A Parsippany office building sold for $6.4 million
PARSIPPANY — Newmark Associates CRE, LLC, announced the recent $6,400,000 sale of a premier office property at 28 Eastmans Road, Parsippany, and the $1,100,000 sale of 6 Bartley-Chester Road, Flanders, both in Morris County.
Nancy Stanton-Tuckman, Executive Vice President exclusively managed the Parsippany transaction for the owner whose company, Millennium Systems International, occupied the entire building. The purchaser, Micrologic Associates, a technology company, will be the new tenant.
Unique to this transaction was the buyer’s immediate need for the building and the urgency to finalize the sale in 2021. Within approximately two months of bringing the property to market, Ms. Tuckman received multiple offers and closed the sale quickly in spite of a challenging office market due to the ongoing pandemic. With such incentives, both companies worked closely together to orchestrate a closing before year-end.
Ms. Tuckman highlighted a major aspect of the sale: “Both seller and purchaser are in very similar businesses, the sale of management software systems. Millennium, the majority of whose 250 employees had elected to work remotely, resulted in the determination to sell the building. Micrologic, car wash and quick lube management system experts, needed to expand their marketing department and required additional office space. It really was a win-win situation.”
Located on 4.82 acres of land, this Class A building with 47,500 SF of office space on three floors, holds 9,000 SF of storage on the lower level accessed by a freight elevator and an outer loading dock – providing exact specifications for the buyers’ needs. Ample parking of 150 spaces was another attractive feature for Micrologic who will occupy the building with employees returning to offices. The floor plan of the building includes several communal areas for collaborative work with an office set up for Green screen and video production.
Built-in 2000, the property was sold In 2012 to Millennium who had upgraded all aspects of the office building including the lobbies, elevator, and amenities which now include a Tuscany Wine Room.
In addition to the sale of the Eastmans Road property, Ms. Stanton-Tuckman was responsible for the sale of 6 Bartley-Chester Road, Flanders, a 10,000 SF industrial use building.
Built-in 1980, this two-story, well-maintained warehouse zoned CR3 for multiple uses, is situated on a private, wooded lot, and half occupied by a daycare center with ample parking and an outdoor recreation area for the center.
Attractive to the buyer, whose business formerly occupied several leased spaces, was that this investment property with an existing tenant affords them the opportunity to create a future office environment inside the existing building with functional flex space for their business, all in one location.
Representing the seller, Ms. Tuckman commented: “This sale presented multiple challenges relevant to the presence of the daycare center and its requirements for this type of use on the property. It was the working relationship and ability of both brokers to problem solve all these challenges that allowed for the final sale of this building. It was a cash offer with no contingencies that awarded the property to the buyer.”
Newmark Associates CRE, located in Cedar Knolls, is certified as a woman-owned business by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and registered as a Supplier Diversity provider with corporate members. Celebrating more than 30 years in the commercial real estate industry as one of the top brokerage companies in the state, Newmark Associates has been recognized repeatedly with awards by both NJBIZ magazine and the CoStar Commercial Real Estate organization. Specializing in lease and sales transactions of office, industrial, retail, land, healthcare, and mixed-use properties, Newmark customers range from regional, entrepreneurial firms to Fortune 500 companies.
Morris County Republican Committee will be the first political party in the state to pilot an Non-Fungible Token
MORRIS COUNTY — Chairwoman Laura Marie Ali announced that the Morris County Republican Committee (MCRC) will be the first political party in the state of New Jersey to pilot an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) launch as part of its 2022 Digital Marketing Campaign and Fundraising Strategy. In fact, MCRC will be the first Republican organization in the country to do so.
“Morris County Republicans are committed to leading the way in innovation and technology that delivers results. We are excited that our initial launch will be three categories of NFTs at different price points as part of our 2022 digital marketing strategy this month. We are confident that this strategy will both attract new, engaged members and donors to our party”, Chairwoman Ali said.
“With more donors attracted to our organization through NFTs, we can raise the money needed to power our campaigns against the state’s deep-pocket Democrats. Republicans in New Jersey have to avail themselves of every opportunity to grow the party and win elections,” added the Chairwoman.
Ali said she believes the MCRC is the first Republican County organization in the nation to embrace fundraising through NFT’s. “The Morris County Republican Committee is uniquely positioned to implement this new way for people to engage with the Republican Party and the Morris County Republican brand. NFTs have exploded in the areas of art, games, and collectibles with over $24.9 billion worth of NFTs sold in 2021 with $5 billion sold in January of 2022 YTD so far”.
An NFT is a non-fungible token: non-fungible” meaning that it is unique and has a way of recording proof of ownership on a blockchain, giving the buyer confidence that what they are buying is authentic. It also provides provable scarcity and demand which gives NFTs their value. This one-of-a-kind digital asset can be bought and resold by the owner.
Owning one of this limited edition NFT Collectibles comes with special perks and benefits like admission to a party, VIP seating at conventions, and special offers.
The sale of the NFT’s will begin Thursday, January 27 when 39 Platinum level NFTs, 199 Gold, and 500 “Take Back NJ” digital buttons will be available. The Platinum NFTs will sell for $1,000 apiece; the Gold for $500 and the buttons will sell for $50 each. To get on the list to learn more about the NFTs and make a purchase go to nft.morrisgop.org. The NFT can only be purchased with a credit card. The purchase of the tokens is compliant with New Jersey’s Election Law Enforcement Commission donor regulations.
Purchasers of the Platinum and Gold NFTs will receive certain benefits provided by the MCRC.
“We have been working with an exceptional partner on this project since the summer that has made the end-user buying experience easy. There is no need to own or understand cryptocurrency. They have been working hard to develop an ELEC-compliant front end to enable new users to purchase these one-of-a-kind NFTs. Buying one is easy with one-click signup and a credit card. All initial NFT purchasers will have special access to our next NFT launch this Spring to coincide with our annual convention”, said Chairwoman Ali. “Also, by putting your name on our contact list by clicking here, you will be entered into a free drawing for a free NFT.”
You can watch our explainer video and find out more information about the actual launch and benefits of NFT ownership by accessing the pre-launch webpage by clicking here.
Christian Barranco was among the new Republican members of the New Jersey General Assembly sworn in on Tuesday, January 11
MORRIS COUNTY — Christian Barranco (R-Jefferson) was among the new Republican members of the New Jersey General Assembly to be sworn in on Tuesday, January 11 in Trenton as the Legislature begins the 2022–2023 session. He will receive an annual salary of $49,000/year.
Christian Barranco graduated from Don Bosco Technical High School in 1987. Barranco earned a B.A. in political science and government from Montclair State University in 2017. His career experience includes owning Flowers Right Now, LLC, and working as a project manager with McPhee Electric, a journeyman and wireman with IBEW Local 102, and a project manager with Beach Electric Company.
Christian Barranco (R-Jefferson)
Christian received 29.3% of the vote or a total of 45,224 votes.
Members of the New Jersey General Assembly serve two-year terms and are not subject to term limits. New Jersey legislators assume office at noon of the second Tuesday in January following the election.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills donated two digital microscopes to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Library
PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills was pleased to donate two digital microscopes to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Library. One of these microscopes will be available at the Main Library and the other will be available at the Lake Hiawatha branch.
The digital microscopes will allow students to view items through a flip-out screen rather than a traditional eyepiece, making viewing easier. The screen is adjustable and can magnify items up to 300x. It comes with a set of slides that are included in the case or they can view everyday items like their fingerprint! These microscopes can be borrowed for 14 days at a time by Parsippany residents.
Head of Children’s Services, Rose Schulman expressed her thanks to the Woman’s Club stating “Thank you again to the Woman’s Club for thinking of us and for taking the time to see us this morning. The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library System is very excited to add these items to our Library of Things. Our community will benefit greatly from having the opportunity to check out this equipment to try at home!”
Special thanks to Woman’s Club Education Chairman, Betty Lagitch, for reaching out to Melissa Kuzma, Library Director to see how we can help the library.
Donations like these are made possible by the various fundraising activities the Woman’s Club conducts throughout the year. Please consider supporting our club with these efforts so we can continue to support various community organizations. The Woman’s Club will be having a Tricky Tray to support our Education/Scholarship Fund on July 12 at the PAL, Baldwin Road. This will be our major fundraiser for the year, so please stay tuned for more information and ways you can help us make this a successful event.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), which are the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.
General Meetings are held the fourth Monday of each month September through April at 7:00 p.m. at the Parsippany Fire & Rescue Building at 100 Centerton Road, Parsippany.
If you would like to attend our next General Meeting call Marilyn at (973) 539-3703 or e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com. Check us out on the web www.parsippanywomansclub.org .or follow the club on FACEBOOK or Twitter.
Pictures Courtesy of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills
MORRIS COUNTY — Lawrence (Larry) Friscia announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District.
Larry was born in Livingston, at St. Barnabas Hospital. He was raised in Florham Park, where he attended the local public schools. He is a graduate of Delbarton School, in Morristown and Georgetown University. Larry earned a master’s degree in policy and public administration from Rutgers University’s Bloustein School of Planning & Public Policy and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Law, from which he earned his law degree.
Fighting Against Failure Larry is running for Congress in the 11th District because he believes that he is uniquely suited to beat the Democratic incumbent, Mikie Sherrill, this November.
Mr. Friscia remarked that since Covid has made its tragic impact on New Jersey and the world, “Some people got woke. Not me, I woke up!” He is ready to stand up against the entrenched interests that dominate Washington, D.C., and fight for the issues that are most important to the residents of the 11th District.
Larry will promote policies aimed at stemming inflation, which he views as an invisible regressive tax afflicting all of us. He is keenly interested in increasing educational opportunities. And, Larry will be a fierce defender of our rights, especially those associated with the freedom of expression. He will speak for us, whether or not Big Tech likes it.
Colleen Pascale, Academy for Law & Public Safety teacher
MORRIS COUNTY — Colleen Pascale, Academy for Law & Public Safety teacher, was named the Morris County School of Technology Teacher of the Year.
Morris County School of Technology is located on East Main Street in Denville.
Known for her dedication to the community, love for education, and commitment to service, Ms. Pascale has been a leader paving the way for women for many years,” according to a release issued by the school.
Pascale is a retired Detective Sergeant from the Butler Police Department after 25 years of service, serving as the first female Police Officer in the jurisdiction of Butler and was the first female member of the Butler Fire Department.
“Service and leadership have always been a part of my life, both in my community and professionally,” she said.
As a teacher, she said she now shares her passion for law enforcement with students, while providing opportunities to understand contemporary practices and “real world” experiences.
Pascale is currently a Ph.D. student in Public Service Leadership/Criminal Justice at Capella University and is actively involved in the school community. She serves as the Varsity Girls Cross-Country Coach, Assistant Bowling Coach, Civic Engagement Club Advisor, Mock Trial Team Advisor, NJEA Vocational Education Committee Member, and MCVTEA President. Additionally, Pascale is an adjunct professor for County College of Morris in the Department of Engineering Technologies/Engineering Science teaching various criminal justice courses.
The Academy for Law & Public Safety provides students with an introduction into the field of law, criminal justice, forensic science, law enforcement, public affairs, and humanities.
The Morris County Vocational School District offers programs for Morris County high school students, including Career Academies, Share Time Programs, and Continuing Adult Education programs.
MORRIS COUNTY — Christine Myers of Mendham Township announced her candidacy for the Republican nomination for Morris County Board of Commissioners in the 2022 Republican primary election.
Myers hopes to return to the Board of Commissioners, where she served from 2016-to 2018. Myers was appointed to the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, Responsible for Region Two, which includes New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The appointment made her ineligible to seek re-election to her county position.
Myers said, if elected, her priorities will be to hold the line on taxes, economic development, and implementation of all facets of the county’s Strategic Plan, which she was instrumental in developing before she left the county government in 2018.
A businesswoman, Myers, along with her husband, Stan, launched a specialty food business in 2013 after a 25-year career as a technology and telecommunications executive and consultant.
Myers is a graduate of the College of William and Mary. She is married and lives in Mendham with her husband Stan Gorski and their sons, Tom and Stan. She and her husband own a small business called “Madison Park Foods” that formulates spices.
Republican Melissa Florance-Lynch of Pequannock will also be seeking one of the three seats up for re-election next year, as will incumbent Republicans Doug Cabana and Thomas Mastrangelo. Florance-Lynch, Cabana, and Mastrangelo are running as a ticket.
Republican Kathy DeFillippo of Roxbury Township recently announced that she will not seek another three-year term on the board.
PARSIPPANY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Hanover Township Police Chief Michael Loock, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Acting Police Chief Richard Pantina announce the sentencing of Isaac Zackery-Barnes, 24, Newark.
On September 22, 2020, a Hanover Township Police Officer initiated a pursuit of Zackery-Barnes, after Zackery-Barnes failed to yield to the officer’s commands to pull over what was later discovered to be a stolen motor vehicle from Nutley, Essex County. Zackery-Barnes created a risk of injury or death when he fled the scene, having swerved between lanes of traffic. At times he traveled on the wrong side of the roadway, ran a red light, left the roadway, hit a curb, all before continuing onto an entrance ramp to Route 287, where two tires were subsequently blown out as a result of his dangerous conduct. The pursuit was ultimately terminated in Parsippany-Troy Hills, and the defendant was arrested following a short investigation.
Following the arrest of Zackery-Barnes, members of the Hanover Township Police Department reached out to members of the Morris County Auto Theft Task Force to assist with the investigation, and to coordinate with agencies from neighboring counties as this investigation involved a stolen motor vehicle.
On November 17, 2021, the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr., accepted Zackery-Barnes’ pleas of guilt to second-degree eluding a police officer, and third-degree receiving stolen property, for operating the stolen vehicle during the police pursuit. Zackery-Barnes was sentenced on January 20, 2022, to nine years in prison on the eluding charge and four years concurrently in prison on the receiving stolen property charge. Barnes also agreed to pay restitution to the victim.
This resolution was the result of excellent police work by the Hanover Township Police Department, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, the Morris County Auto Theft Task Force, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Intelligence Unit.
The prosecution of this matter was handled by Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Kelly of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operation’s Division and Sgt. Thomas Joiner, who directly supervises the County Auto Theft Task Force. The ATTF was formed in 2019 to combat the growing number of motor vehicle thefts in Morris County. The ATTF is operated out of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Special Operations Division which also handled Narcotics Trafficking cases and other organized crime investigations.
MORRIS COUNTY — Director Tayfun Selen of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners will address the business community on “The State of Morris County” this Monday, January 24, at 12:00 Noon. Register for the free virtual meeting of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.
Newly appointed Morris County Commissioner Director, Tayfun Selen (R), is an American success story. He immigrated from Turkey with a degree in architecture in 1996 pumped gas and worked other entry-level jobs before earning an MBA and his CPA license. He became a US citizen in 2008 and today, he is an executive with a major national vocational school group. Selen previously served as Chatham Township Mayor and later filled a vacancy on the Morris County Commission before being elected to a full term in 2020. He has lived in Morris County for the past 23 years.
Presented by the Morris County Chamber Government Affairs Forum & ELC – Chairman: Alan Zakin, Alan Zakin Associates
Parsippany Police Department will begin utilizing the Motorola V300 Body Worn Camera
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Department has begun utilizing the Motorola V300 Body Worn Camera, commonly referred to as a BWC.
When worn, it is attached to the upper chest area of the officer’s outermost garment. BWCs will assist in capturing an unbiased and accurate account of an incident, which will further strengthen the trust and transparency the department has with the public.
Body Worn Camera (BWC) footage provides objective evidence of what occurred and plays a crucial role in the public discourse around police accountability. BWCs also serve as a powerful deterrent to misconduct by both the police and members of the public interacting with police. As such, BWCs have gained wide support among the public and law enforcement, alike.
To read the 2022 Attorney General Law Enforcement Directives regarding Body-Worn Camera click here.
PARSIPPANY — Valerie Burke was among the more than 6,900 undergraduate students at the University of Iowa named to the dean’s list for the 2021 fall semester.
Burke is a Second Year student in Iowa’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and is majoring in English and Creative Writing.
Dean’s list status was earned by only 1,402 first-year undergraduates during the 2021 spring semester at Iowa, only 1,427 second-year students, only 1,836 third-year students, and only 2,304 fourth-year students.
As a top global university, Iowa is the ideal destination for learning, discovery, and innovation. We bring art and science together to create a truly unique interdisciplinary education. With over 200 areas of study to choose from, students are encouraged to mix and match majors, minors, and certificates to earn a degree that reflects their unique interests.
From inside our world-class medical center to the most prestigious creative writing program in the U.S., students have access to quality academic support and are equipped with the tools they need to stand out in a competitive workforce. Our 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows students to work directly with experts in their field while earning valuable, practical skills.
The campus seamlessly blends into the heart of downtown Iowa City, making it easy to access academic resources and belong to a larger, welcoming community. With over 500 student organizations, clubs, and communities on campus and countless in-town events scheduled throughout the year, Iowa makes it easy to build a network of friendships and connections that last a lifetime.
To learn more about the University of Iowa click here.
Paul DeGroot and his wife Sharon and his two children
MORRIS COUNTY — Former County Prosecutor Paul DeGroot officially announced his candidacy for the New Jersey 11th Congressional District United States House of Representatives. The life-long New Jersey resident will attract new, high-paying jobs while securing federal tax relief to the district, which incorporates portions of Essex, Sussex, Passaic, and Morris County, where he still lives today with his wife Sharon and two young children.
As a long-time supporter of the military and sensible law enforcement, the Republican plans to forge a closer relationship with the defense industry while reducing the burdensome regulations on businesses. His candidacy also intends to promote more opportunities for advancement for women and better treatment for the region’s veterans and seniors.
As a member of Congress, DeGroot will defend the first amendment by supporting a break-up of predatory big tech companies. “Facebook and Google exert state-like monopoly power over America’s minds, markets, and wallets,” he notes. “The scale on which they operate simply cannot exist in a free society. Also, the United States must withdraw from multinational trade agreements that forfeit our sovereignty to anti-American globalists. Instead, end bad, multilateral trade deals and bring the supply chains home.”
DeGroot’s candidacy was catalyzed by Democratic incumbent Mikie Sherrill’s failure to protect the New Jersey 11th District in two key moments during her tenure. Tropical Storm Ida was one of the deadliest natural disasters for the state in the last century. Yet Sherrill neglected to secure appropriate federal aid for the deluged areas of Morris and Passaic County and beyond even though New Jersey residents routinely step up to support other areas of the country in their times of need.
Meanwhile, Sherrill missed a major opportunity to insist on a full SALT cap repeal in H.R. 3684, the $1.2 trillion Investment and Jobs Act. “New Jersey residents are among the highest taxed in the nation,” he states. “Even if democrats act like they permanently restored tax cuts in the Build Back Better legislations, the fine print reveals they merely raised the deduction cap for a few years before it goes right back to where it is now. Meanwhile, the gargantuan government spending spree that accompanies it reduces the purchasing power of any dollars we do save.”
So whether or not the Build Back Better (BBB) act passes the senate, her previous inaction already cost scores of New Jersey homeowners thousands of dollars annually for the foreseeable future. If it does pass, she will have helped tie just a temporary tax adjustment for New Jersey residents to a partisan, fundamental transformation of America that entrenches a socialist welfare state into society once and for all. “Meanwhile, she continues to support the Biden administration’s runaway spending, which has contributed to skyrocketing inflation and supply-chain breakdown.”
The son of a firefighter, Paul was born and raised in Passaic County where he attended public schools in Clifton. He commuted to Montclair State College before graduating from the University of Maryland with a degree in political science. He earned his JD from Widener University School of Law in Delaware in 1993. DeGroot found his calling as a prosecutor for the State of New Jersey. “For 25 years, it was a beautiful career,” he states. “I learned how to debate, argue, persuade, and negotiate. I did close to a hundred trials and resolved thousands of cases.” DeGroot ultimately was promoted to Chief Prosecutor for the Homicide, Narcotics, and Internal Affairs Corruption units.
“This district deserves to have the best Republican representative in Congress and the one who has the best chance to beat Mikie Sherrill in November,” DeGroot declares. “The person that’s going to go on the offense; who knows how to cross-examine, knows how to debate, and knows how to build consensus. That’s been my job for 25 years. I’ll bring that energy and dedication to Congress to fight for this district every day.”
PARSIPPANY — Dr. Trivikrama Reddy, an Adjunct Professor at New Jersey Institute of Technology, Mechanical Engineering Department, at NJIT received “NJIT Excellence in Teaching Award” for 2021.
He teaches Machine Design, Stress Analysis, Mechanical system Design, and various other Mechanical Engineering courses at NJIT.
He is a top and highly rated professor from NJIT on his ranking on Rate My Professor. Click here to view.
In addition to teaching Dr. Trivikrama Reddy is a Staff Engineer in Research and Development Department working for Becton Dickinson Company, Franklin Lakes.
He designs and develops various drug delivery medical devices. He holds about seven patents for his designs. Please find attached his Patent information.
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette today announced the launch of the state’s Water Infrastructure Investment Plan. This innovative effort aims to better understand and resolve water infrastructure challenges plaguing New Jersey communities and utilities through short- and long-term investments that will create good-paying jobs while delivering safe, reliable drinking water, reducing flooding, and improving the quality of New Jersey’s waterways.
Over the next three months, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (I-Bank) will engage with a broad array of stakeholders in developing the Water Infrastructure Investment Plan (WIIP) parameters for the first of a five-year period. Direct engagement with communities and utilities about their water needs and challenges will enable DEP to set project priorities and establish the funding packages that will best support water system operators in upgrading drinking water, stormwater and wastewater infrastructure throughout the state.
The WIIP will be fueled by new federal funding under the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and continuing state appropriations championed by Governor Phil Murphy and the New Jersey Legislature.
“This Water Infrastructure Investment Plan reaffirms our commitment to modernize New Jersey’s aging water infrastructure and deliver safe drinking water to our residents,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “This once-in-a-generation opportunity allows New Jerseyans to participate in the planning process to shape and better their communities through these investments. I am grateful for the work of President Biden and our Congressional delegation to ensure that New Jersey receives billions of dollars for these critical water infrastructure projects while advancing environmental justice.”
DEP Commissioner LaTourette
“By coming together to shape the Wastewater Infrastructure Investment Plan, we can better deliver what New Jersey residents deserve and expect: safe drinking water when they turn on the tap, streets, and businesses not so easily overcome with floodwaters, and waterways that are clean and vibrant,” said DEP Commissioner LaTourette. “This is our moment to make once-in-a-generation investments that will create jobs improving our public and environmental health while motivating long-term term growth in communities that our infrastructure investments will uplift and support. My DEP colleagues and I are inviting every New Jersey community and water utility to join us in this exciting work.”
“Investing in New Jersey’s water infrastructure supports healthy, thriving communities while protecting the environment and creating good-paying jobs that cannot be outsourced,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a historic opportunity to Build a Better America, especially for overburdened and underserved communities. The law provides the largest ever investment in water and I applaud Governor Murphy’s leadership in putting these dollars to work where they’re needed most. EPA encourages all communities to invest in long-term health protections through water infrastructure, and we look forward to continuing a strong partnership with New Jersey and all states to get this right.”
U.S. Senator Cory Booker.
“Modernizing New Jersey’s aging water infrastructure is not only critical to protecting the health of our families and our environment, but it also creates jobs and helps lay the foundation for future economic growth,” said U.S. Senator Cory Booker. “I was proud to support the bipartisan infrastructure bill that delivered this critical funding and applaud Governor Murphy and Commissioner LaTourette for their commitment to investing in New Jersey communities.”
“This historic investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help strengthen and modernize our state’s water infrastructure so that we can create new, good-paying jobs, ensure we are delivering safe drinking water to every home, and protect our coastal communities from the climate crisis,” said 6th District U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone. “As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I fought to ensure that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided significant funding to remove toxic lead service lines and clean up PFAS contamination from our water. I look forward to seeing this in action as we work together to bolster economic growth and make sure that every household can trust the water coming from the tap.”
District U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr.
“Our communities here in New Jersey and across America will benefit tremendously from upgraded water infrastructure,” said 9th District U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. “For too long, outdated sewer and drinking water systems have posed a risk to public health and safety. Today’s massive investment will help our kids access clean and safe drinking water, improve the quality of our rivers, streams, and beaches, create union jobs in New Jersey and help alleviate what is an expensive burden on our local governments. This is all thanks to a Democratic Congress and Biden Administration focusing on bringing our nation’s water systems into the 21st century. I look forward to working with DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette and Governor Phil Murphy to ensure these federal funds will reach the intended communities and support upgrading our water infrastructure, especially in North Jersey. These resources will be put to good use to make our communities more resilient, bolster the Biden Boom. This environmental investment is incredible news for New Jersey and for our nation.”
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill
“The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is bringing federal dollars back to New Jersey and putting them directly to work in our communities,” said 11th District U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill. “Critical water infrastructure concerns around flooding, harmful algal bloom remediation, clean drinking water, and PFAS are top of mind for local officials in my district, and I appreciate that the NJDEP and the Governor have visited our communities with me to hear these concerns as well and are continuing this stakeholder engagement with the process outlined today. I look forward to offering any support I can to the development of the Water Infrastructure Investment Plan being launched today to ensure we translate this law into real, tangible change for New Jersey families, which will go an incredibly long way in ensuring that our region is safer and more resilient for decades to come.”
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill is a big win for New Jersey, and I am proud to have played a key role in helping shape and pass this once-in-a-generation legislation. This investment will directly make progress on the concerns that I regularly hear from parents — that they are concerned about lead and other forever chemicals in their children’s drinking water. We cannot afford to take these risks with our children and students — the stakes are simply too high,” said 5th District U.S. Rep Josh Gottheimer. “Now, thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, we will finally have the critical resources we need to help ensure that we have clean drinking water all across our state.”
“I’m proud to have worked on and passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that is now funding these vital clean water projects that will bring relief to families across New Jersey said 3rd District U.S. Rep. Andy Kim. “My family and my neighbors know the challenge of being unable to trust the safety of the water coming out of the faucet. From lead pipe replacement to eliminating PFAS chemicals from our drinking water, I’m thrilled to see these funding opportunities coming together quickly. Not only will the projects create good paying local jobs, but they will secure our state’s water infrastructure, so families know the water coming into their home is safe.”
“My community’s way of life depends on efficient and effective water infrastructure,” said 2nd District U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew. “It is time for New Jersey and the United States to invest in critical infrastructure like water treatment and stormwater management systems. I will do everything I can to make sure we strengthen South Jersey through these investments.”
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is the single largest investment in our nation’s water infrastructure ever, providing New Jersey with $169 million this year for drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. This is the first of five years of investment through the law.
Further supported by corollary state investments, these funds will spur the construction of projects that better protect drinking water supplies, ensure the delivery of clean drinking water to all New Jersey communities, and reduce the risk of exposure to lead and synthetic chemicals that can impact the safety of our drinking water. The funding will also improve our communities resilience in the face of increasing precipitation, extreme weather, and flooding by right-sizing stormwater infrastructure. The funding will also improve the quality of New Jersey’s lakes, rivers, and streams through upgrades to wastewater infrastructure, including long-deferred improvements to combined sewer overflow systems, the pollution from which disproportionately impacts underserved communities.”
This funding will support federal and state priorities to help communities replace lead-containing water service lines, reduce pollution of waterways from combined sewer systems, harden critical infrastructure to climate change, adapt and modernize stormwater management systems to a changing climate, improve wastewater treatment plants and their collection systems, and help public water suppliers to install treatment systems to address threats from emerging contaminants such as per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
“This year’s budget included record investments in our communities, few of which will have a more profound impact on the people of this state and the places they call home,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio. “Treasury stands ready to work with DEP to facilitate the funding needed to help our partners in local government deliver clean, safe drinking water, bolster our stormwater infrastructure, and improve our resiliency in the face of ever-increasing storm severity.”
“The quality of one’s water should never be a consequence of their location, vocation, or pigmentation. At a time where there is such division in our direction in terms of voting rights, police reform, student loan debt cancellation, and more, it’s refreshing that water can be a conduit for a consensus, said NJSC NAACP Environmental & Climate Justice Chairman Marcus Sibley. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a declaration that water, free of lead and pfas is a right and an acknowledgment that until now far too many Americans have been wronged. This is a tremendous step towards us truly becoming a great country, for all.”
“Everyone – regardless of their income level or socioeconomic status – deserves the right to have access to clean drinking water,” said 7th Legislative District Senator Troy Singleton. “That is why over the past several years, I have worked tirelessly with my legislative colleagues and the Governor to promote environmental justice and upgrade, modernize and safeguard New Jersey’s water infrastructure. It is our hope that through the adoption of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New Jersey will make significant investments in our state’s water infrastructure so every one of our residents will have access to safe drinking water.”
“For far too long, we have seen a critical need for investment in water infrastructure across the country,” said State Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. “When considering the importance of collaborative planning and essential investment, it’s worth amplifying the example that our state set through supportive efforts on every level to aid Newark’s robust lead replacement line program. I applaud federal leadership for delivering on an over $50 billion investment for a nationwide overhaul of outdated and deteriorating service lines.”
“It’s no secret that New Jersey’s water infrastructure is outdated,” said 14th Legislative District State Senator Linda R. Greenstein. “We’ve taken great strides in the last few years to invest in our drinking and stormwater infrastructure, reduce exposure to lead and other pollutants, and protect the many bodies of water in this coastal state. But this cannot be done without a strong partnership between the federal government, the State, and the local communities impacted most. With the help of the Water Infrastructure Investment Plan, we will be able to replace lead service lines throughout the state, invest in the longevity of our water infrastructure, and ensure that drinking water will be safe for all New Jerseyans for decades to come.”
“Clean water is an essential right for every New Jerseyan. From replacing lead service lines to restoring our coastal estuaries, the BIL will make the most significant investment in water infrastructure in American history,” said 18th Legislative District Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak. “Our communities must be made safer and healthier by eliminating hazards like PFAs and controlling stormwater runoff. We are in a great position to leverage BIL funds through the NJ Infrastructure Bank, an essential component of the Water Infrastructure Investment Plan.”
The DEP is kicking off the WIIP development effort with a series of stakeholder sessions beginning January 24 that will gather input from interested parties on the broad goals of WIIP. The sessions will help the DEP develop criteria for prioritizing drinking water and clean water infrastructure projects to be funded through an initial investment of $169 million provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The process will culminate in the adoption of a WIIP for State Fiscal Year 2023/Federal Fiscal Year 2022.
For a series of introductory videos and other information click here.
The trillion-dollar Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, known more commonly as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, was signed by President Biden on November 15. This sweeping legislation provides federal funds to rebuild America’s roads, bridges, railroads, and water infrastructure while advancing environmental justice and tackling climate change – core principals of the Murphy Administration.
The DEP and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (I-Bank) work closely on innovative funding programs that provide low-interest but high-impact options for local communities and utilities to meet their drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater infrastructure needs. In Governor Murphy’s first term, the DEP/I-Bank program facilitated more than $2 billion in water infrastructure projects. This highly successful effort has made more than $7.6 billion in investments possible since 1987, saving ratepayers $2.76 billion in financing costs.
“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for communities to invest in the health and economic well-being of their constituents for years to come,” said David Zimmer, Executive Director of the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank. “With the influx of federal funds into the DEP over the next five years combined with what are still historically low-interest rates, there has never been a better time for stakeholders to get engaged, to provide feedback on the State’s plans for these funds, and to participate in the DEP/I-Bank Financing Program. We look forward to working with our partners at the DEP to facilitate these informative WIIP sessions.”
“While a meaningful increase in low-cost financing for water infrastructure projects across New Jersey will be available shortly, strategic investment of new and existing funds is necessary given the overwhelming needs our communities have,” said Dan Kennedy, Senior Director for Environmental and Utility Operations with the Utility and Transportation Contractors Association. “New Jersey’s State Revolving Funds have evolved into a national model for success and are built to efficiently deliver from an administrative perspective. That said, DEP is rightly opening opportunities for the public to provide input on priorities so that this generational investment opportunity in clean water construction is targeted to projects and places that need it the most. I encourage all that have a stake in seeing our water infrastructure assets upgraded to meet the needs of the future to engage through these upcoming meetings and other public comment opportunities with clear, actionable input for DEP to consider.”
“This new funding has the potential to help every community turn the corner on intractable obstacles to affordable, safe drinking water, flood protection, and clean waterways,” said New Jersey Future Managing Director of Water and Policy Chris Sturm. “We urge all water stakeholders to get involved with the DEP’s Water Infrastructure Investment Plan and offer practical solutions to leverage funds, lower costs, and prioritize environmental justice. Ensuring clean water for all New Jerseyans is everyone’s responsibility, and we all have a stake in a healthier future.”
For 2022—the first of five allotments through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – New Jersey will receive:
$73.3 million for any eligible Clean Water State Revolving Fund project
$30.6 million for any eligible Drinking Water State Revolving Fund project
$48.3 million to address drinking water lead service line replacements
$12.9 million to address contaminants of emerging concern, such as PFAS in drinking water
$3.8 million to address contaminants of emerging concern in wastewater.
During the forthcoming engagement sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to share their water infrastructure needs and challenges and shape WIIP, criteria including project priority rankings, affordability criteria, funding packages, and project types that qualify for principal forgiveness. The sessions will also include discussions on the allocation of principal forgiveness and funding packages to address lead, PFAS, climate change, and sea-level rise.
The session schedule is as follows:
Elected officials, including mayors and county officials, on January 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Register here
Potential applicants, professional organizations, and other agencies, January 24, from 1:00 p.m. to 3;00 p.m. Register Here
Environmental Justice advocates, non-governmental organizations, and interested members of the public, January 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Register Here
The following is a letter to the editor submitted by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Education Association’s executive board, on behalf of its members.
An open letter to the Parsippany-Troy Hills community:
After much deliberation, the members of the Parsippany Troy-Hills Education Association (PTHEA) have decided to break their silence on the status of negotiations with the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education. The PTHEA has been working under an expired agreement since July 2021. For months, we chose to refrain from any public statements, as well as to exercise our right to pressure the Board and engage in any job actions, in the hopes that we could bargain amicably and successfully. PTHEA members understand the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and we felt that all energies would be best served by strengthening the labor-management relationship as we returned to in-person instruction. We believe it takes all stakeholders to ensure a positive, successful educational experience for our students.
The PTHEA held out hope that the Board believed this, too. In an effort to have contract talks be one less stressor for all, the PTHEA in late 2020 offered the Board a full year of labor peace — with no contract demands or changes — and a salary adjustment at the current county average. While there were certainly contractual items we also wanted to address, PTHEA members were dedicated to maintaining a positive relationship, so we may all concentrate on doing the job we loved as we navigated the “new normal.” Unfortunately, the Board didn’t feel the same way: They delayed the first meeting by nearly three months beyond what is normal, rejected our one-year offer, and introduced a slate of contractual demands that go far and above what any of us have seen in decades.
To say we were disappointed is an understatement. For the last 18 months, we have done everything possible to maintain the quality educational experience our community has come to expect. However, we must insist that Board recognize our role in doing so. Across the state and throughout the nation, there is an educator shortage, which has only been compounded by the ongoing pandemic. If we are going to continue to have the best public schools in the nation, we must offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain the best educators. This profession is rife with challenges and — once this pandemic is finally behind us — there are going to be additional obstacles ahead, and it will take the hard work of public school educators to maintain stability for all. Instead of publicly praising us while privately scoffing at our attempts to secure a contract that actually acknowledges our value to this school district, it’s time for the Parsippany Troy-Hills Board to come to the table with reasonable proposals. No more delays; no more games—we want their actions to finally support their words.
Until this is resolved, please be assured that all PTHEA members are committed to providing Parsippany Troy Hills’s students with nothing less than our best. In fact, we go above and beyond our contractual responsibilities for the students and school community every single day. However, we are equally as committed to standing up and demanding a fair and equitable settlement, and we hope you join us in that effort and call on the Board to offer one. Together, we can keep Parsippany Troy-Hills a place of pride for all.
Respectfully,
The Executive Board of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Education Association, on behalf of its members
