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Parsippany Advances Master Plan Goals through Highlands Plan Conformance

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Advances Master Plan Goals through Highlands Plan Conformance

PARSIPPANY  — At its most recent meeting, the New Jersey Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council approved a petition for Plan Conformance for the Morris County Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. Approval of the Petition provides the municipality with access to funding and the expertise of the Highlands Council staff in support of efforts to implement priorities in the township’s recently revised Master Plan.

“Highlands Council staff have been working with township officials for some time discussing their needs primarily related to water availability,” said Maryjude Haddock-Weiler, Highlands Council Planning Manager. “Through these conversations, we came to better understand the township’s goals and how we could help advance them. The town is particularly eager to get to work on developing a Water Use and Conservation Management Plan (WUCMP) and Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP), and we’re very happy to be a part of that work.”

In 2018, Parsippany-Troy Hills launched an effort to create a new master plan for the community. After an extensive process of public outreach and planning analysis, the 2020 Master Plan was adopted. The Master Plan establishes a series of goals, strategies and recommendations for the Township’s future. The goals include preservation of community character, mitigation of transportation problems, enhancement of parks and open spaces, protection of environmental features, utilization of sustainable development practices, wise management of water and sewer services, protection of cultural and historic resources, and support for regional growth management planning.

“The Parsippany-Troy Hills 2020 Master Plan aligns very well with the Highlands Regional Master Plan,” explained Highlands Council Chairman Carl Richko. “Parsippany is the largest municipality in the Highlands Region by population. It’s also located entirely within the Planning Area of the Highlands, where conformance with the RMP is voluntary, so we’re very pleased that the town recognizes the benefits of conformance.”

“I’ve always believed that it was a mistake to withdraw from the Highlands Council several years ago, which is why my administration has worked from Day 1 to achieve Highlands Act conformance. The acceptance of our petition is a recognition of the township’s work towards water quality protection, sustainable land use, and environmental defense,” said Mayor Michael Soriano.

The Highlands Plan Conformance process provides a framework for municipalities and counties in the Region to integrate the land use and resource management requirements of the 2004 Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act into local planning and regulatory documents. Grant funding is available to support reasonable expenses associated with this work.

In addition to the WUCMP and SWMP, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Plan Conformance draft “Implementation Plan and Schedule” specifies funding for development of an Historic Preservation Plan and Open Space/Recreation Plan among other priorities. All funding is reimbursement based and contingent upon availability of funding and approved scopes of work.

Today’s approval by the Council brings the total number of approved municipal petitions for Plan Conformance to 50. Additional details about the Township’s Petition, including Highlands Council recommendations and specific funding allocations related to Plan Conformance implementation, are available in the “Final Consistency Review & Recommendations Report” and the “Highlands Implementation Plan and Schedule,” which can be found along with all other township Petition materials on the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township by clicking here.

Actions taken by the Council at this meeting will take effect following the Governor’s review and consideration of the meeting minutes, up to 10 business days from receipt of the minutes. Materials related to this meeting including resolutions, presentations, audio and minutes are posted by clicking here.

The Highlands Council is a regional planning agency, established in 2004 with the passage of the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act and charged with implementation of the Act.

Additional information is available by clicking here.

Morris County Commissioners Pick New Leadership

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Commissioners Pick New Leadership

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County GOP Chairwoman Laura Marie Ali announced that the County Board of Commissioners named its leadership for 2021 by naming Stephen Shaw as Commission Director and Deborah Smith as Deputy Director.

“Stephen Shaw and Deborah Smith will be a dynamic, fiscally conservative leadership team for Morris County government over the next 12 months and represent the very best of our party,” said Chairwoman Ali. “Stephen and Deb will continue to hold the line on taxes, invest in infrastructure, and help our county navigate the ongoing pandemic in proactive way.”

Ali said that Morris County’s Republican leadership has been integral in making Morris the state’s number one county and the best place to live in all of New Jersey.

One-Third of New Jersey Businesses Shuttered

Frank L. Cahill
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One-Third of New Jersey Businesses Shuttered

MORRIS COUNTY — Recent news reports have spotlighted the destructiveness of Governor Phil Murphy’s emergency COVID-19 executive orders, with many blaming Murphy’s mandates for the closure of one-third of all of New Jersey’s small businesses.

According to data from the New Jersey Business & Industry Association, 28 percent closed by October, following the series of Murphy’s forced shutdowns since March. The Hill weighed in with higher numbers, calculating a 31 percent closure up to November 9, per estimates from TrackTheRecovery.org.

Some businesses have floundered under Murphy’s partial reopening plans, the Governor having recently cracked down again on restaurant and bars, mandating 10:00 p.m. indoor closures and authorizing counties and municipalities to double down with further restrictions. The Governor even limited the number of people allowed in residents’ own homes, to a maximum of 10.

Rescue New Jersey, a not-for-profit and non-partisan group formed to assist New Jersey residents and businesses, has facilitated a lawsuit advocating not only for the plaintiff, but all businesses harmed by Murphy’s violations of the Disaster Control Act.

As part of his edicts, Murphy was mandated – but failed – to establish compensation boards in each county, where businesses and individuals could petition for “reasonable compensation,” in return for the governor’s control over their property in his back-to-back states of emergency. The case against the governor, filed in the Superior Court in September, which originally sought a declaratory judgment compelling him to establish these boards, is currently in the Appellate Division.

The Governor, however, has asked the Appellate Division to deny counsels’ request to expedite the case, to obtain financial relief for the plaintiff’s owner, who already had to close her business in October, because of Murphy’s draconian restrictions.

CKO Franklin

“This ongoing and escalating tragedy underscores the urgency of the lawsuit we’ve brought on behalf of JWC Fitness, LLC and its owner, Darlene Pallay, to obtain the reasonable compensation due by law to businesses injured by the Governor’s decrees,” said Robert W. Ferguson, Esq.

Ferguson, of the of the law firm of Stern, Kilcullen and Rufolo, LLC of Florham Park and Catherine M. Brown, Esq., of Denville, filed the suit for Pallay, a Sussex County business owner who operated CKO Kickboxing Franklin, under her LLC.

“Our claims are straightforward: the emergency powers exercised by the Governor to order business shutdowns and other restrictions require the state to compensate those individuals and businesses whose property has been impaired by those orders,” Ferguson continued. “But despite the state’s clear and unambiguous obligation to compensate affected property owners, the Governor’s lawyers, sadly but not unexpectedly, have opposed requests to expedite our case so that those who have complied with the Governor’s orders may obtain some redress for the disproportionate costs they’ve borne on behalf of the public.”

“I am proud of the role that Rescue New Jersey has taken in advocating for those who have been left behind, such as Mrs. Pallay, in the Governor’s haphazard response effort to COVID,” said Donald Dinsmore, Esq., Rescue New Jersey’s chairman.

Court briefs have described Pallay as “a law-abiding, taxpaying citizen of this State,” who helped to support her family over the last decade with her business,” including her three young children. Pallay received Congressional recognition for “COVID-related activities that benefitted her community,” according to court documents.

“The defendant [Murphy] called upon all of us to comply with his executive orders for the good of the greater, general welfare,” the Appellate brief stated. “Plaintiff’s owner Mrs. Pallay did as she was ordered. But defendant asked her to give much more to the general welfare than most, her livelihood from a business she has built up over 10 years, and ultimately, the business itself.”

The brief further outlined Pallay’s debts to her commercial landlord and other creditors, which accrued as a result of her inability to operate under the restrictions.

For more information about Rescue New Jersey and this case click here.

Smith, Krickus & Shaw Announce Re-Election Bids; Roll Out Sweeping Endorsement List in Morris County

Frank L. Cahill
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Smith, Krickus & Shaw Announce Re-Election Bids; Roll Out Sweeping Endorsement List in Morris County

MORRIS COUNTY — Republicans Deborah Smith, John Krickus and Stephen Shaw announced their plans to seek re-election as Morris County Commissioners in 2021 and rolled out an impressive list of GOP endorsers supporting their ticket.

Smith, Krickus and Shaw pointed to their decisive and proactive response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the county and their commitment to investing in county roads and bridges, while keeping county property taxes flat.

Freeholder Director Deborah Smith

“We are honored to have earned the endorsement of Republican leaders at the state and county level, and in nearly every single town in Morris County,” said Smith, of Denville.  “This year, in spite of challenges at every turn, voters rewarded Morris County Republicans for our commitment to honest government that focuses on what matters most to our residents.  We are proud to have played a key role in creating and strengthening the Morris County Republican brand, and we look forward to keeping Morris the number one county in the state.”

“Republican leadership of county government has helped to make Morris County an affordable, safe place to live, work, raise a family, and retire,” said Krickus, of Long Valley. “We are proof that common sense conservative polices work and can attract not only Republican voters, but Democrats and independent voters, as well. This year we plan to work closely with our candidates from the municipal level on up to Governor to win in November.”

“When Morris County Republicans are united and focused on the issues that our residents care about most, we are successful. Simply put, good policy makes good politics.,” said Shaw, of Mountain Lakes. “Together with Deb and John, I plan to continue advancing our pro-taxpayer agenda that has held the line on taxes and reduced debt, while prioritizing county spending on improving the quality of life for all residents and most importantly protecting public health.”

Current List of Endorsements

Sheriff James Gannon
County Clerk Ann Grossi
Freeholder Doug Cabana
Freeholder Tayfun Selen
NJ Republican Chair Doug Steinhardt
Morris County State Committeewoman Christina Ramirez
Morris County State Committeeman Larry Casha
MCRC Chair Laura Ali
Young Republican Chair Justin Musella
Gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli
Former MCRC Chair John Sette
Morris Victory PAC Chair Rob Zwigard
Boonton Town – Alderman Joe Bock and Alderman (former Mayor) Cy Wekilsky
Boonton Township – Mayor Councilman Tom Danadio
Butler- Councilmen Robert Fox and Doug Travers
Chatham Township – Committeewoman Karen Swartz
Chester Borough – Mayor Janet Hoven
Chester Township – Mayor Marcia Asdal, Councilmen Mike Inganamort and Tim Drag
Denville – Mayor Tom Andes
Florham Park – Mayor Mark Taylor
Hanover Township – Committeeman (former Mayor) Ron Francioli
Harding – Mayor Chris Yates
Jefferson – Mayor Eric Wilsusen
Kinnelon – Councilmembers Randall Charles, Glenn Sisco, Robert Roy, Vincent Russo, William Yago, James Lorkowski
Long Hill – Mayor Brendan Rae, Committeeman Guy Piserchia
Madison – Former Councilman Pat Rowe
Mendham Borough – Mayor Christine Serrano-Glassner
Mendham Township – Mayor Sarah Neibart
Mine Hill – Mayor Sam Morris
Montville – Mayor Frank Cooney
Morris Plains – Former Freeholder/Mayor Frank Druetzler, Councilmembers Sal Cortese, Cathie Kelly
Morris Township – Committeeman Peter Mancuso
Morristown – Former Councilwoman Allison Deeb
Mount Arlington – Mayor Mike Stanzilis
Mount Olive – Mayor Rob Greenbaum, Councilman Alex Roman
Mountain Lakes – Former Mayor/Current Councilman Dan Happer, Councilwoman Audrey Lane

Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – November 23, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – November 23, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – November 23, 2020.

Click here to download the agenda.

Mayor Announces $4 Million in Investments for Lake Hiawatha

Frank L. Cahill
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Mayor Announces $4 Million in Investments for Lake Hiawatha

PARSIPPANY – Mayor Michael Soriano announced $4 million in major grant funding for the Township at a press conference on North Beverwyck Road on Tuesday morning, December 1.

This landmark infusion of capital includes a new Library in Lake Hiawatha, Phase 1 of North Beverwyck Road streetscaping, and the completion of what will be the largest contiguous tract of open space in Parsippany. These grant funds were secured to improve the walkability and aesthetics of North Beverwyck Road, to benefit small businesses, to modernize Lake Hiawatha’s Library branch, and to work toward the creation of Henry N. Luther Park. These projects will benefit Parsippany’s economy and improve the quality of life in the most densely populated area in the Township.

“Our refurbishment of North Beverwyck Road began with the installation of signs bearing its original name: Washington’s Trail,” said Mayor Soriano. “It continued with a major walkability study conducted in partnership with The College of New Jersey, and plans for streetscaping improvements to make this downtown a more walkable destination.”

Lake Hiawatha will benefit from the “Library Construction Bond Act” – from which the Township was awarded $2,999,530 – specifically for the construction of a brand new library branch in Lake Hiawatha. The new construction will also include critical technology upgrades to better serve and be more accessible to Township residents. (Click here for related article)

Lake Hiawatha will also benefit from a Morris County Open Space Grant – an award of $659,000 – to acquire a 5.4-acre tract of land along Knoll Road. This will complete the Township’s acquisition of 30 acres of contiguous open space, to create Henry N. Luther Park, which will be Parsippany’s largest municipal park and the Township’s 32nd public park. In addition to passive and active recreation opportunities, the park will have direct access to the proposed Boonton Reservoir Trails Project. This acquisition will be the culmination of an over 30-year investment to preserve the open space in Lake Hiawatha. (Click here for related article)

North Beverwyck Road will soon benefit from the “Municipal Aid Grant” – an award of $351,700 – specifically for Phase 1 streetscaping. This program will widen sidewalks, improve traffic management, install new infrastructure, and advance other aspects to the benefit of North Beverwyck Road’s mobility, aesthetics, and economic activity.

In total, the three grants comprise $4,010,230 in direct economic investment into Lake Hiawatha and the surrounding community. This infusion of funds is unprecedented in the Township. These grants are a major step in the Soriano administration’s efforts to assist local businesses, improve the quality of life for residents, and make North Beverwyck Road a downtown destination.

“Grant funds do not automatically appear,” Mayor Soriano said. “Our receipt of this capital is the culmination of months and years of hard work and dedication by our Township staff and professionals.”

Parsippany Economic Development Committee Chairman Robert Peluso said “Well informed and engaged citizens will undoubtedly bring positive returns for Lake Hiawatha and our entire community. Our investment in Lake Hiawatha will create a vibrant downtown, but our community needs to design what it is really going to look like while preserving our past and creating a long future. Over the years, our Economic Development Advisory Committee and the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce recommended streetscape solutions and upgrades for Lake Hiawatha’s downtown area that included vehicle parking. Through major grant funding, the investment in our library system and recreational facilities will ensure that our Township is taking a stronger role in providing services and recreational opportunities without raising taxes for our residents and businesses. We look forward to continuing to support forward progress in our community.”

“I am pleased to see the long-standing advocacy by past and present Township officials and staff are finally getting the deserved attention and funding grants. Our businesses sorely, and immediately, need improved aesthetics in this district to draw more customers and clients to our region. These projects must be completed in a timely fashion to help business owners and residents recover from the lost business and uncertainty caused by COVID,” said former Council President Louis Valori.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal Buildings Will Close Starting December 7

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal Buildings Will Close Starting December 7

PARSIPPANY — All Parsippany Municipal Buildings will close starting Monday, December 7 to public access, due to the increase in COVID-19 cases.

Residents and businesses requiring township services will be required to set an appointment with the appropriate department. Below is a listing of all department telephone numbers.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting – November 10, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting – November 10, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting – November 10, 2020.

Click here to view the agenda.

Prosecutor’s Office Engage with Faculty and Student Athletes from High Schools

Frank L. Cahill
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Prosecutor’s Office Engage with Faculty and Student Athletes from High Schools

PARSIPPANY — On November 30, Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Detective Supervisor Patrick LaGuerre met virtually with the Superintendent of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools, Principals, Assistant Principals, and Football Team Coaches and Athletes from both township high schools.

Detective Supervisor Patrick LaGuerre

The meeting was an opportunity for Acting Prosecutor Carroll to introduce himself and freely interact with participants, as well as offer an inspirational message to the athletes based on his personal experience. Recalling his years as a college athlete at Wake Forest University, Acting Prosecutor Carroll discussed how playing football taught him life lessons including self-discipline and the ability to accept constructive criticism, all attributes that had a positive influence on his life, even until the present.

Detective Supervisor LaGuerre discussed his role with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, emphasized the importance of building a bridge with all of our community partners, and how making good decisions is essential for a successful future.

Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said “It was an honor to meet with these members from our community and I want to thank Parsippany-Troy Hills School Superintendent Barbara Sargent for ensuring that it occurred. Anytime that we as established adults have a moment to share experiences with our youth and younger generations that may have a positive impact on them, we must seize that opportunity and follow through.”

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Meeting – November 24, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Meeting – November 24, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Meeting – November 24, 2020

Click here to download the agenda.

A letter from Dr. Barbara Sargent

Frank L. Cahill
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A letter from Dr. Barbara Sargent

Dear Parsippany-Troy Hills Families,

I hope you enjoyed a relaxing weekend and were able to take advantage of the beautiful weather.

We have been extremely fortunate in keeping our schools open fairly consistently for in-person instruction since September. As anticipated, the number of positive cases of COVID-19 has risen in New Jersey and in our Northwest Region over the past several weeks, moving Morris County and all of NJ to “High Risk” (Orange) status. As per NJ Department of Health guidelines, a transition to “Very High Risk” (Red) would require a transition to Fully Remote/Distance Learning. School districts should then wait a minimum of 14 days before bringing students back for in-person learning.

Additionally, the incidents of staff members needing to quarantine as a result of being a close contact or having a member of their household test positive for COVID-19 is growing, making it challenging in some schools to adequately supervise students. We are tracking this on a daily basis in the event that Fully Remote/Distance Learning needs to be implemented.

While our intent at this time is to continue with in-person instruction and the new K-8 hybrid schedule which began today, it may be necessary for the district to transition to Fully Remote instruction at some future point and I want you to be prepared.  In the event that the district transitions to Fully Remote instruction, you will be notified via School Messenger, and school principals and I will share further information about the daily schedule and instructional expectations. There may be little time to prepare for this transition, so it is important to consider alternate child care plans now so that your family is ready.

Please understand that we absolutely want to keep schools open and have children attend in-person.  Health and safety guidelines have been established by the NJ Department of Health to keep staff and students safe and to prevent community spread of COVID-19. They must be followed.

Finally, please note that there have been updates to the Daily Health Screening Form.

We have a little more than three weeks left until the December holiday break. Let’s continue to make smart choices that keep our school community safe.

Barbara Sargent, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Route 46 East Closed Prior to Edwards Road

Frank L. Cahill
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Route 46 East Closed Prior to Edwards Road

PARSIPPANY — Route 46 East closed prior to Edwards Road is closed due to an accident. All traffic being diverted onto Route 80 East due to a utility pole/wires falling onto the roadway.

Additional details will be published as they become available.

Crews are fixing the downed utility poles at Route 46 and Edwards Road
Wires landed on the truck
Follow detours

Council Meeting Scheduled for Tuesday, December 1

Frank L. Cahill
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Council Meeting Scheduled for Tuesday, December 1

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its regularly scheduled council agenda meeting Tuesday, December 1 at 7:00 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.

For more information, please contact the Township Clerk’s office at (973) 263-4351 or email pthclerk@parsippany.net.

Skunk Tested Positive for Rabies on Oswego Avenue

Frank L. Cahill
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Skunk Tested Positive for Rabies on Oswego Avenue

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills Health Department was notified on November 25, that a skunk off Oswego Avenue in the Lake Hiawatha section has tested positive for the Rabies virus.

Rabies is a fatal disease of warm-blooded mammals caused by a virus, most frequently spread through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. An infected animal has the rabies virus in its saliva and infects other animals or people through bites and contact with saliva. Once infected animals become ill, they may bite or attack other animals or people.

Common carriers of the virus are raccoons, skunks, foxes, woodchucks, bats, and feral (stray) cats.  You are advised to stay away from wild animals and animals that you do not know.  Please DO NOT FEED STRAY ANIMALS.  Do not make pets of wild animals.  Be certain that your dog is properly licensed, vaccinated, and up to date on their rabies vaccination. If you know of any stray cats, or dogs, or any other animal in the area acting strangely, please contact the Parsippany Animal Control at (973) 263-7083.

Please keep garbage in a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent attracting animals. Clean up spilled birdseed. Do not leave pet food out for extended time periods.

If you are exposed (either bitten or scratched) by any suspected animal; please act promptly.  Immediately wash the bite wound with soap and water and call your physician and the Health Department.  If your pet is bitten or in a fight with a wild animal, please contact the Parsippany Health Department at (973) 263-7160 and your Veterinarian.

Another COVID-19 Case at Knollwood School

Frank L. Cahill
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Another COVID-19 Case at Knollwood School

PARSIPPANY— Dr. Barbara Sargent sent the following information to the parents and staff at Knollwood School.

November 28, 2020

Dear Knollwood School Community,

This letter is to inform you that an individual at Knollwood School has tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The District is coordinating closely with public health officials and following CDC, state, and local health department guidance in order to assure the health and safety of our community. If you were in close contact with the individual you will receive a separate notification from your local Health Department.

Cleaning and disinfecting of all exposed areas have been completed.

We understand the level of concern regarding COVID-19. We encourage all community members to continue following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention promoted safeguards, such as:

•      Staying home when you are sick;

•      Washing hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds;

•      Covering coughs and sneezes and properly disposing of tissues;

•      Limiting close contact with people who are sick and not sharing food, drinks and utensils;

•      Practicing social distancing (staying at least 6 feet apart);

•      Wearing a face covering while in school; and

•      Continuing to monitor your health for symptoms.

As always, we appreciate our community’s support and cooperation. You can assist us by remaining vigilant but sensible in your approach to dealing with this health concern. Should you have any questions about this situation, please feel free to contact Mrs. Merisa Rosa – (973) 263-7060. Below are some resources that might be helpful.

RESOURCES

a. NJDOH COVID-19 Information for Communities and the General Public: (click here)

b. Get the Facts about Coronavirus: (click here)

c. Symptoms of COVID-19: (click here)

d. Testing: (click here)

e. How to Protect Yourself: (click here)

f. What to Do if You Are Sick: (click here)

Barbara Sargent, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Attorney General Grewal Issues Additional Guidance to Prosecutors on Handling Low-Level Marijuana Possession-Related Cases

Frank L. Cahill
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Attorney General Grewal Issues Additional Guidance to Prosecutors on Handling Low-Level Marijuana Possession-Related Cases

MORRIS COUNTY — Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal issued additional guidance to prosecutors concerning the prosecution of low-level marijuana cases, supplementing his August 29, 2018, and November 4, 2020 guidance.

Attorney General Grewal directed all New Jersey municipal, county, and state prosecutors to adjourn, until at least January 25, 2021, any juvenile or adult case solely involving the following marijuana possession-related offenses:

    • possession of marijuana or hashish in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10(a)(3);
    • possession of marijuana or hashish in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10(a)(4);
    • being under the influence of marijuana or hashish in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10(c);
    • failure to make lawful disposition of marijuana or hashish in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10(d);
    • use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia under N.J.S. 2C:36-2 involving only marijuana or hashish;
    • possession of a controlled dangerous substance while operating a motor vehicle in violation of N.J.S. 39:4-49.1 involving only marijuana or hashish; and
    • any disorderly person offense or petty disorderly persons offense subject to conditional discharge pursuant to N.J.S. 2C:36A-1 involving only marijuana or hashish.
    • For cases involving the above-enumerated charges as well as other offenses, the Attorney General directed prosecutors to use their discretion to either postpone the case in its entirety or seek dismissal, without prejudice, of the marijuana possession-related charge(s) and proceed with the prosecution of the remaining charges. Notably, today’s guidance does not affect the prosecution of cases charging the distribution of marijuana or possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.

“Fairness demands that we suspend prosecution of marijuana possession-related cases while we await direction from the Legislature on the parameters for the decriminalization of marijuana and legalization of regulated adult-use cannabis,” said Attorney General Grewal. “It simply does not make sense or serve justice to proceed with prosecutions on charges that may be foreclosed soon through legislative action.”

Previously, on November 4, the Attorney General issued guidance to law enforcement emphasizing that they have broad discretion in handling low-level marijuana offenses, and encouraging them to exercise that discretion in light of anticipated legislative action that may decriminalize marijuana.

Attorney General Grewal reiterated that more comprehensive guidance, including direction on handling previously adjudicated matters, will follow when the Legislature provides details of the framework for marijuana decriminalization and the legalization of adult-use cannabis.

Guidance for Marijuana Possession Cases Pending in Municipal and Superior Courts: click here.

Guidance Regarding Municipal Prosecutors’ Discretion in Prosecuting Marijuana and Other Criminal Offenses, August 29, 2018: click here.

Interim Guidance on the Constitutional Amendment Legalizing Cannabis, November 4, 2020: click here.

Morris County GOP Announces Victories Throughout County

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County GOP Announces Victories Throughout County

PARSIPPANY — With the election results in Morris County now certified, the Morris County Republican Committee (MCRC) is announcing victories throughout the county amid an unprecedented election.

Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Ali lauded the victories, “We are so proud of all of our candidates, they faced an unprecedented election year with purpose and resolve and emerged victoriously. We are thrilled they will continue to represent the residents of Morris County.”

State, County, and local Republican candidates prevailed across Morris County, with strong margins of victory for Senator Anthony Bucco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, and Freeholder Tayfun Selen. Local candidates also outperformed their Democrat opponents in spite of strong headwinds, including impressive wins in, Boonton, Chatham Township, Chester Borough, Jefferson, Mendham Borough, Montville, Morris Plains, Mountain Lakes, Pequannock, and Randolph.

“We had top-notch candidates and incumbents and the residents of Morris County overwhelmingly supported the excellent governance and quality of service these public servants continue to provide. We must thank the entire Republican County Committee who really stepped up to help bring our winners across the finish line,” said Peter J. King, Vice-Chair of the Morris County Republican Committee.

MCRC strategically utilized social media, text messaging, digital communication, and direct mail for voter contact and fundraising for candidates. With over 75,000 volunteer phone calls, 15,000 doors knock 200,000 paid text messages, coordinated a county-wide comprehensive challenger program, and designed and implemented an analytics tracking database that enabled MCRC to track returns and determine races in advance based on modeling throughout the campaign.

“Given this was a mainly vote-by-mail election, unlike New Jersey has ever seen, it was essential we met the challenge seriously and organized a strong grassroots campaign to inform voters of the process and ensure they returned their ballots. Our GOTV strategy started on Labor Day,” Chairwoman Ali said.

As of November 20, when the election results were certified, the estimated turnout in Morris County was nearing 80% with Republican and Democratic turnout appearing to be neck and neck. For more information on the Morris County Republican Committee’s future events and initiatives click here.

Update: Mayor Soriano to Announce Landmark Investments in Lake Hiawatha

Frank L. Cahill
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Update: Mayor Soriano to Announce Landmark Investments in Lake Hiawatha

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Troy-Hills Mayor Michael A. Soriano will be joined by small business owners, residents, and Township staff to announce a significant new economic investment in the Township, on Tuesday, December 1 at 10:00 a.m.

Through the hard work and dedication of the Township, Parsippany will soon see improvements for pedestrian traffic, new construction on a community resource, and the culmination of 30 years in creating a new recreation area, all to serve the residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Participants will discuss each of these new initiatives in greater detail at a press conference at the Parsippany Municipal Parking Lot on the corner of North Beverwyck Road and Minnehaha Boulevard.

The Township of Parsippany is considered the crossroads of Northern New Jersey. With a population of over 53,000 residents, Parsippany is the most populous municipality in Morris County. This economic investment will offer a tremendous and immediate impact benefitting the most densely populated area of the Township. Parsippany takes great pride in its small, local, and family-owned businesses. Investments like those being announced on Tuesday, December 1 will assist local businesses, and provide a major step in making North Beverwyck Road a downtown destination.

Editors Note:  The date has been changed to Tuesday, December 1 due to the weather forecast for Monday.

Look who is ready for adoption!!! It’s Tofu!!!!

Frank L. Cahill
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Look who is ready for adoption!!! It’s Tofu!!!!

PARSIPPANY — Two-year-old Tofu came to us with a broken back. His family had let him suffer for weeks or longer before we were finally able to convince them to relinquish him to the rescue. Tofu has been seen by a specialist, gotten his wheels, and is ready for adoption!!!

Tofu is a Shih Tzu and will need to be in his wheelchair for the rest of his life. We are looking for a special family with similar special needs dog experience to adopt him. Tofu LOVES other dogs and also really enjoys going for walks! He’s still a playful pup despite his life-changing injury.

Tofu needs to go to aqua therapy and will need to be seen by a neurologist regularly for check-ups. He is so sweet, affectionate, and funny we know he is worth the extra care!

Due to his injury, Tofu needs to be expressed 3 times a day to urinate. When he is left alone, he is put in a small area to make sure he is still comfortable but also safe. He loves treats, getting snuggles from his foster dads, and loving on his doggy foster siblings.

If you’re looking to open your home to a very special, sweet boy, apply to adopt Tofu!

If you are interested in adopting Tofu, please fill out an application by clicking here.

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Volunteers Needed For Blood Drives

Frank L. Cahill
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Volunteers Needed For Blood Drives

MORRIS COUNTY —New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers.

The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area. No medical background necessary. Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service and be able to perform tasks as needed. Must have transportation.

All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors.  For additional information call or text Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at (732) 850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To apply online as a blood drive volunteer click here.

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Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 30 years.

Contact us: news@parsippanyfocus.com

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