Councilmen Matthew Kavanugh, Paul Carfi, Jr., Matthew McGraft (standing), President Judy Hernandez and Vice President Diya Patel
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council will hold a reorganization meeting on Tuesday, January 6, starting at 6:30 p.m. followed by a regular agenda meeting starting at 7:00 p.m.
Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided in accordance with the requirements of the Open Public Meetings Law by filing the notice in the Office of the Township Clerk and by posting the meeting notice on the bulletin board at the Municipal Building on December 4, 2025, where it has remained posted since that date. A legal notice appeared in the Daily Record and the Star Ledger on December 17, 2025.
PARSIPPANY — James R. Stefel, 42, of Largo, Florida, passed away at his home on December 5, 2025. Born on August 31, 1983, in West Orange, James was the beloved son of Ruthann and James “Jimmy” Stefel. He was known for his warm heart, generous spirit, and deep love for his family, friends, and animals. He adored his cat, Princess Pete, and would feed any strays that came their way. Though often quiet and reserved, those who truly knew James discovered a fun-loving, caring, and intensely loyal man who left a lasting impression on everyone he welcomed into his world.
James grew up in Parsippany and was the youngest of his siblings. He volunteered for several years with the Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Unit alongside his father. He later attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY), where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice, followed by a Master of Science in Protection Management.
James built a successful career as a Lead Associate in CIB Quality Assurance with JPMorgan Chase in Delaware. When his mother fell ill, James relocated to Florida to be by her side and help care for her until her passing—a true testament to his devotion and love. He spent the remainder of his life in Florida.
James is survived by his aunt and uncle, Virginia and Victor Chewning; their children, Jessica Valukis and her wife, Shannon, and Derek Valukis; his brother-in-law, Dwain Decker; his sister-in-law, Lisa Pizzi; and his nieces and nephews, Jennifer and her husband, Matt Semple; Nicole and Christopher Decker; Anthony Pizzi; Tiffany and her husband, Devon DePersio; and Juliana Pizzi. He was a proud great-uncle to Gabrianna, Brody, and Everleigh Semple.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruthann and James “Jimmy” Stefel; his brother, Charles Pizzi; and his sister, Deborah Decker.
A celebration of James’s life will be held at a later date for close family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Humane Society of Pinellas or the Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Unit.
His cat, Princess Pete, is looking for a new forever home after this devastating loss. She will soon be going to Suncoast Animal League; those interested in adoption are encouraged to reach out directly.
James will be deeply missed and forever remembered. His spirit lives on through the memories shared, the stories told, and the love he leaves behind—forever loved, forever remembered, and always in our hearts.
PARSIPPANY — Two Parsippany residents have earned advanced degrees from Trine University after completing their studies at the conclusion of the Fall 2025 semester, the university announced.
Shivani Rajeev Deshpande completed a Master of Business Administration, while Rajeshwari Pravin Pawar earned a Master of Science in Engineering Management. Both graduates successfully fulfilled the academic requirements of their respective graduate programs.
Shivani Rajeev Deshpande
Trine University is an internationally recognized, private, co-educational institution offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a wide range of disciplines. Academic programs are housed within multiple colleges and schools, including engineering and computing, business, health professions, education, arts and sciences, and graduate and professional studies.
Founded in 1884, Trine University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and operates a 450-acre main campus in Angola, Indiana, along with additional education centers in Fort Wayne, Indiana; Detroit, Michigan; Phoenix, Arizona; and Reston, Virginia. The university also offers flexible online programs through TrineOnline, serving students worldwide.
The achievements of Deshpande and Pawar reflect Parsippany’s strong tradition of academic excellence and commitment to advanced education.
PARSIPPANY –- Carina Maroldi, a lifelong Parsippany resident and high school senior in the Multimedia Academy at Morris County School of Technology, has been named the first-place winner of the Voice of Democracy audio-essay competition for VFW Post 10184, representing Parsippany. The award ceremony, held on January 4, 2026, at the Morris Plains VFW, recognized students throughout Morris County for their responses to the national theme: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
During the event, Maroldi received a scholarship and a Certificate of Merit designating her as an “Outstanding Spokesperson for Freedom.” The honors were presented by local officials, including Michael dePierro of Parsippany.
In her winning submission, Maroldi detailed her family’s history of military service, specifically citing her great-grandfather, an Italian immigrant and long-time Parsippany resident who was drafted into World War II. She described how his service is commemorated in her home with a shadow box containing an American flag and items from his military service.
Maroldi wrote about her plans to pursue a career in education to provide a stable presence for students and help prepare a mentally and physically strong next generation. She noted that being a teacher offers the opportunity to have an uplifting impact on the day-to-day lives of children, which in turn supports families and the broader community. Maroldi intends to apply her scholarship toward these professional goals. Maroldi serves as the Co-President of both the Key Club and the Literary Club at her school. Since her freshman year, she has worked as a year-round lifeguard and swim instructor for an indoor pool. During summers, she also serves as a Parsippany Recreation Camp Counselor. She is a member of the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS).
The Voice of Democracy program is a national competition established by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Auxiliary. Maroldi’s award was signed by VFW Commander Basil D’Armiento and Chairman John E. Titterton.
Morris County Sheriff’s Officer Detective Lieutenant Tracy Medwin
MORRIS COUNTY — After more than two decades of dedicated public service, Detective Lieutenant Tracy Medwin has retired from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, concluding a career marked by leadership, professionalism, and wide-ranging contributions to the agency and the residents of Morris County.
Detective Lieutenant Medwin was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in December 2000 and graduated from the Morris County Police Academy in May 2001. She began her career in the Protective Services Division before transferring in September 2004 to the Administration Division, Research and Planning Section, where she played a key role in organizational planning and policy development.
In June 2006, Medwin continued her service in the Administration Division and was promoted to the rank of Corporal in April 2014, remaining in Research and Planning. Her leadership trajectory continued just months later when, in September 2014, she was promoted to Sergeant and reassigned to the Protective Services Division, where she was stationed at the Control Desk and supervised multiple operational sections.
Following years of frontline and supervisory experience, Medwin transferred in February 2019 to the Process Section of the Legal Services Division, further expanding her institutional expertise. Her career culminated in November 2022, when she was promoted to Detective Lieutenant, assuming responsibility for supervising the Community Outreach and Planning Section of the Sheriff’s Office.
Throughout her career, Detective Lieutenant Medwin made significant contributions to advancing professionalism within the department. She managed multiple successful reaccreditation efforts under executive programs of the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), helping ensure the agency met the highest national standards for law enforcement operations and accountability.
Colleagues credit Medwin with a broad knowledge base, adaptability across assignments, and a commitment to excellence that strengthened the Sheriff’s Office at every level. Her service to the people of Morris County, officials noted, is rarely paralleled.
Reflecting on her career, Detective Lieutenant Medwin said, “My career has been a wild ride to say the least, and I am extremely grateful to raise anchor and set sail for my new adventure.”
Her retirement marks the close of a distinguished chapter for the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the community she faithfully served for more than 24 years.
Students work hands-on with electronics and engineering components during a career and technical education program, gaining real-world skills through guided, project-based learning.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Library will host an informational Share Time Presentation by the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Road. The program is designed for 9th and 10th grade high school students and their families who are interested in exploring career and technical education opportunities.
The presentation will introduce families to MCVSD’s half-day high school programs, which allow students to split their school day between their home district high school and a specialized vocational program. Students typically apply during 10th grade and, if accepted, attend the programs during their junior and senior years.
Representatives from the district will outline the application process, academic expectations, transportation logistics, and the wide range of career-focused pathways available. Programs span multiple fields, including skilled trades, engineering, healthcare, culinary arts, technology, and other hands-on disciplines designed to prepare students for both college and career success.
MCVSD’s Career and Technical Education programs emphasize real-world skills, industry-aligned training, and experiential learning, giving students exposure to potential career paths while still completing their high school education. Graduates often leave with advanced skills, certifications, and a clearer sense of direction for postsecondary plans.
The event is free and open to the public. Families seeking additional information may email [email protected] or visit www.mcvts.org/apply for a complete list of available programs and application details.
The Morris County Vocational School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, creed, sex, age, parental status, physical disability, learning disability, or sexual orientation.
PARSIPPANY —Provenir, whose North American headquarters is at 1 Upper Pond Road, continues to drive innovation in financial technology and has earned two major industry honors in 2025 for its AI Decisioning Platform, reinforcing the township’s growing role as a hub for fintech excellence.
Provenir announced it was named “LendTech of the Year” in the 2025 US FinTech Awards and received top honors for “Credit Risk Solution” at the 2025 Credit & Collections Technology Awards. Both awards recognize excellence and innovation in financial services technology.
According to the company, the US FinTech Awards celebrate advancements in financial services modernization and technology progress. The awards program is organized by FinTech Intel, a market intelligence platform focused on financial services technology.
Judges for the “LendTech of the Year” award cited Provenir’s product strategy, scalability, and ability to meet evolving customer needs. In remarks included with the award announcement, judges noted that Provenir “has delivered a lending solution that blends innovation with impact — meeting customer needs through smart design, seamless delivery, and a clear path to scale,” adding that the platform is helping reshape the lending landscape and set new standards across the sector.
Provenir was also recognized in the 2025 Credit & Collections Technology Awards for best “Credit Risk Solution.” That awards program highlights technological innovation in credit and collections, honoring companies and individuals advancing the industry through improved data, analytics, and decisioning tools.
In addition to the category win, Provenir was named to the 2025 Credit & Collections Technology Power List of Top 20 Companies, which the company described as an annual ranking of the most influential and innovative organizations in the credit and collections technology space.
“We are honored to be recognized in these two prestigious financial services awards programs for our AI Decisioning Platform that is transforming how financial services organizations manage their customers with real-time AI and intelligence,” said Carol Hamilton, Provenir’s chief product and strategy officer. “Our platform enables organizations to uncover actionable insights at scale and make strategic decisions quickly to manage risk while enabling growth through hyper-personalized engagement.”
The company noted that the latest recognition builds on additional 2025 honors. Provenir was named “Data Solution of the Year – Finance” in the Data Breakthrough Awards for the fourth consecutive year and was included in the FinTech Global DataTech 50 list for the second year in a row.
With its North American operations based in Parsippany, Provenir’s continued success highlights the township’s presence in the global fintech and artificial intelligence marketplace.
PARSIPPANY — A sweet, soft-eyed Maltese named Snowflurry is hoping her next chapter will be written in a loving home after spending her entire life in a puppy mill. Now safe and cared for by WISE Animal Rescue, Snowflurry is learning what comfort, kindness, and family truly mean.
Snowflurry is a 7-year-old female Maltese, extra small in size, with a gentle soul and a heart full of affection. Born on September 16, 2018, she spent years as a breeding dog before being rescued when she was no longer considered “useful.” Thanks to the intervention of WISE Animal Rescue, Snowflurry was spared and given a second chance at life.
WISE Animal Rescue is entirely volunteer-run, and every donation made to the organization goes directly toward the animals in its care. Through partnerships with supportive veterinary practices, WISE is able to provide both standard and specialized medical and behavioral care—giving dogs like Snowflurry the opportunity to heal and thrive.
Regardless of which dog is adopted, WISE asks adopters to support the rescue’s mission with a minimum donation of $850, which helps ensure all animals receive the care they need.
Snowflurry’s personality reflects her quiet resilience. She is a tender, affectionate dog who finds comfort being close to her people. She enjoys being held, responds warmly to gentle voices, and loves curling up on a lap for a peaceful nap. Once trust is established, she forms strong bonds and becomes deeply devoted.
Despite her past, Snowflurry has a calm and loving demeanor and truly enjoys quiet moments of connection with those she trusts.
Snowflurry would thrive in a patient and experienced home where she can continue building confidence at her own pace. A calm household that understands her need for reassurance will allow her personality to shine. Those interested in giving Snowflurry the loving home she deserves can visit WiseAnimalRescue.org to complete an adoption application.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2026. Click here to view the magazine.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai, Councilwoman Diya Patel, and Councilman Matthew Kavanagh were sworn into office during the township’s installation ceremony on Saturday, January 3.
PARSIPPANY — An ex-Marine, a Navy veteran, and a Gen-Z law student are now part of a historic new administration in Parsippany-Troy Hills, marking a series of milestones at the township’s installation ceremony held Saturday afternoon, January 3, at the Parsippany Municipal Building. The ceremony also signaled the anticipated return of a Democratic majority on the Township Council for the first time since 1984.
New Jersey Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill smiles as she enters the Parsippany Municipal Building to cheers and applause ahead of the township’s installation ceremony.
Among the most significant moments of the afternoon was the swearing-in of two officials who represent the first elected leaders of Indian descent in Parsippany’s history—an important milestone in a municipality where Asian Americans now comprise the largest ethnic group. The installation formally ushered in a new chapter for Morris County’s largest town.
Municipal Clerk Khaled Madin conducted the township’s installation ceremony, overseeing the formal proceedings and ensuring the orderly administration of oaths of office.
Residents, family members, friends, and local officials filled the council chamber for the proceedings, which were called to order by Municipal Clerk Khaled Madin. Attendance was so strong that many guests stood throughout the afternoon, with overflow crowds lining the hallways of Town Hall. Following Madin’s opening remarks, Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill addressed the audience, offering remarks as the township prepared to welcome its new governing leadership.
Municipal Clerk Khaled Madin introduces Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill before posing for a photo during Parsippany-Troy Hills’ installation ceremony at the Municipal Building.
Pulkit Desai was formally sworn in as mayor, with the oath administered by State Senator Raj Mukherji, as his wife, Sangeeta Desai, family members, and longtime Parsippany resident Mary Purzycki looked on.
Pulkit Desai was formally sworn in as mayor, with the oath administered by Raj Mukherji. In his inaugural address, Desai outlined priorities that included restoring trust in local government, strengthening transparency, maintaining fiscal responsibility, and advancing economic opportunity for residents and businesses.
Matthew Kavanagh takes the oath of office, administered by Municipal Clerk Khaled Madin, during Parsippany-Troy Hills’ installation ceremony at the Municipal Building.
The ceremony continued with the swearing-in of Township Council members. Matthew Kavanagh took the oath of office administered by Municipal Clerk Madin, followed by Diya Patel, whose oath was administered by Superior Court Judge Lori Grifa. Each council member thanked voters, family members, and supporters, emphasizing collaboration and a commitment to serving all Parsippany-Troy Hills residents.
Several elected officials attended as special guests, including Parsippany-Troy HillsCouncil Members Judy Hernandez, Matt McGrath, and Paul Carifi Jr.; State Senator Joe Pennacchio; Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way;Passaic County Commissioner John Barlett; and numerous officials from neighboring municipalities such as Boonton, Dover, and Rockaway, underscoring a strong sense of continuity and shared purpose within township government.
Diya Patel takes the oath of office administered by Superior Court Judge Lori Grifa as her parents look on during Parsippany-Troy Hills’ installation ceremony at the Municipal Building.
Throughout the program, speakers emphasized unity, civic engagement, and open dialogue as Parsippany moves forward under new leadership. The installation ceremony balanced the formality of the occasion with optimism for the term ahead.
Patel, a 24-year-old law school student and Parsippany Hills High School graduate, thanked her parents for immigrating to the United States from India two decades ago to provide better opportunities for their large extended family. She also reflected on the significance of her election “in a moment like this, when immigrants are so often dehumanized, dismissed, or reduced to talking points.”
“I think it’s important that we pause, take a look around, and tell the truth,” she said. “Diversity and immigrants are not our weakness. They are our strength.”
Parsippany-Township Municipal Clerk Khaled Madin, Longtime resident Mary Purzycki and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai
“As installation ceremonies go, this is always a meaningful moment for our township,” said Municipal Clerk Khaled Madin. “They represent continuity, democracy in action, and the responsibility we share to serve the residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills with integrity and professionalism. This afternoon’s ceremony reflects both our community’s history and its evolving future.”
The event concluded with closing remarks from Madin, followed by congratulations from colleagues and community members. As the new term begins, township officials expressed confidence that cooperation and a shared vision will guide the council’s work in the year ahead.
The Township Council will hold its annual reorganization meeting on Tuesday, January 6, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill shares a warm embrace with State Senator Raj Mukherji during Parsippany-Troy Hills’ installation ceremony at the Municipal Building.Councilwoman Diya Patel is joined by Casey Parikh and Councilwoman Judy Hernandez during Parsippany-Troy Hills’ installation ceremony at the Municipal Building.Passaic County Commissioner John Bartlett, also a candidate for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, enters a packed council chamber to cheers and applause during Parsippany-Troy Hills’ installation ceremony.A standing-room-only crowd fills the council chamber, with attendees lining the walls and hallways during Parsippany-Troy Hills’ installation ceremony.The council chamber reaches capacity as a large crowd gathers for Parsippany-Troy Hills’ installation ceremony.
Special thanks to Rohan Mruthik, an 11th-grade student at Parsippany High School, for videotaping the installation ceremony.
Just back from the Inauguration Ceremony at which Pulkit Desai, Matthew Kavanaugh and Diya Patel were sworn into their newly elected offices.
Attended by hundreds of delighted Parsippany residents and out-of-town dignitaries, the event was a celebration defined by hope, honesty, and humor. Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill spoke, and State Senator Joe Pennacchio was in attendance, and so at least for the afternoon, politics once again seemed to be the art of the possible.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany District 5 Fire Department has announced its officers for the 2026 year, recognizing a dedicated group of volunteers who will lead the department in its mission to protect life and property within the community.
Brian Ricci will serve as Chief, with Marcus Dalakian appointed as Deputy Chief. Ken Lambert has been named 1st Captain, followed by Brian Cleary as 2nd Captain. Matt Palmieri will serve as 1st Lieutenant, with Alex Maletto appointed as 2nd Lieutenant.
The department’s executive officers for 2026 include Robert Campbell Sr. as President, Mike Lambert as Vice President, Jason McGrath as Treasurer, and Brian Felber as Secretary. Matt Palmieri will also serve in the role of Sergeant at Arms.
Parsippany District 5 Fire Department continues a proud tradition of volunteer service, training, and emergency response, providing fire protection, rescue services, and specialized response capabilities to the Parsippany community.
In the tradition of colonial-era town criers, Denville Town Crier Douglas Gabel delivers announcements following Director Shaw’s remarks, calling out upcoming Morris County events planned in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners convened tonight for its annual reorganization, installing new leadership and swearing in reelected county officials as a town crier stepped forward to formally announce that the New Year marks the 250th anniversary of America’s independence.
Commissioner Stephen H. Shaw was sworn in as director and Commissioner John Krickus as deputy director of the board during the 6 p.m. meeting on the fifth floor of the Administration and Records Building in Morristown. Oaths of office also were administered to fellow Commissioners Douglas R. Cabana, Thomas J. Mastrangelo and Christine Myers, who were each reelected in November to three-year terms on the board, and Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, who was reelected to his fourth, five-year term.
A lifelong New Jersey resident serving his third term on the board, Director Shaw previously served as director in 2021 and most recently completed two consecutive years as deputy director. State Sen. Joseph Pennacchio administered the oath as Shaw’s wife, Cindy, held the Bible.
Senator Joseph Pennacchio administers the oath of office to Stephen H. Shaw, who was sworn in as director, as his wife, Cindy Shaw, holds the Bible.
“It is an honor to be chosen to serve as director in the year of the nation’s milestone anniversary. Each member of this board brings a different skillset, institutional knowledge and personality. We may not always agree, and sometimes our discussion can be spirited, but to me that is a strength that makes us arrive at better policy decisions,” Director Shaw said.
“Tonight, we will be appointing hundreds of volunteers that serve on our various advisory committees, commissions and boards. They are the heart and soul of our county government. Some have served for decades, and they all bring a wealth of talent and perspective to our board. Thank you all for your volunteer work,” he continued.
In the fashion of town-criers of yore, who would shout news and proclamation in the streets of colonial-era America, Denville Town Crier Douglas Gabel stepped forward after Director Shaw’s remarks to shout out events planned in Morris County this year in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Gabel, a former Denville councilman and current Morris County park commissioner, encouraged municipalities and residents to participate in the county’s semiquincentennial celebrations, reminding everyone to visit morriscounty250.org and follow @MorrisCounty250 on Facebook and Instagram for updates and a complete calendar of programs and events.
Commissioner Krickus, who has served on the board since 2020, including as director in 2023, was sworn in as deputy director by U.S. Rep. Thomas Kean, Jr. as Krickus’s wife, Carolyn, held the Bible.
“The hard work of this board and our county administration and employees allow me to say that Morris county is the best run county in New Jersey, by far,” said Deputy Director Krickus, before highlighting the ongoing initiatives supported by the commissioners at the County College of Morris and Morris County Vocational School District.
Commissioner Cabana, the longest-serving member of the board and now beginning his 11th term, was sworn in by Congressman Kean
Commissioner Cabana, the longest-serving member of the board and now beginning his 11th term, was also sworn in by Congressman Kean, with the Bible held by Cabana’s sister, Amy Bucco, and her husband, State Sen. Anthony Bucco. Cabana has served five times as director and four times as deputy director since joining the board in 1997.
Commissioner Mastrangelo, who had been director in 2013 and 2014, was sworn into his sixth term by his daughter, attorney Brittney Mastrangelo, while the Bible was held by his wife, Debbie, and their son, Chris.
Commissioner Mastrangelo, who had been director in 2013 and 2014, was sworn into his sixth term by his daughter, attorney Brittney Mastrangelo, while the Bible was held by his wife, Debbie, and their son, Chris.
Commissioner Myers, who is serving her third term, had been director in 2024. She was sworn in by Congressman Kean as her husband, Stan, held the Bible.
Commissioner Myers, who is serving her third term, had been director in 2024. She was sworn in by Congressman Kean as her husband, Stan, held the Bible.
Sheriff Gannon was sworn into his fourth term by Morris/Sussex Superior Court Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz. The Bible was held by the sheriff’s daughter, Kate, along with his son-in-law, Matt, his grandchildren, Luca and Ella, and his girlfriend, Lisa.
Sheriff Gannon was sworn into his fourth term by Morris/Sussex Superior Court Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz. The Bible was held by the sheriff’s daughter, Kate, along with his son-in-law, Matt, his grandchildren, Luca and Ella, and his girlfriend, Lisa.
Other board members who joined the event were past-Director Tayfun Selen and Commissioner Deborah Smith. During the meeting, Commissioner Smith noted the recently presented 2026 Capital Budget and reaffirmed the board’s support for Israel, while Commissioner Selen deferred his remarks to a video summarizing highlights from the past year and previewing 2026 as a historic milestone.
The ceremony opened with a color guard procession led by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Joint Honor Guard, accompanied by bagpipes performed by Douglas Parody of the Police Pipes and Drums of Morris County. Sheriff Gannon led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the National Anthem sung by Erin Dawson, a senior at the Morris County Vocational School District Academy for Performing Arts.
National Anthem sung by Erin Dawson, a senior at the Morris County Vocational School District Academy for Performing Arts.
The Rev. Michael Muller of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church of Mountain Lakes delivered the invocation and benediction.
A moment of silence was held in memory of Desmond Lloyd, a widely respected Morris County restaurateur and entrepreneur who, with his wife, Alice, opened The Grand Café in Morristown in 1981. An Irish immigrant who became a U.S. citizen in 1976, Lloyd built a life defined by hard work, generosity and community service, supporting numerous boards, organizations and charitable initiatives. He passed away on December 20, 2025, at the age of 85.
Included in the moment of silence was former U.S. Rep. Richard “Dick” Zimmer, who passed on New Year’s Eve. He served three terms in the House, after serving as a state Senator and state Assemblyman, representing portions of Morris County during his tenures in state and federal offices.
The Board of County Commissioners will hold its next work session and regular meeting on January 7, 2026 at the Administration and Records Building. The work session begins at 5:00 p.m. and the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. The meetings will continue to be held publicly in the Administration & Records Building and live streamed via WebEx through the county’s website.
MORRIS COUNTY — A Morris Plains man was arrested on multiple drug, weapon, and warrant charges following a motor vehicle stop conducted by the Denville Police Department on New Year’s Day.
According to police, officers conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 10 eastbound at approximately 7:45 p.m. on January 1, 2026, due to equipment violations. During the investigation, officers identified a passenger in the vehicle as 48-year-old Eugenio Carmona of Morris Plains.
Police determined that Carmona initially provided false identifying information and was found to have multiple outstanding warrants for his arrest. As the investigation continued, officers discovered that Carmona was in possession of controlled dangerous substances, drug paraphernalia, and a weapon allegedly possessed for an unlawful purpose..
Carmona was charged with two counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and hindering apprehension. Authorities also confirmed active warrants issued by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, along with ATS warrants from Parsippany, Woodland Park, Hanover Township, and Totowa municipal courts, totaling $9,500.
Following his arrest, Carmona was processed and transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where he remains pending a future court appearance.
Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Gelia Brutus, a 2025 Parsippany Hills High School graduate from Mount Tabor, competes winter as a freshman on Muhlenberg College’s NCAA Division III wrestling team.
PARSIPPANY — A 2025 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Gelia Brutus of Mount Tabor is competing this winter as a freshman on the Muhlenberg College NCAA Division III women’s wrestling team while pursuing her college studies.
More than 30 percent of Muhlenberg students participate in the college’s 23 intercollegiate sports programs. The Muhls compete in NCAA Division III as members of the Centennial Conference, with athletic programs focused on leadership development, well-being, sportsmanship, and civic responsibility.
Founded in 1848, Muhlenberg College is a highly selective, four-year residential liberal arts institution located in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The college enrolls nearly 2,000 students pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees and offers an academic experience designed to foster intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and lifelong learning.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2026.Click hereto read the magazine.
As current and former Township employees, several who have lived in Parsippany for decades, we wish you, Mayor Desai much success. Although the election was close, the fact that you beat former Mayor Barberio with no money, no visible campaign to speak of, and no position on what you will do as mayor, speaks more about how inept Barberio really was and how much the people craved change.
Your job won’t be an easy one. It will be especially challenging considering you have no experience with local government. Please accept the following advice from the people who have worked at 1001 Parsippany Blvd for a combined 276 years.
Manage the Police Department. Police leadership will try to undermine you at every turn. For example, a deputy chief recently retired from the force and was just rehired by the police department as a gun permitting clerk. Parsippany already has one retired officer handling gun permits. Does Parsippany really need a second person sitting around all day processing permits? This is all handled online these days anyway.
The head of your Police Union (Editor’s Note: SOA) is the new owner of a Head shop in Parsippany. All township employees require written permission to own/have second jobs. Was permission obtained (after this letter is published, it will be)? Should your police officers really be running a marijuana dispensary in the same town in which they serve? Is this even legal? At a minimum, the optics are terrible. Reign in your police. Have them do their job and have them actually patrol. You live in Lake Parsippany. How fast do cars speed by your home every day?
Former Mayor Soriano’s Chief of Staff, Matt Clarkin, affectionately known throughout town hall as the Rasputin of Parsippany, is rumored to be returning, if not as an employee, then as the person making the decisions for you. For those who remember, Matt Clarkin was the architect of the failures of the Soriano administration, from pushing for PILOT deals for major developments like 1515 Route 10, and a litany of other embarrassments and issues that plagued Soriano’s Town Hall, to acting like a true party boss in the breakdown in relations between Soriano and his council colleagues and forcing them out from running for reelection. As town employees who have firsthand experience with Clarkin, you must take a step back from an individual who will likely continue to cause chaos for the people of Parsippany.
a. You seem like a nice man who wants to do good, but let’s be honest. Nobody, probably including yourself, really thought you were going to win. You are in a position you are not prepared for and are now being guided by the very person who destroyed Soriano’s administration from the inside. You can earn a lot of goodwill if you keep Clarkin far away from any position of power in the administration. This means any recommendations for board positions, vendors or jobs should be highly scrutinized and vetted. You are the Mayor now, not Clarkin, and he should do well to remember that.
b. Speaking of Clarkin, we are sure that he will call the editor of Parsippany Focus and say “Frank, I demand respect and you must tell me who wrote this letter. If you don’t, there will be no government contracts for you.”
c. Clarkin’s inability to tolerate dissenting opinions resulted in a total collapse in the relationship between Councilmembers Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson. McCarthy was even punished by Clarkin, who declined to award the “county-line” for her county committee bid (of which McCarthy had represented her district for ten-plus years). You can find her statement here Councilmember McCarthy Denied Party Line For County Committee Seat | Parsippany Focus.
d. Clarkin even took his vendetta against Peterson to a new level when he decided to push a PILOT program for a redevelopment project right outside and next to Councilwoman Peterson’s home in retaliation. Should he return to Town Hall in any capacity, Council-member Hernandez and the incoming two Democrats should be wary of being on the receiving end of his toxic behavior.
e. The situation surrounding our township clerk was also rumored to have been leaked to the press by Clarkin in retaliation for not being sufficiently “loyal”. Information surrounding domestic violence situations like those are protected by law, and for everything to have been leaked to the press immediately after it happened opened the Township to legal action and violated the law.
3. Speaking of the Township Clerk, it was overheard that newly elected Councilwoman Patel recently told the township’s Clerk “not to worry” because the new Council will be keeping him employed. This kind of statement shows a complete lack of understanding of the role of the Township Council.
Mayor Desai, we are just scratching the surface. You have your work cut out for you. Before making a decision, ask yourself, is this good for Parsippany, or a few interested parties? If you choose what is good for Parsippany, you and all of us will succeed.
Current and Former Township employees Names were withheld at the request of possible retaliation
December 31 affordable housing deadline, which required towns to resolve any challenges to their Fourth Round affordable housing plans. RISK losing? so this is why Parsippany Lame Duck Council, threw in the towel, and gave 30 year PILOT Deals for minimum affordable. No one had the due diligence to look into the illegality of this tactic, even though Highlands Communities have legal shields? State Legal Authority should look into this, how can a Town be punished for doing that?
The intention and spirit of the Mount Laurel decision have long lost their meaning. The need is: “affordable,” not what the market will bear. This whole market scenario is based on profits for corporate real estate developers, not on the need for housing as a fundamental passive right of citizenship.
Market Will Bear, does not met the need in an economy that serves few, and where builders determine land use, no matter the land character, be it farmland, wooded lots, or groundwater recharge, flat-earth type proposals, and threats from developers unscruplious lawyers, like the developer that took Waterview Landscape. Types like John Inglesino for example, allowed his way here in Parsippany under former Mayor Barberio.
Much of what we call Parsippany-Troy Hills, including its various services and departments and their employed staff, is a result of the Corporate Tax Rateable Chase. Now, suddenly, this phase of dependency is ending in favor of real estate developers’ new phase of the land speculation use, which is based upon office space, abandoned for housing in our time. So people of Parsippany need to accept the fact that this over-reliance on the “rateable chase” has left Parsippany an outlier in that it is subject to this Housing Need. Land lost is lost just about forever once overdevelopment has occurred; property can then easily become the enemy of nature and of community character and oneness.
So PILOT capitulation to Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) deals for communities center on reduced funding for essential services like schools, a potential increase in property taxes for existing residents, and a lack of transparency and accountability in how the funds are managed and distributed. We say this lack of transparency and sudden lame duck sudden PILOT tactic at the end of this last Mayoral term. In 30 years much can change in how much funding the Municipality will actually receive.
PILOTs are intended for poor underserved blighted communities, not places like Parsippany. Whatever happened to the “Parsippany being the idle location”? In time the consequences of the PILOTs, and the disenfranchisement of the Federal Power in favor of corporate profits over democracy, and community itself, will further impact the taxpayer.
This senseless development for development’s sake, without providing the actual need for affordability, must come to an end. Spaces created within the realms of these significant developments will or must be made to lower their rents and fees in the spirit and intention of Mount Laurel, and rents will also need to be frozen, so they never exceed a percentage of the occupants’ actual income. The landowner will not suffer, for he owns the land, which nature (or god) created free. Rents and Fees are unearned income for that land, a form of exploitation when allowed. Federal tax dollars not invested in housing needs also shows extreme flaws in our system.
Never in the history of democratic societies has the populace been more removed from the decision-making process than it is today. Our Collective Global future is being made behind closed doors by trade representatives and appointed officials, with the blessing of amorphous, transnational corporations. As a society under unregulated laissez-faire capitalism, we have turned our Republic into a Corporatocracy, and now a Kleptocracy, a government of thieves, billionaires making life worse for the rest of us, a “Don’t Tread on Me” mentality; I got mine, and screw you.
When we see all the tax free church property that abounds here in Parsippany, we must ask, what good is any religion, if economic equity and justice is mistaken for democracy or government as intended. In 250 years we have failed in our quest for a republic toward a common good for all, within the realm of Nature, and its laws of sustainability. Economics is a political decision, not some science or market in a vacuum. Only Nature makes us great, and we have replaced Great Nature, and become Earth’s stewards, and in this we are failing. We have not learned the Ecology of Freedom, and have replaced nature itself, and our way of life to financial jargon, and endless growth. We keep proving we are a flawed species, and the market has replaced political honor and integrity. All things have limits, and capitalism as a way of governance has outlived any good it has or may have brought to this world. It has disenthralled our species from nature, from hence all life came and is sustained; hence all life came and is sustained. Thus community includes, air, soil, indigenous fauna and flora.
Four story building was approved for 169 Johnson Road. It will contain 69 market priced units and 18 affordable housing units
MORRIS COUNTY — A federal judge has granted a coalition of 29 municipalities an evidentiary hearing on their effort to halt New Jersey’s upcoming March 15, 2026, deadline to implement new affordable housing regulations.
Local Leaders for Responsible Planning announced on December 31 that Zahid Quraishi, a judge of the United States District Court, will hear testimony on January 7 at 10:00 a.m. in federal court in Trenton.
The announcement came as municipalities across New Jersey were scrambling to meet the State’s December 31 affordable housing deadline, which required towns to resolve any challenges to their Fourth Round affordable housing plans. The next major deadline is March 15, 2026, by which municipalities must adopt all ordinances and resolutions necessary to formally implement those plans.
Municipalities that fail to meet the required deadlines risk losing immunity from so-called builder’s remedy lawsuits. These lawsuits allow developers to bypass local zoning regulations and construct high-density housing developments, including affordable units, regardless of local land-use plans. In addition, municipalities that have not met their housing obligations could be required to pay developer fees or face court-ordered compliance measures.
New Jersey’s affordable housing framework, now more than 50 years old, is considered one of the strictest in the nation. It requires every municipality to provide its “fair share” of affordable housing under the State’s long-standing Mount Laurel Doctrine.
The lawsuit filed by Local Leaders for Responsible Planning argues that the State’s affordable housing mandate violates the Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution. The group contends that the current system imposes disproportionate and unrealistic development obligations on certain municipalities while exempting others, relying on what it describes as an outdated formula developed more than 40 years ago.
By county, the municipalities bringing the lawsuit include:
Bergen County: Allendale, Closter, Franklin Lakes, Hillsdale, Montvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Oradell, Washington Township, Westwood and Wyckoff.
Morris County: Denville, East Hanover, Florham Park, Hanover, Mendham, Montville and Wharton.
Essex County: Cedar Grove, Millburn and West Caldwell.
Hunterdon County: West Amwell.
Monmouth County: Wall and Holmdel.
Passaic County: Little Falls and Totowa.
Salem County: Mannington.
Somerset County: Warren.
Courts have already rejected several prior attempts by the coalition to block or delay the State’s Fourth Round affordable housing obligations, which were formally issued in October 2024. Despite those rulings, the group continues to pursue legal challenges as municipalities face mounting pressure to comply with the upcoming implementation deadlines.
The January 7 evidentiary hearing will determine whether the court will grant temporary relief from the March 15, 2026 deadline or allow the State’s affordable housing framework to proceed as scheduled.
Marianne Willis-Cucchiara Appointed to Human Services Director
PARSIPPANY — Marianne Willis-Cucchiara has officially been promoted to Director of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Department of Human Services, a role that oversees a wide range of essential programs serving residents across the township.
The Department of Human Services is comprised of the Office of Health, the Office of Social Services, and the Office on Aging and the Physically Handicapped. Together, these offices provide a comprehensive and complex network of services designed to protect public health, support residents in need, and enable senior citizens and individuals with disabilities to live happy, full, and purposeful lives.
Willis-Cucchiara emphasized the importance of collaboration as the department moves forward, noting that partnerships with agencies and organizations outside the department will be critical to achieving its goals. By working together with community partners, the department aims to deliver more cost-effective, coordinated, and complete services to Parsippany residents.
A Career Rooted in Service
A lifelong Lake Hiawatha and Parsippany resident, Willis-Cucchiara has deep personal and professional ties to the community she now serves as director. She lives in town with her husband and two children, and is also the mother of two adult sons. Her passion for public service began years before her municipal career, volunteering for more than two decades with the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad, where she served as an EMT and held leadership roles including Captain, Lieutenant, and President.
Professionally, Willis-Cucchiara has served the township since January 2016 as a Public Health Nurse with the Parsippany Health Department, and was promoted to Public Health Nurse Supervisor in April 2024. In that role, she was responsible for ensuring compliance with New Jersey Department of Health guidelines, managing federally funded vaccination programs, coordinating township health clinics, overseeing pediatric lead case management, and responding to communicable disease outbreaks in coordination with state health officials.
Her work has also included collaboration with school nurses and daycare facilities, audits of vaccination compliance, medical assessments for seniors, emergency response support at the senior center, and extensive community education initiatives.
Willis-Cucchiara holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Saint Elizabeth and earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Prior to her nursing career, she spent 13 years working for Weichert, and earlier professional experience includes positions in physician offices, home care agencies, and hospital settings.
Looking Ahead
With decades of hands-on experience in emergency services, public health, and municipal leadership, Willis-Cucchiara brings a well-rounded and deeply informed perspective to her new role as Director of Human Services. Her promotion reflects a continued commitment to strengthening Parsippany’s health and human service programs while expanding partnerships that enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages.
A New Chapter Begins — Parsippany residents look on as the township sign is updated to welcome Mayor Pulkit Desai, symbolically marking the transition to a new administration and the start of a fresh chapter for Parsippany-Troy Hills.
PARSIPPANY — With township signs now updated to reflect a change in leadership, Pulkit Desai stood outside Town Hall on Thursday, January 1, in a quiet but symbolic moment marking the transition to a new administration in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Behind the scenes, the visible changes across town were the result of coordinated work by township staff. On New Year’s Day, Joe Jannarone Jr., Superintendent of Maintenance, along with dedicated Parks and Forestry employees, spent the day traveling throughout Parsippany installing updated municipal signage welcoming Mayor Desai. The effort ensured that signage across the township accurately reflected the results of the November election as the community prepared for the official inauguration.
Joe Jannarone Jr., Superintendent of Maintenance, updates municipal signage throughout Parsippany to reflect the township’s new leadership as the New Year begins.
While the updated signs signal the beginning of a new era, the official swearing-in ceremony for Mayor Desai and the newly elected Township Council members is scheduled for Saturday, January 3, when the new governing body will formally take office.
A Symbolic Transition
The refreshed signage at Town Hall and throughout Parsippany serves as a visual reminder of the peaceful transfer of power at the local level. Residents passing through the municipal complex and along township roadways have already taken notice, reflecting anticipation ahead of the formal installation ceremony.
A Close and Historic Election
Desai was elected mayor following one of the closest mayoral races in Parsippany history, narrowly defeating incumbent James Barberio by approximately 80 votes, out of nearly 20,000 ballots cast. The final outcome was determined after all mail-in, provisional, and overseas ballots were counted, underscoring the importance of voter participation in local elections.
In addition to the mayoral contest, voters elected Diya Patel and Matt Kavanagh to the Township Council, shaping the governing body that will be formally seated on January 3.
During the inauguration, Mayor Desai will be sworn in by Raj Mukherji. Councilwoman Patel will be sworn in by Lori Grifa, and Councilman Kavanagh will be sworn in by Khaled Madin.
Looking Ahead to January 3
The upcoming Inauguration Ceremony will officially mark the start of Desai’s term as mayor and the beginning of a new chapter for Parsippany-Troy Hills. Mayor-elect Desai has emphasized collaboration, transparency, and restoring trust in local government as priorities for his administration.
As the township prepares for Saturday’s ceremony, the newly installed signs—made possible through the work of township maintenance, parks, and forestry staff—stand as an early symbol of transition, signaling both change and continuity as Parsippany moves forward under new leadership.
A woman scans the classifieds, exploring new career opportunities and taking the next step toward finding the right job fit.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Department of Labor and WorkforceDevelopment (NJDOL) has announced updated maximum benefit rates and taxable wage bases for several worker benefit programs, all of which will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Under the new rates, the maximum weekly Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefit will increase to $905, up from $875 in 2025. The maximum weekly benefit for state plan Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI) will rise to $1,119, an increase from $1,081. In addition, the maximum weekly Workers’ Compensation benefit for temporary disability, permanent total disability, permanent partial disability, and dependency will increase to $1,199, up from $1,159.
State officials noted that maximum benefit rates and taxable wage bases are recalculated annually based on the statewide average weekly wage (SAWW) from the second preceding calendar year, as required by law. The 2026 rates are based on the 2024 SAWW of $1,598.66, which represents a 3.4% increase from the $1,545.60 average weekly wage recorded in 2023.
The taxable wage base for workers covered under the Unemployment Compensation Law will increase to $44,800 in 2026, up from $43,300 in 2025. Meanwhile, the taxable wage base for Temporary Disability Insurance and Family Leave Insurance will rise to $171,100, compared to $165,400 in the prior year.
Eligibility thresholds will also increase in 2026. To qualify for UI, TDI, or FLI benefits, workers must earn at least $310 per week for 20 base weeks, up from $303 in 2025. Alternatively, individuals who do not meet the base week requirement must earn at least $15,500 during the base year period, an increase from $15,200.
These eligibility thresholds are calculated using the New Jersey minimum wage in effect as of October 1, 2025, which was $15.49 per hour for most employees. The state minimum wage is scheduled to rise by $0.43 to $15.92 per hour on January 1, 2026.
In a related update, the contribution rate for state and local government entities that choose to contribute to the Unemployment Insurance trust fund—rather than reimburse it for benefits paid—will decrease to 0.5% of taxable wages in 2026, down from 0.6% in 2025.
State labor officials emphasized that these annual adjustments are intended to keep benefit levels aligned with wage growth and economic conditions across New Jersey.
