PARSIPPANY — “Earlier this month, the Republican-majority Township Council and I reluctantly, but unanimously, approved a plan increasing water and sewer rates by 39%. The Township auditor and budget consultant proposed – after an exhaustive fiscal analysis – that anything less than this action would leave the Township in a disastrous financial position.
I want to address the reasons for this increase, the history that led us to this point, and to separate the lies from the truth. Before I begin, let me say this: I am here to report to you the facts surrounding our Township’s finances.
Now, If you don’t trust me because of my political party, or from negative things you’ve heard about me or my administration, I really do hope that you’ll give me a chance. I never dreamt of having a political career. I left a secure, steady, and solid career to run for Mayor because I saw problems in our town that needed to be fixed. Those seeking favors from the Township often threaten me with votes. It never works.
It is my honor and privilege to serve you, and I believe true public service means looking out for the long-term interests of our community.
Now let’s start with some background. For several years, the Township has inched closer to a major shortfall in our water and sewer utilities. Until this year, water and sewer rates had not increased since 2006. Robbing Peter to pay Paul created a problem because it doesn’t allow for rising costs and flat revenue.
This crunch was inevitable given the Township’s long-standing reliance on the water and sewer funds to balance the municipal budget. Many have asked why these increases have happened in 2020, not in 2018 or 2019.
First, significantly smaller increases were proposed in 2018 and 2019. They were not approved. This compounded the growing shortfall. Second, this was the final year we could have kept the water and sewer rates stagnant without both utilities going bankrupt. A major rate increase and bankruptcy were our only options.
If I had a choice, there would’ve been no rate increase this year. But I did not have a choice. The Council did not have a choice. And if you were in my shoes, you would not have had a choice, either. Myself and the members of the Council – Democrats and Republicans – pay the same water and sewer fees that you do.
Why was this rate increase approved unanimously? Because all members of the governing body recognized the severity of Parsippany’s fiscal issues, with deep and longstanding roots in past budgeting practices. This drastic change could have been avoided years ago. In most towns, water and sewer rates increase by small amounts each year, and water and sewer funds are rarely transferred to balance the municipal budget. Regrettably, those principles weren’t followed here, and we’re paying the price today.
Unfortunately, a number of lies have emerged around this issue. I will address them directly.
PARSIPPANY — Charles J. Bedi, 81, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2020, at his home.
He was born in and raised in the Bronx. Charlie lived in Lake Hiawatha for 58 years.
Charlie was an Offset Printing Professional retiring from Graphic Packaging in Piscataway after many years.
He was a past chief and president of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Squad in Lake Hiawatha.
He was pre-deceased by his late wife: Alicia E. (Morrison) who passed away on August 28, 2001, and his late son-in-law: Michael W. Coll who passed away on December 1, 2005.
Survivors include his partner of sixteen years: Margaret Calvetto; his sons: Charles Joseph and his wife Christine; Robert M. and his wife Debbie; his daughter: Karen L. Coll; and his nine grandchildren: Brian, Alicia, Colin, Molly, Ryan, Ben, Lauren, Christopher, and Nick. Charlie is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Liturgy of Christian burial Friday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter the Apostle R.C. Church 179 Baldwin Road, Parsippany. Entombment: Private.
Visitation will be on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Par-Troy Funeral Home 95 Parsippany Road, Parsippany (973) 887-3235 or click here.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in his memory to Parsippany Rescue and Recovery P.O. Box 45 Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
Charlie was on R&R for over 40 years and served as a judge of the parade committee. He was the one who fought for the building in Lake Hiawatha. He served this town with pride. They were his second family.He was on R&R for over 40 years and served as a judge of the parade committee. He was the one who fought for the building in Lake Hiawatha. He served this town with pride. They were his second family.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council renewed the Retail Liquor License for Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas at its regular council meeting held on October 20.
In March 2019, Cinépolis USA, a leading world-class cinema exhibitor known for its enhanced movie-going concepts announced multi-million dollar renovations to enhance its existing New Jersey theater locations in Parsippany and Mansfield. Mansfield renovations have been completed.
Cinépolis closed its third New Jersey location. The Cinépolis Succasunna theater in the Roxbury Mall showed its last movie Sunday evening, January 5.
Following completion, both cinemas will offer guests an enhanced movie-going experience with fully-reclining leather seats, cutting-edge sound, high-definition projection technology, and an upscale lounge-style lobby to anchor the entry space. Additionally, both cinemas will offer in-seat food delivery when ordering hot food items from the new gourmet menu at the concession stand, or when ordered in advance through the Cinépolis USA mobile app.
Following its completion, the 38,865-square-foot project will encompass 12 film screens and 719 seats.
Parsippany location has been closed since the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cinépolis is located at 3165 Route 46, Morris Hills Shopping Center.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board approved the PARQ proposal on Monday, October 5. The vote was 5-2. Ms. Judy Hernandez and Mr. Dominic Mele voted against the project.
The plan is for an upscale mixed-use development encompassing 75 high-end townhomes, 525 luxury apartments, 16,000 square feet of experiential retail, invigorating green spaces, and state of the art facilities to be known as PARQ Parsippany.
It will also include athletic fields and recreational facilities that will be integrated into the community for public events, sports programs, and open to Township residents.
PARQ Parsippany will usher in a new era of Lanidex Plaza, a suburban office complex built in the mid-1970s to early 1980s set on 45 acres with 450,000 square feet of commercial office space.
The transformation from Lanidex Plaza to PARQ Parsippany will meet the demand of the ever-changing needs of lifestyle for the next generation while reacclimating the property back into the fiber within Parsippany’s community.
The proposal includes 525 apartments located in Buildings 1 and 2 and 75 three-bedroom Townhomes. In addition Building 1 will contain approximately 2,600 square feet of retail (orange area) and Building 2 will contain approximately 8,140 square feet of retail (orange area).
The proposed development at Lanidex Plaza. The proposal includes 525 apartments located in Building 1 and 2 and 75 three-bedroom TownhomesBuilding 1 will consist of 275 units in a six-story building with an attached six-story parking garage. The building will consist of 17 studio apartments, 134 one-bedroom apartments, 60 two-bedroom apartments, and 4 three-bedroom apartments. In addition, it will include 12 low to moderate-income one-bedroom units, 36 low income to moderate two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom low to moderate income housing.Building 2 will consist of 250 units in a six-story building with an attached six-story parking garage. The building will consist of 26 studio apartments, 144 one-bedroom apartments, and 20 two-bedroom apartments. In addition, it will include 12 low to moderate-income one-bedroom units, 36 low to moderate-income two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom low to moderate-income housing.Typical Three-Bedroom Townhome
The Owners’ have carefully considered and listened to the Township to develop a vision that will reenergize the property and seamlessly integrate it with the design and planning to transcend expectations and complement the community.
The pool area with spa and sun shelf including, lounge seating and shade structure. The adjacent area includes BBQ grills, billiards, and ping pong and bar seating; Lounge seating with a fire pit.
The transformation of the property will commence with Phase I and II with anticipated completion in 2025. The development plan was crafted to accommodate the existing tenants in the complex.
The residential component will include luxury apartments with elegant hotel-style lobby, club suite, co-working alcoves, private event rooms, state-of-the-art fitness centers, resort-style pools with BBQ and lounge areas, and townhomes which will feature contemporary farmhouse style architecture with a private clubhouse, outdoor pool, and highly amenitized indoor and outdoor spaces.
Phase I includes the development of the 75 Townhomes. It is estimated that phase will take sixteen months to complete. Phase II includes Building 1, expected to take twenty months to complete. Phase III (Building 2) will start construction approximately twelve months after the completion of Phase II and will take approximately twenty months to complete.
This complex is being developed without any (Payment in lieu of Taxes) PILOT programs.
Editors Note: This project is also part of Parsippany’s COAH obligations which is currently in review at the Courts.
Click here to view the Planning Board Meeting of Monday, October 5.
During the meeting, resident Daniela Valenzano stated her concerns about bussing and overcrowding. She stated, “We are already at $3 million in bussing. All of my children went to Eastlake, Brooklawn, and Parsippany Hills. They were overcrowded then. They are overcrowded now.” The students would tentatively attend Eastlake School, Brooklawn Middle School, and Parsippany Hills High School. The complex is less than two miles from Eastlake School and approximately 2.3 miles to Brooklawn Middle School and 2.5 miles to Parsippany Hills High School.
Attorney Joseph O’Neil stated “The law provides that the school board is only responsible to bus children two miles or beyond. However, we have committed to providing for busing. It’s a school board’s discretion. It’s completely up to the school board. That’s the offer. And that stands out.” The applicant offered to provide “subscription bussing.”
Member Dominic Mele questioned “Mr. O’Neill regarding the main entrance off the road, it’s currently a private road, is it not? What is the intention of the applicant? The applicant would have to be responsible for snow removal is not correct.” Mr.O’Neill responded, “There’s a series of laws governing that and we will comply with that.”
Valenzano then stated “Because it’s going to deplete the resources and kill the taxpayers. So we’re either going to have to build new schools because you’re grossly underestimating the number of children that are coming into this development. You’re grossly underestimating the traffic; There are no air reports. I’m not even gonna get into that. We didn’t discuss it, but these buildings are got higher over COVID. They didn’t get smaller. They got higher. You try to squeeze in into two extra two bedrooms. Thank God the board shot that down. A lot of decisions were made without taking into consideration. The taxpayers are going to bore the brunt of this. We’re all sitting here on hold, waiting for answers. We’re taxed to death in this town. Our water and sewer bill is going up 39%. You’re telling us you have enough water at the last meeting. No one got to speak on that. Not one person here believes we have enough water for all of these projects you guys are doing. We’re going to be paying through the nose. I think we deserve an answer. That’s why we’re here for the third time. Just tell us what it’s going to cost.”
Board Attorney Scott Carlson said Truthfully the ability of these kids to access the school is really outside the (Planning) board’s jurisdiction tonight. What is within the borders? Jurisdiction is accessing on and off the site. And the applicant has provided testimony to that effect, whether or not that’s sufficient or insufficient. I leave that to the board. I’m not a deciding member. You know, air quality, these are the issues. These issues were decided long ago by the township council.”
During the public comment section resident, Iva Pohner said “As soon as the redevelopment plans became public, I have studied the plans and I’m shocked by an apparent disregard for health and well-being, the current and future residents of this community. My views are based on facts and studies but also based on common sense and deeply rooted fear for my health and the health of my family. Our small development is sandwiched between routes 287, 80, and very busy Parsippany Road. The traffic volume has steadily increased in one’s quiet and healthy space is now one of the most polluted places in the metropolitan areas. We all know that the interchange between 287 and 80 is bumper to bumper parking every morning and afternoon when people go to and from work. And it is also a major truck route. I’ve monitored air pollution on daily basis in the spring using a readily available iPhone app. And the pollution was the same as the busy streets of Manhattan… I think we should be looking to improve the situation for current residents and not subject future residents to this. The proposal was presented as modern and inspired. What is modern or inspired about the location of a playground and sports fields or apartment building right next to route 287 and 80, who will send their kids to play there?”
Former Mayor James Barberio said “This project will be a traffic nightmare for our residents, particularly residents in Lake Parsippany who know all too well that so many roads cannot handle the additional traffic caused by over 600 new housing units. The associated and the height of the project. My administration was presented with very similar proposals. We studied it and determined that the impacts on our town particularly traffic impacts just were enormously bad. I rejected proposals like this when I was Mayor because I knew then what I still know now, this project will ruin the quality of life for our Lake Parsippany community. My traffic experts concluded that this extra traffic would create unsafe conditions on Parsippany Road for residents needing to get into onto Parsippany Road from Lake Parsippany. I’ve listened to the testimony, and I didn’t hear any analysis to address that point, except that onsite. You can only vote with regards to onsite traffic, but basically, the onsite traffic is going to create a hazard for the off-site traffic.” He continued to say “I know the whole thing with the affordable housing, I’ve dealt with it, but I’ve had people sit there when I was Mayor, maybe one or two on the board, tried to beat me up with the Whole Foods, but you never got an affordable housing on it. Not one ounce of affordable housing on it. The bottom line is this. It’s unsafe. This will make proximity roads unsafe. I know the board members have a very, very tough decision to make, and I know your hands are tied. I know the COAH rules and fair share housing. I know all that. And my heart goes out to you because of whatever decision you make, it’s not going to be easy. Thank you for your time.”
“I’ve been concerned about this project from the start when over 2,000 units of housing were proposed for this complex,” Mayor Michael Soriano said. “While we were able to knock the unit count down by nearly three-quarters, I remain concerned about the strain this development will put on Parsippany Road and municipal services. Unfortunately, we are in a position where the courts are partially dictating development in Parsippany.”
In the closing statement, Joseph O’Neill said Thank you, Mr. Chairman, just thought I’ll thank the board for its time over these last three nights, I’ll remind you that we are here for a fully compliant application with the requirements that were adopted as part of the affordable housing plan adopted by the council. That was subject to years of discussion, both under the Barberio Administration and the current administration as to what that plan was going to look like. And at the ultimate adoption of that plan, Lanidex was included in that plan. An ordinance and overlay ordinance was adopted, and we comply fully with the requirements of that ordinance. The issues regarding traffic, all these other issues, we’ve addressed these issues as they applied to this application. If there are other issues that need to be handled in redevelopment, we can talk about that. The site was also designated for redevelopment. We should keep it just to what this application is, which is what you see before you, and part an important part of the plan. I know that the town is still in court with the plan. We’ll be attending a hearing on Wednesday. We look forward to reporting that the board approved this project. Thank you very much.”
Before a resolution was formalized, Attorney Joe O’Neill reminded the board “This ordinance was adopted as part of the plan that was adopted by the court. Now, the township hasn’t finalized that plan because of various issues that came up Normally, if you deny an application to fully comply with an ordinance, we just get a prerogative RIT lawsuit. But we would be forced to file a contempt proceeding that the township had violated its settlement agreement with the fair share housing. That would open up the township to additional issues. So it’s two-pronged. It’s really the normal prerogative RIT case you would have if you denied something. And all you’re supposed to be doing is measuring this application against the ordinance. Then the other issue is that ordinance was adopted as part of that plan. You can’t modify the plan in the way Councilman dePierro is suggesting, not at this point. So you would be in violation of that plan. I might be able to alleviate some of the concerns by offering that my client has just instructed. We will remove building 700 from the application. We don’t have to do that. That is beyond the ordinance requirements that were adopted but to facilitate and to address some of the concerns of the board, we’re willing to offer that.”
PARSIPPANY — Provident Financial Services, Inc. the parent company of Provident Bank, announced today that the acquisition of SB One Bancorp and its subsidiary, SB One Bank, closed effective July 31, 2020.
Under the terms of the merger agreement, each outstanding share of SB One common stock will be exchanged for 1.357 shares of Provident common stock together with cash in lieu of any fractional shares. The combined organization will have approximately $12 billion in assets and will rank as the 3rd largest bank headquartered in New Jersey. The merger brings together two high-performing companies with complementary geographies and business lines.
“We welcome the customers, employees, and shareholders of SB One to the Provident team. We also welcome Edward Leppert, Robert McNerney, and Anthony Labozzetta to our Boards of Directors. I especially look forward to Tony joining our executive management team as President and Chief Operating Officer,” said Christopher Martin, Chairman, and CEO of Provident.
Piper Sandler & Co. served as financial advisor and Luse Gorman, PC provided legal counsel to Provident. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company, served as a financial advisor, and Hogan Lovells US LLP served as legal counsel to SB One.
Provident Bank is located at 401 Smith Road, Parsippany.
There are several instructional initiatives coming up that will require some schedule modifications. Please review this information carefully and contact your child’s school principal with questions.
Friday, October 30 will be a Virtual half day. The afternoon will be an Inservice Day for Staff. Teachers will be available for students during the morning for instruction, questions, check-ins, etc. Elementary special education students in self-contained classes (PreK-5) will follow their regular schedule, including afternoon classes.
Tuesday, November 3 (Election Day) will be a fully remote Virtual day for everyone. Week A students will attend in-person Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. We were hoping to continue instruction for our youngest and neediest students on this day, but the Governor’s directive about closing all public schools on Election Day is non-negotiable.
Parent-Teacher Conferences (PreK-8) will be held on Friday, November 20, and Monday, November 23, and Tuesday, November 24. (Half Days for K-8)
Friday, November 20 – Virtual half day: Teachers will be available for students during the morning for Virtual Friday instruction, questions, check-ins, etc. Elementary special education students in self-contained classes (PreK-5) will follow their regular schedule, including afternoon classes.
Monday, November 23: Week A elementary and middle schools will follow their regular early dismissal schedule; afternoon virtual instruction will not occur on these days. Elementary special education students in self-contained classes (PreK-5) will follow their regular schedule, including afternoon classes.
Tuesday, November 24: Week B elementary and middle schools will follow their regular early dismissal schedule; afternoon virtual instruction will not occur on these days. Elementary special education students in self-contained classes (PreK-5) will follow their regular schedule, including afternoon classes.
Wednesday, November 25 will be a Virtual ½ Day for ALL PreK-12 students. No students will attend in-person and principals will communicate the schedule for this day.
As our region experiences an increase in the number of positive cases, it is critical that we continue to adhere to safety guidelines and minimize exposure. We know that indoor gatherings and large events are the riskiest. If you will be attending an event:
Prioritize attending outdoor activities over indoor activities and stay within your local area as much as possible.
Bring supplies to help you and others stay healthy—for example, masks (bring extra), hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, and drinking water.
Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet or more from people who don’t live in your household. Be particularly mindful in areas where it may harder to keep this distance, such as check-in areas, parking lots, and entry/exit.
Select seating or determine where to stand based on the ability to keep 6 feet of space from people who don’t live in your household, including if you will be eating or drinking.
Arrive to the event early or at off-peak times to avoid crowding and congested areas.
Avoid using restroom facilities or concession areas at high traffic times, such as intermission and half-time.
Wear a mask when interacting with other people to minimize the risk of transmitting the virus.
Avoid self-serve food or drink options, such as buffets, salad bars, and drink stations. Use grab-and-go meal options, if available.
Use disposable food service items including utensils and dishes, if available.
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer immediately before eating food or after touching any common surfaces like hand railings, payment kiosks, door handles, and toilets.
Please continue to make smart choices that will keep your family and our school community healthy and safe.
Sincerely, Barbara Sargent, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
PARSIPPANY — Mount Tabor PTA is excited to offer its first-ever fundraising event with Psychic Medium Drew Cali. Drew will be hosting a Zoom event, “Hello from Heaven,” on Thursday, November 19 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Proceeds from the event will go toward building and grounds improvements at Mount Tabor Elementary School.
Drew will connect various audience members with loved ones who have crossed over, providing evidence of life afterlife as well as heartfelt messages of love, hope, inspiration, and healing.
Born a natural Psychic and Medium, Drew’s intention is to assist people with opening their hearts and minds to an all-inclusive universal spirituality for all to access and explore.
Group sessions are an excellent source of emotional healing, forgiveness, laughter, and communion for all. However, please note that attendance does not guarantee a reading.
The event is guaranteed to run at least 90 minutes. Two ticket options are available: $45.00 for one guest or $65.00 for two guests sharing a screen. Must be 18 or older to attend. Purchase tickets by clicking here.
Questions can be directed to mt.taborptaboard@gmail.com.
PARSIPPANY — Immunization Clinic for Dogs and Cats will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2020, at the Office of Emergency building, at the Recycling Center, 1 Pumphouse Road.
Must wear masks and maintain social distancing.
Dogs
No charge for dogs (Dogs 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.)
Dogs must be restrained on a leash and accompanied by an adult
Cats
No charge for cats (Cats 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
Cats must be restrained in carriers or similar carrying devices
Any questions please call the health department at (973) 263-7160.
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 191. The Order extends the Public Health Emergency that was declared on March 9, 2020, through Executive Order No. 103, which was previously extended on April 7, May 6, June 4, July 2, August 1, August 27, and September 25. Under the Emergency Health Powers Act, a declared public health emergency expires after 30 days unless renewed.
“Today’s new COVID-19 case count marks our highest daily figure since May,” said Governor Murphy. “As we face a steep increase in cases, it could not be more important to ensure we have access to all available resources. Keeping New Jerseyans safe is our highest priority, today and every day. We are again extending the Public Health Emergency in order to do exactly that.”
Executive Order No. 191 extends all Executive Orders issued under the Governor’s authority under the Emergency Health Powers Act. It also extends all actions taken by any Executive Branch departments and agencies in response to the Public Health Emergency presented by the COVID-19 outbreak.
For the full text of Executive Order No. 191, click here.
PARSIPPANY — Let families know Trick or Treaters are welcome at your house! The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is offering FREE lawn signs to let the community know children can stop by for some trick or treating this Halloween!
Click here to register for the Township of Parsippany’s Halloween Safety Sign.
Pick up at the Parsippany Police Athletic League, 33 Baldwin Road, or PAL can deliver it to your residence the day before Halloween.
For more information, please contact the Police Athletic League at (973) 335-0555 or email info@parsippanypal.org.
PARSIPPANY — Send a Christmas Tree to a Military Family in Need! Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouses’ will provide military families in need with a Christmas tree this holiday season.
For just $30.00, you can send a beautiful Christmas tree to a service member’s family! Please make your donation by December 1.
Trees for Troops is a 501(c)(3) organization.
On Saturday, December 5, Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouses, and volunteers from the military and other local community groups load up trailers with fresh-cut Christmas trees bound for delivery. Look for additional details as the socially-distanced event is finalized.
Make checks payable to Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouse and mail to 440 Littleton Road, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054. (You can also drop off your donation).
For more information call (973) 334-2623 or click here for more information.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal and the Division of Consumer Affairs announced that they have reached settlements with two car dealerships resolving alleged violations of the Consumer Fraud Act (“CFA”), the Used Car Lemon Law, and other regulations governing the sale and advertising of motor vehicles. Both dealerships have agreed to change their business practices, pay civil penalties, and enter binding arbitration to resolve consumer complaints.
“Buying a car is one of the biggest purchases most consumers make in their lifetimes, and buyers shouldn’t have to worry about being misled by deceptive practices,” said Attorney General Grewal. “Holding these businesses accountable shows how seriously we take consumer complaints and our duty to enforce the laws in place to ensure transparency and honesty in New Jersey’s marketplace.”
Auto Holding, Inc. Auto Holding and Auto Holding 46 (“Auto Holding”), with locations at 74 Route 46, Mountain Lakes and Hillside, agreed to a $105,000 settlement – which includes $97,345 in civil penalties – to resolve allegations that the dealership violated the CFA, and other consumer protection laws and regulations by:
misrepresenting the condition of its used motor vehicles, telling at least one customer that vehicles were serviced and/or inspected prior to sale when that was not the case;
failing to disclose prior damage and rental history when such information was known or should have been known by the dealership;
misrepresenting the prior history and use of its used motor vehicles, showing at least one customer a clean Carfax report when in fact the true report revealed prior accident and rental history;
failing to honor the advertised price, requiring consumers to present a copy of the online advertisement and obtain a manager’s signature to receive the advertised price; and
failing to pay off a third-party warranty after selling the warranty to a customer.
In a consent order with the Division, Auto Holding also agreed to enter binding arbitration to resolve 21 complaints from affected consumers and any additional consumer complaints received by the Division for a period of one year. Under the terms of the order, $30,000 in civil penalties will be suspended and automatically vacated at the expiration of one year provided Auto Holding complies with the terms of the consent order and does not engage in any acts or practices in violation of the CFA.
Bridge Dealer Services, Inc.
Bridge Auto Group and Everybody Drivez located in Hasbrouck Heights and Berlin, agreed to a $60,000 settlement – which includes $54,780.23 in civil penalties – to resolve allegations that the dealership violated the CFA as well as other consumer protection laws and regulations by:
failing to include the mandatory disclosure language in advertisements;
misrepresenting its Better Business Bureau and Yelp ratings on the company’s website;
failing to disclose prior damage to its used vehicles when such information was known or should have been known by the dealership;
charging consumers for pre-delivery services, including dealer preparation fees, without itemizing on the sales document the cost of each specific service; and
failing to provide consumers with a written warranty, as required by the Used Car Lemon Law.
In a consent order with the Division, Bridge Auto also agreed to enter binding arbitration to resolve any additional consumer complaints received by the Division for a period of one year. Under the terms of the order, $25,000 in civil penalties will be suspended and automatically vacated at the expiration of two years, provided Bridge Auto complies with the terms of the consent order and does not engage in any acts or practices in violation of the CFA.
“Consumers should be able to rely on the information and vehicle history provided by a dealership when buying a used car,” said Paul R. Rodríguez, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “These settlements are an example of our commitment to protect consumers from fraud, and to ensure businesses disclose all the information required by law, allowing consumers to make informed decisions before purchasing a vehicle.”
Investigator Kelly Fennell, of the Division of Consumer Affairs’ Office of Consumer Protection, and Deputy Attorney General Robert N. Holup, of the Consumer Fraud Prosecution Section within the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group, handled the matter for the State.
Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of consumer abuse, can file an online complaint with the Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or call 1-800-242-5846 to receive a complaint form by mail.
PARSIPPANY — A two-car accident was caused due to the lack of stop signs and unsafe speeds at the intersection of Florham Road and Flemington Road.
On Friday, October 16 at 10:13 p.m. a vehicle driven by a 17-year old Parsippany resident, Ms. Emily Tourso, was traveling north of Fordham Road; at the same time, a vehicle driven by 18-year old Michele Pantaleo was going straight West on Flemington Drive.
Ms. Tourso stated she was traveling straight through the intersection when the vehicle driven by Mr. Pantaleo, 18, came out of nowhere and struck her vehicle on the passenger side. Mr. Pantaleo stated he was going straight on Flemington Drive and Ms. Tourso came in front of him.
Officer David Roman’s conclusion was that Mr. Pantaleo crashed into Ms. Tourso’s vehicle who was at the intersection first and unsafe speed was the cause of the accident.
Ms. Tourso was driving a 2011 Audi Black AA6 and Mr. Pantaleo was driving a 2008 Blue Saturn Astra. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.
A 17-year old female passenger in Ms. Tourso’s vehicle and Mr. Pantaelo was transported to Morristown Medical Center by Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance. It was reported that Ms. Tourso also transported herself to an area hospital.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq., announces the inclusion of additional extended office hours to help voters navigate the 2020 General Election.
The Clerk’s Office will be open on Saturday, October 24, 2020, and Saturday, October 31, 2020 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon. Due to the current pandemic, all voters entering the building will be subject to a temperature check and must wear a face mask. CDC protocols also require limited access to the building in order to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
The Morris County Clerk’s Office is located in the Administration and Records Building, 10 Court Street, first floor, Morristown.
PARSIPPANY — Mr. Anthony Scinto, 70, was traveling north on Parsippany Road on Thursday, October 15 at approximately 5:15 p.m. when his vehicle veered into the southbound lanes and crashed into a utility pole located on the north side corner of Parsippany Roa and Barnsboro Road.
According to police reports, Mr. Scinto did not remember any of the incidents leading up to crashing into the utility pole. A relative transported Mr. Scinto to a local hospital for treatment.
No summons was issued. The vehicle was towed from the scene by Powdermill Towing. Numerous streets in the area were closed for hours as utility companies worked on the affected poles.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Pasquale Parisi investigated the accident.
PARSIPPANY – The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills has maintained its Aa2 Bond rating from Moody’s Investors Service, even despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and budgetary challenges affecting municipalities across the country. Maintaining the Township’s “High grade” bond rating allows Parsippany to finance key projects, with positive impacts for taxpayers.
bond rating is a letter-based credit scoring system used to judge the quality and creditworthiness of a bond. A rating agency assigns a municipal bond a credit rating to make it faster for market participants to evaluate risk. Similar to how banks and lenders assess an individual’s credit score and lending risk, the bond rating makes investment decisions easier for investors.
“Parsippany’s financial outlook is finally on an upward trajectory,” said Mayor Michael Soriano. “The Township’s stability through 2020 demonstrates that Parsippany’s finances are finally being adequately managed. Due to the hard work and long-term decision-making of our finance team, administration, and bipartisan Council, Parsippany is weathering the storm effectively now, and building towards a stable, sustainable future.” Moody’s assigned Parsippany’s Aa2 rating to the Series 2020 General Obligation Bonds, maintaining its Aa2 rating on the Township’s outstanding General Obligation debt.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused devastation throughout the economy in every community, and government finances have not been spared, however, investors believe that Parsippany’s bonds are a safe and secure investment going forward.
For more information on Moody’s and their ratings methodology click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Some drivers would find reprieve from the hours-long line at the Motor Vehicle Commission under a bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Aura Dunn and passed by the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee today.
The bill (A4632) requires the MVC to make the written portion of the driver’s license exam available online during the Covid-19 public health emergency.
“I refuse to wait idly while the administration continues to steer us in the wrong direction. My measure provides a practical solution to a big problem at the MVC,” said Dunn (R-Morris). “The administration has let drivers wait in the heat for hours during the middle of a pandemic when we live in a digital age and a vast majority of us are learning and working from home.”
After a nearly four-month coronavirus shutdown, the MVC reopened in July to frustrated drivers who stood for multiple hours waiting to get into an agency. The backlog has not improved as people continue to snake around buildings during what many health experts are calling New Jersey’s second wave of Covid-19 outbreaks.
“We can and should move certain services online to protect people’s health and save time during the pandemic,” said Dunn.
Those taking driver’s license exams online would need to certify that they did not use any reference materials or receive assistance from another individual. Drivers under 18 would be required to have a parent or guardian present.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Department of Human Services urged residents, particularly those receiving benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or other public assistance programs, to be wary of phone solicitations in which fraudsters may attempt to elicit confidential information, including bank account numbers.
The alert is based on an incident reported in Hudson County in which individuals receiving SNAP benefits received a solicitation by phone from a person claiming to represent a consulting company and, during the call, requested bank account information. Hudson County authorities issued an alert earlier this week warning residents, especially SNAP clients or applicants, to beware of any solicitations for benefits made by any person, company, or agency other than its Division of Family Services.
Morris County Human Services authorities issued the same warning, noting such scams are designed to take advantage of vulnerable residents, particularly those in need of public services and benefits for their families, and who are willing to cooperate as fully as possible to obtain the benefits. While clients of such services may not have significant financial assets, private information such as bank account numbers, social security numbers, and other confidential information may be used to create fake identities and be used to further other fraudulent activities.
If you are contacted by a scammer, please notify your local police department or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Financial Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200.
Morris County residents also have been warned of additional scams prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic, including:
Contact tracing. Criminal scammers pretend to be contact tracers. The scammers send messages to potential victims saying they have been exposed to someone with COVID-19/coronavirus and need to click a link to learn more. When that link is clicked, malicious software is downloaded onto a person’s smartphone or other devices, giving hackers access to their target’s private information. Legitimate contact tracers only send text messages to let a person know that they will be calling. These messages DO NOT include a link. Messages that include a link to click should be viewed as illegitimate and deleted immediately.
Bail bond. A scammer will call a potential victim and say her or his grandchild has been arrested and ask for money for the child’s release. This type of scam is particularly dangerous because the criminal will attempt to collect the money in person, directly from the victim.
IRS scams. A scammer will call a potential victim and say he or she owes the government money and faces arrest if they do not pay.
Stimulus checks. Scammers are calling and/or emailing individuals claiming to be from the U.S. Treasury Department, and offering expedited payments or assistance with obtaining an Economic Impact Payment.
More information on these scams is available by clicking here.
He was pre-deceased by his late wife: Alicia E. (Morrison) who passed away on August 28, 2001, and his late son-in-law: Michael W. Coll who passed away on December 1, 2005.
On Friday, October 16 at 10:13 p.m. a vehicle driven by a 17-year old Parsippany resident, Ms. Emily Tourso, was traveling north of Fordham Road; at the same time, a vehicle driven by 18-year old Michele Pantaleo was going straight West on Flemington Drive.
