PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, January 21, individuals and community groups across New Jersey are gathering to build support for a Green Amendment in the Garden State by writing postcards to State Legislators.
Thhe “Green Amendment Postcard Party” will take place at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library 449 Halsey Road on Tuesday, January 21 starting at 7:00 p.m.
Residents of Parsippany and surrounding communities, come out and learn about the Green Amendment, meet neighbors who are also engaged in the movement, and write to your legislators. We will provide you with stamped postcards, sample language, refreshments and help you identify appropriate legislators. NJ Highlands Coalition’s Elliott Ruga will provide an introduction, discuss in detail why we need a Green Amendment, give an update on the Green Amendment bills.
currently in the State Legislature, and answer your questions. Add your voice to an expanding grassroots movement! Your postcards will help increase the growing bi-partisan roster of 30 Assembly and 11 Senate sponsors of the Bills. If you value the right to clean water, fresh air, a stable climate and healthy environments, stop by our Postcard Party at the Parsippany Public Library.
What is a Green Amendment? The Green Amendment amends the Bill of Rights section of New Jersey’s Constitution, recognizing the right to clean water, clean air, a stable climate and a healthy environment as inalienable rights of individuals. Only two states, Montana and Pennsylvania, have constitutional Green Amendments. We need a Green Amendment in the New Jersey Constitution because despite having the most comprehensive environmental regulations in the nation, we cannot outright prohibit the pollution of our air, the degradation of our water supply, and the continued destruction of public trust natural resources, unless we have the rights to clean air, clean water and to live in a healthy environment enumerated in the Constitution.
The NJ Highlands Coalition is a lead member of the movement in New Jersey. Our objective is to accelerate support for the passage of a Green Amendment in New Jersey, so that individuals are protected, and communities and critical natural resources are sustained for future generations. For more information click here.
PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders appointed Parsippany resident Casey (Kaushik) Parikh to the Morris County Planning Board.
The Duties and Powers of County Planning Boards are:
Adopt a master plan showing the county planning board’s recommendations for the development of the county.
Advise the Board of Chosen Freeholders in adopting and establishing an official county map, showing the highways, roadways, parks, parkways, and sites for public buildings or works, under county jurisdiction, or in the acquisition, financing or construction of which the county has participated or may be called upon to participate.
Review of all subdivisions of land within the county and for the approval of those subdivisions affecting county road or drainage facilities.
Review of site plans for land development along county roads or affecting county drainage facilities and for the approval of such development.
Casey was recently appointed to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment by the Township Council on Tuesday, November 12.
Casey has over thirty years of experience in the field of computers communication and management; Demonstrated abilities in Public Relations, Community Service and Negotiations and he is founding member of Parsippany Indian Association.
He received his Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Florida Institute Of Tech., Melbourne, FL; Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) – Florida Institute of Tech., Melbourne, FL and Bachelor of Engineering (BSEE) – University of Bombay, Bombay, India.
Casey was employed at ADT / Tyco Security Services from June 1982 to July 2013. At Tyco he was responsible for design and development of computer communication software, training users, supporting field offices, interviewing prospective employees and management of technical staff.Responsible for interacting with the vendors. Responsibilities also included evaluating and recommending hardware and software for making buying decisions.
He is a member of the Morris County Open Space Committee; Current Treasurer at Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany; Past president of Forge Pond Homeowners Association.
Casey also was the Chairman of Parsippany Troy-Hills Planning Board from 1993 to 2017. He volunteers as an interpreter for the Parsippany Police Department.
Casey is married and the proud parent of two children. He has been a resident of Parsippany-Troy Hills for over thirty years.
Other members of the board include Douglas R. Cabana, Freeholder; Christine Myers, Freeholder; Deborah Smith, Freeholder Alternate; Christopher Vitz, P.E., County Engineer; Roslyn Khurdan, P.E., Assistant County Engineer, Alternate; Ted Eppel; Isobel Olcott; Annabel Pierce; Steve Rattner; Everton Scott; Stephen Jones, Nita Galate, Alternate #1 and Christian Francioli, Alternate #2.
All Planning Board meetings are held at 30 Schuyler Place, Morristown, 2nd Floor, Schuyler Conference room at 7:00 p.m. The next meeting will be held on February 20, 2020.
Greg Elbin, Mo Abdelhadi, Silvia Cooper, Nicolas Limanov and Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany awarded three members and one local businessman with prestigious awards on Thursday, January 15, at the Hanover Manor.
In 1983, the Kiwanis Children’s Fund established the George F. Hixson Fellowship, named for Kiwanis International’s first president.
Hixon’s are given to Kiwanians who have contributed to the betterment of the club. The club is eligible to award a Hixson for each donation of $1100 to Kiwanis International Foundation.
Members of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany who received “George F. Hixson Fellowship” award in the past
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany was chartered on December 5, 1991, and has awarded 43 members with the Hixon honor.
Club President Frank Cahill said “we are awarding two outstanding individuals with a Hixon, who not only gives back to our community in a meaningful way and ensures that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, successful lives. We believe in changing the world one child and one community at a time. I have the pleasure of honoring Parsippany IHOP co-owner Mo Abdelhadi and Kiwanis member, Silvia Cooper.”
Club member Nicolas Limanov presented Mo Abdelhadi with the “George F. Hixson Fellowship” Award, as Club President Frank Cahill looks on
Silvia is a member who consistently works on projects and programs, including cooking for Homeless Solutions, Mission Partners, Wine Tasting, Touch-A-Truck and others. She is a member in good standing for at least two years, joining our club on November 9, 2017. She has attended at least 60% of the meetings. She has worked on a District project that has brought recognition to our club. She also attends many of our board meetings and adds valuable suggestions to every committee.
Mo, although he is not a member, he contributes to our club in many ways. During Touch-A-Truck he feeds all the volunteers; he has cooked and donated his time preparing food for our wine sips, makes many donations and supports projects of our club, is a mission partner. Mo, never says no. His generous contributions to our community are well appreciated.
The Kiwanian of the Year award is presented to a member of our club who distinguishes themselves by exceptionally commendable participation in our club activities throughout the past year. Although our club is built on participation by all our members, some members stand above the crowd as a result of their exceptional contributions to our club.
Members of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany who received Kiwanian of the Year in the past
Since the inception of the club, they have honored 29 members as “Kiwanian of the Year.”
Cahill said “As the most recent recipient of the Kiwanian of the Year for 2018, I have the distinct pleasure of presenting our clubs most prestigious honor to two people who have gone far above and beyond anyone’s expectations and have, in the opinion of the nominating committee, met or exceeded the criteria for the honor of being named Kiwanian of the Year.”
Both of the recipients hold offices in our Club. Both have attended several District conventions. Both attend meeting regularly. Both are dependable and always involved in whatever the club is doing. Both have chaired major fundraisers for our club.
The first Kiwanian of the Year was President of our Club in 2016. He is known for his witty remarks and challenging questions that have delighted our brains for the past seven years as chairperson and emcee of our Trivia Night. This year, after working with Ron Orthwein, he took over the Sponsored Youth and is heavily involved with our Key Clubs, Builders Clubs and K-Kids throughout Parsippany. I’m sure this person would continue on in our Club for many years as a leader, but a little girl in Michigan has stolen his heart.
“I am proud to present Greg Elbin the Kiwanian of the Year Award for 2019,” said Cahill.
The second Kiwanian of the Year has made his mark in the club as chair of Touch a Truck. He too has taken on new responsibilities including this year as President of the Tri-Town Kiwanis Club serving Mountain Lakes, Boonton Township and Boonton.
Touch A Truck received recognition by New Jersey District Kiwanis in 2018 as the top Signature Project in New Jersey and was submitted to Kiwanis International. During the 2019 District Convention, Touch-A-Truck was again voted as the best signature project, based on the size of our club, by fellow Kiwanians throughout New Jersey.
He also co-chairs, Young Children Priority One, along with Dr. Judy Debrossy.
He has become quite the food coordinator for our Wine Sips and any function that needs food. He consistently is involved and supports our club.
“I am proud to present Nicolas Limanov with the Kiwanian of the Year Award for 2019,” said Cahill.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany supports ten K-Kids clubs: Lake Parsippany Elementary School, Eastlake Elementary School, Intervale School, Mt. Tabor Elementary School, Littleton Elementary School, Lake Hiawatha Elementary School, Troy Hills Elementary School, Northvail Elementary School, Knollwood School and Rockaway Meadow Elementary School; two Builders Clubs” Central Middle School and Brooklawn Middle School; two Key Clubs, Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School; Circle K Club at Seton Hall University and one Aktion Club.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is the largest Kiwanis club in the State of New Jersey. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46. For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany click here.
PARSIPPANY — Registration is now open for children age four and up who attend or will be attending Rockaway Meadow, Troy Hills, Lake Hiawatha, Knollwood, Northvail, Central, Parsippany High, and All Saints Academy.
It’s time for the 2020 season: All T-Ball and new to league children will get free registration. ($75.00 Volunteer Fee and $30.00 Fundraising Fee Required).
Registration will continue through February 28, 2020. After that time, your child will be placed on waitlist and placement on a team will not be guaranteed. A late fee of $25.00 will automatically apply to any registrations received after February 28, 2020.
You can register using one of the following two ways:
Online Registration – For all new and returning players you must register online. You do not have to fill out a registration form. If you have a new player in your family you can add your child/children when registering online. Just mail in a copy of their birth certificate with payment. Click here; You must first create an account to begin the registration process. Once you create your account click register, Fill out Parent/Guardian info first and then fill in your child’s information
In Person Registration – A date will be determined for an In-Person registration for new and returning players. Please check the website for dates. Please bring a copy of your child’s birth certificate if your child is new to the league. Ages need to be verified by Birth Certificate.
Information regarding Little League Baseball
Spring season runs from April till the end of June. Most games are held at the PTLLE complex, located in the back of Northvail School. T-Ball & Farm will play one night during week and one game on Saturday. Weekday games start at 6:00 p.m., and time varies for Saturday. Other divisions will play approx. two nights and one Saturday game. Some divisions play inter-league which will require travel to other local towns. Parents / Guardians are expected to stay at all practices and games. Managers and Coaches cannot be responsible for your child. PTE is run entirely by volunteers. Parental support is needed to maintain a safe and happy environment for your children. Volunteers who have direct contact with the children (coaches, managers, etc), must attend and pass a certified safety course (RUTGERS). A background check will be run on all these volunteers as mandated by Little League. To receive volunteer fee back, you must complete your task, fill out a refund form and submit to the concession stand by August 1. No refunds will be given after that date. Any withdrawals after April 1, 2020 are subject to a $50.00 penalty. There will be an annual Mandatory Fundraiser fee of $30.00 per family that will be collected during registration. There is also a $75.00 Volunteer fee required for each family which is very easily earned back through volunteering for any one of the many opportunities (I.E. Concession Stand, Coaching…).
Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, located at 449 Halsey Road
PARSIPPANY — Mayor Michael Soriano announced the appointment of Sushmita Sharma to the Parsippany Library Board. Sushmita is an active member of the Parsippany community, with volunteer experience for several Parsippany-based organizations. She has run a small apparel business and worked as a teacher. She resides in Glenmont Commons with her husband, Anil, and two daughters.
“I’m looking forward to Sushmita’s service on our Library Board of Trustees,” Mayor Soriano said. “I think it’s vitally important that our Library Board have trustees with children in our schools. Sushmita will provide that important perspective in our mission to continually build on our library system’s fantastic services.”
Sushmita’s daughter, Riya Dadheech, is a Parsippany middle school student who started a successful nonprofit charity right here in Parsippany. Riya organized an Art Exhibit & Silent Auction event to support “Purple Paint – Girl’s Dignity & Empowerment” and at this event she raised over $7,000 towards the much-needed construction of toilets in schools in rural areas in India. This will help young girls continue their education.
“I’m proud to be able to serve this community that’s given so much to my family,” Ms. Sharma said. “The Parsippany Library System provides critical services to all residents of our township, from students to seniors, and I can’t wait to get to work on the issues we face.”
PARSIPPANY — CBRE recently arranged a 31,442-square-foot office lease at 10 Lanidex Plaza West for Solix Inc.
The Parsippany-based firm will occupy a part of the second and entire third floors of the 75,049 square-foot office building owned by Lincoln Property Co.
CBRE’s Thomas Mallaney and Denise Kokulak negotiated the 12-year lease on behalf of Solix Inc. In addition to lease negotiations, CBRE was also tapped as project manager for the build-out of Solix’s new office space.
Tru Kids Inc. leased approximately 26,000 square feet at 5 Wood Hollow Road
PARSIPPANY — New York City-based PAG Investments said Wednesday it appointed CBRE as the exclusive leasing agent for 5 Wood Hollow Road.
PAG acquired the three-story, Class A office campus from Mack-Cali Realty Corp. The new ownership plans update and renovate the interior and exterior of the building and transform it into a premier office destination in the submarket.
Gershon Alexander, principal of PAG said, “We are excited about the opportunity to revitalize 5 Wood Hollow and solidify its position as the premier office building in the market.”
PAG plans to renovate and upgrade the common elements of the building, such as a brand-new cafeteria and a state-of-the-art conference room for all tenants to enjoy. They also plan to create an outdoor gathering place. The building is situated on a 23-acre site strategically located at the crossroads of Interstates 287 and 80, with easy highway access.
Dan Casey will lead the CBRE leasing team and oversee the leasing campaign at the property on behalf of PAG Investments.
“CBRE is thrilled to have the opportunity to work with PAG Investments and assist them in the lease-up of this high-profile asset,” said Casey, first vice president, CBRE.
“Currently, the entire third floor consisting of approximately 118,000-square foot available for lease, which represents the largest contiguous block of furnished office space on one floor in the entire Parsippany submarket.”
Tru Kids, Inc., has opened their corporate headquarters at 5 Wood Hollow Road. Tru Kids Inc. leased approximately 26,000 square feet. Toys”R”Us officially emerged as a new company, with new leadership and a new vision to deliver the magic of its iconic brands around the world.
PARSIPPANY — BRE arranged the sale of a two-building office park located at 99 & 119 Cherry Hill Road for an undisclosed sum to “The Birch Group” on Nanuet, New York.
Jeffrey Dunne, Jeremy Neuer, Steve Bardsley, David Gavin, Gene Pride, Travis Langer and Zach McHale of CBRE Institutional Properties represented the seller and also procured the buyer, Mark Meisner of The Birch Group.
The Cherry Hill Road complex totals 191,249 square feet at the crossroads of Interstates 80 and 287, as well as Routes 46 and 202. The robust highway infrastructure has helped the buildings maintain strong levels of occupancy averaging 88% over the past ten years.
“The park’s historical leasing and location drove the interest and ultimately the buyer to execute,” said Dunne. “We are confident The Birch Group will build upon this momentum, given their recent leasing success at 350-360 Mount Kemble in Morristown, an asset we sold them in 2018.”
PARSIPPANY — During the Reorganization Meeting of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education, Andrew Choffo, Alison Cogan and Kendra Von Achen took the Oath of Office for a three year term as a member of the Board of Education. The Oath of Office was administered by Mrs. Katherine Gilfillan, Esq.
During the November General Election, Alison Cogan received 5,232 votes; Kendra Von Achen received 4,573 and Andrew Choffo received 4,552 votes, to fill the three available seats. Andrew Choffo and Alison Cogan term was up on December 31, 2019. Mr. Joseph Cistaro’s term was also up on December 31, but he chose not to seek reelection.
Mr. Robert Quinn also was seeking a seat on the Board, but came in fourth place, receiving 4,132 votes.
Also at the reorganization meeting, Mr. Frank NEglia was elected to serve as President and Ms. Alison Cogan as Vice President.
MORRIS COUNTY — Dr. Ahmed, a board certified Internal Medicine physician, served most recently as the Chief of Hospitalist Medicine and Post Acute Care for Summit Medical Group in Berkeley Heights. In her role at CareOne, she will be leading and developing clinical systems, infrastructure and protocols to support CareOne’s entire network of services, which include sub acute care, long term care, assisted living, LTACH, home care, hospice, pharmacy services and specialized memory care. Additionally, Dr. Ahmed will oversee the development of CareOne’s physician enterprise and C.I.N. (Clinical Integrated Network).
Lizzy Straus, CareOne’s Executive Vice President stated “we are thrilled Dr. Ahmed will be joining CareOne to assist our organization in elevating the care we provide to our patients throughout the many care settings and centers that we operate.” She continued “Dr. Ahmed is without a doubt the most experienced and outcome oriented physician practicing in the senior care field in New Jersey. CareOne will be able to launch several new initiatives that we have planned with even more confidence and success having Dr. Ahmed’s leadership and experience.”
A family owned and operated healthcare organization with more than 45 years of service; that include post-hospital care, rehabilitation, assisted living, memory care, long-term care and a variety of clinical specialty programs. CareOne offers compassionate care in gracious, professionally managed centers and communities and serves thousands of patients every day. CareOne’s outstanding programs and services are conveniently located across more than 55 centers throughout New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Maryland. Interested parties can engage with CareOne on social media by following @CareOneMgt on Twitter, @careonemgt on Instagram, and @CareOneManagement on Facebook.
WEST CALDWELL — Building on her strong fundraising and grassroots support, Representative Mikie Sherrill announced today that her campaign raised more than $750,000 in the last quarter of 2019 and enters 2020 with a war chest of $2.2 million. With her three-quarters of a million dollar raise in Q4, Representative Sherrill outpaced her fundraising from last cycle, and blew past the record $1.6 million cash on hand she set in the first quarter of 2018.
The enthusiasm that propelled Representative Sherrill to a 15-point victory in 2018 continued into the final months of 2019, with more than 93 percent of donations in the fourth quarter coming from grassroots supporters.
“Our community recognizes the importance of representation in Congress that is accountable, transparent, and effective,” said Representative Sherrill. “During my first year in Congress, I worked hard to fight for New Jersey families, and I will continue to find ways to reach across the aisle to lower our tax burden, strengthen our healthcare system, and improve our transportation infrastructure.”
Representative Sherrill delivered on key campaign promises in her first year in Congress, including votes in the House to end the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, to lower the cost of prescription drugs, to protect the mission of Picatinny Arsenal, and to pass universal background check legislation for gun safety.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board will meet on Monday, January 27 at 7:30 p.m. to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan.
Formal action may be taken by the Planning Board to Adopt the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan in order to implement the provisions of the affordable housing settlement reached in the matter captioned as: In The Matter of Township of Parsippany Troy Hills For A Determination Mount Laurel Compliance, Dkt. No. Civil Part MRS-L-001699-15.
This document will be on file in the Planning Board Office on or before Friday January 17, 2020.
Public participation at this meeting is welcomed. If you have further questions, call Nora Jolie at (973) 263-4286.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Church of the Redeemer in Morristown will host its 10th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. worship exchange with Bethel A.M.E. Church of Morristown on Sunday, January 19 at 10:30 a.m. On February 2, Bethel Church will host the Church of the Redeemer at their 11:00 a.m. service for Founder’s Day/ Absalom Jones Day. All are welcome at both services.
“At a time when white supremacy, anti-Semitism and racially motivated hatred is on the rise it’s even more important that we join together,” said the Rev. Cynthia Black, Rector of the Church of the Redeemer. “Our congregations have a relationship that has evolved over a decade and across differences—we believe that worshipping together is an important act of solidarity in divisive times.”
The first service between the two congregations took place when the Rev. Lisa Green was the Interim Rector and has evolved to include Lenten programs, picnics, river cleanups and the annual Juneteenth celebration. “Rev. Black and I came to Morristown at about the same time and were glad for the opportunity to combine time and talents. We have fun while challenging each other and deepening our faith and working on behalf of the least and lost and last in Morristown,” said Rev. Dr. Sidney Williams, Pastor of Bethel Church of Morristown.
At the Church of the Redeemer the Martin Luther King, Jr., weekend holiday begins the Season of Reconciliation, a time when the church intentionally exams its complicity in racism and racist structures. Depending on when the Founder’s Day/Absalom Jones service takes place, the season concludes with that celebration. For the A.M.E. tradition, Founder’s Day celebrates Richard Allen, one of two founders of the Free African Society in Philadelphia in 1787 who later went on to found the African Methodist Episcopal denomination. For Episcopalians, the holiday roughly coincides with the Feast of Absalom Jones, Richard Allen’s companion in the establishment of the Free African Society. Jones would go on to become the first African American ordained to the priesthood in the Episcopal Church, in 1802.
The Church of the Redeemer, located at 36 South Street, Morristown, is a Christian liberation community in the Episcopal tradition, serving the people of Morristown and beyond for more than 165 years. Sunday services are at 8:00 and 10:30 am (8:00 and 9:30 am from Father’s Day through Labor Day). As part of its practice of radical hospitality, the church provides space to Nourish.NJ (formerly known as the Community Soup Kitchen of Morristown), Freedom House—an addiction and recovery program, a number of 12 step groups, and the Empty Bowl Zendo. It founded the Eric Johnson House, a transitional housing program for those living with HIV/AIDS, that operated for 25 years from the former rectory. Click here for more information.
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio was honored as a 2020 Advocacy Champion by the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking (NJCAHT).
Formed in 2011, the NJCAHT is a non-profit comprised of 180 unique groups, including faith-based organizations, government agencies, academics, and law enforcement, who stand united against human trafficking.
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“Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and it’s happening today, right here in New Jersey,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “By staying alert and informed of red flags, we can help those who are trapped and prevent innocent people from falling victim to this heinous crime. Working together on a bipartisan basis, the New Jersey Legislature can help end this exploitation and provide survivors the support they need.”
In the prior legislative session, Pennacchio co-sponsored three legislative initiatives to combat human trafficking. His bill to require the NJ Department of Education to create guidelines for schools to raise students awareness of child trafficking and how to prevent child trafficking was signed into law by the Governor.
A-1428 (Now Law): This bill requires the Department of Education, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of Children and Families, to develop and distribute to school districts guidelines concerning child trafficking.
• S-540: Known as the “Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Prevention Act,” this anti-exploitation bill would make it a crime to manufacture or sell a product that makes content accessible on the Internet unless the product contains digital blocking capabilities that renders obscene materials inaccessible.
• S-3678: This bill would create a process for a human trafficking victim that would expunge all arrests and charges for crimes committed while that person was a victim of human trafficking.
PARSIPPANY — Wednesday Night, January 15, the Parsippany Zoning Board heard testimony regarding the controversial St. Christopher’s development proposal. That meeting was exactly what democracy looks like: hundreds of residents, making your voices heard on an issue important to our community.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano
The Zoning Board is an independent body in township government, similar to a court. All of its members are appointed exclusively by the Township Council, with no input from the Mayor, and once appointed, function independently, without accountability to the executive or legislative branches. It hears land use matters that, like the St. Christopher’s development, involve a change in zoning for a piece of property, such as a change from open space to residential development. Unfortunately, all of this is done, by design of the law, without input from elected officials.
In essence, our current system allows elected officials virtually no say over development projects that involve a zone change.
That is why I’m supporting an ordinance to change the way zoning decisions are made here in Parsippany. The Development Accountability Ordinance will allow any resident to appeal major Zoning Board decisions to the Township Council, creating a system of checks and balances over substantial zoning variances in our community. I am urging the Council to consider and pass this ordinance as soon as possible.
Residents of our community deserve the opportunity for your elected officials to hear your concerns, and be held directly accountable for the way land use is done in this township. I have not been shy in criticizing the sheer volume of zoning variances the Zoning Board grants, thereby encouraging overdevelopment in Parsippany. No longer can this Council shift the blame for development decisions to the Zoning Board, only to reappoint the same members year after year. This ordinance will put the final say squarely in the hands of the people we elect, where the responsibility should ultimately rest.
Morris County Crime Scene Investigation on Old Bloomfield Avenue
PARSIPPANY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Investigations Chris Kimker, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Andrew Miller announce the arrests of Rogelio Laureano-Gonzalez, 25, last known address Parsippany, and Cirilo Rojas-Paulino, 25, last known address Parsippany.
On September 9, 2019, law enforcement received information regarding a deceased male inside a home in the area of Old Bloomfield Road. The manner of death was determined to be Homicide. The deceased male has been identified as Jaime Lopez-Basilio.
Two residents of the home, Rogelio Laureano-Gonzalez and Cirilo Rojas-Paulino, could not be immediately located during the death investigation. Subsequent investigation by law enforcement led to the apprehension of both individuals in California. It is alleged that Laureano-Gonzalez struck Lopez-Basilio in the head causing Lopez-Basilio’s death. It is further alleged that Laureano-Gonzalez and Rojas-Paulino fled New Jersey following the death to avoid investigation, apprehension, or prosecution related to Lopez-Basilio’s death.
Laureano-Gonzalez has been charged by warrant-complaint with second degree Manslaughter, as well as second and third degree charges of Hindering Own Apprehension or Prosecution in connection to the incident. He remains detained in custody pursuant to the New Jersey Criminal Justice Reform Act.
Rojas-Paulino has been charged separately by way of indictment with third degree Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution of Another and fourth degree Obstructing Administration of Law in connection with the incident. He remains detained in custody pursuant to the New Jersey Criminal Justice Reform Act.
Prosecutor Knapp would like to acknowledge the efforts of the Oxnard (California) Police Department, the Kern County (California) Sheriff’s Office, the United States Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office – Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit.
If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200, or the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department at (973) 263-4300.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police investigating a death on Old Bloomfield Avenue
Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — Residents came out in droves to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment on Wednesday, January 15 to show their opposition of the proposed “Senior Living Facility” on a parcel to be subdivided from the property currently owned by St. Christopher’s Church. Due to overcrowding at Parsippany Town Hall, the meeting will be rescheduled at a larger location.
The property known is as 1050 Littleton Road, Block 166, Lot 96. The application is comprised of 156 dwelling units with a mix of assisted/memory care and independent living units. Amenities include a central social court, fitness center, café, open workspace, outdoor recreation areas, hardscape and softscape landscaping, and a promenade walking area.
Chairman Robert Iracane said “We have a overflow crowd and being fair to everyone, we need a venue that will handle a bigger crowd. So I just want to get some preliminary stuff done tonight and then based on some of the conversations I’ve had with (Zoning Board Attorney) Mr. King, we’re going to get some housekeeping done. And then for all intents and purposes, we’re going to carry this case.”
Board Attorney Peter King stated “There’s one issue that was raised by the council for the residents. The notice doesn’t appear to indicate that there’s a proposed restaurant, a bar, at this site. There’s a case on point where the same thing occurred. It was a restaurant not on the notice and the Appellate Court said that was fatal in notice. I don’t want to see that happen. I don’t want to go through multiple days of testimony.”
“The case that was cited talked about a restaurant with a liquor license that was not indicated in the notice. This is not a restaurant with a liquor license. This is a facility which in my notice indicates that there is a facility for providing, or an eating venue,” said Jerome A. Vogel from the Law Firm of Jeffer, Hopkinson & Vogel, representing the applicant GTP Acquisitions, LLC.
“At this point in time there’s some substantive discussion regarding this. I think that’s even improper. The hearing should not be open for any type of substantive discussion at this point in time. Not only is the, meeting room filled to over capacity, so is the building, the fire marshal’s indicated that. Any discussion of any substantive nature as to this hearing would be a violation of the open public meetings act. So for that reason, while I do appreciate the need to try and clean up and advise the applicant of concerns regarding notice and I, and counsel for the board, I do appreciate the opinion that was given as well. I think that any type of substantive discussion regarding either the notice, any type of procedure or the substance itself as far as testimony is improper. The open public meetings act, given the crowd that we have here today. And I’d ask that this hearing be adjourned to a different venue at a different time,” said James T. Bryce, of Law Firm of Murphy McEwen appearing on behalf of The Friends of Green Space.
Chairman Iracane said “We’re going to do the best we can to find the place that will accommodate everyone. We’re carrying this case and everyone within 200 feet of the application, will get a formal notice. Anybody else who lives beyond the 200 feet, I would recommend that you read Parsippany Focus because they seem to be the only game in town when it comes to news. And hopefully Nora will make sure that it gets into the Parsippany Focus so that you read the notice online.”
The project proposed by GTP Acquisitions, LLC, for a “Senior Living Facility” on a parcel to be subdivided from the property currently occupied by St. Christopher’s Church. The project “Thrive at Parsippany” will include a total of 156 units (proposed and future). The project will also include 270 parking spots. 4 spots for Handicapped spaces; 205 spots 9′ x 18′ spaces; 19 spots 8′ x 20′ spaces; 21 garages and 21 driveway spaces.
Proposed Senior Independent / Assisted Living Facility
Assisted / Independent Living
-One Story, Two Bedroom Cottages = 29 Units
-One Story, Two Bedroom Cottages with Garages = 21 Units
Assisted / Independent Living
-One Bedroom Apartments = 38 Units
-Two Bedroom Apartments = 12 Units
Memory Care
-One Bedroom Apartments = 28 Units
– One Bedroom Apartments = 28 Units (Future Use)
Parcel will be subdivided from the property currently occupied by St. Christopher’s ChurchThe future phase will include 28 – One Bedroom Apartments
Access to the property will be from Rita Drive and circulation and parking will be independent of the church. GTP Acquisitions, LLC will also purchase the property located at 21 Rita Drive, (Lot 84, Block 166).
The house at 21 Rita Drive, next to Parsippany Hills High School entrance, will be demolished and become the entrance/exit for the complexThere are signs on most of the properties on Rita Drive except for 21 Rita Drive
According to corporate documents filed with the State of New Jersey, the registered agent of GTP Acquisitions, LLC, is David J. Weiner, 171 Fifth Avenue, Paterson. Pike Construction Company is also located at the same address. David Weiner is a managing member and principal of Pike Construction Co., LLC and has over 30 years of experience in all aspects of the general contracting and real estate development business. Upon graduating from Hamilton College with a B.A. in Economics, David began his career at Pike in the field as an assistant superintendent, then project superintendent.
PARSIPPANY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) voted yesterday for a bipartisan bill to protect older New Jersey workers from age discrimination. The Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act (H.R. 1230) addresses the 2009 Gross v FBL Financial Services Supreme Court decision that has made it harder for older workers to prove discrimination. It would return to the pre-2009 evidentiary standard to ensure that all victims of discrimination, including older workers, receive fair adjudication of their claims.
“New Jerseyans already face a high cost of living and rapidly changing workforce,” said Representative Sherrill. “Age discrimination should be treated just as seriously as any other form of discrimination. This bipartisan bill restores decades of legal precedent, allowing older workers to hold employers accountable for workplace discrimination.”
The Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act has strong, bipartisan support in the House of Representatives and has the endorsement of AARP, the ACLU, AFSCME, the National Council on Aging, the National Women’s Law Center, the American Association of University Women (AAUW), the National Women’s Law Center, the Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the NEA.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment meeting of January 15, 2020.
Reorganization Meeting Application 19:60 Kuldeep Patel, 36 Hamilton Road, Block: 349 Lot: 12 Zone R-4 ‘C’ Variance to legalize a 364 sq. ft. driveway expansion contrary to Sec. 430-275.H. & X.
Application No. 19:56
GTP Acquisitions, LLC, 1050 Littleton Road, Block: 166 Lot: 96 Zone: R-1, 21 Rita Drive, Block: 166 Lot: 84 Zone: R-3 ‘D’ Variance/Bifurcated Application for assisted/independent living apartments and cottages and memory care residents.
