PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio has issued a proclamation designating the week of November 12-18 as United Against Hate Week. Additionally, the mayor encourages all citizens to acknowledge the worth of every individual by joining together in opposition to hate.
The “Repairing OUR World – United Against Hate” event was held on November 12, 2023, at Adath Shalom in Parsippany. This significant gathering was co-sponsored by numerous civic organizations and faith-based congregations, aiming to unite the community in a collective stance against hate. The event’s primary objective was to bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds to foster a sense of unity and solidarity.
PARSIPPANY — As my foodie friends and I ventured out for our next dining adventure we decided to visit a relatively new Parsippany eatery, specializing in Northern Indian cuisine, the Delhi Delight Restaurant. Delhi Delight, located at 285 Parsippany Road, opened for business on January 1, 2023. I had heard good things about this venue, so we were looking forward to our visit. The restaurant is in a stand-alone brick building, formerly the site of the Taj Mahal Restaurant, which is easy to spot by its highly visible maroon and orange pylon signage and outside color scheme, inviting you into the entrance of their parking area.
Thoughtfully spaced wooden tables fill the room, which enjoys wonderful ambient lighting from two large storefront windows that fully cover two sides of the dining area.
As you enter you may find Delhi Delight to be on the smaller side, but don’t fear, they can comfortably accommodate approximately 16 diners, so I would suggest making a reservation if you are going with a group. You will find yourself immediately greeted and sincerely welcomed on your arrival, in our case by our very amiable server, Bhandhu. Seated comfortably along the side of the dining room, our server Bhandhu, attentively ensured our table was properly prepared as she politely addressed any questions concerning the menu. Wines were uncorked and menus were perused in anticipation. Yes, Delhi Delight is BYOB.
The dining area is warm, cozy, immaculately clean, and comfortable. Thoughtfully spaced wooden tables fill the room, which enjoys wonderful ambient lighting from two large storefront windows that fully cover two sides of the dining area. The walls are a soft faux beige brick over real brick design, with tile floors, and some pendant lighting overhead, all creating a warm and soothing vibe. The Décor is simple but neat and adequate to complement the ambiance of the room. An ordering/pick up (for Take-Out Orders) station is located at the front of the restaurant giving you a view of the kitchen, which appears exceptionally clean and orderly, and where you can observe Chef Charanjeet Singh applying his craft.
I should note that Delhi Delight also has a separate party/meeting room that can accommodate 40 people, and which encompasses the majority of the building. The attractively decorated party room, like the dining area, offers comfortable seating, a buffet station, a salad station, and soft lighting; and the room appears perfect for a family gathering, private party, or meeting. Delhi Delight offers catering for up to 40 people at this location, as well as for up to 500 people off-site.
Pat Minutillo had a conversation with Charanjeet Singh, who shared that he moved to the U.S. from Delhi, India in 2017 and has since settled in Parsippany.
The Restaurant is independently owned, and family-operated by partners, Charanjeet Singh and Suresh Shetty. I did have the opportunity to sit down and talk with a very friendly Mr. Charanjeet Singh, who told me that he arrived in the U.S. from Delhi, India in 2017 and settled in Parsippany, along with his family. While in Delhi he owned and operated his own restaurant where he served multi-fusion cuisine, incorporating Northern & Southern Indian, Indochinese, and Italian specialties. It was his dream however to come to the U.S. and open his own place offering authentic northern Indian food to the community. He stated, I have a great passion and love for the food I serve, and there are no fusion foods in his current recipes. Every dish I serve is true, authentic, fresh Northern Indian cuisine, according to Mr. Singh. On a side note, he confided that his inspiration to bring those authentic recipes and cooking styles from Delhi to America was when his two daughters told him that they did not like most American food and missed the food from their native Delhi.
Mr. Singh acquired his passion for cooking from his older brother, a foodie who loved to cook, and who was a father figure and major influence on the young Charanjeet, as his father passed away when he was very young. They would often cook together at home where he honed and enhanced his early cooking skills. As faith would have it, in 2019 he grew friendly with his neighbor, Suresh Shetty, a Chef himself with 35 years in the restaurant industry. They quickly discovered they shared many of the same interests and passions, eventually leading to a partnership co-owning Delhi Delight. Their goal is to introduce authentic flavors from the streets of New Delhi to New Jersey.
Garlic Naan – Parantha
The menu covers most of the prominent Northern Indian fare, complete with vegetarian options. Appetizers, tandoor delectables, Rice & Biryani, Specialty Breads, desserts, and condiments were also available. Entrees included curries, tikkas, chicken, egg, and fish options on the non-veg side and dishes such as Paner Makhni, Yellow Dal Tadka, and Channa Masala to name just a few of the 15 or so veg dishes. Something for every palate!
Our choices of shared appetizers included a couple of orders of Samosa; a famous traditionally made Indian street food (a fried pastry with a savory filling). Just inhale the aroma, pause, and sink your teeth into that outer shell. Absolutely delicious! Vegetable Pakora; basically, Indian mixed vegetable fritters, spiced and fried until they are nice and crunchy, golden, and crispy. Vegetables never tasted better! And Murgh Malai Tikka; Simply, Murgh means Chicken Malai means cream, and Tikka refers to little chunks of chicken, meat, or vegetables marinated in a spicy mix. In this case, Tikkas are bite-sized pieces of chicken cooked in a creamy marinade with yogurt, cheese, ginger, garlic, and chili. Excellent! Tasty appetizers all around. All the appetizers were accompanied by a variety of chutney dipping sauces to enhance the already wonderful flavors.
Shared appetizers included a couple of orders of Samosa; a famous traditionally made Indian street food (a fried pastry with a savory filling).
We were able to sit back, relax, sip some wine, and discuss our individual entrees while totally wiping out those appetizers. For my entrée I went with Chicken Vindaloo; a hot, spicy Indian curry dish made with boneless chicken and known for its bold, aromatic, full-bodied flavor and heat. Lots of harmonious seasonings and chili peppers are combined together in this dish, creating a succulent curry flavoring. I prefer spicy food and I fully enjoyed this dish, but be careful, if you don’t like, or can’t eat spicy food there are plenty of other non-spicy options available.
Chicken Vindaloo is a hot, spicy Indian curry dish made with boneless chicken and known for its bold, aromatic, full-bodied flavor and heat.
Note that all the entrees come with servings of white rice and dipping sauces should you need them, and you’re going to want to order some Naan (Baked in a Tandoor) and/or Parathas (fried, flaky whole wheat flatbread). We ordered a couple of servings of both pieces of bread for dipping and to complement our food Indian style. Great dish! I would order it again.
Butter Chicken, the most popular dish at most Indian restaurants. Mild in spiciness with a sweeter taste. It is a great choice for someone new to Indian cuisine. A mouth-watering, delicate boneless chicken cooked in spiced pureed tomatoes and milk cream.
Bob A. chose Lamb Curry; a well-balanced, richly spiced dish of baby lamb, with a mild curry sauce and deep savory flavors. He gave it a thumbs up. Mike F. went with the Chicken Tikka Masala; a tomato and cream-based sauce with chargrilled boneless chicken. The dish was rich and creamy, with a slight sweetness and mild tangy heat (you can always order it hotter if you like). The remainder of the group decided on the Butter Chicken, the most popular dish at most Indian restaurants. Mild in spiciness with a sweeter taste. It is a great choice for someone new to Indian cuisine. A mouth-watering, delicate boneless chicken cooked in spiced pureed tomatoes and milk cream. The overall consensus was that the meal was outstanding. From appetizers to dessert, we all had a Mango Lassi, a popular smooth and creamy textured yogurt-based drink with a sweet and tangy flavor. The meal was a home run.
“Spicy, rich, flavorful, and diverse are terms that are frequently used to describe Indian food”, and Delhi Delight seems to hit all the buttons. The utilization of unique combinations of flavor, along with a wide range of harmonious spices that are used in Indian cooking, makes Indian cuisine some of the most flavorful food in the world. There seems to be something for everybody’s taste, and for every occasion with Indian food, be it from the mild to moderate spices of the north, the much spicier food of the south, or any of the regional areas in between.
If you haven’t tried Indian cuisine as of yet, take the opportunity to get out and enjoy a great dining experience. We are very lucky in the Parsippany area to have so many diverse and wonderful dining opportunities right at our fingertips. And don’t be afraid to try something new. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Dine in – Take Out- Delivery; Ample Off-Road Parking – BYOB – Catering; 3.5% Credit Card Charge; Website: www.delhidelight.us
PARSIPPANY — Morris County Sons of Italy Lodge 2561’s 8th Annual Charity Beefsteak and Comedy Night was a huge success with a sellout crowd in excess of 160 attendees filling the Bloomingdale Firemen’s Hall in Bloomingdale on Saturday, November 18. The evening was filled with plenty of camaraderie, laughter, and of course, great food.
Order Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 Officers:
Vincent Viglione, Michael Zambito, Michael Fazzio, Pres. Robert Adamo, State President Stephen Camiscioli, and Joe Jannarone Jr.
For those not familiar, a beefsteak is a type of feast that originated in NYC in the 19th—century, where the all-you-can-eat sliced beef tenderloin is served over thinly sliced pieces of crusty bread on trays and eaten as finger food. You can eat until you either surrender or explode. The general practice actually is to eat the meat and leave the bread, which is often used to create assorted bread towers created by the group. It is a fun, family-style dinner where everyone seems to have a good time sharing these tender morsels.
Musical entertainment by Raquelle Rocco and John Moroski.
Throughout the meal guests were also treated to non-stop, live musical entertainment with the gorgeous voice of Raquelle Rocco filling the room, accompanied by John Moroski. Lots of applause from a very appreciative crowd for this very talented duo.
Prior to the arrival of the main course, salads, pasta, and Bloomingdale’s famous firehouse potatoes begin to arrive.
Prior to the arrival of the main course, salads, pasta, and Bloomingdale’s famous firehouse potatoes begin to arrive. I have to admit those potatoes, whatever they do, are amazing and could serve as a meal in themselves. Of course, everyone was waiting for those perfectly cooked, savory, buttery, slices of beef.
Perfectly cooked, savory, buttery, slices of beef
The loaded trays of beef seemed to disappear as quickly as they arrived, but no fear, the staff replenished them as quickly as they were devoured. It wasn’t long before everyone devoured enough beef to feed an army and threw their hands up in surrender.
Lou Amato, Vincent Viglione, and Jason Viglione were actively engaged in selling raffle tickets and 50/50s. The lucky winner of the 50/50 raffle ended up taking home a prize of $1300.00.
Assorted cookies and coffee served as dessert, with a nice treat of donated homemade specialty pizzelle from Andrea & Jessica of Pizzelle Sorella. Pizzelle are traditional Italian waffle cookies that serve as a perfect after-dinner treat. It was an excellent meal but coming next was the evening’s highly anticipated entertainment, a comedy act by Jim Dailakis. Dailakis has headlined in major comedy clubs, including Caroline’s, standup New York, Broadway Comedy Club, and Dangerfield’s in NYC. He’s also shared the stage with Jerry Seinfeld, Larry the Cable Guy, Kevin Nealon, and many others. His very funny act certainly had the room rocking.
The crowd poses for a group photo
In attendance from the Grand Lodge of New Jersey of the Order of Sons of Italy in America was State President, Stephen Camiscioli, who is a member of Haddon Heights, Lodge 2311, and who traveled quite a distance to join in the celebration.
The Morris County Lodge was founded as a non-profit organization, which contributes thousands of dollars to worthwhile local charities and families. 100% of what the Lodge raises in events like this goes directly back to local needy families as gift cards, and various local concerns, including but not limited to the Parsippany Food Pantry, High School Scholarships, the Valerie Fund, The Shelter for Battered Women, Alzheimer’s, and many more.
MORRIS COUNTY — United Way of Northern New Jersey is calling on the community to support the growing number of participants in its annual holiday gift program, which aids thousands in need across the region.
This year marks the 34th iteration of the United Way Gifts of the Season program, where local residents and businesses are invited to buy holiday gifts. The program annually distributes over 6,000 gifts to children, teens, adults with special needs, and seniors facing financial challenges in northern New Jersey.
The focus of this gift drive is to assist those who are asset-limited, income-constrained, Employed (ALICE), as well as families living in poverty who struggle to afford basic necessities.
To contribute, individuals, community groups, and businesses can either fulfill specific gift requests or provide general gifts until Friday, December 8. United Way also welcomes gift cards and financial contributions to ensure all remaining gift needs are met, spreading holiday joy to all.
Donations to the program can be made by clicking here.
For additional details about the United Way Gifts of the Season, interested parties can email GiftsOfTheSeason@UnitedWayNNJ.org or call (973) 993-1160, extension 502.
MORRIS COUNTY — On Monday, November 13, the Birchwood Manor hosted the annual member meeting of The 200 Club of Morris County.
Media Personality, Bill Spadea
Dr. Robert D’Emidio, the Club President, initiated the evening’s proceedings, warmly welcoming the numerous members who gathered for this notable event. Following his introduction, each committee took turns presenting their reports, providing insights into their recent activities and achievements.
The event then welcomed Media Personality, Bill Spadea, to the stage. Spadea engaged the audience with his thoughts on state laws impacting police work and his perspective on potential future reforms.
At the Annual Membership Meeting of The 200 Club of Morris County, a notable gathering took place that included Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, Dr. Robert D’Emidio, Jodi Spadea, media personality Bill Spadea, and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher. This event brought together these distinguished figures, highlighting a significant occasion for the club and its community engagement.
A memorable moment of the evening was the presentation of a plaque to Dr. D’Emidio, honoring his dedication and tireless efforts on behalf of the club. This gesture underscored the appreciation and respect he has earned for his commitment to the organization.
At the Annual Meeting of The 200 Club of Morris County, members of the Board, officers, and local dignitaries convened in a significant gathering. This event underscored the club’s strong community ties and the involvement of key local figures in its activities and initiatives.Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling was in the company of media personality Bill Spadea at the event
Each year The 200 Club awards college, post-high school education, or vocational school scholarships to children of active or retired Morris County firefighters, police, EMTs, members of local OEMs, as well as high school seniors who volunteer with a Morris County fire department or first aid squad. After carefully and anonymously reviewing applications, the Scholarship Committee chose these 16 deserving high school seniors to receive scholarships.
Fifteen of the students are embarking on their freshman year in the fall with a $5,000 scholarship from The Club. This year the following students received a scholarship: Brielle R. Bloch, Shannon Carey, Thomas DeNicola, Charlotte C. Eriksen, Misha A.Gill, Jacob M. Gringeri, Jack Lemongello, Nicholas C. Licata, Ricardo Nulman, Tiya Patel, Abigail Simon, Anna Thach, Daytona Turton, Parker Turton, Emily Zhao and John Zimmerman. The 2024 application opens on December 1.
Nicolas Jannarone, Bill Spadea, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio
Since 1971, The 200 Club of Morris County has welcomed ideas and participation from its members to ensure that the programs are available for generations to come. They value diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, so if you have some time to spare throughout the year, they would love to speak with you about volunteer opportunities on a committee. You can familiarize yourself with each committee’s responsibilities by clicking here. You can also email 200clubofmorris@comcast.net or call 200 Club Administrator Lori Richmond at (973) 630-7933.
PARSIPPANY — A significant gathering of veterans, their families, and friends assembled to partake in the commemorative event, on Saturday, November 11 in Veteran’s Memorial Park. Among the attendees were notable figures such as County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella. Siobhan Mary Fuller-McConnell, a Gold Star Mother, was also in attendance.
Council President Loretta Gragnani then presented “The Nobel and the Brave: A Veteran’s Day Tribute.”
Council Vice President Michael J. dePierro, who is also a veteran, effectively led the ceremony, donning his service cap and a VFW jacket with pride.
The ceremony commenced with a striking Presentation of Colors by the Color Guards from the American Legion Post 249 and VFW Post 10184. This was followed by a moving invocation from Deacon Len Deo of St. Ann’s RC Church and the National Anthem, elegantly sung by local Parsippany resident Michelle Musolino-Roberts.
Deacon Len Deo of St. Ann’s RC Church
Abigail Thurkauf from Troop 95089 and Emma Sikora from Troop 97445 led the pledge of allegiance. Subsequently, Councilman DePierro delivered his introductory remarks and welcomed Parsippany Mayor James Barberio, who gave a heartfelt and engaging welcome address. Kelli Doucette, speaking on behalf of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. Council President Loretta Gragnani then presented “The Nobel and the Brave: A Veteran’s Day Tribute.”
Kelli Doucette, speaking on behalf of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill
Father David Pickins, Pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Church, offered a poignant “Prayer of Remembrance.” The ceremony’s solemnity continued with the “Laying of the Wreaths,” conducted by Mark Miller, Commander of VFW Post 10184, and Bruce Michels, Senior Vice-Commander of American Legion Post 249.
National Anthem, elegantly sung by local Parsippany resident Michelle Musolino-Roberts.
Highlighting the event, Parsippany High School student Dominick Caponegro played the Taps, and Councilman dePierro read “Just a Common Soldier,” a poem that resonates deeply on such occasions, paying homage to all veterans. As the event neared its conclusion, attendees enjoyed a beautiful rendition of “God Bless America” by Parsippany Hills High School students Jaylan Royal and Sophia Dourdoulakis.
Dominick Caponegro played the Taps
Councilman dePierro wrapped up the ceremonies with the “Retirement of Colors,” performed once again by the Color Guards of American Legion Post 249 and VFW Post 10184. This event served as a poignant reminder of Veterans Day’s significance, a day to honor and express gratitude towards America’s service members, past and present, for their unwavering patriotism, love of country, and dedication to serving and sacrificing for the greater good.
Abigail Thurkauf from Troop 95089 and Emma Sikora from Troop 97445 led the pledge of allegiance“God Bless America” by Parsippany Hills High School students Jaylan Royal and Sophia Dourdoulakis“Laying of the Wreaths,” conducted by Mark Miller, Commander of VFW Post 10184, and Bruce Michels, Senior Vice-Commander of American Legion Post 249.“Laying of the Wreaths,” conducted by Mark Miller, Commander of VFW Post 10184, and Bruce Michels, Senior Vice-Commander of American Legion Post 249.Flags waved gracefully over Veterans Memorial Park.
MORRIS COUNTY — On November 9, a special ceremony was hosted by Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, Esq., to honor commanders from the American Legion.
Morris County Sheriff’s Honor Guard presented the flags to begin the event and Sheriff James Gannon led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. Monsignor John Hart of Assumption Parish in Morristown officiated at the invocation.
The event recognized several individuals:
Dominick Sabol, Sr., Vice Commander of Morris County American Legion
Norus Achmetov from American Legion Post 59
Angel E. Soto from Randolph VFW Post 7333
James M. Koons of American Legion Post 59
Joseph Ostrowski from American Legion Post 43
Russell Jenkins, American Legion Post 423
Anthony Scozzafava, Boonton VFW Post 242
Ken Hanzl of Montville VFM Post 5481, serving as Morris County District Commander and National Aide-de-Camp
Michael K. Murphy, Jefferson VFW Post 564
Thomas Miller, RC Gulick VFW Post 5351
Stanley Demby, American Legion Post 91
Herman S. Marmon, American Legion Post 421
Kevin Killingback, American Legion Post 390
Donald Doty, American Legion Post 245
William F. Freeman, upcoming Commandant of USMA League D Detachment
Harold Liberatore, American Legion Post 279
Mark Miller, Troy Hills VFW Post 10184
Wayne Stine from George P. Siek, VFW Post 8096.
Detective Captain Aaron Tomasini of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office
Joe Garifo, Former Public Information Director at Morris County Government, acted as the event’s monitor. The speakers included Brigadier General John T. Reim, Detective Captain Aaron Tomasini of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and Ken Hanzl. Ann Grossi and Brigadier General Reim presented certificates to the honorees. Additional Citations were also provided by Senator Joseph Pennacchio and Senator Anthony Bucco.
Joe Garifo
The ceremony concluded with Natalia Fragomeni’s rendition of “God Bless America.”
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Brigadier General John T. Reim, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi, Detective Captain Aaron Tomasini of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and Jack Ambrose, Chief Warrant Officer at Morris County Sheriff
MORRIS COUNTY — Assemblyman Brian Bergen was irate after discovering veterans in state-run facilities are begging for soap and other basic necessities while lawmakers spent lavishly on last-minute pork projects in the state budget passed in June.
“This is a stark and shameful reflection of skewed priorities and neglect,” said Bergen (R-Morris). “When the state is spending at historic levels, veterans in its care shouldn’t have to resort to panhandling to meet their basic needs.”
Bergen, a U.S. Army combat veteran, took issue with three wish lists posted on the state-run websites of the state veteran homes in Menlo Park, Vineland, and Paramus, which currently house 574 veterans. Donations of soap, deodorant, bed linens, denture care supplies, t-shirts, and tissues, among other basic care items, are being sought.
In September, The U.S Department of Justice and State Commission of Investigation issued reports documenting insufficient controls and medical care at the Menlo Park and Paramus facilities during the pandemic, which killed at least 200 residents.
“You’d think that after back-to-back scathing reports, there would be a better effort by the Murphy administration,” he continued. “None of this would break the bank for the state to provide.”
Bergen emphasized that the disparity between the lavish state spending and the distressing plea for donations at the state homes was not just a failure but an outrage.
“Democrats hailed the state budget as a ‘statement of their values,’” said Bergen. “But in a state where historic expenditure seems to be the norm, the neglect and dire situation faced by those who have bravely served their country is an unconscionable travesty.”
Bergen emphasized that more than $1.5 billion was directed to Democrat legislative pet projects in the final weeks before the $54.3 billion state budget was adopted. The list includes $12 million for a French museum in Jersey City, $4 million for the Sewaren marina in Woodbridge, and a $500,000 dog park in Rahway.
Shortly after Gov. Phil Murphy signed the budget, Woodbridge officials announced that a 215-seat tiki bar would be part of the Sewaren marina project, which would largely be funded with state grants.
“All you have to do is look at the Democrats’ checkbook to figure out their priorities,” continued Bergen. “While our soldiers beg for sweatpants, the state is constructing a tiki bar catering exclusively to yacht owners. That certainly doesn’t make New Jersey stronger or fairer.”
For now, Bergen is urging immediate intervention.
“It’s high time we honor our commitment to those who have selflessly served our nation,” Bergen concluded. “I implore the state to swiftly reevaluate its priorities and ensure our veterans receive the dignity and care they have rightfully earned.”
PARSIPPANY —Last Tuesday, the Parsippany Council race initially saw Carifi, McGraft, and Kandil leading.
However, mail-in and provisional votes, counted on Wednesday, November 15, brought a significant change.
With 303 mail-in and 211 provisional ballots tallied, unofficial results indicate that Democrat Judy Hernandez has now edged ahead of Adam Kandil by one vote.
Paul Carifi, Jr. 4,642 Matt McGrath 4,568 Judy Hernandez 4,529 Adam Kandil 4,527 Matt Kavanagh 4,438 Bernard Clarkin 4,390
The current leading candidates are Paul Carifi, Jr., Matt McGraft, and Judy Hernandez. This could be the first Democratic win in Parsippany since 2017 when they won the mayoral race and two council seats. The mayor, Michael Soriano, lost his seat in a rematch with his predecessor, James Barberio.
Parsippany Focus has learned that the Morris County Republican Club will be challenging the results. We will update as information becomes available.
PARSIPPANY —Most of Thursday, November 9th’s Parsippany Council meeting focused on discussions about three proposed PILOT projects. PILOT, an acronym for Payments in Lieu of Taxes, relates to development incentives offered to developers.
The areas targeted for redevelopment are 2 and 3 Campus Drive and also 249 Pomeroy Road. The Campus Drive locations would potentially include residential housing. Pomeroy Road would be a potential warehouse.
“The office market is not going to pick up until 2035”, stated Mayor Barberio when he addressed the potential PILOT projects. PILOTs are a tool the state legislatures gave municipalities to help with economic development and help with redevelopment projects, he explained.
Councilman Musella rebutted, saying that he objects to the process and the lack of information presented to the Council. “The Financial Plan Agreement in Exhibit A is completely blank,” he noted.
Former Parsippany Township Attorney John Inglesino took the microphone in the public commentary section of the meeting to explain to the public what PILOT projects are and why they can be a benefit to the town. He stated to meeting attendees and council members that these PILOT projects will not affect the school budget. He stated that schools are protected and that these PILOTS will not impact the school budget.
After Inglesino concluded, Councilman Frank Neglia thanked him and told him that he was very happy with his explanation and that he learned a lot from his presentation.
The motion to introduce the PILOT projects on the agenda was passed 4-1 with Musella being the lone vote against it.
PARSIPPANY —Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) introduced an amendment to the FY 2024 Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations bill prohibiting the Internal Revenue Service from interfering in state and local tax (SALT) relief programs for hard-working, middle-class families. New Jersey was among the first states to provide such tax relief before their initiative was struck down by the IRS in 2019.
“The SALT cap is an unfair double tax on middle-class families that imposes billions of dollars in additional costs on New Jersey residents and makes it harder for our state to invest in critical services, such as public education and law enforcement,” said Rep. Sherrill. “I have consistently fought to make New Jersey a more affordable place to live and my amendment will allow states and localities to develop innovative policies that provide SALT relief and cut taxes for families by preventing the IRS from unjustly interfering in state-level SALT legislation.”
The House Republican majority abruptly pulled the FSGG appropriations bill from consideration Thursday morning.
In 2017, the GOP’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act imposed a harmful double tax and one of the largest marriage penalties in the tax code by capping the state and local tax deductions at $10,000 per household. In response, states such as New Jersey developed policies to provide tax relief to families by expanding access to the federal charitable deduction and helping small business owners to deduct their full SALT at the entity level. However, the IRS issued new regulatory guidance in 2019 restricting states from implementing these policies.
In May 2022, Rep. Sherrill led several of her House colleagues in a letter urging the House Appropriations Committee to include language in the FY 2023 Appropriations bill prohibiting the IRS from putting restrictions on SALT relief delivered by state and local governments. In July 2022, she also introduced an amendment to the House appropriations package preventing the IRS from restricting the ability of state and local governments to enact SALT relief. As part of her Jersey STRONG agenda, she also introduced the bipartisan Middle-Class Tax Relief Act in January 2023, which substantially raises the SALT deduction cap and fully eliminates the cap for 99% of NJ-11 families.
I am responding to the absurd letter to the editor written by Sam Labkovsky. Having served as a Councilman, Mayor, Freeholder, Township attorney, planning board attorney, zoning board of adjustment attorney, municipal redevelopment attorney, and developer’s attorney over the past 32 years, I think I know a thing or two because I’ve seen a thing or two. One thing I know for sure is that when you can’t talk about the issues, you through mud at the people. That’s what Mr. Labkovsky’s letter is designed to do. I don’t know Mr. Labkovsky’s educational or professional background because he didn’t provide them. But I suspect he would have showcased them if he had any credentials to support the absurdity of his commentary.
I comment here as a Parsippany resident, voter, and as a 14-year business owner in the Township. The views expressed are mine and not those of my clients. The fact is that Parsippany is going to see big tax increases if it doesn’t repurpose its vacant and obsolete office and industrial buildings into revenue-generating properties. Such should be self-evident. Parsippany needs revenue! If market forces on their own would fix the problem, then it would have been fixed. The fact is that these challenges are not new, and Parsippany needs to be proactive and do something to transform these properties. Otherwise, hold onto your wallets – because taxes will skyrocket.
It is precisely instances when the market doesn’t produce the desired results that NJ has programs through the NJ Redevelopment and Housing Law, and the Long-Term Tax Exemption Law, to assist the town in attracting projects that will transform blighted properties into revenue-generating, job-creating, and amenity-making properties which benefit Parsippany taxpayers. Other municipalities have successfully used these programs to great advantage for their communities. That’s what the Mayor and majority of the Council are doing – using existing laws and proven economic development programs to increase revenues into town hall so that taxes don’t skyrocket.
I spoke out at the November 9th Council meeting on PILOTS. I will not go through that again here. You can watch for yourself on the Township’s website (or click here). I also wrote an article about this subject which was published in the April 2022 edition of the Parsippany Focus. Read it! (Click here to read the article on Page 18)
Rather than addressing the merits of the issues, Mr. Ladkovsky opted to engage in the tried and true method of political smear. Regrettably, this method has had some success in Parsippany. But, I’m no longer constrained because I don’t sit on the Council dais. As such, I will engage and challenge the political mudslingers. Let’s up the level of debate. Let’s discuss what’s in Parsippany’s best interest and stop the juvenile political smear games.
Once again, under Mayor Barberio’s “leadership,” it was forward to the past at last week’s Town Council meeting.
On the agenda was Barberio’s latest proposed sweetheart deal calling for 3 PILOTS (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) desperately wanted, and in fact, demanded by developers who appear to be frothing at the bit to build two apartment complexes and a warehouse on what the Mayor derisively calls distressed and blighted Parsippany locations. No doubt these properties are in need of development and could provide an opportunity to increase the town’s ratables but to suggest that the only way those properties will be developed is by caving into the developers demanding PILOTS is sheer chicanery.
If the Town Council caves into the developer’s self-serving demands, the developers will then be able to reduce their Parsippany property taxes by 60% and the 40% they will actually have to pay will go to the municipality and not to the separately tax-funded town entities such as Parsippany’s schools, fire districts and libraries.
What does that mean to Parsippany taxpayers? Well for one thing if, as is likely, families with school-age children, move into the two proposed apartment complexes, then the millions of dollars that will be required to expand the already crowded schools and provide the additional staff will have to come from Parsippany’s tax paying residents with not a cent coming from the developers.
At the Town Council meeting a number of facts became readily apparent:
Fact #1: Councilman Paul Carifi had the audacity to state that he would personally ensure that the schools, libraries, and fire districts would not be negatively impacted by the PILOTS. That suggests that Mr. Carifi is woefully ignorant of Parsippany’s tax structure and/or is cavalierly dismissive of Parsippany’s already overtaxed residents.
Fact#2: Councilman Frank Neglia who should have known better fell all over himself praising John Inglesino, the developers’ highly paid attorney. Of all of the Council members Mr Neglia, a former Board of Education member and past Board President, should have had the guts to stand up to Mr. Inglesino and ask the tough questions that needed to be asked. Mr Neglia’s failure to do so only reinforces the widespread belief that he is under the Mayor’s control and is not independently committed to serving the best interests of Parsippany residents.
Fact#3: Councilman dePierro was absolutely giddy about the prospect of the PILOTS and couldn’t seem to control himself from frequently interjecting his pro-PILOT comments when Councilman Musella was trying to get clarification from Mr. Inglesino. One can only wonder why Mr. DePierro is so intent on burnishing his now-tarnished legacy of enabling Mayor Barberio’s self-serving practices and policies.
Fact#4 The casually dressed John Inglesino is back out in the open in Parsippany salivating at another chance to add to the millions of taxpayer dollars he was paid by Barberio when Mr. Inglesino was Parsippany’s Township Attorney. This is the same John Inglesino, who was brought up on Ethics Complaints by the previously mentioned Councilman Carifi.
Fact#5: Speaking of town attorneys, Mr. Michael Lavery, the current Township Attorney, was absolutely silent throughout and after Mr. Inglesino’s pro-PILOT and anti-Parsippany presentations.
Fact#5: The fix is in. With Carifi, Neglia, and dePierro already signaling their support for the PILOTs and with Barberio and Inglesino once again partnering to line the lawyer’s pockets and the Mayor’s campaign coffers, what chance do the residents of Parsippany have of defeating the PILOTS?
Absolutely none unless those residents make their voices heard above the din of the self-serving greed and ignorance of Parsippany’s Mayor and his rubber stamps on the Town Council.
PARSIPPANY — The competition for the Parsippany Board of Education was intense, featuring 11 candidates vying for just three available seats. Cassandra Cogan withdrew from the race upon her acceptance into the “European Master in Global Studies” (EMGS) program.
Newcomer Wendy Wright emerged as the leading vote-receiver, with Timothy Berrios and Andy Choffo securing the subsequent spots.
Matthew DeVitto and Kendra Von Achen’s terms end on December 31 as well as Deborah Orme, who chose not to seek re-election.
The board is made up of nine members who are appointed or elected by registered voters of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township. Board members are residents of Parsippany and are elected to serve three-year terms. The nine members also elect a Board President and Vice-President by a majority vote.
Editors Note: Results are unofficial. Early Voting and Initial Mail-In Ballots Counted and await Final Mail-In and Provisional Ballot Results.
I am a more than 22-year Parsippany resident who doesn’t attend Council or other municipal meetings. However, I participated in the November 9th Council meeting called with very little notice, and I now suspect the last-minute nature of the gathering was to keep as many residents in the dark as possible about a pending construction development deal that will cost taxpayers millions. This meeting reminded me of what happened one year ago when the issue of PLA was discussed.
I can call it PLA Part 2.
The meeting’s order of business was the establishment of a long-term tax exemption plan for three “Payment in Lieu of Taxes” (better known as PILOTs) to certain developers looking to build two large-scale apartment complexes and one warehouse in town. In short, the Mayor-sponsored measure up for approval is nothing more than taxpayer-funded development that will unleash a deteriorating quality of life, higher local taxes, and strained municipal services.
At the beginning of this last-minute meeting, Mayor Barberio argued how wonderful this project is and how important it is to support developers during these economic times.
The Mayor contends Parsippany has no future without his taxpayer-funding arrangement and without providing the Council or constituents with any credible and supportive facts or figures. He just offered fear-based statements and empty promises of benefit at the meeting.
After Mayor Barberio’s pitch, John Inglesino reiterated the same previous basic talking points the Mayor delivered.
As a resident who never goes to municipal meetings, I didn’t really know who Mr. Inglesino was at the meeting, but one thing was clear to me: He is no stranger to the Barberio and Carifi clan.
Mr. Inglesino gave evasive answers to specific questions from Councilman Justin Musella and tried to convince everyone that everything would be good for Parsippany’s future and its residents if the deal was approved by the Council.
While the other council people kowtowed to the Mayor’s sales pitch, only Justin Musella raised smart questions and tried to understand how good this project could be for residents. All other Councilors didn’t make one peep, they just bobbed their heads in agreement – I’m interested WHY???
After Barberio and Inglesino’s marketing presentation, residents present were allowed to speak. Residents had A LOT of comments and questions:
1) Why is it necessary to give developers a break from taxes while township residents struggle to keep up with annual tax increases?
2) Why does this need to be done so quickly?
All attending residents and Councilman Musella voiced suspicion and disagreement with the Mayor’s burdensome initiative. And again, the Mayor could not give one substantive, clear, fact-backed answer to any of our questions.
I still kept asking myself why would a Republican, self-proclaimed fiscal disciplined mayor impose something so burdensome upon his constituents. Then, I later learned that Mr. Inglesino was the “shadow Mayor” and Parsippany township attorney working under Barberio between 2010-2018.
Come on Mayor Barberio and complicit Council members Carifi, Neglia, dePierro, and Gragnani, you must do better for your residents than to prioritize political operatives and your connected friends over the welfare of your residents.
I urge all Parsippany residents to stop what they’re are doing and voice opposition to this taxpayer-funded project that Mayor Barberio is trying to shove down our throats for the sake of YOUR future ability to afford to stay in town.
This measure will hit your wallets like a bulldozer for years to come —long after residents are able to vote these entrenched, self-serving council people out.
Please attend the Tuesday, November 21 Council meeting at 7 pm to say NO to developer giveaways!
MORRIS COUNTY — Repairing OUR World – United Against Hate kicks off United Against Hate week featuring the screening of the riveting documentary, “Repairing the World – Stories from the Tree of Life” which will be held on Sunday, November 12 at 6:30 p.m. at Adath Shalom, 841 Mountain Way, Morris Plains. The event is co-sponsored by more than 15 synagogues, churches, Morris County Human Relations Commission, Diversity Council of Morris County, Parsippany Interfaith Council, and Randolph PEACE.
As the Pittsburgh community was experiencing grief and fear, neighbors came together, drawing upon connections to meet fear with courage, adopting the slogan “Stronger than Hate”. A diverse community worked to heal from the impacts of antisemitism, racism, hate speech, etc. The film gives voice to a multi-faith, multicultural cross-section of Pittsburgh survivors, family members, leaders, and community members to show the power of unity in crisis.
The powerful program features a story of hope and how we can do something to stop the spread of hate in our local communities where united we can effectively make a change that can be felt in people’s lives. It is a beautiful redefinition of what it means to be a good neighbor and community member.
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.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment 2023 Members and Term Dates
Robert Iracane Chairman 12/31/26
Dave Kaplan Vice-Chair 12/31/23
Bernard Berkowitz Member 12/31/24
Scott Joskowitz Member 12/31/25
Nancy Snyder Member 12/31/23
Sridath Reddy Member 12/31/26
Davey Willans Member 12/31/24
Casey Parikh Alt. No. 1 12/31/23
Chris Mazzarella Alt. No. 2 12/31/23
John Chadwick, Planner, John T. Chadwick IV P.P.
Chas Holloway, Engineer, GPI
Peter King, Attorney, King Moench Hirniak & Collins, LLP
Nora O. Jolie, Board Secretary
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.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting was held on Thursday, November 9, 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
