MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Chief of Investigations John Speirs of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Chief Robert Treiber of the Florham Park Police Department, Chief Stanley J. Hansen of the East Hanover Police Department and Chief Mark D. Roddy of the Hanover Township Police Department announce the arrest of Colin Bolger, 19, of Florham Park, on numerous charges of Sexual Assault and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, related to allegations involving two underage females.
Colin Bolger has been charged in four separate complaints from conduct alleged to have occurred in three different municipalities. Each complaint charges him with one count of Sexual Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2c(4), a crime of the second degree, and one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(1), a crime of the third degree.
In late June 2016, the mother of a 15 year old female reported to the East Hanover Police Department that her daughter had been sexually assaulted by Mr. Bolger when she 14 years old. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement determined that various acts of sexual penetration had allegedly been committed upon the female in both Florham Park and East Hanover between September 2015 and April 2016.
Subsequent investigation revealed that a separate 14 year old female had also allegedly been sexually assaulted by Mr. Bolger when she was 13 years old in both Florham Park and Hanover Township between September 2015 and April 2016.
Bail was set by the Honorable Catherine I. Enright, J.S.C. at $50,000 no 10%, cash bond or property, with a Nicole’s Law Restraining Order as to each victim.
Prosecutor Knapp would like to thank the Florham Park Police Department, specifically, Detective/Sergeant Scott Bartell, the East Hanover Police Department, specifically Detective Frank Franco, the Hanover Township Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, specifically Detective/Supervisor Marshall Wang.
Anyone with information related to Colin Bolger and/or these allegations is asked to contact Detective Marshall Wang of the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200, Detective Scott Bartell of the Florham Park Police Department at (973) 377-5441 or Detective Frank Franco of the East Hanover Police Department at (973) 428-3053.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA will be hosting their first annual 5K run on Saturday, September 24 and everyone is invited! “5K for a Cause” will begin and end at Briarcliff School in Mountain Lakes and all proceeds will benefit the Y’s financial assistance program.
This is a USATFNJ 500 point, certified event and it’s on a stroller-friendly course. Registration and packet pick up starts at 8:00 a.m. with the race start time of 9:00 a.m.
Free t-shirts for all pre-registered participants.
Awards for the top three in all categories. Register now for the event online by clicking here.
PARSIPPANY — The Children’s Librarians at the Lake Hiawatha branch created a Science Olympiad as part of the library’s Summer Reading Program – Exercise Your Mind – Get Ready, Get Set Read!
The 2016 Science Olympiad was held at the Lake Hiawatha branch library of the Parsippany Library System on Saturday, July 16.
Students in grades 2-8 created science projects and experiments based on categories:
Creativity in Approach – colorful, creative presentation and layout.
Use of Scientific Method – hypothesis, observations, conclusions
Thoroughness of Investigations and Research
Clarity of Expression in Presentation – good verbal skills
Ideas had to be submitted by June 30. Eleven students entered with a variety of science projects. Topics included: electromagnets, bean plant experiments, simple circuits, the universe, aerodynamics, ice fishing and salt, and air pressure.
The four categories were judged by four teen volunteers who viewed each project, asked a variety of questions to the students about how the their project was assembled, and listened to what each student had to share about what they learned during the process.
The winners of each of these four categories won a $5.00 gift card to the The Dairy at Lake Hiawatha (donated by The Dairy at Lake Hiawatha) in addition to a prize. Thanks to the generosity and support of the Lake Hiawatha Dairy for this special event, each “young scientist” received a coupon for one free ice cream cone.
Since 1990, the Diabetes Foundation, Inc. (DFI) has been dedicated to serving low-income, uninsured, and underinsured New Jersey children and adults with diabetes. DFI improves patient care and quality of life by focusing on four main areas of support: medication and medical supplies assistance, patient support services, diabetes public education, and Camp Nejeda scholarships.
Did you know that Diabetes Foundation, Inc. (DFI):
Serves ALL New Jersey residents, regardless of their age, county, or town?
Provides eight weeks of freediabetes medications, insulin, and medical/testing supplies via home or office delivery?
Provides ongoing patient support services and financial assistance resources via telephone?
Offers free educational workshops throughout the state?
Awards scholarships to camps for children with diabetes?
For more information, contact DFI at (201) 444-0337 or click here to send an email.
Do you know me? I was dropped off at Parsippany Animal Shelter
PARSIPPANY — Do you recognize this dog? He was left at Parsippany Animal Shelter on Monday, August 1 with a harness and leash on but no collar, tags, or microchip.
If you recognize him or know the owner, please contact Parsippany Animal Shelter at (973) 263-7083.
Parsippany Animal Shelter is located at 1069 Parsippany Boulevard.
PARSIPPANY — On Friday, July 29 at 10:39 p.m. the Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Desk received a 911 call reporting an armed robbery in progress at The Dairy at Lake Hiawatha, 79 North Beverwyck Road.
Multiple patrol units along with Detective Keiling responded to the scene. The caller advised that a heavy set Indian male, wearing a brown and yellow shirt, with rolled up jeans entered the store and demanded the victims give him the money, while holding a knife. The caller and three other employees immediately fled from behind the counter and hid in the restroom, at which time they called 911.
Upon arrival of Patrol Officer Armenti and Silva they searched the inside of the store and found that the suspect had fled the area.
All four victims were escorted out of the bathroom by the police at which time they stated that they were not injured. Officers on scene also observed damage to multiple ice cream topping canisters that were pushed off of the top of the ice cream coolers and onto the ground by the suspect.
Shortly after Patrol Lt. T. Pomroy and Patrol Officer C. Silva began checking the surrounding area and spoke to citizens that reported a male had fled down the alley of 77 North Beverwyck Road.
The Officers immediately checked the area and found Arjuna Ganesan, 44, Parsippany, crouching down in the recess of a doorway in the alley. Mr. Ganesan’s clothing also matched the description given by the victims.
Mr. Ganesan was placed under arrest at which time three knives were found in his possession, along with a sum of cash that was stolen from the business. He was also positively identified as the person who robbed the store. He was transported back to Parsippany Police Department Headquarters were he was processed and charged with Robbery in the first degree, three counts of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in the fourth degree, Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes, Theft of Movable Property, and Criminal Mischief.
Judge Frese set the bail at $20,000. with no 10% option. Mr. Ganesan was then transported to the Morris County Jail in default of his bail.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Department CID also responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.
PARSIPPANY — The most anticipated arrival of the summer, Jersey Fresh sweet corn is finally ready. Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouse and Garden Center has bushels of corn arriving daily, and nothing beats knowing the food you’re eating came from just up the road.
To promote their Farmer’s Market and CSA program, Cerbo’s is offering a dozen ears of fresh corn for $4.00.
New crops arrive daily in addition to the tomatoes grown at their Parsippany location and fresh produce like peppers, broccoli, green beans, onions and so many varieties of squash brought to Parsippany from their Hampton Township farm.
Cerbo’s has partnered with the Township of Parsippany to promote wellness alongside Mayor James Barberio, and they’ve sourced products from other New Jersey purveyors to keep local gourmet ingredients coming to the table all summer.
Cerbo’s is located at 440 Littleton Road and is open Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department is accepting applications from its residents for enrollment in the 2016 Citizen’s Police Academy.
This ten-week program is designed to give the participants a working knowledge of the police department.
The goal is to increase communication and partnership between residents and the police through education and discussion to establish a safer community.
It consists of a series of sessions held once a week, on Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. starting Thursday, September 22.
The classes provide an in-depth view into various areas of law enforcement such as criminal investigations, neighborhood watch, crime prevention, firearms, use of force and advancements in technology utilized in law enforcement today. The program is an educational and informative program that allows residents the opportunity to learn about the issues that affect law enforcement efforts in Parsippany.
Class size is limited to approximately twenty students and there is no cost to anyone who attends the academy.
When residents take a more personal interest in the protection of their community and neighborhoods, they enjoy a safer and closer relationship with their neighbors.
It is the Police Department’s hope that the graduates become partners with them in identifying problems and solutions to the crime and safety issues that are affecting the community. Community Oriented Policing plays an important and vital role in reducing crime. Graduates of the academy are able to take what they have learned back into their neighborhoods where they can utilize it to enhance the quality of neighborhood life.
Upon completion of the course, with a minimum attendance of eight classes, graduates will receive a diploma, and a class photo.
Those interested in participating can click here and click Citizen’s Police Academy. The form can be submitted electronically by saving it to the computer first, completing it and emailing the completed form to Officer Remo D’Alessandro at socialmedia@parpolice.com.
Applications also can be printed out and mailed to: Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, Attn: Patrolman Remo D’Alessandro, 3339 Route 46, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054.
Please note that the application instructions referring to the electronic submission and “clicking Submit Application” only apply to the application found on the website.
For more information or to receive an application by mail, call Patrolman D’Alessandro at (973) 263-4383.
Applications will be accepted until Monday, August 22, or until the class is filled.
PARSIPPANY – Holliday Fenoglio Fowler, L.P. (HFF) announced that it has closed the sale of an approximately 100,000-square-foot office building located at 600 Parsippany Road in Parsippany. The offices of John Inglesino, Parsippany’s Town Attorney, are located in the building.
Interior of 600 Parsippany Road
HFF marketed the property on behalf of the seller, Mack-Cali Realty Corporation. A joint venture between Bukiet Building Management and Mountain Development Corp. purchased the asset free and clear of existing debt.
600 Parsippany Road is situated just off exit 40 of Interstate 287 at the four-way interchange with Parsippany Road. The property is less than two miles from Interstates 80 and 280 and Routes 24, 46, 10 and 202, and less than 30 miles from New York City. The three-story, black glass building is 92 percent leased to notable tenants, including Inglesino, Webster, Wyciskala & Taylor, LLC; Aerotek; Level 3 Communications; Sonneborn; Certified Financial Services; Property Title Group, LLC and Dewberry. The building features a newly-renovated lobby with stone and tile flooring and a full-service café on the top floor.
The HFF investment sales team representing the seller was led by senior managing director Jose Cruz, managing director Kevin O’Hearn, directors Michael Oliver and Stephen Simonelli and associate director Marc Duval.
“600 Parsippany road is a quality asset located within the prime Morris County office market,” Cruz said. “The property provides the new owners with stable cash flow given its current occupancy and the potential upside given leasing the remaining space at higher rents.”
About Mack-Cali Realty Corporation
Mack-Cali Realty Corporation is a fully integrated, self-administered, self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT) providing management, leasing, development and other tenant-related services for its two-platform operations of waterfront and transit-based office and luxury multi-family assets. Mack-Cali provides its tenants and residents with the most innovative communities that empower them to re-imagine the way they work and live.
Additional information on Mack-Cali Realty Corporation and the commercial real estate properties and multi-family residential communities available for lease can be found on the Company’s website at www.mack-cali.com.
About Mountain Development Corp.
Mountain Development Corp. (MDC) is a full-service real estate company with over 30 years of experience developing, acquiring, constructing, repositioning, managing, leasing and operating commercial property. MDC is an active acquirer of a broad range of opportunistic and value-added real estate investments capable of generating attractive, risk-adjusted returns for both its principals and equity partners. Active throughout the Northeast, MDC’s accomplished staff includes in-house development, accounting, property management, construction, leasing and marketing professionals, enabling the company to operate autonomously and deliver expeditious, successful results. For more information, visit www.mountaindevelopment.com.
pancakes topped with blueberries,raspberries, mint and Powdered sugar
PARSIPPANY — Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills will be holding a “Dine for Dollars” fundraiser at Kafe Mozart, 2900 Route 10 West, Powdermill Plaza West, Parsippany on Tuesday, July 26.
Kafe Mozart will donate 10% to the organization when diners present their flyer (click here to download) to their server.
Kafe Mozart is open from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday. The club will earn the donation on all orders, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, late night snacks, delivery orders, pick up orders and even gift card purchases.
Kafe Mozart serves a large selection of foods from burgers, homemade salads, panini’s, savory crepes, entrees such as grilled chicken or hanger steak and a large selection of sweet crepes. Kafe Mozart also has a full service espresso bar.
For reservations, please call (973) 998-7788 or visit www.KafeMozart.com.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a dynamic group of women of all ages and walks of life committed to volunteerism and service to the community. Our Club is involved in charitable, philanthropic, educational and recreational activities and has made many contributions to Parsippany and to our state. The Club works in harmony with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC).
Some of the Club’s annual service projects include food drives, support of domestic violence shelters, book donations for Parsippany-Troy Hills Library, school supply drive for Jersey Battered Women’s Services, and working at the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. We also work with other NJSFWC Clubs on the Special State Project, National Alliance on Mental Illness.
The Club’s major fundraiser is the Annual Scholarship Golf Classic, which raises money for scholarships for Parsippany-Troy Hills High Schools. The Club also gives Middle School Citizenship Awards and 5th Grade Reading Awards. And every year the Club sends two delegates to Girl’s Career Institute at Douglass College.
Membership is available to women who live in the Parsippany Troy-Hills area. Guests are always welcome at meetings, and new members are received monthly. Please contact Cathy (Membership Chairman) if interested in attending a meeting at (973) 984-0758 or womansclubofpth@gmail.com. Please note: you must attend a meeting prior to submitting an application for membership.
To learn more about The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills click here.
MORRISTOWN — Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge will perform music from her new release MEmphis Rock & Soul, inspired by the artists and legacy that pioneering record label Stax Records played in the Civil Rights movement, on Saturday, October 22 at 8:00 p.m. at Mayo Performing Arts Center.
Ticket purchase includes digital download of her new release.
Ticket prices are $112.00, $102.00, $92.00, $72.00 and $62.00. Tickets available by calling (973) 539-0345 or by clicking here.
Mayo Performing Arts Center is located at 100 South Street, Morristown.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Chief of Investigations John Speirs announce the participation of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in the annual National Night Out to be held on Tuesday, August 2 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Representatives from the Prosecutor’s Office will be present and available to interact with the public and to disseminate educational and informational materials regarding a range of public safety topics at the following locations:
Mennen Sports Arena: 161 East Hanover Avenue, Morris Township
Butler Borough Police Department: 10 High Street, Butler
Firemen’s Field: 152 – 164 Beach Street, Rockaway
National Night Out is an annual event held on the first Tuesday of every August. Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, the event was created in 1984 and designed to increase awareness about police programs such as neighborhood watch, drug use prevention, and anti-crime strategies.
“The fight against crime takes a collective effort between law enforcement and the communities we serve. National Night Out is an excellent opportunity to foster this relationship” said Prosecutor Knapp.
Anne Juaire, director of corporate development, Autism Speaks, Jerome Fleming Jr., bar server, Applebee’s and Kurt Pahlitzsch, director of operations, Applebee’s
PARSIPPANY — Representatives of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar present a check for $77,080 to Autism Speaks – whose mission is to change the future for all who struggle with an autism spectrum disorder – on June 16. In support of Autism Awareness Month, Applebee’s locations owned and operated by Doherty Enterprises in New Jersey, Long Island, Florida and Georgia, donated a portion of the proceeds from the sale of “blue” drinks – including Blue Skyy Electric Lemonade and Blue Moon draft beer – as well as paper puzzle pieces, throughout the entire month of April. Applebee’s locations in New Jersey raised a total of $28,293, which includes matching donations from Skyy Vodka and Miller Coors, as well as the proceeds from flapjack fundraisers held at its Parsippany, Flemington, Hillsborough, Manchester, Tinton Falls, Toms River and Woodbridge restaurants.
Applebee’s supports its neighbors, providing local organizations with a platform to promote their community and charity initiatives. The company offers its restaurants as a facility during non-operating hours to help local organizations raise money through sales of its breakfast plates.
About Doherty Enterprises, Inc. Established in 1985, Doherty Enterprises, Inc. is recognized as the 68th largest privately-held business in the New York Metro area by Crain’s Business and the 10th largest franchisee in the United States as ranked in the Restaurant Finance Monitor, operating seven restaurant concepts including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, Quaker Steak & Lube, Noodles & Company, and two of its own concepts, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas. In 2015, Nation’s Restaurant News ranked Doherty Enterprises as the 78th largest U.S. Foodservice revenue company, up from 85 in 2014. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates over 160 restaurants in northern, southern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Florida and Georgia – including newly acquired locations in the Miami area. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Communities We Serve” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.” (www.DohertyInc.com).
About Applebee’s Applebee’s (www.applebees.com) is the world’s largest casual dining chain, with more than 2,000 locations in 49 states, 16 countries and in Guam and Puerto Rico. Based in Glendale, Calif., Applebee’s takes pride in providing a welcoming, neighborhood environment where everyone can enjoy the dining experience. Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill® restaurants are franchised or operated by DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN) wholly-owned subsidiary, Applebee’s International, Inc. and its affiliates.
In New Jersey, Applebee’s is located in Parsippany, Brick, Bridgewater, Butler, Clark, Clifton, East Hanover, Edison, Flemington, Garfield, Hackensack, Hackettstown, Hillsborough, Howell, Jersey City, Jersey Gardens, Kearny, Lacey, Linden, Manahawkin, Manalapan, Manchester, Middletown, Milltown, Mt. Olive, Newark, Newton, North Bergen, Northvale, Ocean, Paramus, Phillipsburg, Piscataway, Rockaway, Tinton Falls, Toms River, Totowa, Union, Wall and Woodbridge.
About Autism Speaks Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $570 million to its mission, the majority in science and medical research. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 70 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit www.AutismSpeaks.org.
Kristina is about 13 to 15 weeks old and she is so cute!
Kristina and her siblings were rescued from a high kill shelter in North Carolina and now living in a wonderful foster homes in New Jersey.
Kristina’s foster family says……”Kristina is so precious!!! She loves playing with bouncy and squeaky toys, chasing ice cubes on the floor, catching bugs at night, playing with empty water bottles and playing with her sister Katrina!
Kristina and Katrina have lots of fun running into each other and over each other. It’s so funny! Kristina also enjoys being outside and exploring.
She is a smart puppy who already knows how to “sit” for a treat, comes inside when we say “inside”, knows what “potty” means, she sleeps through the night without having accidents and she will sit by the door and whimper when she wants to go out. When Kirstina is tired she will snuggle with you! She is just adorable!”
Kristina and Katrina would love to be adopted to the same furever home, but we will separate if we find the right homes.
If you have a furever home for this pet, please e-mail FHDR@att.net and request an adoption application. You can see more photos of Kristina and other pups up for adoption at by clicking here.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council on Tuesday, July 19, approved the Mayor’s $68.1 million budget for 2016 that reflects higher overall higher expenses with one dissenting vote by Councilman Robert Peluso.
The budget calls for a $42,649,736 amount to be raised by taxes compared to $40,958,517 in 2015.
The budget was introduced to the Council on Tuesday, June 9 which was late in introduction, approval, and adoption. According to NJ Department of Community Affair’s Division of Local Government Services, N.J.S.A. 40A:4-5.1, the Local Finance Board approved the statutory budget deadline with municipal introduction and approval of budget for March 18, 2016 and the Municipal Adoption by April 22, 2016.
It further noted that a judicial determination of gross failure to comply with provisions of the Local Budget Law is one of the conditions for which the Local Finance Board may determine that a municipality is subject to State Supervision (N.J.S.A. 52:27BB-55 and 56).
According to New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, a letter dated June 3, 2016 was issued to the Administration referencing the notice of late introduction of municipal budget and an order to introduce it. The letter further indicated that “while some delay is understandable, the fact that your municipality (Parsippany) has not introduced a budget within the time frame authorized by the Division compromises the municipality’s fiscal integrity.” Parsippany Focus received a copy of the letter through the Open Public Records Act (OPRA). (Click here). The letter was discussed at the Council meeting on Tuesday.
Barberio’s proposal for 2016 represented a municipal tax increase and an impact on average residential tax payments 4.2%. Based upon the average residential assessment of $309,206, projected impact would be $74.21 which would be higher for homes with higher assessments.
This municipal portion would be added to increases in school, county, and average fire district tax to approximately $207 per household.
Salaries for the Mayor and Council members would increase 2% for 2016 and inquires have been made if it will be retroactive to January 1, 2016.
It should be noted that Councilman Peluso refused his 2% increase which he publically announced since he has been a Councilman.
Residents have noted that they have seen an increase in their tax bills since estimated third quarter tax bills have been mailed after June 21.
When Parsippany Focus asked each elected Council member to comment on the budget, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Michael dePierro did not answer the request.
Council Vice President Robert Peluso voted down Mayor Barberio’s budget
Council Vice President Robert Peluso said in a prepared statement “New Jersey’s property taxes are already the highest in the nation; Parsippany’s residents will see a significant bump up on their tax bills for 2016. Too many of our tax dollars in Parsippany go to support lawyers and overtime. The budget presented by the Mayor seeks more money for attorneys and is already over budget in overtime. I lead by example and started making cuts by first refusing my 2% salary increase which was well above the latest US inflation rate of 1.00% and asked the Mayor to do the same. Also, as an individual Councilman, I made recommendations to cut expenses that would not reduce public services, but I didn’t have support from the Mayor or the Council. And while I may have voted against unnecessary spending in the general budget, I supported bond ordinances that included “paying-as-we-go” because it’s important to maintain our quality of life and improve our infrastructure such as purchasing new ambulances. Additionally I recommended some solid revenue generating ideas at last year’s budget hearings, which have not been acted upon.
The Mayor introduced the 2016 Township Budget after receiving a notice of late introduction from “NJ Division of Local Government Services that ordered him” to introduce the budget since under NJ statutes it was required to be introduced by March 18 and Adopted by April 22.
The smoke and mirrors come in when the Mayor tells you the impact on average residential tax payment is an increase of 4.2% when the actual increase is approximately 12%. The difference is that he is using resident’s money taken from other sources, but which is still your money to fund this tax increase. Mayor Barberio took $2.5 million from Sewer Utility revenue and $780,000 from the Township’s general cash fund reserves to fund his historic $3.3M spending increase, a spending increase that may not be sustainable in the long term.
The Mayor can offer all the happy political spin he wants, but I don’t think taxpayers are feeling quite so chipper about local government reaching into their pockets for more of their hard earned money to support another property tax hike. My advice to the Mayor is to start the budget process early this year for 2017, use a zero-based approach to balance the budget, and not increase taxes in 2017. Let’s work together to passionately make our government as frugal and responsible as possible while maintaining our services.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.
Councilman Paul Carifi stated “I am not happy at all with the increase but unfortunately with a situation that occurred at the library there needed to be an increase or there would have had to be major cuts in services and personnel at the library. I have been assured by the business administrator that this situation is being addressed and steps are being taken so that this will not occur again. I did make recommendations for some cuts to the original proposed budget which were agreed upon by the rest of the council which did bring the budget down significantly. Once again though the situation that occurred at the library is the major cause for the increase in this years budget.”
Council President Lou Valori
Council President Lou Valori stated “The Finance Committee, was charged five monthsago with recommending proposed budget cuts and operational efficiencies. Not one proposal was made. Additionally, the Township Council and Mayor conducted exhaustive budget hearings — with all department heads participating. At no point were budget cuts proposed any other council member during this transparent process where everyone had an opportunity for input. In fact, all council members agreed the proposed FY2017 budget was a fiscally responsible and sustainable plan. Unfortunately, this year’s budget was forced to resolve an enormous library debt in the amount of $800,000. Without the financial assistance, all township library branches would have to permanent close its doors, cutting off access to educational resources and compromising the quality-of-life for thousands of students and residents. Safety is this Township’s priority. To that end, residents can sleep better at night knowing this council increased our police force from a dangerously low 86 officers to 106 members. This critical manpower increase will provide for greater protection of our residents and township students alike during times when public unrest nationally and internationally makes headline news regularly. On a brighter note, improvements and much-needed infrastructure investments in our Township this year will provide for a reduction in taxes for the FY 2017 budget. State-of-good-repair efforts include upgrades to our sewage treatment plant, improved road drainage and curbing, and renovations to the Knoll Country Club which will increase membership resulting in added revenue for the township. I am proud to have worked side-by-side with township officials and staff focused on preparing a fiscally sound plan which provides for safety and security for residents while maintaining the precious services that they need, treasure and deserve,” continued Council President Louis Valori.
DOVER —The Housing Partnership, a non-profit organization that provides access to first-time home buyer education, counseling services, and financial coaching in order to strengthen communities throughout New Jersey, announced today that its Board of Trustees elected its newest – and youngest – board member, Amanda Parker. She was installed on July 19.
Amanda Parker
Parker, 27, is the Senior Director of Events and Fundraising at Evergreen Partners, a Warren-based public relations and event management firm, where she oversees all of the firm’s non-profit clients and events including New Jersey’s largest annual black-tie fundraiser, NJPAC’s Spotlight Gala, Montclair State University Foundation’s Annual Scholarship Dinner, and many more of the state’s top-grossing and highly regarded non-profit gala fundraisers.
A graduate of Montclair State University, Parker was exposed to non-profits through an internship with HOMECorp, a Montclair-based organization that plays a critical role in the township’s affordable housing strategic plan by contributing to its inventory and providing financial education and services for all residents.
“My experience with HOMECorp set me on a path of service and ignited in me a deep desire to make a difference in our communities,” Parker said. “I’m a professional event-based fundraiser, so I have the privilege of working with a wide range of clients to raise critical funds in support of their missions and the great work they all do – and in my spare time I volunteer with causes that are close to my heart and personal experience. I’m honored to join the amazing Housing Partnership team and bring my skills and experience to help guide the organization as it continues to grow and thrive.”
Dwight Smith, Ed.D., Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Housing Partnership said, “I am excited and thankful that Amanda has joined our Board of Trustees.”
“I look forward to working with Amanda, and am eager for all that she will bring to the table, including her expertise in fundraising and most importantly passion for our mission,” said the Housing Partnership’s Executive Director, Jessica Padilla Gonzalez.
Since its founding in 1992, the Housing Partnership has been Northern New Jersey’s resource for home buyer education and programming. Through its monthly workshops online and in-person and one-on-one counseling services provided in both Spanish and English, the Housing Partnership has helped more than 1,000 families on their journey to homeownership. The Housing Partnership is also a chartered member of NeighborWorks America – a national network of 243 community organizations working to improve lives and strengthen communities and one of the country’s preeminent leaders in affordable housing and community development.
For more information about the Housing Partnership, click here.
Senate President Stephen Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto announced that they have reached agreement on a new plan to fund the Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) and enact a series of tax cuts designed to make New Jersey more competitive. For counties and municipalities, the new plan restores Local Aid Allocations to its original percentage at $400.0 million per year, a long term goal and objective of both NJAC and the NSLOM.
The agreement includes a 12.5 percent increase in the Petroleum Products Gross Receipts Tax, a four-cent diesel surcharge and a seven percent tax on non-motor-fuel petroleum products to fund the TTF, which has essentially run out of money for new transportation projects after years of over borrowing. The new gas tax revenue would cover old debt payments, freeing up $347 million from the general fund for other needs. If passed along to motorists, the gas tax would increase by 23 cents a gallon of which an estimated 35 percent would be paid by out-of-state motorists. The dedicated revenue would generate $1.2 billion annually, which would support $2 billion in infrastructure investments each year.
The plan also includes five tax cuts worked out over the past several months during ongoing negotiations involving Democratic and Republican lawmakers from both the Senate and the Assembly. The plan does not include any changes in jet fuel taxation. The tax cuts would provide:
1) Tax savings for the working poor by increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit to 40 percent of the federal benefit amount beginning in Tax Year 2016.
2) Tax savings for retirees by Increasing the New Jersey gross income tax exclusion on pension and retirement income over four years to $100,000 for joint filers, $75,000 for individuals and $50,000 for married/filing separately.
3) Elimination of the estate tax by phasing it out over 3 1/2 years and replacing the current $675,000 threshold with a $2 million exclusion.
4) Tax deductions for NJ Motorists by provide an annual income tax deduction on up to $500 in state gas taxes paid for all New Jersey motorists with incomes up to $100,000.
5) Tax savings for veterans by providing $3,000 personal exemption on state income taxes for all New Jersey veterans honorably discharged from active service in the military or the National Guard.
Golfers enjoying the day and supporting the Woman's Club of Parsippany Troy Hills Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic
PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) celebrated its Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic and Luncheon Fundraiser on Tuesday, July 12 with record attendance. More than 90 golfers and 90 other guests from both the community and area Women’s Clubs were at the Knoll Country Club West in Parsippany. It was a glorious morning of golf, socializing and games. In the afternoon all enjoyed lunch and bidding on a wonderful array of Tricky Tray items and a 50/50 raffle.
Women from several area Women’s Clubs enjoyed a morning of games and socializing before the luncheon.
Tricky Tray items included Baskets of Cheer, Yankee tickets, restaurant gift cards, show tickets and much more.
Tricky Tray items included Baskets of Cheer, Yankee tickets, restaurant gift cards, show tickets and much more.
The luncheon was enjoyed by all.
Everyone was busy at the same time checking their Tricky Tray tickets and eating lunch.
Club members Claudia McCarthy and Joan Garbarino were in charge of selling Tricky Tray tickets.
WCPTH club members Betty Lagitch and Jennifer Seeber out on the course.
Golfers enjoying the day and supporting the Woman’s Club of Parsippany Troy Hills Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic
Club member MaryAnn Coyne and husband Bill looking at some of the 63 fabulous Tricky Tray items.
Mayor James Barberio, WCPTH club member Cathy Cerbo, WCPTH President Marilyn Marion, and Tee Off For Education Golf Classic Chairman Lois Preis White.
Event Chairman Lois Preis White and all club members were pleased with the outcome, which will allow WCPTH to give scholarships to students at both Parsippany High Schools and to a woman from the New Jersey Battered Women’s Service. The annual golf classic also provides funds for 8th Grade Citizenship Awards and for Fifth reading Awards given to students in Parsippany Elementary schools.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani and Councilman Michael dePierro were in attendance along with a number of officers and club members from various Women’s Clubs of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs.
The club would like to thank all of their very generous sponsors and donors for their contributions to the success of the Golf Classic. It is very gratifying when community organizations, such as Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire Department District 6 pitch in to help one another.
Mark July 11, 2017 on your calendar for the Club’s Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic and Luncheon Fundraiser. Contact Lois at (973) 887-6627 or WCPTH, Golf Outing, P.O. Box 98, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 for more information.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC), which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. The next General Meeting is Monday, September 26.