Robert Peluso – Candidate for Township Council

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Jun 3, 2021

robert-peluso — Robert Peluso, Candidate for Township Council

Debate Questions for Council Candidates:

Pride in Parsippany is an important part of why many choose our Township as their home. Why did you decide to settle in Parsippany, and what makes you proud to be a resident?

Parsippany is a community that cares. Living in Parsippany my entire life has allowed me to make wonderful and lasting friendships. My wife and I are active in Parsippany and we are instilling the same sense of pride in Parsippany in our son Robert. I could not imagine growing up anywhere else. I have always been a proud resident of Parsippany from my school years to today.

Tell us about your family life and what living in Parsippany means to you.

I was raised in Parsippany. My wife and I knew Parsippany was the place to start our family. We were married in Parsippany at Saint Peter the Apostle Church and were honored to have many Parsippany residents and community leaders join our ceremony. We purchased our home on the same street I was raised on as we wanted to be close to our families. While raising our son, Robert, our family stayed involved in our community. Our son attended All Saints Academy in Parsippany, continued at Lake Hiawatha School, and is now at Rockaway Meadow School. I serve as the Treasurer of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and enjoy coaching for Parsippany Soccer Club. We have great parks and recreational facilities that many families enjoy and I was proud to be part of the planning and approval process as a Councilman. My wife and I work in Parsippany and volunteer our time with many great organizations throughout Parsippany.

What is your primary motivation to serve the residents of Parsippany as a Council member?

In the last year, I was approached by neighbors, involved citizens, and friends throughout Parsippany and encouraged to return to the Council. My record speaks for itself. I am a proven fiscal conservative, having held the line on taxes. I helped cut wasteful spending and reduced debt. Taxpayers are tired of the lack of accountability on the part of politicians who ignore real problems. I listen to our residents every day and understand their concerns. As a lifelong resident and dedicated volunteer in our community, I care about Parsippany’s future, and I care about the opportunities our families have to enjoy a quality life. The practice of politicians rubber-stamping hasty decisions and municipal proposals without proper due diligence and community outreach must stop. I learned the values of integrity, hard work, and keeping promises and that is exactly what I will continue to bring as your Councilman.

What qualities and platform positions set you apart from your opponents?

This year’s election is about who is the best candidate to tackle the challenges for the future and provide for a more responsive and accountable township. I have a record of accomplishments on Council. I was raised in our community, and I have life experiences in Parsippany as a taxpayer, husband, and parent. For over 35 years I worked in executive leadership positions in finance, managing municipal operating accounts, investments, and debt. My education, with a BS in Management and MBA in Corporate Finance, enables me to analyze and understand property tax rates which are integral to reducing our tax burden. Understanding the financial intricacies of the budget process will be instrumental in cutting municipal spending and debt, holding the line on water and sewer bills, and stopping overdevelopment. I have a proven track record of giving back to our community through the many organizations I am involved within the town. I have served as RMS PTA Treasurer, a coach/sponsor with Parsippany Soccer, the President of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and Parsippany Area Visitor Center, VP of Parsippany Historical and Preservation Society, Chair of Economic Development Advisory Board, and Board Director of Downtown NJ. I stand by a record of accomplishments and service.

The Township Council has an important role in acting as a check on the executive branch, how would you continue to ensure proper governance in your role as a Council member and prevent executive overreach?

Council has a duty to hold the executive branch accountable for their actions. I will continue to work in a collaborative manner with the Mayor and Council. I would seek to expand the role of the Finance Committee to include monthly reviews and quarterly audits on the operating, utility, and capital budgets. The administration will be asked to disclose financial trends, discuss staffing, and make presentations to the Council. I would seek to have all Department Heads present the Council with quarterly updates regarding their departments, including performance and goals.

As a Council member, how would you ensure that the financial position of the Township improves and what would you do to keep residential tax rates reasonable?

Many residents and businesses suffered this past year with lost income due to the pandemic and I want to thank the Board of Chosen Freeholders for not increasing taxes. I am a little disappointed in the school board increasing taxes again by $148.82 based on the average home assessed at $311,371 after they received almost $1,000,000.00 in additional state aid. When you are asking about the financial position of a community, you need to look at the entire picture of taxation. Our Township is the Mayor/Council Faulkner model of government. In order to stabilize taxes, it starts with the budget being introduced, approved, and adopted on time. I would start the budget process earlier and conduct in-depth reviews of each department to seek both economies of scale and ways to share responsibilities.

In order to maintain a stabilized tax base that is fiscally responsible, we need to evaluate our revenue and implement new sources of income. We need to cut wasteful spending and eliminate nepotism. When I was on Council I stressed that we must do away with the “smoke and mirrors” where the public is told that the impact on average residential tax payment is a small increase or a budget is balanced when the actual increase is ultimately higher. The administration cannot use resident’s tax money taken from other sources to balance the budget and claim there was no tax increase, because it is still taxpayer money that is funding tax increases. Previous administrations took $2.5 million from Sewer Utility revenue and $780,000 from the Township’s general cash fund reserves to fund historic $3.3M spending increases. These spending increases are not sustainable in the long term. Elected officials can offer all the happy political spins they want, but I don’t think taxpayers are feeling quite so chipper about local government reaching into their pockets for more of their hard-earned money to support another property tax hike.

I would also seek to expand the role of the Economic Advisory Committee and ensure that we are working with agencies like the Morris County Economic Development Corp, EDA, SBA, NJSBDC. There are programs available, including grants, through these agencies that can help us provide assistance to our small business community and seize the opportunities to fill our vacant office buildings due to the pandemic.

In the past, I have supported the Lake Hiawatha Business Association and Friends of Lake Hiawatha and continue to provide them assistance. I recommended discussion groups with the building owners, business proprietors, township planners, and our community to craft a vision for our Lake Hiawatha Business District. I am on the Board for Downtown NJ which provides assistance to downtown communities and I am the President of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, I have the experience to provide leadership and work with our stakeholders as a team. When I was on Council I asked for our Township Master Plan to be reviewed and updated. Later on, the Master Plan was reviewed and as a long-term resident and a community leader, I provided input for the Master Plan in public sessions.

Recently, a disagreement between the bipartisan Township Council and the current administration on a proposed $5M bond to balance the budget has been made public. Where do you stand on using bonds to balance the budget and how would you vote on this proposal with current information made to the public?

This situation is unacceptable from a financial perspective. First, we should not be in a position where we need a bond to balance our budget. When I was on council we strived to balance our budgets without incurring additional debts. The failure to curtail spending and balance the budget led to our water and sewer increases of 39% last year. We cannot continue to offset the current spending spree by utilizing water and sewer cash reserves to offset tax increases. If the water and sewer authorities are generating the type of revenue that causes excessive cash balances in a self-sustaining utility, then the rates need to reviewed and reduced.

I am a fiscal conservative that believes in paying as we go. We should not spend money we don’t have and as a former Councilman, I prided myself in working with our Chief Municipal Financial Officer to reduce our debt and to cut out wasteful bonding. As a government banker for over 35 years, I have experience with Municipal Bonds, Bond Anticipation Notes, Tax Anticipation Notes, and Revenue Anticipation Notes. I will not kick the can down the road. We need to balance our budget and stop mortgaging the future.

Since 2018, the Township Council has become a legislative chamber where respect between members is encouraged regardless of party affiliation or political position. How will you continue to contribute to this positive atmosphere and assure that this continues?

I believe that by listening and collaborating with people, you can accomplish more whether it’s in business or public service. As a public servant, I want to continue fostering a positive atmosphere and ensure that the public has a greater voice in the community. I believe the public should have the maximum amount of time to speak with Council members and that they deserve answers to their questions from the administration. I will continue to recommend that Council members have an open office policy in which we should be available to address concerns and hear about new ideas.

I was honored to be nominated and voted by my fellow Council to be Vice President of the Council two times and I will continue to work in a collaborative manner with the Mayor and Council to put the needs of Parsippany and her residents first.

Do you believe the Township Council should take an expanded role in engaging Town Hall on behalf of residents and advocating for their concerns? Would you support office hours during the week for Council members to meet with residents and address their concerns? Specifically, address poor follow-up by the Township in relation to constituency services.

I strongly believe that Council members need to take an expanded role in engaging the public and addressing concerns. I pride myself on visiting residents and working with them. I share my personal contact information with many people in the community and they know that I am always responsive to help them and return calls. We need to operate our Township like a business and ensure that we are respectful to our taxpayers. Providing quality customer service to our residents is paramount. The Clerk is the only department that reports to the Council as a whole. As a Councilperson, I believe my job includes listening to the concerns of residents and presenting those issues to the Mayor and Council. I will make myself available during regular office hours if elected.

With regard to follow-up by the Township, I am not here to criticize the work of others or lay blame on town employees or elected officials. If elected, one of my priorities would be to modernize the way we address constituent needs. Many of the issues facing the community can be handled with online, integrated services. Permit applications, recreational enrollments, and other paperwork should be made available online both for download and filing. I know that our staff if given the proper tools, can make these processes seamless for our residents.

Tell us about your work experience and how it will assist you in being a member of the Township Council in Parsippany.

I have over thirty-five years in Executive Leadership positions within the financial sector with a focus on Government and Non-Profit Sectors. Most recently I served as the 2nd Vice President of Government Banking. I am also the Founder and Managing Member of North Jersey Regional Partnership, LLC. and a Consultant for small businesses with NJSBDC of Northwest Jersey, Rutgers Business School. My education with an MBA in Corporate Finance from Fairleigh Dickinson University, BS in Management from Montclair State University, Morris County Vocational School Apprenticeship, and graduate from Morris County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Morris Program enables me to understand complex issues that affect our community. My experiences and education will be useful both in developing a long-term financial plan for the community as well as working with outside agencies to seek additional benefits for the residents of Parsippany.

There are five candidates running for the two available council seats. What sets you apart from the other candidates and why should Republican voters support you on June 8

This year’s election is about who is the best candidate to tackle the challenges for the future and provide for a more responsive and accountable township. I have experience and a record of accomplishments on Council. As a former Councilperson, I was the liaison for Municipal Alliance, Economic Development Advisory, Finance, Environmental, Historical Preservation Advisory, and League of Municipalities committees that interacted with our community, administration, and council. I was raised in our community, and I have life experiences as a taxpayer, husband, and parent. For over 35 years I worked in executive leadership positions in finance, managing municipal operating accounts, investments, and debt. My education, with a BS in Management and MBA in Corporate Finance, enables me to analyze and understand property tax rates which are integral in reducing our tax burden. Understanding the financial intricacies of the budget process will be instrumental in cutting municipal spending and debt, holding the line on water and sewer bills, and stopping overdevelopment, while being honest and ensuring that we have a transparent government.

I have a proven track record of giving back to our community in many organizations. I have served as RMS PTA Treasurer, a coach/sponsor with Parsippany Soccer, Chair of Patriot Path Boy Scouts Good Scout Awards, the President of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and Founder of the Parsippany Area Visitor Center, VP of Parsippany Historical and Preservation Society, Chair of Economic Development Advisory Board, and Board Director of Downtown NJ. I stand by my record of accomplishments and service.

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Breda’s Pizza donates 10,000 meals to Seniors during COVID-19

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 3, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Inside Breda’s Pizza & Grill, a woman quickly tosses a used, folded-up paper plate and dashes out the door, while a man runs in to pick up a quick slice of pizza on a break, order to go.

Just over a year ago, Breda’s was a bustling eatery. From Thursday through Sunday, tables would be filled with guests from open to close. People loved the convenience (at the corner of N Beverwyck Road and Minnehaha Blvd), the delicious Italian entrees, and the cozy atmosphere. But since the Pandemic, like so many businesses, Breda’s tables are mostly empty, while the business has been doing everything it can to keep the doors open and the pizza slices slinging.

“I’ve been taking big hits in my business because nobody wants to eat indoors,” says owner Philippe Cardona. “Some days are good, but most days are bad right now. But I’m still trying, all you can do is try, right?”

As the pandemic was raging in the early months of 2020, Cardona found his focus shift from restaurant woes to supporting the community. He was sitting in the corner of his restaurant looking out the window at a neighboring business across the street.

“I remember thinking [one of the neighboring business owners] sons runs a transportation company for seniors, and I’m thinking to myself, ‘He got shut down from helping out seniors, what are the seniors going to do now? What happens to them?’”

Due to shelter in place orders, social distancing guidelines, and mobility issues, seniors were not only underserved but put in a situation where mental health and cognitive function could decline rapidly due to the sudden lack of social interaction. So, Cardona got busy doing what he does best, making delicious food.

“We called the Mayor’s office, got a list of senior citizens from Town Hall that were stuck at home, and we just started delivering food to them every single day, me and my family,” said Cardona.

Over the past 17 months, Breda’s Pizza and Grill has delivered nearly 10,000 meals to senior citizens around Parsippany-Troy Hills, all paid for out of Cardona’s pocket, and he has no plans to stop. Volunteers come to Breda’s every day in rotations of three. They pick the food up and deliver it to seniors throughout the township.

“What I realized, was it wasn’t just about the food, it’s also about the interactions [seniors] have with people,” says Cardona. “They get stuck at home with no interaction, and that can start to create dementia and other problems, that’s why I don’t want to stop.”

Onset Dementia has become far more prevalent due to COVID-19 restrictions. According to a recent study by the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, social isolation or loneliness in older adults is associated with a 50% increased risk of developing dementia, a 30% increased risk of incident coronary artery disease or stroke, and a 26% increased risk of all-cause mortality.

“Even with a lot of people getting vaccinated and things beginning to open up I want to continue to do this, to get them to interact with people,” says Cardona. “And a lot of people do need the food as well. One woman we see has Parkinson’s, so she’s constantly shaking, so she can’t cook. But if you can help somebody, you’ve got to help somebody, and pass it on to the next person.”

Breda’s has a gofundme page on their website (https://bit.ly/3pt9dm1) if people want to donate to the program. In the meantime, Breda’s will continue to do what they’ve done best for the past five years – serve up delicious food for the community.

Breda’s Pizza & Kitchen is open Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. To place an order or for more information call (973) 331-9911 or click here.

Parsippany Primary Election Voter Information

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 3, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — The Primary Election is on Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Polling locations will open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills has 39 elections districts located within 18 polling locations. Please see the list below for all the polling locations throughout the Township. Sample Ballots were mailed out on June 2, 2021, and your polling location will be on the sample ballot along with your district number.

Click here to find your district number. Use this guide for polling locations. (Do not use the guide on the state website as locations changed for this election)

District	Location
1, 4, 11, 13, 39	Brooklawn Middle School Girls Aux Gym Room 250 Beachwood Road Parsippany, NJ 07054
15, 16, 19	Board of Education Bldg Meeting Room 292 Parsippany Parsippany, NJ 07054
22, 23	Central Middle School Old Gym 1620 Route 46 West Parsippany, NJ 07054
32	Community Center Meeting Room B 1130 Knoll Road Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
14, 17	East Lake School Gym 40 Eba Rd Parsippany, NJ 07054
2	Fire House – Powder Mill Squad Room 60 South Powder Mill Road Morris Plains, NJ 07950
3, 8, 18	Intervale School Gym 60 Pitt Road Boonton, NJ 07005
29	Knollwood School Gym 445 Knoll Road Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
33, 34	Lake Hiawatha Library Lower Level Meeting Room 68 Nokomis Avenue Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
30, 31, 38	Lake Hiawatha School Gym 1 Lincoln Avenue Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
10, 12	Lake Parsippany Fire House Meeting Room – Rear Entrance 255 Halsey Rd Parsippany, NJ 07054
6, 7, 9, 37	Littleton School Gym 51 Brooklawn Drive Morris Plains, NJ 07050
5	Mt. Tabor Firehouse – Simpson Engine Room 0 Simpson Avenue Mt. Tabor, NJ 07878
21, 28	Northvail School Gym 10 Eileen Court Parsippany, NJ 07054
25, 35, 36	Rockaway Meadow School Gym 160 Edwards Road Parsippany, NJ 07054
26	Rockaway Neck Fire House Meeting Room 180 Old Bloomfield Avenue Parsippany, NJ 07054
20	St. Ann’s Church Hospitality Room 781 Smith Road Parsippany, NJ 07054
24, 27	Troy Hills School Gym 509 S Beverwyck Road Parsippany, NJ 07054

Rally in Support of Israel Planned for Sunday

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Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Interfaith community members from Morris County and beyond will gather at Smith Field in Parsippany at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 6 to express their support of Israel and to denounce the recent wave of antisemitism in the United States.

Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest in partnership with participating synagogues, the event will feature clergy from various religious denominations as well as local and state government officials.

According to event coordinator Rabbi Inna Serebro-Litvak of Temple Shalom in Succasunna, the speakers will assemble “to express their support for Israel in lieu of the recent events of violence, the barrage of missiles sent to Israel from Gaza by Hamas, which also spiked rising antisemitism in the United States.”

In addition to various local synagogues, the interfaith community will be represented by Calvary Baptist Church of Morristown and Abundant Life Church of Whippany.

Speakers scheduled to appear include Senator Anthony M. Bucco, Rabbi Shalom Lubin, Rabbi Inna Serebro-Litvak, Rev. Herman Scott, Rabbi Moshe Rudin, Rebecca A Gold of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ, and others. Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano will attend.

Rally sponsors include Temple Shalom, Succasunna; Adath Shalom, Parsippany; Mt. Freedom Jewish Center, Randolph; Morristown Jewish Center, Morristown; Temple B’Nai Or, Morristown; Congregation Shaya Ahavat Torah, Parsippany; Temple Beth Am, Parsippany; Pine Brook Jewish Center; Temple Hatikvah, Flanders; Gottesman RTW Academy, Randolph; Amir Hadar.

Support our Police Rally to be Held on Sunday

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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Parsippany resident Edward Mosberg. Mosberg, born in 1926, is a sole survivor out of sixteen members of his family of the Holocaust

PARSIPPANY — A support our Police and Law Enforcement rally is going to be held on Sunday, June 6 at 11:00 a.m. in the Parking lot of 51 Gibraltar Drive.

The event is being led by Mr. Edward Mosberg, a Holocaust survivor and longtime Parsippany resident.

A preview to his address is listed below:

My name is Edward Mosberg, I am a Holocaust Survivor and a proud American Jew.

I am a witness to the hatred that the Nazis had against all the people that were not like them, whether they were black, white, brown, Gypsies or others. The Nazis murdered millions upon millions of people that were not like them and we in the United States should ensure that this never happens again against any race because all people are created equal by God and they have to be protected by our Police officers.

We are gathered here today to show gratitude and appreciation to our Law Enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to protect all of us.

We must RE-fund the Police by showing them our appreciation and make sure to support them in any way we can.

Police officers come from all races colors and backgrounds and they are the backbone of a functioning society, if not for their selfless dedication there would be total anarchy in our streets.

The past couple of years have been particularly difficult as you faced unrest, a pandemic, and a lack of proper funding.

As it was recently POLICE WEEK, we bow our heads in remembrance of those officers that were tragically killed in the line of duty. We should never forget them and may their memories be eternally blessed.

I am honored to have spoken at a number of Police academies and will continue to do so for as long as I can, I am 95 years young.

In conclusion, may God bless you and your families for their sacrifice, and once more may God bless the officers killed in the line of duty, and may God bless the United States of America!

What Classes of Cannabis Will Parsippany Allow?

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — On February 22, Governor Murphy signed into law the Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act which legalizes and regulates the use and possession of recreational cannabis by adults 21 years or older.

The law legalizes and regulates the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, and retail sale of recreational cannabis by cannabis businesses and establishes a State Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) to establish regulations for both medical and recreational cannabis and oversee applications for licensing.

The Act establishes six classes of commercial recreational cannabis licenses:

Class 1 – Cultivator License: Permitting the growing and cultivating of cannabis;

Class 2 – Manufacturer License: Permitting the manufacturing, preparation, and packaging of cannabis items;

Class 3 – Wholesaler: Permitting the obtaining and selling of cannabis items for resale by other licensees;

Class 4 – Distribution: Permitting the transport of cannabis plants in bulk between licensed cultivators, or the transport of cannabis items in bulk between licensees;

Class 5 – Retailer: permitting the sale of cannabis items and cannabis-related supplies; and

Class 6 – Delivery: Permitting the provision of delivery services to consumers for cannabis-related purchases being fulfilled by a licensed retailer.

The Township appointed a working group to evaluate, suggest and present to the Township Council their recommendations to create an ordinance regulating Cannabis. The working group consisted of Mayor Michael Soriano, Council President Michael dePierro, Councilwoman Janice McCarthy Business Administrator Fred Carr, Township Attorney James Lott, Attorney Diane Hickey, and Township Planner Susan Favate.

The Township must act and pass an ordinance by August 22 to establish regulations if Parsippany wants any or all of the classes to be permitted within the township. All classes are also subject to licensing by the state as well as the Township and must meet all zoning regulations.

If the municipality fails to act by August 22, a statutory default will be automatically applied, permitting all types of cannabis businesses to locate in Parsippany, subject to local zoning conditions.

The consensus of the Working Group was to permit and regulate only Class 3 (Wholesale) and Class 4 (distribution) within the Township.

Also, they decided there were only two licenses per class to be issued.

The application must have zoning approval before it can apply for an application. The licenses are renewed annually. Classes 3 and 4 cannabis businesses would be permitted in the SED-3, SED-3A, SED-5, SED-5A, LIW-2, and LIW-5 zones only. (see map). Among the requirements are establishments must have frontage on arterial or collector roads or specific local roads and a minimum required lot size would be the lot size permitted in the zoning district or three acres, whichever is greater. Additional requirements must also be met (fences, signage, etc).

No cannabis establishment may be located within 1,000 feet of any school property (including property owned or leased by a public school board);
500 feet of the real property comprising a public housing facility, public park, or public building (except for several properties along New Road including the sewer treatment facility); or
500 feet of a residential zone district boundary or commercial residential mixed-use zone district boundary.
Hours of operation: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
All operations must be within a completely enclosed building or buildings.
Additional provisions for storage, consumption on-premises, and security and reporting to Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department.

As per law, the Township would receive a transfer tax of 1% of the receipts from each sale by a Class 3 Cannabis Wholesaler. Class 4 Cannabis Distributor establishments not authorized for transfer tax based on State legislation.

The ordinance is expected to have the first reading on June 15. Referral to Planning Board on June 21 with a second reading by the Township Council on July 6.

Adoption must occur by July 21 to allow time for noticing and the expiration of the estoppel period by the August 22 deadline.

PHHS Lip Dub: A Music Video Celebrates Seniors

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School is happy to release their 2021 Lip Dub: a music video that celebrates seniors and the various student organizations within the school. This year presented significant challenges to the usual approach to filming the video since students are not able to film in large groups due to masking and social distancing regulations. This Lip Dub takes you on a journey through the hit songs of this graduating classes’ youth. The result is highly entertaining and representative of the true spirit of the Hills.

The Lip Dub was led by teachers Jessica Brosnan and Andy Nicholes, who served as the director and producer, and senior Jake Murphy who served as the lead editor.

This Lip Dub can be viewed at the following link with your Gmail account. For best viewing, you are encouraged to change the viewing settings to 720p. To do so, click on the Settings button (looks like a gear) and then switch to 720 p.

Click here to view video

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council – June 1, 2021

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council – June 1, 2021.

Click here to download the agenda.

Mayor Soriano issues Proclamation for LGBTQ+ Pride Month

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Mayor Soriano issues Proclamation for LGBTQ+ Pride Month.

Mayor Soriano Issues Proclamation for National Gun Violence Awareness

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Mayor Soriano Issues Proclamation for National Gun Violence Awareness.

Planning Board to hold Meeting on Monday, June 7

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board will hold a meeting on Monday, June 7, at 7:30 p.m.

Click here to download the agenda.

Morris County Earns Top AAA Financial Rating With S&P and Moody’s

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 2, 2021

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MORRIS COUNTY — Moody’s Investors Service and Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Global Ratings have both given their top AAA rating to Morris County’s financial stability in reviewing the county’s general obligation bonds and the county guaranteed bonds offered through the Morris County Improvement Authority, with S&P ranking the county’s credit characteristics above the United States.

The rankings, issued separately last week in reports released by the rating agencies, continue a AAA ranking Morris County has maintained for decades. The underlying consensus of the rating agencies is that Morris County has strong credit, a stable financial outlook and that the county continues to be forward-thinking, planning strategically in the face of major risks such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the potential for cyber-attacks.

“In retaining the county’s AAA rating with S&P and again with Moody’s, both rating agencies recognized the county’s quick and prudent response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are proud of our efforts that saved lives and livelihoods, as we led the state in safely keeping businesses opened and our residents employed,” said John Krickus of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, who also is the board liaison to the county finance department.

Savings for Taxpayers: The AAA rating benefits everyone in Morris County.

The AAA rankings allow Morris County and the municipal agencies within the county to take advantage of the best possible interest and financing rates when borrowing or bonding for major projects, therefore saving taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. It is akin to having an exceptional personal credit rating because it reflects the ability of the county to meet its financial commitments. Obligations that are rated AAA are determined to be the highest quality, with the lowest credit risk.

“Morris County’s GO (general obligation) bonds are eligible to be rated above the sovereign because we believe the county can maintain better credit characteristics than the U.S. in a stress scenario,” S&P concluded in its assessment report.

Pandemic Planning and Response a Major Factor

Both S&P and Moody’s continued to emphasize that their ratings reflect Morris County’s detailed, planned response to the COVID-19 pandemic and continued diligence in addressing all potential impacts of the virus through the formation of a COVID-19 Strategic Planning Advisory Committee.

“The AAA rating reflects the county’s substantial tax base, strong and diverse economy, very high resident wealth and income, healthy reserve levels, and modest debt burden. The rating also reflects a long trend of strong, proactive financial management,” Moody wrote. “Although the pandemic has had a negative impact throughout the state, Morris County’s credit quality has not been impacted. The county created a COVID-19 Strategic Planning Advisory Committee, which meets regularly and has implemented a variety of measures to reduce the impact. The county’s largest revenue, property taxes, is guaranteed by its constituent municipalities.”

S&P underscored a similar assessment.

“We view the county’s management as very strong, with strong financial policies and practices under our FMA (Financial Management Assessment) methodology, indicating financial practices are strong, well embedded, and likely sustainable,” S&P concluded. “County officials quickly reacted to the pandemic and set up the COVID-19 Strategic Planning Advisory Committee, composed of county commissioners and management. The committee aimed to undertake an all-encompassing review and analysis of Morris County’s services, method of delivery of those services, and financial conditions over the next six years (2020-2025). We also viewS&P Global.jpg positively that the county has taken active measures to protect itself from emerging risks, such as cyber risks.”

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners noted the county’s prudent financial planning also enabled them to adopt another budget this year that maintains a robust capital spending plan while preserving services and programs that receive popular support from the public.

“We’ve maintained our AAA rating because Morris County is very prudent in how we fiscally manage our operations. Yet, while holding the line on county taxes, we are again moving forward this year with critical infrastructure projects at the same time we are directing spending toward key educational, human services, public safety, cultural and economic initiatives that serve all 39 Morris County municipalities,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Deborah Smith, who also is Chair of the Board’s Budget Committee.

The reports from the two rating houses were released in regards to the county’s General Obligation Bonds totaling $45.2 million, consisting of $37 million in General Improvement Bonds, $1.2 million in Park Bonds and $6.9 million County College Bonds and county guaranteed bonds issued by the Morris County Improvement Authority, consisting of $13.9 million in Guaranteed Renewable Energy Program Lease Revenue Refunding Bonds.

Since the Improvement Authority was established in 2002, the agency has provided towns, school districts, and the county itself with innovative and cost-effective methods of funding public projects while saving tax dollars. Through the authority, towns have been able to borrow under the umbrella of Morris County’s “AAA” bond rating to finance local projects, such as purchasing equipment and vehicles or constructing local facilities, at lower costs thereby reducing the property tax burden on their residents.

S&P’s report noted that Morris County has been able to face financial pressures stressing every county in New Jersey this past year.

“Over the longer term, rising pension, and other post-employment benefits (OPEB) costs may increasingly pressure the county’s budget. That said, we believe the county has sufficient budgetary flexibility to address these longer-term concerns, while management has also demonstrated an ability and willingness to reduce cost pressures, as evidenced by changes to retiree health benefits in 2007,” the report stated.

The S&P report went on to note its ratings reflect S&P’s assessment of the following factors, including S&P’s view of the county’s:

• Very strong economy, with access to a broad and diverse MSA;

• Very strong management, with strong financial policies and practices under our Financial Management Assessment (FMA) methodology;

• Strong budgetary performance, with a slight operating surplus in the current fund in fiscal 2020 according to unaudited results;

• Very strong budgetary flexibility, with an available fund balance in fiscal 2020 of 14.7% of operating expenditures according to unaudited results; while reserves grew in nominal terms, they declined as a share of expenditures due to a one-off increase in appropriations as a result of grant-funded pandemic-related expenditures;

• Very strong liquidity, with total government available cash at 35.5% of current fund expenditures and 3.2x governmental debt service, and access to external liquidity we consider strong;

• Adequate debt and contingent liability profile, with debt service carrying charges at 11.0% of expenditures and net direct debit that is 105.5% of current fund revenue, as well as low overall net debt at less than 3% of market value and rapid amortization, with 87.6% of debt scheduled to be retired in 10 years, but a large pension and OPEB obligation; and

• Strong institutional framework score.

Center for Biological Diversity Endorses LD26 Senate Candidate Christine Clarke

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Jun 1, 2021

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MORRIS COUNTY — 26th Legislative District State Senate candidate Christine Clarke has received the endorsement of the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, the latest advocacy group to support Clarke’s race. The Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund is the 501(c)(4) political arm of the Center for Biological Diversity, an organization with over 1 million members that advocates for endangered species protection through legal action, grassroots activism, and creative educational content.

The Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund believes that protecting the environment is a bedrock American value that should rise above partisan politics.

“We are thrilled to endorse Christine for the LD26 primary and the general election in November. Christine has been an outstanding champion for wildlife, protecting our environment, and safeguarding our climate. We can’t wait for her to bring change to Trenton and help New Jersey move to a just, clean energy future with clean air and water for all,” said Brett Hartl, Chief Political Strategist.

“As someone who values nature, biodiversity, and environmental conservation, I’m honored to be endorsed by the Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund and will continue to be an ally in the New Jersey State Senate,” said Clarke.

Christine Clarke is an environmental advocate, a grassroots organizer, and a mother-of-four running for State Senate to build the job-creating clean energy economy, advance a green recovery from covid-19, protect clean air and water, improve healthcare and lead with empathy and common decency. To learn more about her click here.

The 26th District includes 13 communities in Essex, Morris, and Passaic counties: Butler, Fairfield, Jefferson, Kinnelon, Lincoln Park, Montville, Morris Plains, North Caldwell, Parsippany, Rockaway Township, Verona, West Caldwell, and West Milford.

Parsippany’s 2021 Memorial Day Video Celebration

By

Frank L. Cahill

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May 31, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Parsippany’s 2021 Memorial Day Video Celebration. Thank you to all our brave military men and women who gave their lives to protect our country.

Grateful Nation by the Lieberman Family

By

Frank L. Cahill

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May 31, 2021

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A tribute to America’s fallen, military heroes
Vocals by Melody Lieberman & Peter Lieberman
Written & produced by Peter Lieberman

kingofkeys-1 · Grateful Nation

Scouts Place Flags at Grave Sites to Honor Veterans

By

Frank L. Cahill

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May 30, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, May 23, members of Scouts BSA Troop 173, and Girl Scout Troop 96229, in conjunction with members of Parsippany Elks Lodge #2078 placed flags at the gravestones of veterans buried in Parsippany’s historic Vail Cemetery in advance of Memorial Day.

On Saturday, May 29, Scouts from Parsippany Troop 173 and Whippany Troop 155 placed flags at headstones in Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover to honor veterans interred there.

Matta Donna Ristorante & Pizzeria: Elegant Upscale and Classy Ambiance

By

Frank L. Cahill

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May 30, 2021

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image004 (12) — Matta Donna Ristorante & Pizzeria is located at 304 Myrtle Avenue, Boonton

BOONTON — On Main Street in the quaint, historic, little downtown of Boonton, it is not difficult to find several popular and excellent Italian restaurants dotted along the rows of small storefront businesses, but just a short drive away on Myrtle Avenue, separated from the crowd, you will find yet another gem you should seriously consider putting on your radar.

Matta Donna Italian Ristorante & Pizzeria, a family-owned, and operated fine dining venue opened its doors in October of 2009, after taking over the prior location of Eduardo’s Pizzeria, which was owned by the Mastria family and which stood at that location for the 30 years prior. As one would expect, after 30 years major renovations were in order and the new owners wasted no time in putting their dream to work. On your visit to Matta Donna’s, you will find an establishment that is somewhat elegant, with an upscale and classy ambiance; yet still manages to feel cozy and comfortable. The well-thought-out setting is undoubtedly an expression of pride by the owners. The vibe is fun, cheerful, and welcoming, and yet somehow exudes a feeling that you are in store for a more sophisticated, formal dining experience. Simply, if you are looking for fine Italian dining which also offers some interestingly cool pizzas, Matta Donna might just be your place.

As soon as you enter you immediately are struck by the beautiful, reddish/brown oak woodwork throughout the interior dining room and bar. The appealing soft hues of the rich wood, which includes the wall paneling, floors, tables, and bar, lends itself to a sophisticated décor and ambiance that immediately exudes a feeling of warmth and comfort. The gorgeous wood is complimented with several pieces of beautiful artwork that adorns the walls and which adds another level of class to this already quietly elegant-looking venue. The dining room is spacious, airy, and nicely lighted by the restaurants’ large windows, and the tables are set up to be in full compliance with today’s pandemic safety requirements.

On entry, we were warmly greeted, thanked for our visit, and offered our choice of tables. We chose a nice corner table with a lot of light. A basket of hot bread (whole grain and Crusty White), butter, and infused Olive Oil quickly arrived, and our drink order was taken without delay. I went with a Woodford Manhattan this evening and the bartender personally came to our table to ask how I like it. He made it to perfection. Nice, personalized service. Our server, Jake, was extremely knowledgeable about the menu, in addition to being very personable, attentive, polite, and efficient at his job, as was the rest of the staff. Our menus were brought, and water was poured as our group looked over the multiple appetizing looking menu options.

Goat Cheese and Caramelized Onions Pizza

Zach Joyce, who along with his brother, Edward, owns and operates this family-owned, independent eatery stopped by our table which gave me a chance to get some background information on Matta Donna. I was curious about the name of the restaurant, which being of Italian heritage, I knew translated to “Crazy Woman”. Zach laughed and explained that though the name does mean “Crazy Woman” it actually came from a ranch the family had owned in Wyoming, where there is an area called “Crazy Woman Creek” and that it is not a reference to anyone in particular. Zach told me that his brother, Ed, a classically trained Chef, runs the kitchen while he runs the front of the house. Mother, Barbara Joyce, who is also a classically trained pastry Chef, does not work in the restaurant but does supply them with several of her specialty desserts. Zach made it clear that all three have their roles in serving the area with fine, gourmet Italian cuisine, and of course, those specialty pizzas.

My inquiry then led to the bar’s countertop, which I previously knew has quite an interesting back story. The bar’s countertop is comprised of teak, which was acquired from salvaged deck planks directly from the USS North Carolina, the most decorated battleship during WWII, and which was involved in every major naval offensive in the Pacific during that time. Interestingly, North Carolina was being restored around the same time that the restaurant was being renovated. The somewhat rotted ship planks which were being replaced were acquired by Min-Craft Custom Cabinetry in Dover who meticulously restored the planks and utilized them to create the unique top of the appealing bar. Being a Navy veteran, I found this particularly exciting, not to mention patriotic and historic. The USS North Carolina, once considered the World’s greatest sea weapon, is presently a tourist attraction in Wilmington, NC. It was nice to see Zach express such pride in his family and their restaurant.

Time to eat! For our appetizers, we decided to share one of their small pizza’s that I have heard good things about, the specialty Goat Cheese and Caramelized Onions Pizza. We also went with the

, with roasted red peppers and fresh mozzarella cheese, with a balsamic reduction, and the Shrimp Special. Did I mention, to complement your meal they offer a nice variety of wines at reasonable prices. All the appetizers were delicious. I would not have ever thought of ordering a Goat Cheese pizza, but I found it delicious and perfectly prepared. Tasty, thin-crust (you can order it thin or regular crust) and fully cooked to a nice, crunchy texture. The Sausage married perfectly with the peppers and mozzarella and was a treat; and the Shrimp, sweet with a deliciously tender texture, covered in a slightly creamy sauce. Great start!

For an entrée, I decided on their Cowboy Rib Eye, an 18 oz grilled, bone-in, Angus steak, topped with garlic-herb butter and served with hand-cut fries and sauteed green beans. My guests went with the Grilled Filet Mignon, served with sautéed mushrooms, and roasted red peppers, with a cabernet wine sauce; served with roasted potatoes and broccoli, and the Veal Cutlet Parmesan, served over pasta. The Cowboy Steak was prepared to melt-in-your-mouth excellence, savory, juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked perfectly to my specifications. The ample amount of cut fries were nice and crispy, and the green beans were fresh and slightly crunchy to the bite. The Filet Mignon and Veal Parmesan, which I, unfortunately, did not get to try, were also met with rave reviews. By now, everyone was clearly happy and satiated but how could you leave without one of Barbara’s decadent desserts.

I went with the homemade Blueberry Tart. Bursting with the fresh flavor of blueberries, with a deliciously textured homemade crust, this was a decadent and delectably good choice. Not too sweet, not too tart, exactly right! Went great with a meal ending Cappuccino. My guest’s Chocolate Lava Cake was also a home run.

Matta Donna was a great stop. Delicious food, excellent service, moderate prices, great people, and what looks like a great bar scene. Next stop, I might just have to hit up the bar to enjoy one of their sandwiches, or a burger, both of which I hear is excellent; along with a beer or two. I certainly would recommend stopping in and giving it a try. I am confident you will enjoy your dining experience, I did.

Private Parking Lot, Dine-In, Take-Out, Delivery, Curbside Pickup

Hours of Operation: Monday and Saturday 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Northern Italian Restaurant with Full Bar Service- Pizza, Pasta, Chicken, Beef, Pork & Vegetarian Meals.

Matta Donna Ristorante & Pizzeria is located at 304 Myrtle Avenue, Boonton. (973) 334-7138; https://www.mattadonna.com

Bhargava Reddy Mamidi Completes Trine University Degree

By

Frank L. Cahill

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May 30, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Bhargava Reddy Mamidi completed the requirements for a degree from Trine University at the end of the Spring 2021 semester.

Mamidi earned a degree in Master of Science in Information Studies at Trine.

Trine University, an internationally recognized, private, co-educational, residential institution, offers associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in the Allen School of Engineering & Computing, Ketner School of Business, College of Graduate and Professional Studies, College of Health Professions, Franks School of Education, Jannen School of Arts & Sciences and Rinker-Ross School of Health Sciences.

Trine is a member of the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association and offers 36 intercollegiate sports, 27 of which compete in NCAA Division III. Its golf program includes the university-owned 18-hole championship Zollner Golf Course. Founded in 1884 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org), Trine operates a 450-acre main campus in Angola, Indiana, and the College of Health Professions in Fort Wayne, with education centers in Detroit, Michigan, and Phoenix, Arizona, and programs available worldwide through TrineOnline.

Students Celebrate Memorial Day with a Red Poppies Commemoration

By

Frank L. Cahill

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May 30, 2021

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PARSIPPANY— Ceramics students at Parsippany Hills High School created red poppies in commemoration of Memorial Day. The red poppy has long been a symbol of remembrance to those who served and sacrificed in our country and thus, we created our own poppy field on the front lawn of the school. Red poppies are scattered around the front entrance area of the school, along with signage explaining the installation.

The students wanted to honor our fallen heroes and bring awareness to our students about the significance of Memorial Day.

Parsippany Fire District 5 Family Picnic/BBQ

By

Patrick Minutillo

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May 30, 2021

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PARSIPPANY — Well, the weather certainly did not cooperate Memorial Day weekend, with heavy rain, wind, and unusually cold temps pounding Parsippany, but that certainly did not deter Parsippany Volunteer Fire District 5 from going forward with their Annual Family BBQ/Picnic.

After all, our local first responders are a hardy bunch, and certainly not afraid of a little adverse weather. These dedicated public servants may be all business when it comes to responding to our local emergencies, but these guys and gals also know how to throw one heck of a party. On a side note, for those not familiar, there are 6 Fire Districts throughout the Township of Parsippany, and District 5 is comprised of two Fire Stations that serve East Parsippany.

On Saturday, May 29 on my arrival at the Parsippany District #5 Fire Department, Station 2 (“The Grange”) on South Beverwyck Road I was impressed to see that arrangements were already in place to deal with the weather.

A large, tented area was constructed that easily accommodated the crowd; grills were smoking, DJ was cranking, and the volunteer firefighters, their families, friends, and associates were starting to gather in anticipation of a fun outing with fellow first responders, good friends, and lots of food. First Responders always know to have contingency plans in place for any given situation, so this thoughtful prior planning was no surprise. To keep the kids busy, a bouncy house was available indoors and it was well appreciated by some happy boys and girls.

The American BBQ Company, out of Denville, did a fantastic job of catering the event and put out enough food to feed an army. Lots and lots of the usual BBQ fare, including steak, spareribs, barbequed chicken, sausage, hot dogs, hamburgers, steamed clams, corn on the cob, pork and beans, potato salad, and coleslaw. Watermelon, cookies, and brownies served as desserts. If you left hungry, shame on you. The DJ, Chuck Chamalian, of Powerhouse Productions helped keep the event energized with a great selection of background music throughout the day.

All in all, it was a nice, fun-filled family event, with something for everybody. Despite the unusually cold weather, a few controlled fires were more than adequate to keep everyone comfortable, as many of the guys sat around enjoying a cigar or two and obviously discussing some, what appeared to be, particularly important matters. LOL.

Many attendees simply enjoyed gathering around the fires or bouncing from group to group as the afternoon progressed just to enjoy each other’s company. It was impressive to see the enthusiasm, energy, and camaraderie shared by this close-knit group of firefighters. Laughs and interesting stories were in no short supply.

Thank you to the members of District 5 for the invite and for their hospitality. It was a pleasure to be in the company of so many of our professionally trained, dedicated, selfless individuals who serve our community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, asking for nothing more than the opportunity to offer their assistance whenever the need arises. Your efforts and service are appreciated more than you know. Keep up the great work!

Parsippany District 5 Fire Department picnic/bbq was held at 200 South Beverwyck Road.

District 5 Family Picnic/BBQ

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