PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills has honored longtime resident Vicki E. Rice as a recipient of the 2025 Socolowski Senior Citizen of the Year Award, recognizing more than 55 years of volunteer service and community leadership.

Rice has dedicated decades to volunteering with organizations that enrich the lives of Parsippany residents, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to civic engagement and service.

A key figure in the Lake Hiawatha Seniors Club, Rice has been a member for 11 years and has served as President since 2020. She played a critical role in revitalizing the organization after COVID-19, reconnecting members and expanding programming to keep seniors active and engaged.

Her impact extends throughout the community. By organizing trips, luncheons, speakers, entertainment, and fundraising events, Rice has worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for local seniors while keeping programs accessible and affordable.

Rice is also an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 249 and the Parsippany Elks, where she has supported initiatives benefiting veterans, local families, and scholarships. Her efforts include assisting homeless veterans and helping provide seeing eye dogs to those in need.

In addition, Rice has served for more than 28 years with the Blue Eagles Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps, where she is President of the Board of Directors. Her leadership has helped preserve community traditions through parades, civic events, and veterans’ ceremonies, including Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances.

“Her leadership, generosity of spirit, and passion for service exemplify the very best of Parsippany’s community values,” the proclamation states.

Mayor Pulkit Desai, on behalf of the Township Council and residents, formally recognized and congratulated Rice for her extraordinary dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on the community.

The Socolowski Senior Citizen of the Year Award honors individuals whose volunteerism strengthens the community and inspires others. For Vicki Rice, that legacy is defined by decades of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to helping others.

Parsippany also recognized Evelyn DeCastro, Judi Chase, and June Golden, recipients of the Socolowski Senior Citizen of the Year Award. These outstanding residents exemplify the true spirit of volunteerism and community service, making a lasting and meaningful impact throughout Parsippany.

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is proudly recognizing longtime resident and dedicated volunteer Judi Chase as a nominee for the 2025 Socolowski Senior Citizen of the Year Award, honoring a lifetime of service that has made a lasting impact on the community.

According to an official township proclamation issued by Mayor Pulkit Desai, Chase has devoted more than 50 years to the Parsippany Child Day Care Center, where she began as an employee and continues to serve as a committed board member. Her efforts have helped ensure that generations of children are provided with a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment in which to learn and grow.

Her leadership and dedication have also played a key role in maintaining high standards of care and stability for local families, addressing the ongoing need for accessible and dependable early childhood education programs throughout Parsippany.

In addition to her work in early childhood education, Chase has been an active member of Kiwanis for more than 31 years, generously contributing her time and talents to initiatives that benefit children and families both locally and beyond. Her commitment to service extends further through her involvement with the New York Blood Center, where she has supported critical healthcare efforts and helped save lives across the region.

“Her decades of dedication reflect a deep commitment to community service, compassion for others, and a lasting impact on countless families and residents,” the proclamation states.

Mayor Desai, on behalf of the Township Council and residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills, formally recognized and congratulated Chase for her extraordinary contributions, noting that her service embodies the very spirit of the Socolowski Senior Citizen of the Year Award.

The proclamation was dated March 3, 2026, and serves as a testament to Chase’s enduring legacy of volunteerism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others throughout the community.

Evelyn DeCastro, Vicki Rice, and June Golden, were also recipients of the Socolowski Senior Citizen of the Year Award. These outstanding residents exemplify the true spirit of volunteerism and community service, making a lasting and meaningful impact throughout Parsippany. See related stories.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, April 2026. Click here to read the magazine.

PARSIPPANY — Local drivers looking to refresh their skills and potentially save money on auto insurance will have the opportunity to do both at an upcoming AARP Smart Driver Course.

The program, designed especially for older drivers but open to all, focuses on improving driving techniques, reviewing the latest traffic laws, and introducing research-based safety strategies to help participants stay confident and safe behind the wheel.

The course will be held on Tuesday, May 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Parsippany Community Center, located at 1130 Knoll Road in Lake Hiawatha.

Participants will gain valuable insights into defensive driving, hazard awareness, and age-related changes that can affect driving ability. The updated curriculum also includes new content aimed at helping drivers better navigate today’s increasingly complex roadways.

The cost to attend is $20.00 for AARP members and $25.00 for non-members. Upon completion of the course, attendees may be eligible to receive a discount on their auto insurance, depending on their provider.

To register, call (973) 263-7352 or (973) 263-7351. For additional course offerings, click here or call 1-888-773-7160.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this informative program to enhance their driving skills, improve safety, and potentially reduce insurance costs.

PARSIPPANY — Smiling children and excited families filled Parsippany Town Hall on Saturday, March 21, as the Township hosted its annual Easter Bunny Visit, creating a festive and memorable morning for the community.

Young residents lined up eagerly, their faces lighting up with anticipation as they waited their turn to meet the Easter Bunny. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, springtime cheer, and the joy that comes with a cherished community tradition.

Families had the opportunity to take photos with the Easter Bunny, capturing special moments that many will treasure for years to come. Each child also received a treat, adding to the excitement and making the experience even more meaningful.

Parents and caregivers watched as their children interacted with the Easter Bunny, many sharing smiles and laughter as the line moved steadily throughout the morning. The event once again proved to be a popular gathering, bringing neighbors together in a welcoming and family-friendly setting.

The Township’s Easter Bunny Visit continues to highlight Parsippany’s commitment to community engagement, offering events that create lasting memories and strengthen local connections.

For many families, the highlight of the day was simple—seeing the joy on children’s faces as they met the Easter Bunny, a reminder of the importance of community traditions that bring people together.

PARSIPPANY — The proposed construction of dozens of apartments as an addition to the Islamic Community Cultural Center (ICCC), located at 879 Beverwyck Road, will be reviewed by the Parsippany Zoning Board of Adjustment on Wednesday, April 15, at 7:00 p.m.

The meeting will take place at Parsippany High School, 309 Baldwin Road, to accommodate anticipated public interest and attendance.

According to meeting details, the application involves plans to expand the ICCC property with a residential component, which has generated discussion among residents regarding zoning, traffic, density, and overall community impact.

Residents are encouraged to arrive by 6:45 p.m. to allow time for parking, entry, and seating before the meeting begins, as late arrivals may disrupt the proceedings.

During the hearing, the applicant’s professionals and experts will present testimony related to the project, including site plans, engineering, and other technical aspects. Members of the public will have the opportunity to ask questions of those experts. Public statements and comments will be heard later in the meeting as part of the formal process.

If the application is not completed during the April 15 session, a second hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., also at Parsippany High School.

Zoning Board hearings are a critical part of the land use approval process, allowing both the applicant and the public to present information, raise concerns, and ensure that all aspects of a proposed development are thoroughly reviewed before any decisions are made.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai has scheduled a public review of the 2026 municipal budget for Tuesday, April 14 at 6:00 p.m. at Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.

Click here to download the proposed budget.

Department heads will be present to outline their respective budgets, answer questions, and provide insight into departmental needs and spending priorities. Residents will also have the opportunity to ask questions and offer input during the session.

The review comes at a critical time, as Parsippany is currently facing a proposed 9.5% municipal tax increase. Township officials are expected to discuss the factors contributing to the increase, including rising operational costs, contractual obligations, and essential services.

The meeting is expected to draw strong community interest, as residents seek clarity on how the proposed budget will impact taxpayers and municipal services moving forward

PARSIPPANY — Two controversial lease agreements executed in the final days of former Mayor James Barberio’s administration for Township-owned property at Watnong Gardens have now been rescinded by the Township Attorney, following growing scrutiny and public discussion.

Parsippany Focus previously reported on a lease dated December 30, 2025, granted to Nicolas Neglia, the son of former Council Vice President Frank Neglia, as well as a second lease issued the same day to Ernest Ingino. Both agreements covered properties at the historic Watnong Gardens site and ran from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026.

Under the terms of the leases, tenants were required to complete 832 hours of work annually on the property, including maintenance and upkeep. If the required hours were fulfilled, no rent would be charged. If not, tenants would be billed $15 per hour for any shortfall.

Leases Formally Rescinded

According to Township officials, both leases have since been rescinded by the Township Attorney, effectively nullifying the agreements.

The rescinding of the leases comes amid questions regarding whether proper procedures were followed in executing the agreements, including compliance with New Jersey statutes governing the leasing of municipal property and the need for Township Council approval.

Council Meeting Response

During the public session of the March 17 Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council meeting, former Council Vice President Frank Neglia addressed the issue publicly.

Neglia responded to the Parsippany Focus article titled “Barberio’s Final Days in Office Include Lease for Son of Former Council Running Mate,” attempting to challenge the credibility of the reporting.

The article, published on March 8, was based on documentation obtained through the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) process and detailed the structure and timing of the lease agreements. (Click here to read original article)

Publisher Frank Cahill has stated that the reporting was derived directly from official records and reflects documented facts rather than opinion or speculation.

Ongoing Scrutiny

The sequence of events—leases executed in the final days of an outgoing administration, followed by their subsequent rescinding—has drawn increased attention from residents and officials alike.

As the Township moves forward under new leadership, the circumstances surrounding the Watnong Gardens leases are expected to remain a topic of discussion, particularly regarding transparency, process, and adherence to municipal regulations.

Parsippany Focus will continue to follow developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.

PARSIPPANY — Frank Neglia has responded to an article titled “Barberio’s Final Days in Office Include Lease for Son of Former Council Running Mate,” attempting to challenge the credibility of the reporting.

According to publisher Frank Cahill of Parsippany Focus, the article in question was developed using official documents obtained through the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) process. He emphasized that the reporting was written verbatim based on those records, asserting that the information presented is factual and derived directly from publicly available government documentation.

Cahill stated that the content of the article reflects documented records rather than opinion or speculation, reinforcing his position that the reporting meets standards of accuracy and transparency. He added that the use of OPRA-obtained materials ensures the information is both verifiable and accessible to the public.

Additionally, the lease referenced in the article was later rescinded by current Township Attorney Joe DeMarco. Documentation related to that action was also included in the OPRA-obtained records.

The response comes amid discussion led by the former council vice president during the public session of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council meeting on March 17.

Cahill maintained that the integrity of the reporting process should not be called into question when it is documented in official, publicly accessible records.

PARSIPPANY — The Knollwood Elementary School PTA will host a Clothing & Shoe Drive Fundraiser on Saturday, April 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the front entrance of Knollwood School, 445 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha.

Residents are encouraged to clean out their closets, attics, garages, and basements and donate gently used clothing, shoes, and household items. All donations must be placed in tightly tied plastic or paper bags. Every bag counts toward the fundraiser, with the total weight of the collected items helping generate funds for the PTA.

Accepted items include adult and children’s clothing, shoes, handbags, purses, wallets, belts, ties, hats, scarves, gloves, jackets, coats, linens, towels, blankets, backpacks, and more. The program is also currently accepting small household items such as utensils and small bric-a-brac items.

Items that will not be accepted include furniture, books, pillows, curtains, flea market goods, or items with holes, rips, stains, mold, or odors.

For more information, contact Jacqueline Medina at (973) 991-6584.

The clothing drive provides an easy way for residents to declutter their homes while supporting Knollwood Elementary School programs and giving usable items a second life.

PARSIPPANY — The Township Council will convene on Tuesday, March 17, with several major items on the agenda, including capital improvements, the 2026 municipal budget introduction, and multiple ordinances impacting township operations and zoning.

Click here to download the agenda.

Capital Improvements Bond Ordinance
A key item for final approval is Ordinance 2026:06, which authorizes $8.75 million in funding for various capital improvements across the township. The ordinance will be heard on second reading and opened to public comment before a final vote.

Presentations
Two presentations are scheduled:

• Community Hope will present an application for a Morris County HOME Grant
• A presentation highlighting the global Save Soil Day initiative

2026 Municipal Budget Introduction
Council will introduce the 2026 municipal budget, along with supporting resolutions, including the use of a three-year average method for calculating reserve for uncollected taxes.

Additionally, an ordinance (2026:15) will be introduced to exceed the municipal budget cap and establish a cap bank, setting up future financial flexibility.

Consent Agenda Highlights
Routine approvals include:

• Extension of a sludge disposal contract
• Infrastructure improvements, including the Well 21-R project
• Equipment purchases for police and public works, including rugged tablets and vehicles
• A tax refund for a permanently disabled veteran

New Ordinances (First Reading)
Council will introduce several ordinances for future consideration:

• Updates to EMS billing and third-party payment plans
• Expansion of zoning definitions to include tattoo establishments
• Amendments to parks and recreation regulations and fee structures

Non-Consent Agenda (Key Actions)
Items requiring individual votes include:

• Appointment of an EMS Medical Director
• Infrastructure repair work at Route 53 and Ridgewood Avenue
• Legal settlements involving township litigation
• Endorsement of the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan
• Extension of the township website services contract

Financials
The Council is expected to approve:

• Approximately $1.65 million in payroll
• Over $2.17 million in bills

• Mayor Pulkit Desai – (D) Term ends December 31, 2029
• Councilman Paul Carifi Jr. (R) Term ends December 31, 2027
• Council President Judy Hernandez (D) Term ends December 31, 2027
• Councilman Matthew Kavanagh – (D) Term ends December 31, 2029
• Councilman Matt McGrath– (R) Term ends December 31, 2027
• Council Vice President Diya Patel – (D) Term ends December 31, 2029

PARSIPPANY — Pet lovers from across Morris County will have a chance to celebrate their furry, feathered, and four-legged friends when the Happy Pet Expo comes to Parsippany this spring.

The one-day event will take place on Saturday, April 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Parsippany Police Athletic League located at 33 Baldwin Road.

Organizers say the event will be held under the same roof as the Happy Wellness Expo, creating a large combined showcase featuring more than 100 exhibitors. Visitors can explore a wide variety of pet-related businesses, services, and rescue organizations.

The expo promises a full day of activities including:

• National and local pet exhibitors
• Pet product vendors and services
• Animal rescue organizations
• Guest speakers and demonstrations
• Prizes and giveaways
• Food and refreshments

The event is designed to be pet-friendly, making it an ideal outing for families and animal lovers alike.

Admission is $10, with children under 13 admitted free. Tickets will be available at the door.

Organizers encourage residents to learn more and view event details by clicking here.

For additional information, contact the event organizers at (973) 420-2333 or email [email protected].

With dozens of exhibitors, demonstrations, and activities planned, the Happy Pet Expo is expected to draw pet enthusiasts from throughout the region for a day dedicated to celebrating the animals that bring joy to so many homes.