MORRIS COUNTY — With COVID-19 vaccination numbers increasing, coronavirus cases decreasing and indoor capacity restrictions set to be lifted on May 19, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn introduced a resolution urging the governor to reopen all Labor Department facilities to in-person services.
Labor Department offices and one-stop career centers have been closed for in-person business since last March when the first coronavirus public health emergency was issued.
“Even prior to the pandemic, the career centers have been operating with dated equipment and few caseworkers,” said Dunn (R-Morris). “The coronavirus was the unexpected crisis that made us realize that our unemployment system is inadequate, antiquated and failing to serve those most in need.”
Dunn’s resolution (AR253) also calls on the Labor Department to fully staff all public-facing offices at all times.
In March this year, Dunn visited a shuttered one-stop career center in Randolph.
“Speaking with a security guard, I learned that dozens of people come each day in hopes of receiving relief, only to be turned away,” said Dunn. “While we have all become more accustomed to virtual connectivity, this is not how I believe a bricks-and-mortar career center, a taxpayer-funded facility, should work.”
Since August 10 of last year, the state’s career centers moved all of the unemployment services online and over the phone.
“Virtual services may not be as accessible for elderly clients, low-income clients, or clients with disabilities,” added Dunn. “Additionally, there are still claimants who are being denied payments, because they cannot get in touch with someone at the Labor Department to rectify the issue. In-person services would solve a multitude of problems and promote more effective communication.”
Since last March, the state has received more than 2.1 million applications for unemployment benefits and distributed more than $28 billion to Garden State workers.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council tabled Ordinance 2021:09 “Special Emergency Appropriation in the Amount of $5,000,000” at the meeting on Tuesday, May 18.
Statement from Council President Michael dePierro:
The Mayor wants the Township Council to approve a budget that is not statutorily correct, including a $5 million loan, plus interest that must be paid off within five years; a Fund Balance of $1 million that may not be used; overestimating revenue and underestimating expenses. He blames the previous administration for not leaving him enough surplus.
Council President Michael dePierro said if the township’s revenue shortfall is not resolved, residents may face a 14.6% municipal tax increase in 2021.
During a Mayors first year in office, he can blame the previous administration for almost anything and get away with it. During the second year, not so much. By the third year, the Mayor owns the budget and any poor fiscal practices are completely on him. If the Mayor has not started developing a Fund Balance to protect the Township in the last three years, that omission falls on him.
The Township Auditors have identified a number of serious errors in the budget and Cannot Certify the Budget that was presented to the Township Council. The Mayor has the responsibility of presenting to the Township Council a statutorily correct and balanced budget. The only good news is the “American Rescue Plan” allocation of $2,850,000 which helps to make up some of the deficit caused by the Pandemic. That sum will also be available in our budget next year.
So where does that leave us? If the Administration submits to the Township Council a statutorily correct budget, the budget would show a Revenue Shortfall of $6,147,176.37. This would result in a 14.6% tax increase in 2021. As a starting point, however, we could then enlist the help of Tina Zapitchi from the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and Valerie Dolan, our Township Auditor, to exhaust all other possibilities to reduce the shortfall and reduce the tax increase.
Statement from Councilmember Janice McCarthy:
Councilmember Janice McCarthy issued the following statement to the Township Council regarding the Soriano Administration’s proposed use of a five million-plus dollar bond in order to balance the budget.
Council Member Janice McCarthy and member of the Finance Committee
At the request of Finance Committee Frederick C. Carr and Chief Financial Officer Juan Uribe agreed to work with the township auditors to clarify outstanding issues with the State Division of Local Government Services on whether the town will be allowed to borrow $5M. So, the borrowing decision is pending with the State. The resolution on the agenda is tabled again by the council pending clarification.
If the $5M or a lower amount is allowed by the State Division of Local Government Service it cannot be included as revenue in the 2021 budget. Whatever amount the State allows, it is only for COVID-related expenses and not any underlying issues inherent to the budget.
Based on whether Parsippany will be able to borrow the $5M will determine how the administration goes forward with the 2021 Budget and what steps or actions will be necessary to balance the budget.
Recent remarks criticizing the council for trying to fully understand how borrowing $5M fits into the 2021 budget were unnecessary. This budget is very complicated because of structural deficit issues made worse by the pandemic. We would like this to be a collective effort.
Just to clarify any misunderstanding, as of today Parsippany does not have a 2021 budget. So, there is no budget for the council to approve. Any decisions on taxes, proposed capital projects, raising or reducing expenses which include staffing levels, pay increases, etc. are the responsibility of the Administration in preparing the budget prior to giving it to the council.
Once the auditor signs off on the budget and the town council is given a balanced, legal budget the council can review and offer recommendations.
So again, just to clear up any misunderstanding the town council does not have a budget from the Administration to approve.
Also, there were comments at the last council meeting claiming the township auditor made a mistake in preparing the annual financial statement which it was claimed caused the town to reduce the proposed revenue that was being anticipated.
However, the revision made by our auditors and the financial statement the auditor prepared was correct. So, we would like to apologize to them for any misunderstanding.
Finally, the fact is that while other municipalities, just as Parsippany did, suffered revenue shortfalls related to the pandemic and need relief, Parsippany’s fiscal mismanagement in the last 12 years has created an unsustainable structural deficit that everyone, all elected officials past and present, are responsible for. The deficit has only been made worse by the pandemic. These 2 events should not be conflated.Resolving an estimated $9M structural deficit if it begins in 2021 will take several years to correct.
But more immediately the Administration has to prepare a 2021 budget and make decisions on addressing the current year deficits.
The next Township Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the Parsippany Police Athletic Building, 33 Baldwin Road.
PARSIPPANY — Janhavee Kulkarni, an eighth-grade student from Central Middle School, was among the students honored as the Mayo Performing Arts Center Music Students of the month of May as Outstanding Vocalists. Students were from Morristown, Washington Township, Rockaway, Randolph, Parsippany, Kinnelon, Chatham, Pequannock, and Mendham.
Janhavee was nominated by Adam Aguanno. He had this to say, “Janhavee has been a member of Central Middle Schools chorus for the past three years in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. Not only does she have a gorgeous voice, but she’s always taken advantage of many performing opportunities. She performed in this year’s school virtual musical performance as well as past musicals. She also had made North Jersey Region chorus last year prior to their performance having to be canceled due to the pandemic. She has a great deal of confidence and maturity in her voice for her age. In addition to her talent, she’s a pleasure to have in class and a kind person!”
Mayo Performing Arts Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. The 2018-2019 season is made possible, in part, by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as support received from the F.M. Kirby Foundation and numerous corporations, foundations, and individuals.
MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker presented a commendation to Detective Supervisor Spence Osaigbovo for his efforts in helping a distraught individual in crisis, on Monday, May 17.
On April 23, 2021, Detective Supervisor Osaigbovo was contacted by a distraught, former victim, who advised the officer that she had just ingested pills in an effort to take her own life. Detective Supervisor Osaigbovo talked to the individual over the phone, keeping her calm and obtaining crucial information to ascertain her location. Detective Supervisor Osaigbovo successfully determined her location and the appropriate agency was dispatched.
Detective Supervisor Osaigbovo is being commended for his commitment to duty, ability to remain calm, and recognize the importance of dealing with individuals with mental health issues.
Acting Prosecutor Carroll said, “We commend Det. Supervisor Osaigbovo for literally preserving the life of a person in need under very challenging circumstances. His effort and skill in continuing his life-saving dialogue with the subject yet keeping his focus on identifying the location where help could be sent is an outstanding example of excellence in policing.”
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council authorized Parsippany’s Tax Collector to prepare and issue estimated tax bills for the third quarter installment of 2021 taxes. The estimated calendar year tax levy for 2021 is calculated at $230,843,845.73. This amount is less than 103% of the 2020 calendar year tax.
In accordance with New Jersey Statutes, the third installment of 2021 taxes shall not be subject to interest until the later of August 10 or the twenty-fifth calendar day after the date of the estimated tax bills were certified mailed.
The estimated tax bills shall contain a notice specifying the date on which interest may begin to accrue.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council approved the purchase of a 2021 Type III, Class 1 Modular Ambulance for Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance at the council meeting of Tuesday, May 18.
The total bid price is $258,027 and was awarded to P.L. Custom Body and Equipment, Manasquan.
The funds were allocated in the Capital Ordinance 2016:16, 2017:11, and 2018:17.
MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, Chief of Detectives Chris Kimker, and Denville Police Chief Frank Perna announce that Anthony Citro, 41, of 37 Chestnut Hill Drive East, Denville, has been charged with first-degree Murder, third-degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose, fourth-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and second-degree Aggravated Arson. The defendant was charged on a warrant complaint and remains in custody pending a court appearance.
It is alleged that at approximately 7:24 a.m. on May 17, 2021, law enforcement received a 9-1-1 call regarding a fire at 37 Chestnut Hill Drive East, Denville. Upon arrival to the scene, law enforcement officers located Anthony Citro outside the residence, with apparent blood on his clothing. Smoke was observed coming from the residence. Members of the Denville Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the fire, which was later determined to be incendiary. While suppressing the fire, the body of a deceased female was located inside the residence. The female was identified as Eileen Citro, age 68, the defendant’s mother. The cause of death has been ruled homicide by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office. The manner of death was determined to be sharp force injuries.
Members of the Denville Volunteer Fire Department, the New Jersey State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety, the Denville Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office – Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Arson/Environmental Crimes, Major Crimes and High Tech Crimes units all participated in the investigation.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany was among a number of North Jersey Kiwanis Clubs participating in distributing over 40,000 pounds to those in need on Saturday, May 15. Over 1,000 families with 1,426 children in eight towns received food containing fresh garden vegetables and other non-perishable items.
Over 1,000 families with 1,426 children in eight towns received food containing fresh garden vegetables and other non-perishable items
Joining in with Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany was Tri-Town Kiwanis Club, Kiwanis Club of Greater Roxbury, Kiwanis Club of South Orange/Maplewood, and Kiwanis Club of Bridgewater.
“The USDA estimates that in 2018, about 774,860 people, including 219,760 children, in New Jersey were food insecure. That means one in 11 individuals (8.7%) and one in nine children (11.3%) live in homes without consistent access to adequate food for everyone to live healthy, active lives,” said Frank Cahill, Lt. Governor Kiwanis Division 9.
“The economic damage wrought by mass layoffs and business closures is expected to persist long after vaccines become widely available and that means demand for food assistance will remain at the current high level for months or years to come,” said Laura Wohland, President Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.
Paul Tarnawski placing a food box in a vehicle
“These numbers have increased drastically with families struggling during the pandemic,” said Cain Pope, President of Kiwanis Club of Greater Roxbury.
Since the beginning of this service project in December, Kiwanis Clubs have distributed over 149,400 pounds of food, serving 3,755 families with a retail cost of over $375,000. Kiwanis Club members either donated or raised funds to purchase the food to distribute to needy families during the pandemic.
Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.
To find information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany click here.
To find out information on the next Kiwanis Food Distribution click here.
HANOVER — Seasons 52 officially opened its doors to the public on Friday, May 14. Featuring seasonal ingredients and an ever-changing menu, the restaurant offers guests the freedom to enjoy its balanced approach to food and wine.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill, Board Member Nicolas Limanov, Hanover Township Committeeman Ronald Ronald F. Francioli, Hanover Mayor John L. Ferramosca, Hanover Committeeman Brian Cahill, and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Hanover Committee Chairperson Barbara Freda
The Seasons 52 kitchen specializes in oak-fire grilling and brick-oven roasting to be flavorful and light, with all dishes fewer than 595 calories. Menu items are handcrafted using 100 percent fresh, never frozen, whole produce, and carefully sourced meats and seafood. Simply prepared dishes to encourage guests to feel good about their choices at every course, with options including an assortment of flatbreads, such as Pesto Chicken and Lobster & Fresh Mozzarella, as well as freshly prepared entrees, like Cedar Plank-Roasted Salmon, Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops and Wood-Grilled Filet Mignon. Mini Indulgence desserts offer the perfect amount to satisfy a sweet tooth, with selections including Cookies ‘N’ Cream and Raspberry Chocolate Chip Cannoli.
The restaurant’s menu changes four times a year to offer ingredients sourced at peak freshness and flavor. Seasons 52 on Dryden Way will feature its spring menu, with seasonally inspired offerings such as Kona-Crusted Lamb Loin, Buffalo Cauliflower Flatbread, and a Coconut Cream Pie Mini Indulgence.
The Wine Bar pours from an award-winning list designed to complement the menu and allow for discovery, with a service style that helps guests pair the right wines with their dining experience. Offerings include acclaimed labels by the bottle and glass in six and nine-ounce pours. Guests have the freedom to explore new styles with “Drink Them Before They’re Famous” – a collection of wines from up-and-coming producers. In addition, guests can enjoy seasonal rotating wine flights, currently highlighting pours by Paul Hobbs and the Caymus family of wines. The Wine Bar also serves cocktails made with fresh ingredients for exceptional taste. Signature cocktails include Cucumber Basil Smash and Rosé Lemonade, as well as the spring menu exclusive Strawberry Basil Martini. A lively Happy Hour offered Monday through Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. features $6.00 glasses of wine and $12.00 wine and flatbread pairings.
Seasons 52 Parsippany is located at 1402 Route 10 at Dryden Way. The new restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Sundays, Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended, but not required. Indoor dining and outdoor seating are available, in addition to takeout.
The restaurant is hiring experienced hospitality professionals to staff the new restaurant. Roles to be filled include servers, bartenders, and hosts, among others. To find more information and submit an application click here.
More information about the restaurant’s safety commitments to guests is available on the Seasons 52 website.
ABOUT SEASONS 52 Seasons 52 is a comfortable and stylish fresh grill and wine bar offering a refreshingly balanced approach to dining where guests are free to enjoy, knowing any choice they make is one they’ll feel good about. The menu changes with the season to feature ingredients at their peak, from whole produce that arrives and is kept 100% fresh, never frozen, to carefully sourced meats and pristine seafood. Entrées are oak-fire grilled or brick oven-roasted, without a fryer insight, to be flavorful and naturally lighter, and the Wine Bar pours world-class wines by glass and signature cocktails. Lunch and dinner daily, happy hour Mondays to Thursdays. Click here for more information.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its Planning Board meeting on Monday, May 17, at 7:30 p.m.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be held via a web conferencing program named WebEx. This program will allow the public to listen in to the meeting and to participate during the public portion session only. This program uses a “raise hand” button in the software to address those who wish to speak during the public portion.
Please be advised that in order for a member of the public to speak during the public portion, they will need to provide their first name, last name, email address, address and city accurately. Anyone not using their real name and address will not be allowed to speak during the public portion.
Click here to download the planning board meeting agenda.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting on Wednesday, May 19, at 7:30 p.m.
Included on the agenda, GTP Acquisitions, LLC, applied to the Zoning Board of Adjustment for a “Senior Living Facility” on a parcel to be subdivided from the property currently occupied by St. Christopher’s Church.
In the year-long delay, mainly due to COVID-19, the application has been modified and the access to the project has been revised. All ingress and egress shall be from Littleton Road. The previous design showed ingress and egress from Rita Drive. This has been deleted and is no longer a part of this application.
The project “Thrive at Parsippany” will include a total of 156 units (proposed and future). The project will also include 270 parking spots. 4 spots for Handicapped spaces; 205 spots 9′ x 18′ spaces; 19 spots 8′ x 20′ spaces; 21 garages and 21 driveway spaces.
Proposed Senior Independent / Assisted Living Facility
Assisted / Independent Living
-One Story, Two Bedroom Cottages = 29 Units
-One Story, Two Bedroom Cottages with Garages = 21 Units
Assisted / Independent Living
-One Bedroom Apartments = 38 Units
-Two Bedroom Apartments = 12 Units
Memory Care
-One Bedroom Apartments = 28 Units
– One Bedroom Apartments = 28 Units (Future Use)
The future phase will include – One Bedroom Apartments = 28 UnitsThe site plan.
According to corporate documents filed with the State of New Jersey, the registered agent of GTP Acquisitions, LLC, is David J. Weiner, 171 Fifth Avenue, Paterson. Pike Construction Company is also located at the same address. David Weiner is a managing member and principal of Pike Construction Co., LLC and has over 30 years of experience in all aspects of the general contracting and real estate development business. Upon graduating from Hamilton College with a B.A. in Economics, David began his career at Pike in the field as an assistant superintendent, then project superintendent.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be held via a web conferencing program named WebEx. This program will allow the public to listen in to the meeting and to participate during the public portion session only. This program uses a “raise hand” button in the software to address those who wish to speak during the public portion.
Please be advised that in order for a member of the public to speak during the public portion, they will need to provide their first name, last name, email address, address and city accurately. Anyone not using their real name and address will not be allowed to speak during the public portion.
Click here to download the Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting agenda.
PARSIPPANY — Continuing his commitment to ensuring that students have access to a high-quality education, Governor Phil Murphy announced that upon the conclusion of this school year, portions of Executive Order 175 allowing remote learning will be rescinded, meaning that schools will be required to provide full-day, in-person instruction, as they were prior to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.
“When schools across New Jersey first closed their doors in March of last year, little was known about COVID-19 and how it spread. But over a year has passed, and we are now facing a very different reality,” said Governor Murphy. “With our health metrics trending decisively in the right direction, the significant progress we have made in our vaccination effort, and vaccines now available to those as young as 12, we are in a position to get our students back into the classroom full-time come fall. We know that there is no substitute for in-person education and know that a full opening of our schools is critical to the well-being of our students.”
“Over the past year we have made the health of our students and school staff a top priority, and stakeholders in all of our school communities have done a commendable job of weathering this storm,” said Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education. “Now we turn a corner, and students, educators, and parents throughout New Jersey can look forward to the full return to safe in-person instruction at the start of the 2021–2022 school year. Local Educational Agencies will continue to adhere to Individualized Education Programs, 504 Plans, and the Home Instruction needs of their students.”
While school districts will be required to fully open buildings beginning Fall 2021, remote learning will be permitted in the event that there is a localized outbreak or other emergencies. If buildings are open for in-person instruction, parents or guardians will not be able to opt out of in-person instruction.
Summer camps and summer educational programming for Summer 2021 will not be impacted and will still be required to follow relevant health and safety protocols.
PARSIPPANY — The Township Council for the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold a Special Meeting on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at 7:00 p.m, in the Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) Youth Center located at 33 Baldwin Road.
This meeting is an in-person meeting and will follow all the COVID-19 protocols. Formal action may or may not be taken, and any other action reasonably related thereto may also be taken.
MORRIS COUNTY — Jessie’s ideal home would be one where she gets all the attention! She’s a real lap hog. Jessie needs insulin shots twice a day so the family must be comfortable administering these (she doesn’t even flinch!) and be home more often than not. Kids: 10 years or older; Dogs: may be able to live with another relaxed, older dog; Cats: may be able to live with another relaxed, older cat; Crate Trained: Jessie prefers the couch or her bed–she’s a princess! House Trained: Yes. Leash Manners: Enjoys short walks and is fine on leash. She does bark at other dogs when they pass
Personality: Cuddles. Snuggles. Repeat. This is life with Jessie. The kind of snuggle partner family members fight over because everyone wants her on them all the time and she wants the same. Jessie is friendly, happy, and really enjoys the company of other people.
Health: Jessie requires insulin twice a day, 12 hours apart. Her current schedule is to get them at 730am and 730pm time and she needs a family who can commit to this schedule. She was used for breeding to excess and you can see the toll on her stretched-out body. She had untreated diabetes and cataracts and, within two weeks of arriving to WISE, she lost her vision completely and we began the journey to find the right dose of insulin which she requires now twice a day forever.
Why did she come to WISE?: Jessie was no longer useful to her breeder and was surrendered to the rescue after years of overbreeding. If you are interested in adopting, please fill out an application on our website by clicking here.
PARSIPPANY — On May 4, the Township Council expressed concern about the proposed special emergency note of $5 million that’s been requested to balance the budget. A special emergency note is a short-term public financing option, which is typically amortized for 1 year. This emergency note, however, will be amortized in 5 years. It’s a one-time exception, due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has impacted our Township and so many communities across the country.
Let me be very clear – we are still working our way through the worst health crisis this country has seen in over 100 years. Small businesses, non-profits, schools, banks, and nearly every aspect of the country’s economy have been devastated over the past year.
Revenues for municipalities across the country were ravaged by COVID-19, and our Township was not spared from this fallout. It’s not just Parsippany that is reeling from this.
However, a combination of poor fiscal practices from the previous administration led to an absence of revenue surpluses across all departments. Now, coupled with a global pandemic that shook the country’s financial institutions to their core, Parsippany is facing a budgetary storm that we must address and correct today.
As you may have heard, Parsippany stands to receive over $5.7 million in federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act. This funding will go a long way toward bringing Parsippany back to a fiscally prudent standing, and we have the federal government to thank for this assistance. But this relief won’t be coming to the Township as quickly as we would hope. The most we can expect is half of that before the end of the year. We have bills to pay now. This is not just some abstract allocation of finances. Township operations may be at stake. The water we drink, the garbage that’s collected, the emergency services we rely on, all of them are vulnerable to cease operation if we cannot pay for them to operate.
This is why this emergency note is critical. We will have the money to pay this off, but like thousands of cities and towns have been forced to address, it’s going to take careful and precise financial prudence to work our way back to balance and fiscal responsibility.
It may be convenient for some to forget what our residents and Township have gone through over the past year and a half, in favor of scoring some political points. We have no time to waste playing political games, we must properly implement this funding to help assist our taxpayers now, and make our Township finances whole again. This starts with approving this special emergency note.
PARSIPPANY — A bipartisan group of council members expressed concern about the Soriano administration’s recent budget presentation which is centered on taking out a $5M loan in order to balance the budget. The council was unanimous in voicing their opinion that the administration has not provided sufficient information that would allow them to make an informed decision.
Council President Michael dePierro
Council President Michael dePierro asserted that the budget presented by the administration is not legitimate and will cause a drastic tax increase in 2022. He reaffirmed his position in an email to Parsippany Focus, stating “The $5 million cannot be used as revenue, therefore the administration cannot use it to balance the budget. Until the administration submits a balanced budget to the Township Council, we do not even have a budget to consider.” In addition, the budget received by the council reflects a current fund balance of less than $1,000; $10 to $15M below operating guidelines.
Soriano indicated that he is unlikely to budge on his demand to include the $5M bond and attempted to shift responsibility for the crisis to the council noting in a comment to Parsippany Focus, “The Township Council can either accept the budget by voting yes on the loan and accepting the budget as is, or they could come up with their own plan that could result in a layoff of essential employees and higher taxes for homeowners.”
Councilwoman Janice McCarthy
Councilmember Janice McCarthy said “The five-million-dollar bond is an integral part of the budget. If it is necessary, I will approve it, but so far that has not been demonstrated. Before committing to borrow $5M, I feel it is the council’s obligation to taxpayers to fully understand the budget presented by the administration in early April. Currently, we are in process of speaking with township auditors and seeking clarification on technical issues that were raised. While I would like to approve the Mayor’s budget, if what I have heard so far is confirmed, it appears we could be at a stalemate.”
Councilmember Emily Peterson stated, “The council and finance committee were not given an opportunity to be involved in the budget process in order for a consensus to be reached before the council was asked to vote on the $5M bond at the April 6th council meeting”, adding that the administration was not transparent during the process. “This council has worked together over the years to build trust and a sense of common purpose for the good of Parsippany. This bond is no different. We are currently in the process of getting the information required to make an informed and pragmatic decision and once that process is complete, we can move forward with a clear understanding of the administration’s ask.”
Another issue uncovered during the meeting was the revelation that the Township has exhausted all banked tax increase cap. CFO Juan Uribe acknowledged that while more than a 2% tax increase is likely required to cover the deficit, the town is limited to a 2% increase without making a request for an exception adding, “our backs are against the wall.”
Proposed tax increases in excess of 3% over the past few years have become normality for Parsippany residents with the Soriano administration placing the blame squarely with the prior Republican administration for years of financial mismanagement. While expenditures have steadily increased revenues have not kept pace and budgetary gimmicks that began under the Barberio administration like depleting utility surpluses have been increasingly relied on to cover current fund operating deficits. This has resulted in major increases this year in utility rates for Parsippany residents, with additional increases expected over the next few years. McCarthy pointed out that overutilization of the utility surplus over the past 12 years has created an ongoing operating deficit (estimated at $2M) that remains unresolved.
“My administration has worked very hard on the 2021 budget this was made difficult because of the unprecedented crisis that we are about to emerge from. Understanding that so many residents are dealing with their own financial hurdles we labored to introduce to the council a fair and fiscally responsible budget with a 1.5% increase. We have done everything in our power to keep your taxes low while maintaining the level of services our residents have come to expect. Because of the 2020 revenue shortfalls that municipalities from all over New Jersey are dealing with, the State will allow us to borrow $5 million to make up that shortfall,” said Mayor Soriano.
Business Administrator Frederick C. Carr stated “No comment on draft budget documents.”
Soriano is running unopposed for re-election in this year’s Democratic primary and will face either former Republican Councilmember Lou Valori or former Republican Mayor James Barberio in November. None of the current members of the Parsippany township council are up for reelection this year with Councilmembers Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson declining to run.
The Township Council will meet on Tuesday, May 18. Due to recently relaxed occupancy rules, the council announced that it would hold meetings at the Parsippany PAL Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m.
PARSIPPANY — Of all the industries devastated by COVID, hotels have perhaps been hit the hardest — and far worse than occupancy rates would suggest.
The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills passed an ordinance on August 12, 2003, requiring a 3% charge for every occupancy of a hotel or motel room in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills effective July 1, 2004. This amount is the maximum authorized amount approved by the State of New Jersey. (Click here to download ordinance). The Municipal Occupancy Tax is in addition to the State Occupancy Fee and the New Jersey Sales Tax.
The sign that was posted on the door of Fairfield Inn
One of Parsippany’s hotels, as an example, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, located at 3535 Route 46 East at Cherry Hill Road has been closed for months due to COVID-19. They recently reopened on May 6, 2021, after being closed for over a year. Other Parsippany hotels have been experiencing single-digit occupancies during COVID-19 causing Parsippany to lose drastic amounts in Municipal Occupancy Tax.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, located at 3535 Route 46 East at Cherry Hill Road
In 2019, the Township received $2,662,442.93 in Municipal Occupancy Tax revenue.
In 2020, the amount of Municipal Occupancy Tax was a little over 39% of the 2019 revenue or $1,040,512.04.
Municipal Occupany tax from hotels from January through April was down 75 percent from the same time in 2019. That is a difference of over $500,000 just the first four months of 2021.
The Municipal Occupancy Tax is not imposed when the occupant is a New Jersey State or federal agency, instrumentality, or political subdivision; the United Nations; or any other international organization of which the United States is a member as long as the occupancy is paid with government funds; space is rented for the purpose of assembly (e.g. a meeting, seminar, wedding, etc.); or occupancy lasts for at least 90 consecutive days.
MORRIS COUNTY — If you are a world traveler and fortunate enough to take that 8,000 miles plus trip to India, you would probably quickly notice that all along their highways you will find numerous small, rustic, roadside eateries serving whatever local cuisine is common for that region. These comforting and charming eateries, known for their tasty, healthy, satisfying food are called “Dhaba”.
A spacious, classy, and somewhat upscale ambiance awaits you within
Many people must travel far and wide to find a top-notch, truly authentic, traditional Indian restaurant with all those savory and unique tastes and spices that this fare is known for. If you are not up for that 8000-mile trip at this moment but happen to be a long-time fan of Indian cuisine, or just want to experience a different, and fun, culinary adventure, you will find Jashan by Dhaba more than ready to fill that need. Located right on Route 46 West in an attractive looking, stand-alone building, with eye-catching attractive, orange signage, Jashan by Dhaba, which describes itself as an Indian and Indo-Chinese Restaurant and Party Hall, literally translates to “celebration”, or as they like to say, a “celebration of Indian food”, and it just might be the place you are looking for.
Opened in September of 2019 (formerly the site of Mirchi) by the owner, Ankush Punhani, Jashan by Dhaba prides itself on offering a wide variety of dishes from the various regional areas of India, as well as some from Indochina, with an emphasis on Northern Indian fare, while still offering choices from the South. Many would describe Indian cuisine as being spicy, rich, flavorful, and diverse; of course, none of that should scare you off as your dish would be highly dependent on what you order and the degree of spiciness (heat) you prefer. And, when I mention that, I mean it as a good thing, as I personally enjoy my food with a flavorful kick.
Formerly the site of Mirchi
With that in mind, do yourself a favor and do not allow a lack of familiarity with the extensive menu, different, aromatic spices, or unaccustomed language to intimidate you. You will be depriving yourself of one of the great cuisines of the world if you do. The attentive wait staff at Jashan, who were all effusive and accommodating during my visit will gladly help guide you along the way; and as I have found, it is not that complicated or confusing once you get a grasp on some basic Indian phrases and cooking techniques. Or you can always follow the old rule of thumb; If you ever find yourself where you do not know the food, take cues from the tables of people who look like they might have grown up with the cuisine. Never a bad tip!
A spacious, classy, and somewhat upscale ambiance awaits you within. A pleasant, nicely appointed, modern, semi-formal setting, that still manages to make you feel cozy and comfortable with ethnic décor throughout, and soft Indian music playing in the background. Sparkling clean and clearly in full conformance with all current health (COVID) protocols, one should feel safe dining at this establishment. A restaurant’s appearance sets a tone, raises our expectations and suggests that the owner cares as much about our comfort as he does about the food they serve. Jashan by Dhaba has made that effort and succeeded.
Asif Naim and Pat Minutillo
A foodie friend of mine, who loves Indian food, has been praising this venue for a while, so I invited him along for this review and as a helpful guide. Our host and waiter, Asif Naim, could not have been more accommodating to our needs. As suggested by Asif, we sat at one of the restaurants several comfortable, plush leather, semi-circular booths. Gave us plenty of room to spread out! The very amiable and personable General Manager, Purushottam-Pudasaini, joined us at our table to welcome us, and we had an opportunity for a very enjoyable chat. Puru, as he told us to call him, prior to managing Jashan grew up in Nepal and started his career in the food industry as a dishwasher before eventually finding his way to Dubai, where he managed the Ritz-Carlton for 13 years, then onto San Diego, where he managed 5 different Indian restaurants at the same time. In 2019 he found his way to Jashan by Dhaba. Puru told me that “he loves what he does and finds it very personally rewarding”. He went on, “making people happy, organizing special events in people’s lives, setting up corporate and private events, and ensuring great service and customer comfort is very important.” When asked what he likes about New Jersey, he stated, “I like the four different seasons the most, as they remind me of growing up in Nepal”.
Soya Chop Achari
As soon as we were seated our wine was uncorked, poured, and placed in an ice bucket as we began to peruse our phone-generated menu. By the way, I should mention that Jashan is a BYOB, so bring along your favorite. The large menu offers a nice selection of vegetarian, meat, fish, and egg dishes. There is an emphasis on lamb, goat, and chicken for your meat selection. For you steak lovers, you will not find that on the menu. Asif, our waiter, was there to helpfully answer our questions, offer advice, and provide guidance along the way.
We started with the Galouti Kebab; minced lamb patties that came with two of the chef’s special sauces. Very moist and flavorful, and the sauces were a great accompaniment. Three nice-sized patties, so there was plenty to share. Asif then returned with a complimentary dish that he thought we would like; Soya Chop Achari. This vegetarian dish, made primarily from soybeans, was delicious. The taste was nicely textured, somewhat chewy, and creamy inside with a slightly crispy shell. The seasoning was perfect and spicy. There was certainly a lot going with multiple layers of flavors and spices hitting your taste buds. The spiciness was also perfect, not too hot, but just enough to hit you with a few waves of pleasant heat.
Goat Vindaloo
For entrees, I chose to go with Goat Vindaloo, while my friend chose the Saffron Chicken. Goat Vindaloo was not on the menu (lamb is), but they gladly made it for me. I was given a choice of my heat level, from 1 to 10. I chose a 7, but I could have gone higher. Next time! The goat meat was fall off the bone savory and delicious, tender, and juicy. The taste of goat is slightly less sweet than beef and not the least bit gamey (as some people believe), and blended perfectly with the saucy, spicy, curry dish, Vindaloo. The Saffron Chicken, which I did get to taste, was extremely flavorful. A spicy dish, yet sort of sweet, aromatic, and earthy, with the scent and flavor of saffron clearly prominent. This was the first time I tried this gorgeous golden-colored dish, and its complexity demonstrates why Indian cuisine is considered one of the most flavorful cuisines in the world.
Garlic Naan
For sides, we went with some tasty Garlic Naan, and Biryani Rice. The Biryani Rice was courteously prepared for us as a special sample of the rice typically served with a traditional Indian Biryani dish. This delectable rice dish derives its, multitude of flavors, and special tastes through the blending of many diverse spices. I do not know how they do it, but it was excellent!
Staying in gavone mode, despite being totally satiated, I still had to try their dessert; Gulab Jamon. I mean, you have to do what you have to do, right! Round, milk-based, fried delicacies, sweet-tasting treats that melt in your mouth, soaked in a rose-watered scented syrup, it was a perfect way to cap off this feast. Jashan by Dhaba is certainly a “celebration of Indian food.”
Beautiful Ambiance and Vibe
Great food, outstanding, friendly, and attentive service, beautiful ambiance and vibe, very reasonable prices, large private parking lot, BYOB. I would recommend you stop in and enjoy an evening at Jashan.
अच्छे भोजन अच्छे दोस्त
Jashan By Dhaba is located at 252 Route 46 West, Parsippany. (973) 521-9100. Click here to view the website.
