PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting was held on Thursday, November 21, 2023.
Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request auxiliary aid.
Mayor James R. Barberio Council President Loretta Gragnani Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro Councilman Paul Carifi Jr. Councilman Frank Neglia Councilman Justin Musella
Agenda subject to change without notice Although the information on this site is believed to be reliable, online postings of meeting agendas are not considered official copies.
MORRIS COUNTY — The grand opening of NJ Recovery Institute was a momentous occasion that brought together local dignitaries and members of the area’s dedicated police departments. It was an inspiring event that symbolized the strong community commitment to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery from addiction. With the collective presence of these leaders and law enforcement officials, the institute’s mission of providing comprehensive assistance and fostering a supportive community was further reinforced. This collaborative effort underscores the shared goal of ensuring a brighter and healthier future for everyone in the Morris County area affected by drug addiction and alcohol abuse.
NJ Recovery Institute offers all-inclusive assistance for anyone seeking to recover from drug addiction or alcohol abuse. They offer services specific to individual needs as well as comprehensive guidance. NJ Recovery Institute also offers aftercare services to ensure the clients get the care they need to have lasting recovery.
The grand opening of NJ Recovery Institute was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including Senator Anthony Bucco, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Wharton Police Chief David Young.
NJ Recovery Institute upholds the principles of respect, compassion, and integrity as the foundation of our community. It is the goal to help individuals and their loved ones in the Morris County area overcome their situations by providing the right treatments for alcohol and drug addiction. They know the challenges of creating a supportive community and believe every person can have a brighter and healthier future.
With a range of recovery programs and options, NJ Recovery Institute strives to cater to the specific needs of the client. The alcohol and drug addiction recovery programs serve as the first step toward a successful recovery. NJ Recovery Institute is a true partner to anyone struggling with addiction.
NJ Recovery Institute is located at 106 Route 10 West, Succasunna. For more information visit their website by clicking here. They can also be reached by calling (973) 891-0897.
PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, November 26, the Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary welcomed the community to their Annual Pancake Breakfast held at the Lake Parsippany Fire Department, located at 255 Halsey Road. The event was a delightful gathering that brought together friends and neighbors for a delicious morning feast.
Paul Shannon, the Secretary of the Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department, took charge of the grill during the Annual Pancake Breakfast. With dedication and culinary skill, he expertly prepared the delicious pancakes that were enjoyed by all attendees. Paul’s commitment to serving the community went beyond his role as Secretary, making him an integral part of the successful breakfast event.
Guests were treated to a mouthwatering spread that included homemade pancakes, savory sausage, and more. The offerings extended beyond the breakfast classics, featuring bagels, cream cheese, and butter, as well as coffee, tea, and refreshing orange juice. It was a true culinary delight that left everyone satisfied and fueled for the day ahead.
Emma Sikora, with a heart full of dedication, took on the responsibility of clearing tables at the Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary’s Annual Pancake Breakfast. The Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary’s Annual Pancake Breakfast received significant support from notable community figures. Mayor James Barberio, alongside Council President Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Frank Neglia, Council Vice President Michael dePierro, and Delores dePierro, joined in to show their support for this community event.
The Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary is a vital part of the Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Company, operating as a 501(c)(3) organization with an IRS ruling year of 2019. Donations made to this dedicated group are tax-deductible, further encouraging community support.
Hailey Higgins and Emma Sikora
The roots of the Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Company trace back to 1935 when a group of forward-thinking individuals recognized the necessity for fire protection in Fire District #3. This was a challenging undertaking, considering that Lake Parsippany was a burgeoning community experiencing rapid growth. Nevertheless, by early September of that year, the Lake Parsippany Fire Company was formally established.
Mayor James Barberio engaged in a friendly chat with Clearance Ricker during the Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary’s Annual Pancake Breakfast. Their conversation epitomized the sense of camaraderie and community bonding that this event aimed to foster. Mayor Barberio’s presence and interactions added a warm and personal touch to the breakfast, highlighting his commitment to connecting with the residents of Lake Parsippany.
Without hesitation, the members of the newly formed fire department were determined to forge ahead. They pooled their resources to acquire firefighting equipment and established a committee to locate and purchase a fire truck.
Since those early days, the Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Company has evolved into a modern fire department, adapting to the changing needs of the community. As Lake Parsippany has grown, both in terms of residential and commercial development, so too has the demand for dedicated volunteers who safeguard the community.
In December 1935, the company acquired its first fire truck from the Livingston Fire Company, and the Morris Plains Fire Association provided fire rings to alert members to a fire. Meetings in the initial days were hosted at the homes of Mr. Peter Yeager of Kingston Road and Mr. Edward Flanagan of Centerton Drive. Subsequently, the Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association Club House became the venue for their gatherings.
The journey continued with the need for a suitable location to house the fire truck. The land was acquired from the New York Daily Mirror, and construction of the firehouse commenced in August 1936. Within just one year of its formation, the Fire Company, through dances, raffles, and the generosity of contributors, had grown into a fully operational fire company.
The Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department is a close-knit family of both men and women who share a passion for helping others during times of need. They are ordinary people, just like their fellow community members, living, raising their families, working, and playing in the same neighborhood they serve.
For those interested in joining this dedicated community of volunteers, the Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department welcomes inquiries. Potential volunteers can stop by for an application on any Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m., or they can call (973) 887-6157 and leave a message. It’s an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the community while becoming part of a remarkable family of first responders.
The event garnered a significant turnout, with a strong attendance of community members coming together to support and enjoy the Annual Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary.The Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary provided service with a smile at their Annual Pancake Breakfast. Their warm and welcoming demeanor added to the inviting atmosphere of the event, making attendees feel appreciated and cherished.The delightful menu at the Lake Parsippany Ladies Auxiliary’s Annual Pancake Breakfast featured mouthwatering pancakes and savory sausage, satisfying the taste buds of all who attended. It was a scrumptious feast that left guests wanting more.
Editors Note: This letter was presented at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting on November 23.
First, I want to make it clear that my comments refer only to the PILOTs at 2 and 3 Campus Drive, because they will add students to Parsippany’s school system.
Prior to the last meeting’s public session, the mayor and the developer’s attorney, Mr. Inglesino, delivered what can only be described as an all-out PILOT sales pitch. The sales pitch contained the expected embellishment of a PILOT’s positive points while omitting any points that could be interpreted as negative. It also included a generous amount of scare tactics.
Leading off was the mayor, who brought up two points that I would categorize as unsubstantiated. First, the mayor stated emphatically that these PILOTs were necessary because of the rise in construction costs and interest rates. The big problem here is that 2 and 3 Campus Drive were purchased only a month ago. During that short period of time, construction costs have remained about the same and interest rates have actually gone down. So, the mayor’s rationale for why these PILOTs are necessary is not valid, and for that reason alone, the PILOT ordinances should be withdrawn tonight.
Next, the mayor claimed that if the PILOTs are not granted, the projects will not get done, Parsippany will lose tax revenue, and property taxes will go through the roof. That statement is a speculation, a mislead, and a scare tactic all rolled into one. The possibility that Avalon Bay, one of the largest REITs in the country, bought the property on the gamble of obtaining a PILOT, and would walk away from their investments at 2 and 3 Campus Drive after owning them for only one month is very small. And the mayor knows full well that your taxes will not skyrocket even if Avalon Bay pulls out. Because of the 2% cap law, you can count on property taxes going up between 2 and 3 ½% with or without a PILOT.
Mr. Inglesino’s presentation was professional, factual, and informative, but it was also incomplete. Here are just some of the more important details that were left out.
Mr. Inglesino stressed that the school district will still receive a share of the land taxes if a PILOT is granted. What he left out is that the school district currently receives a share of the land tax, and will continue to receive that same amount whether a PILOT is granted or not. The school district gets no additional money from the PILOT, but it will have to pay for additional students.
Mr. Inglesino made absolutely no mention that the developer would be receiving a Land Tax Credit (LTC) under the PILOT. According to the financial charts, Parsippany will rebate approximately 75% of the Land Tax. Avalon Bay is already getting a sweetheart deal on the Building Improvements at Campus Drive, so why does the company also need a rebate on the land taxes, and how does that rebate affect what the school district receives?
Mr. Inglesino also failed to disclose that under the proposed PILOT, Parsippany will forfeit $47 million in property tax dollars over 30 years, a number easily derived from totals that appear on the financial sheets. What is Parsippany getting for that $47 million, and is the mayor, the council, and the public comfortable with that price tag?
Next, Mr. Inglesino’s statement that the school district receives all of the budgeted money that it is entitled to, is entirely true. But there were no details about what happens after a PILOT kicks in. Let’s say that the 410 apartment units at Campus Drive add 50 students to the schools. We already know that the PILOT is not contributing anything extra for the approximately $1 million cost of educating these additional students. But somebody has to pay for them since their costs will be included in the school district’s next budget. As Mr. Inglesino stated, the town must pay for everything that the school district asks for, but that money only comes from properties in the tax-ratable base, which includes every homeowner, but not the PILOTed properties on Campus Drive. In short, the Parsippany taxpayer must absorb all of the additional educational costs that the PILOTed properties are exempted from.
Mr. Inglesino also neglected to tell the audience that Parsippany will most likely have to pay out more money to provide municipal and educational services than it will receive in PILOT payments. For example, according to the financial sheet handouts, in year 1, Parsippany will receive a $1 million PILOT payment but will have to spend $1.7 million to provide municipal services and to educate 50 additional students. No savvy businessman or council member enters an agreement knowing that it will lose money. Rather than operating at a deficit under the PILOT, the township would be better off financially if nothing were built on the property.
In certain cases, commercial PILOTs may be warranted, but the more you learn about residential PILOTs, the worse they get. Thank you.
PARSIPPANY — It was a beautiful Thanksgiving morning, the sun was shining and the temperature mild, as Knoll West Country Club Manager, Kypros “Kip” Andreou, and his staff arrived very early at Parsippany’s gorgeous Knoll West County Club and Catering to begin preparations for over 200 individual Thanksgiving dinners that were to be generously donated to those in need throughout the community.
Volunteers Paul Patracuolla and Jim Ford picking up deliveries from Knoll Catering General Manager, Kypros “Kip” Andreou.
As Chef Peter Kypriamou and Jonathan Vicari began the demanding kitchen preparations for such an event, other necessary duties, such as setting up, boxing each individual meal, and making sure the delivery lists were in order fell upon volunteers, Jorge Manzo and Steve Aimutis, while General Manager Andreou coordinated the operations.
Knoll Catering General Manager, Kypros “Kip” Andreou organized the event.
Each meal consisted of a nice-sized portion of Turkey (naturally), stuffing, mashed potatoes, cauliflower & broccoli, salad, gravy, and cranberries. A meal is sure to make the recipient’s holiday a little brighter.
Each meal consisted of Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables, salad, gravy, & cranberries.
The event was coordinated between Knoll West C.C. Catering, Saint Peter the Apostle Church, and the Parsippany United Methodist Church, who helped create the list of recipients. A steady stream of volunteers, those who were delivering meals throughout the community, as well as individuals picking up their own dinners, kept the Knoll staff busy. The distribution lasted between 10:00 a.m. and noon and ran like a well-oiled machine.
Mr. Andreou noted that it was with the assistance of such companies as Baldor Specialty Foods, out of the Bronx, N.Y., and M&J Frank Restaurant Supplies, located in East Hanover, for their generous donations leading to the success of this much-appreciated community event.
Volunteers Stacy Fernandez, Cristina Fernandez, and Angelina Fernandez picking up meals to deliver them to local families.
All involved, the Knoll Catering staff, the volunteers, and anyone who contributed in any way clearly enjoyed and took great satisfaction in being a part of a giving-back community event such as this. After all, isn’t assisting those, our neighbors and friends, who are in need of some assistance, part of what this holiday, and what our community is all about?
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners has honored Denise Leffler, an employee who is retiring after a 35-year career with the Morris County Clerk’s Office.
The long-time employee was presented with a framed resolution outlining her public service during a luncheon hosted by County Clerk Ann Grossi earlier this week.
“Denise is a legend in the Morris County Clerk’s Office. For 35 years she has graced our office with her effervescent smile, joyful demeanor, contagious giggle, and dedication. She is loved by all and will be greatly missed,” said Grossi.
Denise’s career began in 1988 under then-County Clerk Alfonse Scerbo, where she oversaw the sorting and cataloging of documents, as well as mail distribution. She continued to provide her dedicated service under two subsequent County Clerks, Joan Bramhall (1999 – 2013) and Ann F. Grossi, Esq (2014 – present), working in the Registry Department and providing other services.
Denise will be fondly remembered by her coworkers for her outgoing and bubbly personality, and especially her willingness to do whatever task she was assigned, going forth every time with a sense of mission and a smile.
A Morris County native, Denise was born and raised in Parsippany Troy-Hills Township. She has a daughter, Jaclyn, who is now grown and works as a dental assistant. In retirement, Denise looks forward to spending more time with Jaclyn, along with her siblings and her mother, Joan. She also plans to indulge in her favorite pastimes – watching old-time TV reruns and shopping.
Morris County congratulates Denise for 35 years of dedicated public service, not only to the Morris County Clerk’s Office but also to the residents she served over many years.
PARSIPPANY — Coyne PR celebrated as Tom Coyne was honored by PRSA-NY with the prestigious John W. Hill Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 Big Apple Awards held on November 15 at TAO Downtown in New York City. This accolade underscored Tom’s remarkable contributions to the industry over the years, embodying the spirit of excellence that the award represents.
As PRSA-NY’s top honor, the John W. Hill Award recognizes lifetime professional achievement in the practice of public relations. It is named for the founder of one of the world’s prominent PR firms and is given annually to professionals who excel in leadership, integrity, service, communications, and understanding through the exchange of ideas.
Rich Lukis, President of Coyne PR, expressed his elation, “This was a monumental occasion for our agency as we celebrated the storied career of Tom Coyne. The honor bestowed upon him by PRSA-NY with the John W. Hill Lifetime Achievement Award reflects not only his tremendous contributions to Coyne PR but to the broader public relations industry as well. It was truly a night of pride and reflection on the indelible mark Tom has left on all of us.”
The annual PRSA-NY Big Apple Awards continued to be a hallmark event that celebrated the exemplary achievements of PR agencies, companies, governmental bodies, and not-for-profit organizations in the New York Metro area across over 100 disciplines. With a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a distinguished panel of over 75 senior-level communications leaders, the awards epitomized the pinnacle of creativity, integrity, and excellence in the public relations field.
In addition to celebrating Tom Coyne’s illustrious career, Coyne PR was also delighted to share its success with five client wins this year. These victories echoed the agency’s enduring commitment to delivering outstanding service and innovative solutions to its clients.
Coyne PR won in the following Big Apple Award categories:
Events & Observances (1-7 days) – Campaigns with Budgets of $200,000 or Less: Pacira BioSciences, Inc. – Smashing Records with iovera° at the National Senior Games
Events & Observances (More than 7 days) – Business: Ollie’s 40th Anniversary celebration including the America’s Biggest Cheapskate Contest and World’s Largest Bobblehead event
Marketing Consumer Products – Healthcare: Pacira BioSciences, Inc. – Freezing Out the Competition with iovera°
Marketing Consumer Products – Beauty: CeraVe Enlists Dermfluencers and TikTok Titans to Show Consumers How to #CleanseLikeaDerm
Best Use of Spokesperson/Influencer – Other: CeraVe Enlists Dermfluencers and TikTok Titans to Show Consumers How to #CleanseLikeaDerm
Coyne PR received honorable mentions in the following Big Apple Award categories:
Integrated Communications – Consumer Products: Alka-Seltzer and T-Pain Help Hangover Symptoms Fizzle
Marketing Consumer Products – Healthcare: Humana – Honoring Senior Athletes at the 2022 National Senior Games: The Humana Game Changers
For a full list of honorable mentions and winners, please visit the PRSA-NY website.
MORRIS COUNTY — On Monday, November 20, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners paid tribute to Dr. Joseph S. Weisberg, celebrating over forty years of his unwavering commitment to the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, the County College of Morris (CCM), and the broader Morris County community.
PARSIPPANY — Members from Kiwanis Clubs of Greater Dover, Rockaway, Tri-Town, Greater Parsippany, and Morristown joined forces in a heartwarming event, serving over 325 dinners to senior citizens at IHOP locations in Parsippany, Kenvil, and Cedar Knolls. The seniors savored a choice of turkey or chicken dinners, complete with all the traditional trimmings.
The event was coordinated by Frank Cahill, Past Lt. Governor of NJ District Kiwanis, Division 9, and current President of the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town.
Michelle Espada, a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, showcased her commitment to community engagement during the recent senior meal event at IHOP Kevil. Her presence at the event was marked by meaningful interactions with the seniors. Taking the time to converse and connect with the elderly guests, Espanda’s efforts went beyond mere meal service. Her actions exemplify the personal touch that Kiwanis Club members strive to bring to their community service initiatives, highlighting their dedication to not only serve but also to build relationships and enrich the lives of the seniors they support.
After enjoying their meals, seniors at the Cedar Knolls IHOP were presented with a variety of pies – Apple, Pumpkin, Blueberry, or Coconut Custard – as a complimentary gift from Arden Courts – ProMedica Memory Care Community (Whippany). Similarly, those at the Kenvil and Parsippany IHOPs received Apple, Pumpkin, and Blueberry pies, courtesy of ShopRite Parsippany.
Maria Rosario’s participation underscores the club’s dedication to hands-on community service and the personal connection members like Rosario establish with those they serve. Maria Rosario, a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, contributed her time and efforts in the recent senior meal event by personally distributing pies to the seniors. Her involvement added a special touch to the occasion, as she ensured each senior received a delightful dessert.
Adding to the community spirit, Key Club students from Morristown High School, Parsippany Hills High School, Parsippany High School, and Morris Knolls High Schools actively participated alongside Kiwanis members. These enthusiastic volunteers engaged with the seniors, taking orders, serving food, and ensuring a tidy dining experience, thereby creating a memorable and joyous occasion for all involved.
At the Kiwanis Thanksgiving Dinner event held at IHOP, Dover Mayor-Elect James Dodd played an active and engaging role. His participation involved interacting with the patrons, adding a sense of community and leadership to the occasion. Mayor-Elect Dodd’s presence and involvement with the guests underscored his commitment to community engagement and support for local initiatives. His interactions with the attendees not only added a special touch to the event but also reflected his dedication to being an accessible and involved leader in the community, especially in events that bring people together and celebrate community spirit. Dodd is a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater DoverDuring the Thanksgiving meal event at IHOP, significant contributions were made by Sergio Rodriguez, President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, and Valerie Kuglin from the Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway. Their collaborative efforts were pivotal in the event’s success, showcasing a strong partnership between the two clubs. Notably, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, chartered on August 31, 2023, was sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway. This collaboration highlights the synergy and mutual support within the Kiwanis community, demonstrating their commitment to service and community engagement, especially in organizing events that benefit and bring joy to seniors during festive occasions.Frank Cahill, Frank Sblendorio Jr., and Nicolas Limanov, in collaboration with the ShopRite Bakery Manager, played a crucial role in enriching the Thanksgiving Dinner events organized by the Kiwanis Club. They facilitated the donation of 150 assorted pies from ShopRite, which were distributed during the events. This generous contribution not only added a sweet touch to the meals but also exemplified the spirit of community partnership and giving. The involvement of these individuals, along with the support from ShopRite, highlights the collaborative efforts that go into making community events successful and memorable, especially in bringing added joy to the attendees through such thoughtful gestures.Frank Cahill with members of the Morristown High School Key Club. The delicious pies donated by Arden Courts in the backgroundAt the recent Thanksgiving meal event, Mary Dougherty, a member of the Kiwanis Club of Morristown, was seen sharing smiles and joyful moments with members of the Morristown Key Club. This interaction highlights the positive atmosphere and the spirit of community service shared by Kiwanis Club members and the youth of the Key Club. Their collaboration in serving the community, especially during such significant events, not only fosters a sense of unity but also inspires the younger generation to continue the legacy of service and community involvement. Dougherty’s engagement with the Key Club members exemplifies the mentorship and encouragement that the Kiwanis Club provides to young volunteers.
