartments on IMS Drive – June 16, 2015

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment will be hearing an application for MCRT Investments, on Wednesday, June 17, at 7:30 p.m.

MCRT is seeking preliminary and final site plan in connection with a previously granted use variance to construct to construct 212 residential dwelling units on Interpark Boulevard.  Interpark Boulevard is located off Route 46, near the newly opened Houlihans Restaurant.

The application is a companion application to use variance approved under Case # 14:30 on April 1, 2015.

Parsippany Focus, publisher, awarded prestigious ‘Courage Under Fire’ award – June 29, 2015

The New Jersey chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists awarded Parsippany Focus and it’s publisher Frank Cahill the prestigious ‘Courage Under Fire’ award on Saturday, June 27 at the NJ Historical Society in downtown Newark.

Cahill successfully fought a subpoena issued by Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Township Attorney John Inglesino to reveal his sources for a then unpublished article involving Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Captain James Carifi.

The Courts found that Parsippany Focus, an online news site, was awarded the same “shield law” protection afforded to print media (see NJ.com).  In his ruling, Judge Honigfeld stated that “newspersons are allowed to protect the confidentiality of sources and news or information gathered during the course of their work.” He went on to say that Frank Cahill “is a credentialed newsperson,” and “the record demonstrates that the Focus is dedicated to disseminating information regarding the political activities of the Township.”

Morris County Jail receives perfect score; Nationally accredited 12th year in a row – July 2, 2015

The New Jersey Department of Corrections concluded their annual independent inspection of the Morris County Correctional Facility this week and again, the Correctional Facility received a perfect score of 100%.

This came just after the American Correctional Association (ACA) gave the correctional facility a score of 98.6%, making this the twelfth year in a row the correctional facility was nationally accredited.

The review was conducted by three out-of-state independent correctional professionals.

Township Council investigation into Barberio, Inglesino, Aurora, inches forward – July 10, 2015

The Parsippany Township Council and Mayor James Barberio were back in Superior Court on Friday, July 10.  At issue, a resolution which the Council had passed in 2014. The resolution authorized the hiring of an attorney to aid in the Council’s investigation of Barberio and the prosecution of township attorney John Inglesino over their refusal to turn over unredacted bills from his law firm as well as to investigate the unilateral hiring of computer expert Aurora Information and Security Risk.  Aurora had previously invoiced the township upwards of $1 million.  The hiring of all township contactors require Council approval for amounts over $17,500.

Barberio contends that Councilmen Carifi and Valori were conflicted from voting on matters relating to Inglesino, a conflict both Councilmen deny.

Woman: Parsippany Man molested me for years, said I was his ‘soulmate’ – July 20, 2015

A 58-year-old Parsippany man went to trial Monday on charges that he sexually assaulted a girl in Mount Olive and later in Roxbury over a nine-year period. Guy Parker faces a 14-count indictment that accuses him of six charges of first-degree aggravated sexual assault and eight charges of second-degree sexual assault. The incidents started…

Parsippany McDonald’s customer says she found ‘finger cot’ in food – July 22, 2015

Dawn King wasn’t exactly lovin’ it. The Lake Hiawatha resident said she was surprised Friday, after picking up lunch at the McDonald’s on Route 46 East in the Troy Hills Shopping, to find a so-called “finger cot” stuck to the bottom of her sandwich. And she was more surprised to see how much attention…

Union City Mayor voted most effective mayor; Parsippany’s Barberio near bottom of list – July 24, 2015

Political insiders across New Jersey look to the Observer Media Group owned website PolitickerNJ.com for daily insights on what is happening in politics across the Garden State. PolitickerNJ recently created a list of 13 well known mayors and asked it’s readers who they thought was the most effective mayor of the group.

Mayor Brian P. Stack of Union City overwhelming won the vote with 30% of the vote with Mayor Jon Hornik of Marlboro coming in a distant second.

Parsippany’s own Mayor James Barberio came in tenth place with 2.12% of the vote just edging out Mayor Vauss of Irvington, and Mayor Guardian of Atlantic City.

Parsippany Town Council adopts 2015 budget – July 24, 2015

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council adopted the 2015 municipal budget on Tuesday, July 14, a month after the budget had been approved on first reading.

The 2015 budget contains a slight decrease in total anticipated revenue at $93,194,939.93, and an increase of $363,784.69 in total Appropriation for Service (i.e. general government, land use administration, public safety, health and human services).

With regards to total property taxes, the estimated amount raised by taxes is $196,504,780.63. Last year’s total tax levy was $193,896,015.39.

Parsippany man guilty of sexually assaulting girl for 9 years – July 28, 2015

A 58-year-old Parsippany man was found guilty on all counts Tuesday in the sexual assault of a girl in Mount Olive and later in Roxbury over a nine-year period. A jury in Superior Court in Morristown convicted Guy Parker on six counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault and seven counts of second-degree sexual assault.…

Par-Troy East 8u All Star team wins tournament championship – July 29, 2015 

Par-Troy East 8u All Star team won the tournament championship on Tuesday, July 28, 19-7 against Randolph.

The team finished the tournament with a perfect record of 10-0. The game ended in the bottom of the 4th inning as the teams youngest All Star, 7 year old Trevor Nussbaum crossed home plate, after a bases loaded walk, giving Par Troy a 12 run lead, ending the game due to the Little League mercy rule. (12 run lead after the 4th inning).

The team steamrolled through the tournament under the brilliant coaching of Mike Plescia and the true dedication of his assistant coaches, players, and their families throughout the five week tournament.

Case against Parsippany ex-Boy Scout leader accused of abusing 3 Scouts gets back on track – July 30, 2015 

The case against a former Parsippany Boy Scout leader, who is accused of sexually abusing three Scouts when they were teenagers in the 1990s, is moving forward again with his representation by a new defense attorney. Stephen Corcoran, 47, of Morris Plains, is now represented by attorney Blair Zwillman of the Parsippany firm Weiner…

POLITICO, Parsippany Focus, reveal even more about Parsippany Super PAC involvement – August 3, 2015

The national political newspaper and website POLITICO recently published a scathing article which links township venders circumventing local Pay to Play laws by donating money to a Super PAC supporting a local slate of GOP Council candidates.

Confirming what was previously reported in Parsippany Focus, POLITICO reports that IRS filings reveal that the Super PAC, America’s Future First, raised almost $88,000 in 2014. Of that, about $48,000 came from Fairview Insurance, while another $32,000 came from the engineering firm Adams, Rehmann and Heggan (ARH). Earlier this year Fairview Insurance, Parsippany’s health insurance broker, was voted out by the Council to be the broker of record for 2015.

Lake Parsippany Property Owners researching possible assessment – August 3, 2015

The Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association held a meeting on Monday, August 3 to explore the feasibility of assessing all Lake Parsippany residents. Over the past five years there has been a decline in membership.

Of the 56 voting members in attendance they voted 49-7 to allocate $1,080 to hire Attorney Eileen Borne, from Dolan and Dolan to explore the feasibility of an assessment.

Old Weichert building being torn down; Bank of America coming soon – August 5, 2015

Contractors are aggressively tearing down the old Weichert Realtor building on the corner of North Beverwyck Road and Route 46 to make room for a new Bank of America.

In December, CP Management received a conditional use variance and preliminary site plan approval from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment to construct a Bank of America facility with two drive-thru lanes and a by-pass lane with associated parking at the front and rear of the building on Route 46 at North Beverwyck Road.

Parsippany Super PAC a ‘Political Cancer which must be stopped from spreading’ –August 16, 2015

State and Federal filings from the Super PACs at the heart of the 2015 Parsippany GOP Primary are beginning to appear on NJ ELEC and IRS Websites, albeit very late.  NJ’s Future First (NJFF) and it’s parent PAC, America’s Future First (AFF) submitted their first filings just days before the June 2015 Primary.

While both Super PACs incorporated in July 2014, the Internal Revenue Service did not receive AFF‘s first filings until May 11, 2015, just days before the June 2 Parsippany Primary. Per law, reports are due to the IRS quarterly; April 15, July 15, October 15, and January 31.

Fairview Insurance donated an additional $540.20 during this reporting period, but the Director of Business Development for Fairview Insurance and liaison to the Township of Parsippany, Ryan Graham, son of the founder of the firm, donated $12,000.00 to the Super PAC during this reporting period.

Among the Super PAC’s biggest expenses was Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio’s former political consultant, Alan Zakin. According to ELEC filings NJFF has paid Zakin $26,550 with what appears to be additional $3440 still due to him.

Although Councilman dePierro has steadfastly denied any involvement with either NJFF or AFF and denied that he had ever visited the Super Pac’s headquarters in Lake Parsippany, two witnesses have told Parsippany Focus that they witnessed both Mr. dePierro and his running mate former Councilman Vincent Ferrara at the Super PAC’s office.

“These Parsippany Super PACS are becoming a political cancer which must be stopped from spreading.” Councilman Louis Valori told Parsippany Focus recently.  “These Super PACs are corrupting the foundation of honest government and it must stop now.”

Engineering firm receives lucrative Township contract and promptly donates to SuperPAC – August 18, 2015

In June 2013, a sewer pump station located in the Skyview section of the township failed.  Constructed in 1988, the pump station was designed to pump sewage through a force main which traveled up Meadow Bluff Road and over the western slope of Watnong Mountain to a gravity main on the other side of the mountain near Route 10.  The pump station handled an average of 50,000 gallons of wastewater each day by servicing 194 townhomes, 66 single family homes, and a bath house located in Skyview Heights.

According to Township officials, the failure was the result of a collapsed force main which was over one mile in length. The collapse caused severe pressure which resulted in multiple failure modes for pump station operations.

Parsippany employees linked to Ashley Madison leak – August 23, 2015

Tension has been high at Morris County, Parsippany, and Board of Education offices, and in many homes this week after hackers released lists of millions of email addresses that were used to access the Ashley Madison online dating site for married people.

The website, whose tag line is, “Life is short. Have an affair,” was hacked by a group called the Impact Team in June. Earlier this week, it exposed the names, email addresses, credit card numbers and sexual preferences of upwards of 37 million users of the site.

Rixford takes 30 day medical leave – September 4, 2015

Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Superintendent Scott Rixford has taken a 30-day medical leave of absence, effective immediately.

In the interim, Assistant Superintendent/Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Nancy Gigante will serve as Acting Superintendent effective September 4, 2015.

Genesis portal is not the issue; Students were given updated copies of schedules – September 8, 2015

The Board of Education released the following information: “All Middle School students were given updated copies of their schedules this morning. A small percentage of students still needed assistance in completing their academic core (Language Arts/Reading and Writing, Math, Social Studies, Science) schedules. For the balance of this week students will be given updated schedules that may or may not contain schedule changes. The Genesis student information portal is fully working as expected. We have focused all of our resources on our students and their schedules, said Joan F. Benos, Chief of Staff/Public Information Officer.”

Over the weekend, the district released another statement, claiming the Genesis portal is not the issue, rather a longer-range problem: “We would like to inform you that the issues we are having with our middle school schedules do not have anything to do with our student information system software, Genesis. The design of the middle school schedule presented our district with various problems when it came time for implementation.  When solutions were chosen as a means to correct the problem, the staff at Genesis was completely supportive and willing to help. They came to our district, conferenced with key personnel on the phone, and answered questions as they arose. Genesis remains fully capable of handling all of our student information needs, including scheduling, and we are grateful to them for their assistance throughout our efforts to correct this problem.”

U.S. Army All-American Marching Band honored Brianna Kelley – September 23, 2015

The 2016 U.S. Army All-American Bowl Selection Tour honored Brianna Kelley during a special recognition ceremony before her fellow band members, classmates, fans, family, Dr. Denis L. Mulroony, Mayor James Barberio and Councilman Michael dePierro. In addition, Band Director Mr. Greg Dalakian received a special plaque to display at Parsippany High School for Brianna’s accomplishments.

The U.S. Army All-American Marching Band performs at halftime of the nationally broadcasted U.S. Army All-American Bowl. By becoming a U.S. Army All-American Marching Band Member, these students join an elite group. Only 125 high school band members among the millions in the United States are selected each year. Band members are chosen not just because they excel in music, but because they possess some of the same skills as our Army Soldiers – skills such as versatility and agility. 

Parsippany Schools Superintendent Scott Rixford resigns – September 24, 2015

At the Board of Education meeting held on Thursday, September 24, 2015, the members of the Board of Education passed a resolution accepting the resignation of Scott Rixford, effective January 26, 2016.

The resolution states that it “Further approves the related agreement with Mr. Rixford in accordance with the terms and conditions therein, which the Board President is authorized on behalf of the Board.”

Rixford who was hired by the Board effective July 1, 2014 and the term of the contract was through June 20, 2019.

He was hired at a salary of $175,000 per year, for each of the five years of his contract.

Parsippany Councilman slated to be appointed to County Park’s Commission – September 27, 2015

The Morris County Freeholders are expected to vote in a new County Parks Commissioner at their next meeting scheduled meeting set for October 14.  At a prior meeting of the Freeholders, a majority including Hank Lyon, David Scapicchio, John Krickus and Thomas Mastrangelo indicated that they would be in favor of appointing Parsippany Councilman Dr. Louis Valori to the post.

Former commissioner Judith Schleicher vacated her position in July and Valori’s appointment will fill her unexpired term which ends December 31, 2017.

“I feel honored to be considered,” Valori told Parsippany Focus.

John Fox, 18 Year Sheriff of Morris County, dies at 73;  Funeral Services Set – September 27, 2015

Former Morris County Sheriff John M. Fox, Sr., 73, passed away peacefully at his home Saturday, September 26, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and moved to East Orange as a young child. He lived in Livingston before settling in Parsippany in 1955.

John began his career in public service as a police officer in 1965 with the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, later rising to the rank of detective. In 1975, he was elected Sheriff of Morris County and spent the next 18 years turning the office into a support center for local enforcement. His accomplishments include creating the Crimestoppers program, Sheriff’s Labor Assistance Program (S.L.A.P ), K-9 unit, Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (S.E.R.T.) and the criminal investigation division.

Rockettes arrive at Parsippany Library – September 29, 2015

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an experience that’s meant to be shared, so before they start rehearsals for the 2015 production, they visited Parsippany to kick off the holiday season.

Megan Levinson, North Caldwell, and Christine Sienicki, Clifton, were the two Rockettes visiting the Parsippany Library. The children and their parents as well as other residents had the opportunity to meet, ask questions and take photographs with the Rockettes.

Economic Development Advisory Committee welcomes Zinburger – October 1, 2015

Parsippany Economic Development Advisory Committee presented Zinburger with a certificate of appreciation for choosing Parsippany as their new flagship restaurant. Pictured is Zinburger Vice President of Operations Chris Crawford, Parsippany Economic Development Advisory Committee Chairman Frank Cahill and Corporate Chef David Maini.

Dedication of Susan P. Strechay Community Room – October 2, 2015

The longest-serving member of the board of directors of the Brookside Housing Corporation is Susan P.  Strechay.  She started on the board in 1975 and served until August 2015 when she and her husband, Bob, moved to be near her son and grandchildren.

In appreciation for all of her years of service, on September 26, 2015 the board of directors of Brookside named the community room in her honor.  On hand for the recognition ceremony were her two of her sons, Rob and Dan along with their wives and children.  Also present were members of the board, as well as Alan Rich who has served as the attorney for the board since 1978, as well as the PRD Management team who oversee the management of the building.

Her husband, Bob Strechay,  served as the Township’s business administrator for many years.

Mayor presents Town Council with controversial attorney in Council vs. Barberio case – October 8, 2015

On Tuesday, October 6, Mayor James Barberio presented the Township Council with an attorney to represent the Governing Body in a lawsuit they filed against Barberio per a Superior Court Judge’s order.

Michael Lavery, a partner with the firm, LAVERY, SELVAGGI, ABROMITIS & COHEN was chosen by Barberio, and even though some Council members indicated that the mayor’s selection was acceptable, the Council will still need to vote on whether or not to accept the mayor’s selection.

Lavery has worked for the Township as a ‘conflict attorney’ for several years but along with several other attorney appointees, he was not re-confirmed by the Council this past January.

Parsippany loses opportunity to acquire 130 acres of land in center of town – October 22, 2015

At the October 20 Par-Troy Township Council meeting, local resident Julia Peterson questioned members of the Governing Body, Mayor Barberio and Township Attorney John Inglesino, on the status of approximately 130 acres of land the Township was to acquire from a local developer as part of a global lawsuit settlement.

In 2013 the Township Council authorized Mayor Barberio to settle a long standing lawsuit brought on by real estate developer Ed Mosberg.  The settlement in part permitted Mosberg to build 52 Townhomes along Smith Road.  In exchange, Mosberg was to deed over approximately 130 acres of land including the historic Forge Pond area and the surrounding woodlands.

It’s official: Pathmark Parsippany starting going out of business sale – October 23, 2015

The rumors have been flying for months.  When Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company (parent company of Pathmark) announced their bankruptcy, Pathmark Parsippany wasn’t on any of the lists of locations being purchased. It was just a matter of time the store would end up on the list of stores being closed.

Parsippany Pathmark liquidation started this morning with discounts up to 30% off (although most items are 10% off).

More than 80 employees will be released from their jobs on November 26 – Thanksgiving Day according to WARN notices filed by the company late August.

Morris County Clerk emails prominent County Republicans that sample Election Ballots were lost in mail – November 3, 2015

Today is Election Day. Did you get your sample ballot? Apparently residents in Morris Plains and Florham Park did not receive their sample ballots.

Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi in an unofficial email, stated the “sample ballots were delivered to the Post Office on October 28, as required by law.”

Parsippany Focus has received several emails regarding residents in Morris Plains and Florham Park not receiving their ballots. Approximately 5,000 homes located in Parsippany-Troy Hills receives their mail through Morris Plains Post Office.

It’s official: Starbucks coming to Parsippany – November 5, 2015

For almost a year, Parsippany Focus, was told of a Starbucks opening in Parsippany, but until now we couldn’t disclose information. Soon you will be able to drive-up and order your Iced Carmel Macchiato or Caffè Americano in Parsippany, instead of driving to Denville or elsewhere.

Our source, a Starbucks Manager, stated “A Starbucks with a drive-thru will be opening on Route 10 East in the Octagon Building sometime in 2016.”

When Parsippany Focus conducted a reader survey in 2014 our readers wanted a Starbucks and Trader Joe’s.

Parsippany High School Marching Band Takes First Place in Nationals – November 8, 2015

Parsippany High School Marching Band wins First Place in the Group IV 2015 National Champions and 2015 Espirit DeCorps Award held today in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

They are coming home with first place with an impressive score of 96.36.

As we receive more information, we will update this story.  In addition, we have photos and video from Parsippany High School special motorcade leaving the school this afternoon.

As Inglesino’s relationship with Developers flourish, so do his conflicts – November 9, 2015

On March 10, 2015, because the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) failed to create ‘Third Round Obligations’ in regards to each municipality’s fair housing share, the New Jersey Supreme Court empowered the courts and not COAH, to make initial determinations regarding municipal compliance with its housing obligations.

First, municipalities will now be afforded an opportunity to affirmatively seek a declaration from the courts of compliance with affordable housing obligations, prior to being declared “noncompliant” or being subjected to lawsuits alleging exclusionary zoning, including a builder’s remedy.

Second, the Court’s ruling will permit low and moderate income citizens, and those acting on their behalf, and developers the right to challenge, under certain circumstances, any municipality that fails to develop an adequate housing plan to bring the town in compliance with its fair share of regional and prospective housing needs for affordable housing.

Route 53 was renamed “Assemblyman DeCroce Memorial Highway” – November 10, 2015

It’s official. Route 53 has been renamed “Assemblyman DeCroce Memorial Highway” at a dedication held, on Tuesday, November 10 in front of Verde Restaurant.

Joining in the dedication were members of the NJ Assembly and Senate and included BettyLou DeCroce, John Bramnick,Assemblyman Jay Webber, Assemblyman Anthony Bucco, Senator Thomas Kean, Senator Orojo to name a few. Also present were Sheriff Edward Rochford and Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro.

Sheriff Edward Rochford said “This is a fitting Tribute for a person who dedicated his life to public service especially transportation issues.”

Statement of Pride Outlawed in Parsippany Schools – November 13, 2015

“Pride in Parsippany”, boasts the great township sign at the intersection of Route 46 and Vail Road.

The teachers of Parsippany’s public school children however, are not to be afforded the opportunity to exhibit that pride according to an edict issued  by the school district’s chief administrator.

Teachers have been ordered to remove a simple black and white sign that says only “I am Proud to be a Teacher” in plain block letters, followed by a smaller tag line, “Parsippany-Troy Hills Education Association”.

Dr. Seitz appointed Interim Superintendent of Parsippany Schools – November 13, 2015

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education appointed Dr. LeRoy Seitz as interim superintendent.

Seitz was appointed effective December 1 through June 30, 2016, or sooner pending release from his current contract, at the rate of $682.00 per day, subject to the terms and conditions of his contract.

Upon approving Dr. Seitz’s contract, the crowd full of teachers and parents, cheered loudly. Seitz is replacing Former Superintendent Scott Rixford, who took a 30-day medical leave of absence on September 4. Dr. Nancy Gigante has been acting Superintendent.

 Judge won’t toss child endangerment charges for ex-Parsippany teacher – December 3, 2015 

A judge denied a motion Tuesday to dismiss two charges of child endangerment against a former Parsippany Hills High School teacher. Jenna Leahey, a former English teacher and field hockey coach at the school, is accused of sexual conversations and sexual contact with a 16-year-old male student. Her attorney, Judson Hand, had asked Judge…

Aurora Information Security & Risk Suspended by the State of NJ –  December 4. 2015

Parsippany Focus has learned that Aurora Information Security & Risk, the computer firm hired by Township Attorney John Inglesino and which billed Parsippany nearly 1 million dollars for imaging the hard drive of a Parsippany Police Captain, was operating under a suspended business registration in the State of New Jersey from the period of January 16, 2014 through May 13, 2015.

Misconduct count against Jason Campbell is thrown out of court – December 15, 2015

A judge in Passaic County Superior Court threw out an official misconduct indictment against a suspended Morris County sheriff’s officer, Jason Campbell, stating the charges were the “fruit of a poisonous tree” after he was entrapped by a State Police trooper, according to Bergen Record.

Campbell, 36, was accused of flashing his sheriff’s badge to avoid being ticketed during a traffic stop in March 2012.

Former Parsippany cop’s drug charges dismissed due to police entrapment – December 23, 2015

A former Parsippany police sergeant who successfully sued his department for harassment, recently had drugs charges in Florida dismissed due to alleged police entrapment, the Sun Sentinel reported. Kevin Pisano was arrested in December 2011 while on duty as a Fort Lauderdale police officer on charges of possessing and delivering prescription drugs…

PHS Marching Band performs half-time show at Jets-Patriots game – December 27, 2015

Parsippany High School Marching Band performed the half-time show on Sunday, December 27 at MetLife Stadium during the Jets vs. New England Patriots game.

The Jets organization sent coach buses to Parsippany High School to pick up the band, at 8:00 a.m. to head to MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford.

The members of the band also ate lunch in the AT&T pavilion and was provided with tickets to see the game.

Captain James Carifi Wins Another One – December 28, 2015

On October 25, 2015 the Township’s Hearing Officer, retired Rockaway Township Police Chief, Joseph Devine, Devine Leadership Concepts, ruled in favor of Captain Carifi and stated that Parsippany lacked jurisdiction to proceed against an officer who retired over a year and a half ago and retired in “Good Standing.”

However, Parsippany’s Town Council was never made aware of Chief Devine’s ruling.

Devine Leadership Concepts was hired by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills to serve as a “Hearing Officer” in disciplinary proceedings/employment matters within the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department.

 

 

 

 

 

 

For New Jersey commuters, the December fun is over — at least for one day. Drivers could face slick, and dangerous, road conditions Monday night and early Tuesday morning in northern and western counties, thanks to a storm that will be delivering a nasty mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain before changing to all rain…