MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County launched its at-home, no-cost COVID-19 testing program today for Morris County residents and people who work in Morris County, as the number of new cases continues to increase in correlation with a statewide spike in the virus.
A portal through which qualified Morris County residents and workers can apply for testing materials to be sent to their homes may be found on the Morris County’s Office of Health Management COVID-19 information page by clicking here. People applying to receive the home tests will reach a landing page informing them of two available tests – one involving salvia and one nasal – and directing them to select one.
The Morris County Freeholders and the Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety outlined the testing plan in a Friday afternoon conference call with mayors.
The tests are available ONLY to Morris County residents and people who work in Morris County, and applicants will be required to provide information on where they reside. Those who work in Morris County, but do not live in the county, will be required to submit additional proof of where they are employed such as an employee identification card or the employer’s contact information.
Once that information is confirmed by Morris County staff, an email will be sent to the applicant with further instructions.
Applicants will also be asked to provide information about their private health insurance, Medicaid and Medicare coverage, but will not be billed for the tests. Anyone who is not insured must indicate so on the on-line application, but the test still will be completed at no cost.
The nasal swab test, which is restricted to individuals who are age 18 and older, is a test already available to the public through LabCorp, and it is known as their Pixel test. It currently is restricted to people with symptoms of COVID-19 infection. It will be shipped overnight to individuals, who will be asked to follow directions on how to take a sample and return-mail it in a prepaid package. An applicant must have a personal email account, and results generally are available within 48 hours of receipt by the testing company.
The saliva test, provided by Vault Health, was developed by Rutgers University. It too will be shipped to an individual’s home overnight. There is no age restriction, but the testing must be conducted under the supervision of an online Vault test supervisor via Zoom Video Conference. It requires access to a personal, family or friends online Zoom account, and the applicant must have a personal email account.
Anyone who tests positive should quarantine and will be directed to contact his or her healthcare provider. Additionally, anticipate a call from a health department official for contact tracing to determine if anyone else was exposed.
PARSIPPANY — During the weeks before the election, Parsippany Focus received many “letter to the editor” submissions. We publish all letters regardless of political views or party affiliations. We welcome all endorsement letters from all readers.
With the upcoming 2021 election in Parsippany, where it has been rumored at least four candidates seeking the Mayoral Candidacy, we have been receiving letters that are anonymous, unsigned and unverifiable.
Although the policy for “Letters to the Editor” has been published on our website for many years, I would like to reiterate those policies.
Letters to the Editor: Do you have an opinion to express? Send letters to news@parsippanyfocus.com.
To be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include the writer’s full name, street address, and daytime phone number. Letters may be condensed, although care is taken to preserve the writer’s comments (maximum 400 words). Copyright in material submitted to Parsippany Focus and accepted for publication remains with the author, but Parsippany Focus may freely reproduce it in print, electronic or other forms.
At the request of the writer, Parsippany Focus, will not print street addresses and telephone numbers unless authorized.
We are unable to acknowledge receipt of letters. All political letters in nature must be submitted by residents and/or candidates only.
All political letters must be received prior to Noon on Sunday before the election to be considered.
If the writer’s full name, address, and daytime phone number, can not be verified the letter WILL NOT be published.
PARSIPPANY — Virtual Menorah Lighting Thursday, December 10 at 7:00 p.m. Please join as we celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah with the Township’s annual menorah lighting ceremony. This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the ceremony will take place virtually through Zoom, and on social media. Please click on the link below to stream the event.
PARSIPPANY — Due to the ongoing spike in cases, we have made the difficult decision to close public access to township buildings beginning next Monday, December 7.
All Township offices and departments will continue to operate on their regular schedules, and business with members of the public will be conducted through appointment only. A full list of contact phones and emails for municipal departments can be found by clicking here.
Women in Business Chairperson Jennifer Peel delivered the diapers collected to Jersey Cares
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce “Women In Business” committee recently conducted a diaper drive.
The diapers were donated to Jersey Cares.
Women in Business Chairperson Jennifer Peel said “The COVID-19 virus has created a huge deficit between the supply and demand of many critical products. Due to lack of essential resources, such as diapers, many families are left unable to provide for their children.”
Jersey Cares has established the Diaper Drive Program to provide diapers to families who do not have access to them.
Jersey Cares, a nonprofit organization, established in 1993, recruits and engages volunteers in rewarding, effective efforts that address community-identified needs. We partner with local nonprofits to identify needs and implement volunteer projects to meet these needs. For more information on Jersey Cares, click here.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents and volunteers that provides education, information and networking opportunities to the Parsippany area. For more information call (973) 402-6400 or click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The County College of Morris Board of Trustees held its annual reorganization meeting on November 17 and elected its officers.
Thomas A. Pepe
The board also recognized with appreciation Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan for her service as trustee and offered its congratulations on her appointment as the New Jersey Commissioner of Education. Reelected for a second term as chair was Thomas A. Pepe, of Morristown. Jeffrey M. Advokat, Esq., of Denville, was reelected for another term as vice chair; Paul R. Licitra, of Flanders, was reelected as treasurer; and George Milonas was elected as secretary.
Appointed to the CCM Board of Trustees was Roger A. Jinks, Morris County Executive Superintendent. Reappointed as trustees by the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders through 2024 were Licitra, Jack Frost and Dr. Barbara Hadzima. Also continuing their service on the board are Maria Aprile, George Dredden, Lauren Inganamort and Dr. Joseph Weisberg.
For more information and full biographies, click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris is offering three options for emotional support, guidance, information, referrals, and COVID-19 resources for anyone who has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Services are free, confidential, and virtual. The program serves anyone from a school-age child to an adult, or senior citizen. Anyone impacted by COVID-19 can participate. Examples of people who may benefit from the program include:
Parents who are homeschooling their children
Children who are adjusting to homeschooling or hybrid learning
Teens or college students who are not attending school or on campus learning regularly
Senior citizens who are cut off from families due to health concerns
Essential workers who are constantly at risk due to exposure
Anyone who has lost their job, a loved one, or the opportunity to celebrate an achievement or milestone
The Holiday Discussion Group, on Zoom, Mondays from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Zoom Link: Click here
Meeting ID: 990 9308 3986
Password: 384926
Connection is Just a Click Away Discussion Group, on Zoom, every Wednesday from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Zoom Link: Click here
Meeting ID: 992 4335 6990
Password: 537656
Individual Crisis Counseling Program for people feeling anxious about COVID-19; free, confidential and virtual. Just call between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.: (973) 509-9777, ext 171, or email Gpalmer@mhaessexmorris.org.
Free emotional support helpline during COVID-19 for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. Sign language users can communicate with ACCESS of St. Joseph’s Health in Paterson. Call (973) 870-0677 VP, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.
En Espanol: Durante la pandemia de COVID-19, su salud mental es vital. Solicite apoyo emocional gratuito de personal capacitado; 7 dias por semana de 8:00 a.m. a 8 p.m. 866-202-Help (4357).
Programs are funded by Funded by FEMA/SAMHSA. Providing services to vulnerable populations is a MHAEM specialty.
A ribbon-cutting culminated an opening ceremony for the new Morris County Head Start facility
PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Freeholders and leaders of the Head Start Community Program of Morris County were joined by state Sen. Anthony Bucco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn and other local officials at the dedication of a new, expanded Parsippany Township home for Head Start’s early education and childcare services for needy families.
Freeholder Director Deborah Smith and Freeholder Tayfun Selen display art work presented to them by children at Head Start.
The new classrooms were officially launched with a ribbon cutting outside 1 Medical Drive in Morris County Central Park, which also houses the Morris County Department of Human Services and other programs. The new location will enable Head Start to double its capacity to assist children in need.
“By renovating this county space, Head Start will double their capacity to serve 90 children, including some with special needs. This is a success story made possible by the cooperative efforts of Morris County, the federal government, the State of New Jersey and the Township of Parsippany. It also is another chapter in how we all manage to come together to help the children of Head Start,” said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith.
The freeholders began the move last year with a $1.2 million bond ordinance to rehabilitate the county-owned space under a loan and leasing agreement with the federally funded Head Start program. Head Start began a slow, but steady transition into the new facility earlier this fall from space that had been provided by the county under a nominal leasing arrangement since 2005 at Morris County’s Morris View building nearby in Morris Township.
“This is truly a unique collaborative effort where the resources of County Government, the Morris School District and Head Start have combined to bring educational and family support services to those who most need them,” said Head Start President Bob Grant. “We thank the Freeholders for their concern for the economically disadvantaged and we want to single out John Bonanni, County Administrator, for his wise guidance.”
Preschool and childcare for low-income families is now available at the Head Start Community Early Childhood Center at 1 Medical Drive, and there are currently openings for income-eligible children. The facility will continue to focus on Morristown-area families and free, full-day services are being offered through a federal Head Start grant and a state preschool education collaboration with the Morris School District.
“Today’s event marks the expansion of Morris County’s effective Head Start Program,” said state Sen. Anthony M. Bucco. “The valuable space and new classrooms are already helping build an educational foundation for more children from low-income families. With the help of this program, students will develop curiosity and a passion for learning that will help make them better prepared and more proficient when they enter the school system. These impressionable youngsters will develop academic skills that will benefit them for decades to come.”
With the opening of the new classrooms, wraparound childcare and summer programming is also planned to support working parents. Head Start also will continue its main operations at its Dover facility.
“I am proud to be part of this latest effort to help Head Start Morris County – a program that helps some of our most needy children to overcome major challenges in life so they are ready to go to school with the rest of the children in our community,” said Freeholder Tayfun Selen, a board liaison to Human Services operations in Morris County.
The mission of Head Start Community Program of Morris County, founded in 1965, is to partner with families to provide comprehensive support for child development and school readiness, from prenatal through kindergarten ages, for the community’s most vulnerable children.
The organization serves 333 families, providing free programs for expectant mothers, infants, toddlers and preschoolers at sites throughout Morris County. Head Start services are responsive to each child and family’s ethnic, cultural, and linguistic heritage.
“Head Start is very grateful for our longstanding partnership with Morris County, which enables us to provide life-changing services for the area’s most vulnerable children and families,” said Head Start of Morris County Executive Director Susan O’Donnell. “This project leverages county, state and federal resources that work together to break the cycle of poverty for the neediest families in our community.”
The new location is situated in an area dubbed Morris County’s “Nonprofit Mall” because it has become a central location for many services and nonprofit organizations designed to help disadvantaged families. The ribbon-cutting ceremony opened with several of the Head Start children, who are already attending classes on site, singing songs and presenting thank-you cards and art work to Freeholders Smith and Selen.
Offering remarks at the event were Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano, Morris County Human Services Director Kasey Errico and Kelly Harte, Assistant Superintendent Morris School District.
Kellie Doucette, District Director for U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), was also at the ceremony to present Head Start leaders with a federal Congressional Certificate in honor of the new facility.
“I have had the privilege of visiting the Head Start Community Program of Morris County to see firsthand the dedication of their staff in the classroom and the impact of their programs on the children and families they serve,” said Congresswoman Sherrill in a statement she released today. “And to see this long-standing program continue to expand its reach through this innovative partnership with Morris County and additional federal grant funding is a great reminder of how our community comes together to care for each other.”
Also in attendance were Morris County Engineer Chris Vitz, Morris County Assistant Administrator Deena Leary, Pre-K Principal Deanne Guastello of the Morris School District and Former Freeholder John Murphy, who was instrumental in developing the Nonprofit Mall.
Head Start’s early childhood programs have achieved 4-star quality ratings through Grow NJ Kids, the state quality rating system for early care and education programs. Financing approved by the Board of Freeholders for the construction work is a loan to Head Start, which would reimburse the county for the project.
Information about services is available by calling Head Start at (973) 989-1430, or through the organization’s website by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — “The Morris County Clerk’s Office understands the balance it must achieve between maintaining essential functions, including its role in supporting the economic stability of the region, and designing a plan compliant with guidelines to slow the spread of the Coronavirus (“COVID 19’).” said Clerk Ann Grossi, Esq.
As the need arises, updates will continue to be posted by clicking here.
The Morris County Clerk’s Office continues to be closed to the public as follows:
REGISTRY DEPARTMENT: It is recommended that stakeholders who are impacted forward all documents to be filed and recorded either by mail or utilizing the Clerk’s automated e-filing system. To participate in e-filing, please contact one of our e-filing (electronic) vendors below:
Simplifile at 1-801-223-1052 or click here.
CSC @ 1-435-374-0139/0150/0141 or click here.
ERX @ 1-214-887-7461 or email www.erxsupport@conduent.com.
All documents will be processed upon receipt as required by law. For further information, please call the Recording Department at (973) 285-6130.
DROP-OFF BOX: A drop-off box is now available in the lobby of the Records and Administration Building, 10 Court Street, 1st Floor, Morristown.
PASSPORT DEPARTMENT: Passport Department services are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. by appointment only. At this time, they are not taking photos in the office and will be closed on Tuesday evenings. For further information or an appointment, please call the Passport Department at (973) 285-6161.
RECORDS/VAULT DEPARTMENT: The Records/Vault Department are open and is working in two shifts each day, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 3:30P p.m. by appointment only. Business users and the public may access all documents on line back to 1969 by clicking here. Anyone needing an appointment, a certified copy, or requiring assistance may do so by either email or calling the Vault. If you need assistance, please call (973) 285-6747.
ELECTION DEPARTMENT: If you need assistance, please call the Election Department at (973) 285-6066 or email us at CountyClerk@co.morris.nj.us. To find out the Election results click here.
NOTARY DEPARTMENT: The Notary Department services are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. by appointment only. New notary applications are available on line by clicking here. For additional details, appointments, or updates, please call (973) 285-6122.
WEDDING SERVICES: Wedding ceremonies performed by the County Clerk remain suspended until further notice. For additional information, please call (973) 285-6120.
ADULT ID CARDS, VETERAN ID CARDS AND GOLD STAR ID CARDS: Issuing of all ID cards are suspended until further notice.
OUTREACH, ON THE ROAD AND SPECIAL EVENT PROGRAMS:
All programs are suspended until further notice.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq. advises that “Newly elected officials, including those selected to fill a vacancy in an elective public office for the remainder of a term, are now required to file personal data on a newly established database, no later than 21 days after the individual has been certified as elected to an elective office in this State.” C.19:3-4.1
According to the Statute, officers who issue the Statement of Determination of Elected Office are responsible for transmitting the form prepared by the Secretary of State to the individual elected officials. Clerk Grossi explained that “As the County Clerk, my office is responsible for issuing certificates to all elected officials from the County level down through the municipal level. I am happy to say that the form has been transmitted to newly elected Morris County and Municipal Officials, and responses are already being received.”
The database is established in the Division of Elections in the Department of State and contains “the contact information for every elected official in this State, including gender identity or expression and race of the elected official.” However, the Statute carves out an exception for individuals elected to a position in a special district, on a board of education, or on a board of fire commissioners.
The Division shall use the information collected to establish separate databases of information on elected individuals, with at least one database sorted by gender identity or expression, and at least one sorted by race. The data will be located on the Division’s website by clicking here.
Scholarship Winners: violinist Ryan Nguyen (Ehlers Scholarship) and visual artist Emma Schaberg (Coladarci Scholarship)
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris Arts is pleased to offer two scholarship opportunities for graduating high school seniors who have exhibited artistic excellence in dance, drama, music, or visual arts and plan to pursue post-secondary studies at an accredited institution or acknowledged arts school or fine arts program. The Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship, in the amount of $5,000, and The Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship, in the amount of $1,500, were created to recognize artistic excellence, encourage the artists of the future, and to celebrate the value of the arts to the human experience.
Morris County high school seniors graduating in June 2020 who are currently attending public, private, or parochial school in New Jersey are eligible. Applicants must: (a) be Morris County residents, (b) plan to pursue post-secondary studies at an accredited institution or acknowledged arts school or fine arts program, and (c) have demonstrated artistic excellence in any one of four (4) arts disciplines: dance, drama, music, or visual arts.
The Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship was established in 2002 in memory of Elaine Ehlers (1953-2001), a health-care administrator by profession, who had a voracious appetite for all things artistic and musical. She derived intellectual and emotional sustenance from the arts and supported programs at many museums and musical institutions. By establishing this scholarship, an enduring legacy has been created to reward those who possess artistic talent and who plan to further their arts education. Former Ehlers winners include pianist Daniel Shleyenkov; pianist and flutist Joshua Min; harpist, Ashley Jackson; singer/composer/lyricist/pianist, arranger/community musical organizer Deborah Neigher; jazz guitarist Alex Wintz; singer/composer Tom Barth; visual artist Marissa Rich; pianist Yuqing (Damon) Meng; ballroom/Latin dancer Daniel Knapp; ballet-modern dancer/ choreographer Madelyn Eltringham; trumpeter Joseph Soriano; actor Rachel Moss, percussionist Neal McNulty, percussionist Reed Puleo, composer Zachary Catron, oboist Ethan Whang, pianist John Nguyen, dancer Leah Suskind and, most recently, violinist Ryan Nguyen.
The Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship was first awarded in 1999 in memory of Eugenie R. Coladarci, who was Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Chase Manhattan Bank and an active member of Morris Arts for eleven years. She was completing her first term as Board Chair when she passed away in 1997. As a statewide champion of the arts, Gene encouraged the development of young artists and believed in the value of the arts to the quality of life. The idea of a scholarship to assist talented young people wishing to continue their study in the arts was very important to her. Past winners include violinist Rebecca Racusin; visual artist Robert Douglas Fritz III; dancer Lauren Muraski; actor Ethan Saks; operatic soprano Chelsea Friedlander; visual artist Emily Trenk; visual artist Kaitlyn DeBiasse; dancer EdwardTeddy” Tedholm; soprano Alessandra Altieri; visual artist Catalina Ouyang; industrial designer Miriam Buchwald, industrial designer Daniel Hounsell, soprano Katherine Merwin, ballet dancer Tori Hey, visual artist Tyler Harker, soprano Lila K. Dunn, actress Nicole Giordano, soprano Sophia Grace Donelan and, most recently, visual artist Emma Schaberg.
Application information has been sent to all Morris County high school guidance offices and arts administrators for distribution. Applications are available through high school guidance offices as well as online at the Morris Arts website by clicking here. For more information, please email Lsiebert@morrisarts.org.
Applications must be emailed to Lsiebert@morrisarts.org – with the subject line marked “Scholarship” – no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 22. Applicants will be judged by a committee consisting of panelists representing each artistic discipline. All panelists are professionals with a high level of expertise in university arts education and/or professional experience in the arts. Selection will be based on artistic excellence as demonstrated by the quality of the work samples and on the basis of application materials submitted to the panel. Winners will be notified by the end of February 2021.
Morris Arts, located in Morristown is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1973 dedicated to building community through the arts. Using the arts to inspire, connect and engage, Morris Arts serves as a resource for Morris County with a special focus on arts programming in the community and in schools, creative placemaking, arts advocacy, and support of the Morris Area community of artists and arts organizations.
Parsippany Municipal Building located at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard
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.
Freeholders Deborah Smith of Denville and Stephen Shaw of Mountain Lakes
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.
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.
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 – 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 Municipal Building located at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard
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 — 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.”
Individual Crisis Counseling Program for people feeling anxious about COVID-19; free, confidential and virtual. Just call between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.: (973) 509-9777, ext 171, or email Gpalmer@mhaessexmorris.org.
