OEM Training Nov. 28: Bystander Bleeding Control Class
Traning includes types of wounds, first aid measures to stop bleeding, and how to wrap wounds. Part of the OEM/Library series, “You are the Help Until the Help Arrives," taught by the amazing staff of MedicZero Inc.
Tuesday, November 28, 2023: Bystander Bleeding Control & Wound Dressing
Free Training Program
This FREE training is part of the Borough Office of Emergency Management's ongoing “You are the Help Until the Help Arrives," taught by the amazing staff of MedicZero Inc. This campaign promotes preparedness for the whole community. Registration is required. Middlesex Borough residents only.
Since its inception in 2022, the OEM/Library program, “You Are the Help until Help Arrives”: Free Training Programs for Bystander Emergency Preparedness,” has trained hundreds of Middlesex Borough community members. Those numbers will continue to grow, with new program sessions offered every season.
Training by MedicZero
Bystander Bleeding Control & Wound Dressing
Tuesday, November 28, 2023
6:30pm – 8:30pm
Library Community Room
Download the program flyer (pdf)
All classes are free and limited to Middlesex residents only
Ages 16 yrs and up
Advance registration is REQUIRED
Classes can accommodate up to 55 participants
First come, first served
Participants 16-17 years old must provide written Authorization of Parent/Guardian
Questions? Email bbenson553@yahoo.com or call the Middlesex Library at (732) 356-6602, ext. 4.
Training is provided by MedicZero
MedicZero is a nonprofit organization of college medical students across the country. With the guidance of board certified and FACEP designated physicians, Medic Zero “seeks to enable bystanders with the confidence to recognize emergencies and initiate care, encourage the delivery of skillful, evidence-based care by providers, and construct community paramedicine initiatives to improve the prehospital landscape.” (https://www.mediczero.org/our-vis)
Free Program for Middlesex Borough Residents
Feedback from Previous emergency preparedness classes has been overwhelmingly positive.
“I attended their class in December and highly recommend everyone take this CPR class. The recent injury and recovery of Damar Hamlin is a great example of what can happen if someone is aware of how to use CPR to assist someone who has suffered cardiac arrest. 13 year olds are permitted and I encourage them to attend as well. I am recommending this training to everyone I know!”
“The CPR training class was very informative. I have never taken a hands on CPR class, even though I graduated with a Health Science Degree. Everything was well explained, and presentation was good.”
“Thank you for offering this very much needed course. The presentation and the presenters were wonderful and we loved that there was hands on at the end of the course.”
“This program is another great example of the value that our OEM continues to bring to our residents. I was particularly impressed with the MedicZero team who provides the training. Lastly, a big thank you to our OEM and our Library for collaborating on hosting this program.”
Winter Wonderland Festival: Saturday, Dec. 2nd
Join our community for a tree lighting, music, and bonfire event! We’ll have entertainment and activities for the whole family here in Mountain View Park. FREE admission…
The Middlesex Recreation Department presents a Winter Wonderland Festival!
Saturday, December 2nd
2–7 pm
Mountain View Park
A Tree Lighting, Music, and Bonfire Event!
Inflatables • Photo ops • Ice-less skating rink
Middlesex Elks Lodge 1488 will be serving refreshments
Music by Flashover Entertainment
Performances by local groups
Food trucks and more
Toys for Tots Drive
Middlesex Borough Fire Department hosting Toys for Tots Drive – Please bring a new toy to donate!
Family Fun
Entertainment and Activities for the Kids including a visit from Mr. & Mrs. Claus and Anna & Elsa! Enjoy a Toy Workshop (crafts for a small fee) – and more!
Download the Flyer and Graphics – Share the Event!
Mayor's Message: Veterans Day & Legacy Lawn
“…Today let us revere this very special day to truly honor all our veterans and their families who answered the call to duty to embrace and sustain our way of life in defense of democracy…”
“Never was so much owed by so many to so few.” This famous quote by Winston Churchill is as relevant, timeless and immortal today as it was back in 1940.
Sadly, so many people around the world live each day in the grip of tyranny and oppression without enjoying the many freedoms of life, peace, liberty and the pursuit of happiness which should be ubiquitous. We have come to enjoy these “natural rights” to espouse our quality of life.
The world today may be on the precipice again of what we dreadfully feared most during the cold war years; the specter of M.A,D. (Mutually Assured Destruction). As we wait, implacable measures are being interwoven within the fabric of a realistic far-reaching destruction of humankind.
So today let us revere this very special day to truly honor all our veterans and their families who answered the call to duty to embrace and sustain our way of life in defense of democracy.
We are gathered here in solemn commemoration of this memorable day of peace and unity.
In the words of JFK :
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them“
Thank you,
Mayor John L. Madden
– Nov. 11, 2023
Notice to Bidders for the Sale of Municipal Property
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Borough of Middlesex will offer for sale the real property… to the highest bidder Lot 25 in Block 265 on the Middlesex Borough Tax Map, better known as 210 Grove Avenue.
Sale Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:12-13(a)
Advertised Dated: October 31 & November 7, 2023
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Borough of Middlesex will offer for sale the real property as described below.
It is offering for sale to the highest bidder Lot 25 in Block 265 on the Middlesex Borough Tax Map, better known as 210 Grove Avenue (the “Property”). The sale is authorized by Ordinance 2102-23 adopted on October 24, 2023 which authorized the sale of the Property, and shall be subject to all conditions listed therein.
The fair market value of the Property as determined by the Borough Tax Assessor is $450,000.00. Pursuant to N.J.S.A.40:12-13(a), any such sale shall be for not less than the fair market value. The sale of the Property is subject to all easements and restrictions of record.
All visits to the Property must be coordinated with Leonard Vidal, DPW Director.
All bids submitted shall be accompanied by a deposit in the form of a certified check or bank check in the amount of 10% of the bid. The check shall be made payable to the Borough and held in escrow. The Borough shall make a decision as to whether to sell the Property to the highest bidder within ten (10) days of the date established for receipt of all bids. Upon the making of a decision to sell the Property, the highest bidder shall execute a contract, a copy of which is included in the bid package.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:12-13(a), the Borough reserves the right to reject all bids if the highest bid is not accepted.
All bids shall be received by the Borough Clerk, Linda Chismar, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, N.J. 08846, on or before November 14, 2023 not later than 10:00 a.m.
Specifications and instructions to bidders are included in the aforesaid Ordinance, available on the Borough website. Proposals must be enclosed in a sealed package bearing the name and address of the bidder, and bid title on the outside addressed to Linda Chismar at the address above.
Any questions regarding the Property shall be directed to the Leonard Vidal, DPW Director, at 732.356.7400 extension 296
Any questions regarding the bid package should be directed to the Borough Clerk, Linda Chismar, at 732.356.7400 extension 238.
Linda Chismar, RMC
Middlesex Borough
Additional details are available in the Notice documents at the links below.
General Election: Tuesday, November 7, 2023
Read here for links to County and Borough resources to help you vote in the General Election – including videos, forms, and deadlines…
With the General Election around the corner, the Middlesex County 2023 Vote Campaign is underway.
ways to vote
By US Mail
Early in-person
In-person on Election Day
County Voting Resources
As always, extensive voting information is located at www.middlesexcountynj.gov/vote, including links to Early Voting and Drop Box location lists, pertinent deadlines, sample ballots, and related forms.
Videos: watch the thorough playlist of Voting topics on the County’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbN3SBMZ4LK70mtnsEE8OflTQIXtBzp7D
Similar Borough Voting Resources
Local information including District voting locations and early voting locations can be found listed below and also on our Borough website’s Clerk page here.
IMPORTANT DATES FOR THE UPCOMING GENERAL ELECTION
Be sure you are registered to vote. Then vote by mail or in person during the Early Voting period or on Election Day! Voting Timeline for 2023 General:
Oct. 17 – Voter Registration Deadline for General Election
Oct. 31 – Deadline to apply for a Mail-In Ballot by mail for General Election
Oct. 28–Nov. 5 – Early Voting Period
Nov. 6 - by 3 pm – Deadline for in-person Mail-In Ballot Applications for General Election
Nov. 7 – General Election Day
Middlesex Borough VOTING LOCATIONS
UPDATED APRIL 25th | For the Primary and General Election this year, all districts will be voting at the following locations:
District 1 & 2 – Middlesex High School Gymnasium, 300 Kennedy Drive
District 3 – Middlesex High School Gymnasium, 300 Kennedy Drive Library Community Room
District 4 & 10 – Middlesex Recreation Center, 1400 Mountain Avenue
District 5 – Hazelwood School Gymnasium, 800, Hazelwood Avenue
District 6 – Hazelwood School Gymnasium, 800 Hazelwood Avenue Beechwood Fire House
District 7 – Von E. Mauger Middle School Gymnasium, Fisher Avenue Pierce Fire House
District 8 & 9 – Von E. Mauger Middle School Gymnasium, Fisher Avenue
Mail-In Ballots
If you have requested a mail-in ballot and are returning the mail-in ballot, all voters can return their mail-in ballot via USPS in the postage paid envelope which was provided. Drop off at the Board of Elections at 11 Kennedy Blvd. in East Brunswick before 8pm on 11/8; OR return the ballot to the secure election drop box behind the Municipal Building by 8pm on 11/8.
You can also bring your ballot to any of the secure ballot drop boxes in Middlesex County by 8pm on 11/8. Locations are listed on the Middlesex County Board of Elections web page here.
Voting information can also be found on the Borough Clerk web page https://www.middlesexboro-nj.gov/clerk/#voting-nextup. Voters with any additional questions, please call the Borough Clerk at 732-356-7400, Ext. 238.
– Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
Veterans Day Ceremony & Our New Legacy Lawn
Middlesex Public Library and the Borough are proud to announce partnership with the American Legion to create a living tribute called The Legacy Lawn to honor Middlesex residents who have served in the military, or are in active duty currently.
Join us on Saturday, November 11th at 11am on the Public Library Front Lawn
Our Veterans Day Ceremony event features the unveiling of the inaugural 2023 Legacy Lawn, and includes a Moment of Silence and the American Legion (John W. Lupu Memorial Post 306) Remembrance Ceremony at Noon.
The Middlesex Public Library is proud to announce partnership with the American Legion, to create a living tribute called The Legacy Lawn to honor Middlesex residents who have served in the military or are currently in active duty.
From November 11 to December 11, lawn signs with each veteran’s name, picture (if desired), branch, rank of service, and any awarded medals or accomplishments, will be displayed on the lawn. Signs will start display on veterans day and will also coincide with Pearl Harbor Day, and the American Legion’s annual Post Everlasting remembrance ceremony. Signs will be stored in the Library and then placed out on Memorial Day weekend for the parade route.
This will be a project that the Library will maintain and manage year after year, and will allow for additional applicants to submit to be part of the Legacy Lawn. Since these signs will be accessible and at eye level, we encourage all to stop, pull over and spend some time reflecting and honoring.
The Library can maintain accurate records of participants in the program and protect the privacy and integrity of the shared information. Library staff specialize in keeping information organized and consistent. The Library will own the original design files and copyright, and can ensure all of the signs, design wise, remain consistent,
The Library is a long standing institution that will fund this project, with appropriate staffing to maintain, install and look after the signs.
Borough residents have long expressed an interest in honoring their veterans similar to other towns. By adapting the program to work with our level of staffing and budget, as well as tailoring it to the uniqueness of our community, we can start and maintain a valuable tradition, honor the legacy of our brave residents, and bring our town together.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023
Are You (or a Family Member) a Veteran or In Active Duty? We Want to Honor You!
Middlesex Public Library and the Borough are proud to announce partnership with the American Legion to create a living tribute called The Legacy Lawn to honor Middlesex residents who have served in the military, or are in active duty currently.
From November 11 –December 11, lawn signs with each veteran’s name, picture (if desired), branch, rank of service, and any awarded medals or accomplishments, will be displayed on the lawn. Signs will start display on veterans day and will also coincide with Pearl Harbor Day, and the American Legion’s annual Post Everlasting remembrance ceremony. Signs will be stored in the Library and then placed out on Memorial Day weekend for the parade route.
This will be a project that the Library will maintain and manage year after year, and will allow for additional applicants to submit to be part of the Legacy Lawn. Since these signs will be accessible and at eye level, we encourage all to stop, pull over and spend some time reflecting and honoring.
The Library can maintain accurate records of participants in the program and protect the privacy and integrity of the shared information. Library staff specialize in keeping information organized and consistent. The Library will own the original design files and copyright, and can ensure all of the signs, design wise, remain consistent,
The Library is a long standing institution that will fund this project, with appropriate staffing to maintain, install and look after the signs.
Borough residents have long expressed an interest in honoring their veterans similar to other towns. By adapting the program to work with our level of staffing and budget, as well as tailoring it to the uniqueness of our community, we can start and maintain a valuable tradition, honor the legacy of our brave residents, and bring our town together.
Take Back Day is Saturday, October 28, 2023
Too often, unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. That's why the Middlesex Police Department will be a collection location for Take Back Day on Oct. 23rd from 10 am–2 pm…
Too often, unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. That's dangerous and often tragic. That's why thousands of folks from across the country clean out their medicine cabinets and turn in – safely and anonymously – a record amount of prescription drugs on the DEA’s Take Back Day.
The Middlesex Police Department will be a collection location for the DEA National Prescription Medication Take Back from 10 am–2 pm at Police headquarters 1101 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846.
DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications — those that are old, unwanted, or expired — that too often become a gateway to addiction.
The Middlesex PD and all Borough departments encourage your participation in the DEA's Take Back Day and encourages you to learn about the importance of disposing of any unwanted, unused or expired prescription medications in your house.
Not local?
Search for a drop off location near you on the DEA Collection Site Locator here.
Learn More
Find resources and learn more on the Take Back Day website www.dea.gov/takebackday.
Mayor John L. Madden Celebrates Ribbon-Cutting at New Superfresh Store
A grand opening event was held on Friday, October 20. 2023, for the new SuperFresh store, and Mayor John L. Madden was there for the ribbon-cutting to welcome the new business…
Welcome, SuperFresh!
A grand opening event was held on Friday, October 20. 2023, for the new SuperFresh store at 242 Lincoln Boulevard. Mayor John L. Madden attended for the ribbon-cutting to welcome the new business to the town.
Key Food Stores Co-Operative, Inc. shared this information about the store in their press release:
This Middlesex Borough Superfresh location is approximately 56,000 sq feet, offering a full-service Meat department with custom-cut service, in addition to select seafood options, including shrimp, tilapia, and bacalao amongst others. Customers can find a wide variety of international items, including a selection of Caribbean, Central American, and Mexican products. The full-service deli includes Boar’s Head, international products, catering services, bakery, and hot food, including a variety of hot lunches. We also have a variety of products in our Dairy department, including international varieties. Our large quality produce department carries all kinds of varieties and international products coming directly from farms across the nation and globe.
Flood Wall project on South Lincoln Ave Takes Shape
Meaningful flood reduction is making progress in our area! In our Borough's geography, the GBFCC Segment C2 & H was awarded in March 2023 and construction began this month…
Meaningful flood reduction is making progress in our area – thanks to the tireless work and advocacy over the past 50 years from the Green Brook Flood Control Commission (GBFCC) and local residents, including Paul Woska and Mark Kranz, our GBFCC Commissioners.
Recent Congressional budgets awarded $496 million for the construction of the Lower Basin and Stony Brook portions of Green Brook Flood Commission projects. With this commitment by the Federal government, projects are beginning to take shape.
In our Borough's geography, Segment C2 & H was awarded in March 2023 and construction began this month.
The base consists of two closure gates across S. Lincoln Avenue, one on either side of the brook.
The northern gate will be in the gap where the completed Segment C2 floodwall is located.
The south side gate, along with 300 or so feet of floodwall to be placed.
The options consist of levees on both sides of the brook. The northern levee is to the west of S. Lincoln Avenue taking off where the Segment C2, Contract 1 floodwall ends.
The two southern sections of levee will be on both sides of S. Lincoln Avenue.
Two pump stations are included in the option.
South of the stream, on the west side of South Lincoln there will be a wall and flood gate installation. North of the stream, on the west side of South Lincoln a 2nd flood gate. These flood gates will both move toward the east and contain the bridge. During flooding when the gates are closed water will flow over the bridge. The pumping station will be up towards Denton Ave where the house was demolished.
We Really "ROCKED" Middlesex This Summer!
We would like to thank everyone who participated in this summer’s rock snake project along the walkway in Victor Crowell Park! The smiles and pride on the childrens' faces all summer were priceless…
Farewell, Victor!
Victor the Rock Snake: Our Last Update: October 13
It is now Fall and we are ending our Rock Snake project. Starting this weekend, please come say "see ya later!" to Victor, as you gather your rocks. Don't be sad. Just like Frosty the Snowman, he'll be back again some day! (ETA summer 2024!)
To say it was a very successful project is an understatement. I am beyond happily overwhelmed by the participation by our town. We made it to the 3rd lamp post and started to slither back around!
I would like to thank everyone who participated and kept the excitement going. The smiles and pride on the childrens' faces all summer were priceless!
A big thank you to Robert Morris for photographing all the rocks in Middlesex's first rock snake (see Rob’s SmugMug gallery here). Great job and thank you for always donating your time to our town!
Victor's page will stay up on the website here so you can look back fondly on the memories of our fun summer project. https://www.middlesexboro-nj.gov/latest-news/rock-snake-2023
We'll see you all in summer 2024!
Victor Update: September 6
Patriotic Rocks, Please
In honor of 9/11 and the upcoming remembrance ceremony at the park, Victor the Rock Snake is asking everyone to paint patriotic rocks. Please hold on to your rocks for when the park is re-opened.
Wear It: Summer 2023
T-shirts are available for purchase! Proceeds support the Plainfield Area Humane Society.
Mid-week Update August 29
Many friends stopped by for Victor photos – including Rocky!
Victor the Rock Snake 9-week update: Victor is a-slitherin'
Victor continues to wind his way around the grassy area past the 3rd lamp post!
We met several friends who stopped by for a picture! Thank you to our Middlesex Borough BOE, who stopped by and added their rocks with a Back to School theme!
Check out our Rock Photo Gallery, graciously created by our own, Rob Morris. Thank you, Rob! Photos are free to download. If you can't get to the park, you can always view them here. We believe there are over 600 rocks!
Our t-shirt fundraiser is over, but we DO have extra t-shirts for anyone who missed out! Drop a comment in the Facebook post if you’re interested.
Enjoy and paint a rock!
Victor’s Photo Gallery: Our 9-Week Journey
Victor’s Mid-Week Update, August 23
Victor the Rock Snake will remain in Victor Crowell Park until September 23rd! Feel free to continue to contribute. We’re currently brainstorming ways to preserve Victor. We originally asked everyone to collect their rocks at the end of the project. We have some time to come up with ideas. Also, if we’re going to have bad weather where the park may flood, we’ll ask everyone to come get their rocks.
The kids’ group picture will be this Saturday, August 26th, between Noon and 1:00pm. Please let us know if you’ll be attending by commenting on Facebook here.
The 9/11 Remembrance will soon be upon us. We thought it would be nice to add some patriotic rocks to Victor for the occasion.
Enjoy and paint a rock!
Week #8 Update: Victor has turned a corner!
Victor the Rock Snake is officially past the 3rd lamp post and growing!
Although we said we'd be ending the project next Saturday, August 26th, there has been a lot of interest in letting Victor stay for a little while longer. Our intrepid volunteer project leader is working on making that happen and we will make an announcement soon.
We'd still like to get a group photo of the kids that added rocks to Victor on August 26th, maybe between noon/1:00pm. As always, you can follow Victor's progress here. Enjoy and paint a rock!
Victor’s Week #7 Update…
August 12, 2023| Victor continues to grow – we made it to the 3rd lamp post! Look for the yellow tshirt at Victor's tail in the photo here.
We have approximately 2 weeks left of this project. We may be doing a rock take-back day on Saturday, August 26th. If you're available, we'd like to get a group photo of the kids that added rocks to Victor.
ONLY 1-week remaining to purchase a Victor the Rock Snake tshirt! We need to make it to 15 shirts for them to be printed. Please help us make our goal! Don't forget to support Victor's fundraiser to help his fellow animals. Proceeds to support the Plainfield Area Humane Society. You can buy a shirt or make a donation, or both! Enjoy and paint a rock!
Victor the Rock Snake: Week #6 Update
Victor continues to grow! The end of his tail is approximately 10 feet from the 3rd lamp post! We have approximately 3 weeks left to see if we can make it to the boat house.
Don't forget to support Victor's fundraiser to help his fellow animals! Proceeds to support the Plainfield Area Humane Society! You can buy a shirt or make a donation, or both! Visit our CustomInk fundraising page here.
Victor has his own shirts now!
August 1, 2023 | And now we are a fundraiser! Victor the Rock Snake would like to help his fellow animals by supporting the Plainfield Area Humane Society! Buy a tshirt to help Victor! Our community has risen to the occasion in helping Victor grow, so Victor would like to give back to his fellow animals with this fundraiser.
Visit our Fundraising page on CustomInk to purchase your “I ROCKED MIDDLESEX” tshirt !
Victor’s 5-week Update
July 30, 2023 | Victor continues to grow! We're getting closer to the 3rd lamp post and the boat house! Great job, Middlesex! You Rock! You can see how long Victor is in our photo gallery below, with one of Victor's helpers standing at the end of the snake. There's also a very special message on one of the rocks.
There is another month left of Summer, so let's see how much more we can get Victor to grow!
Victor the Rock Snake: 3-week Update
July 16, 2023 | Victor is really moving aLONG!! He is 100 feet long (thank you, DPW!) and is made up of over 300 rocks! We are now past the second lamp post and we can see the boat house!
Also, photographer, Robert Morris did an album for us (thank you, Robert!). Visit the smugmug gallery to enjoy the rock-artwork up close! All files in the Smugmug Gallery are unlocked and can be downloaded at no cost. https://robert-morris.smugmug.com/MiddlesexRocks2023/
Check our progress all summer…
…here at www.middlesexboro-nj.gov/latest-news/rock-snake-2023, on the Borough Facebook page facebook.com/middlesexboroughnj, and now at the SmugMug Gallery page, too!
Be part of a fun activity this summer in Middlesex!
We’re creating a “rock snake” along the walkway in Victor Crowell Park and we’ll need your help. Add your painted rock to “Victor” the rock snake. Let’s see how long Victor can grow by the end of the summer!
Paint a positive message or picture on your rock
Please use acrylic, waterproof paint for your rock
Paint your initials on the bottom so you may collect your rock(s) at the end of the summer
Make sure to weatherproof your rock with a clear coat sealer
We're starting the snake at the entrance to Victor Crowell Park.
Look for Victor just past the gate and past the picnic tables. You’ll find our sign – and Victor's head!
Borough Site Chosen for EPA Reuse Award; Ceremony Held Oct. 11
The EPA held a ceremony on Oct. 11 to honor the efforts of many partners who helped restore the property at Middlesex South and promote its reuse…
OCTOBER 11, 2023 | This summer the US Environmental Protection Agency announced the 2023 National Federal Facility Excellence in Site Reuse Award winners, choosing the Middlesex South, New Jersey, site to receive the sixth annual award. The site, also known as the Middlesex Sampling Plant, won the award in the Superfund National Priorities List category.
The award recognizes the accomplishments of federal agencies, states, tribes, local partners, and developers that restore and reuse contaminated land at federal facilities.
Ceremony Held October 11th
The National Federal Facility Excellence in Site Reuse Award honoring the Middlesex Sampling Plant was held in the Borough Hall Community Room on Wednesday, Oct. 11. The speech given by Mayor John L. Madden follows:
Good Morning, it is my honor to be here representing Middlesex Borough in accepting the 2023 Federal Facility Excellence in Site Reuse Award regarding the Middlesex Sampling Plant. I welcome all the Federal and State Agencies present here including Mr. Jeff Bastow of Claremont Development who have supported us in this important partnership.
The Middlesex Sampling Plant, then known as the Middlesex Engineering District, encompassed 9.6 total acres which included a process building and a Marine training center. The plant brought in uranium ore known as pitchblende from Africa. Not only uranium, but the site also received thorium and beryllium ores from the 1940’s until1967.
Thereafter, the site was deemed contaminated, ultimately becoming a Superfund Site and registered on the NPL (National Priorities List) for clean-up and decontamination.
As a Board of Health member back then, I was invited to tour the brick process building probably several years before being torn down. The several rooms I observed had shelves filled with large glass jars of soil samples from other areas and cities as well. Over the years, a great deal of soil and materials were excavated and removed for disposal- 33,000, 35,000, and 45,000 cubic yards in all.
After spending millions of Federal dollars to cleanup up and restore this site to residential standards and at no cost to the Borough, this transfer of the property is a good example of how the Federal Government can effectively work well with local government.
Lastly, it is interesting to reflect upon and look back in history that our small community, Middlesex Borough was selected as one of the dozen sites across the country to participate in the war effort to develop the atomic energy program. Today, this may just be a mere incidental footnote in the annals of our rich legacy.
Thank you all for this wonderful opportunity!
Mayor John L. Madden
Photos from the Ceremony
POSTED: OCTOBER 5, 2023
EPA Award Ceremony: Wednesday, October 11
TIME: 10:30–11:30 am
IN-PERSON: Community Room, 1300 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ
Virtual: MS Teams
Click on the Image to download the ceremony announcement (pdf)
Recent History of the Site, 1943–Present
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress online database.
The Middlesex Sampling Plant was part of the nation’s early atomic energy program, known as the Manhattan Project, in 1943.
Due to contaminated soils discovered later at the plant at 239 Mountain Avenue and the nearby landfill, the Department of Energy began a cleanup in 1981 which continued until 1986.
Then in 1997 the US Army Corps of Engineers continued the soil remediation to an unrestricted-use level.
In 2018, Middlesex Borough began the process to acquire the site to construct our current Department of Public Works (DPW) facility.
The EPA’s Press Release Describes Some History of This Local Site
The Middlesex Sampling Plant in New Jersey is seen from a drone flight in May 2023. | Photo courtesy of the US Department of Energy - Office of Legacy Management.
Superfund National Priorities List Award
LINK TO EPA PRESS RELEASE HERE | Middlesex Sampling Plant, Middlesex, New Jersey (Department of Energy – Office of Legacy Management). The U.S. Department of Energy began remediation at the U.S. government-owned Middlesex Sampling Plant, New Jersey, in 1980, under the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program.
Since 1997, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continued site cleanup activities under the same remediation program, and surface soils were remediated to an unrestricted-use level.
In 2018, Middlesex Borough, NJ proposed the acquisition of the site for use as a Department of Public Works/Office of Emergency Management facility and a public road. The public road in turn supports a $40 million Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-designed adjacent warehouse development and a larger community redevelopment zone.
Both the DPW and warehouse projects will aid the growth plan for the borough and are consistent with the borough’s Lincoln Boulevard Redevelopment Plan. The warehouse development alone would provide increased tax revenue and more than 150 jobs to the community.
A Team Effort Across Many Decades
“We are honored to be recognized by EPA with this esteemed award. The remediation efforts were a catalyst, but it also took vision and commitment from the community to turn this property into a valuable resource,” said Carmelo Melendez, U.S. Department of Energy Office of Legacy Management director. “This site demonstrates the importance of the work addressing the nation’s nuclear weapons legacy and how cooperation with state, local, and federal partners can generate opportunities for smart reuse.”
“This has truly been a team effort on many levels,” Castillo said. “LM’s FUSRAP and Asset Management teams spent significant time and effort developing creative solutions to the twists and turns over four years to support a beneficial reuse request from the local municipality.”
You can read more about the Reuse Award and the Middlesex Borough facility on the Department of Energy’s website here, “LM Site in New Jersey Chosen for EPA Reuse Award.”
Quarterly Newsletter - Autumn 2023 Edition
Check out the PDF version of our quarterly Borough newsletter!
We hope you’re having a wonderful autumn, Middlesex Borough!
Our Quarterly Newsletter is back and ready to help you catch up on Borough news, upcoming events, and opportunities to participate in Borough life this fall.
Departments and Topics in this Issue
From the Mayor: Alligator Happennings at Lake Creighton
Also from the Mayor: Erosion on Heather Lane
Clerk: General Election Voting Deadlines
Shade Tree Commission: Photo Contest
OEM: Promoting CPR Literacy at Blue Jay varsity football
Borough Staff: Promoting Breast Cancer Awareness
Library: Fall Events, and Honoring Military Service with Our New Legacy Lawn
Rec Department: Fall & Winter Activities
Public Works: Servicing Our Neighborhoods
Police Department: Promoting Safety
Community: The Rock Snake of Summer ’23
Board of Health: Rabies Vaccination Clinic
OEM Special Report: Encoraging Preparedness
Friday, Sep. 29: Recycling Delays and Phone Issues
Recycle Pickup has been postponed until tomorrow for certain areas. Please see the map-graphic…
Recycling Pickup Delays
Recycle Pickup has been postponed until tomorrow for certain areas. Please see the map-graphic here that shows the affected area.
Phones
UPDATE 3:15 PM | We are happy to report that Borough phones are back in service.
10:00 am | Borough phones are temporarily out of service. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause. You can find email contact information for many departments on our website's Contact page here.
Food Trucks Return to Mountain View Park September 30
Saturday, September 30, 2023: Join the fun! You’ll enjoy a wide range of dining options, beverages, activities, and MORE – including new twists on old favorites and a range of ethnic cuisines.
The Food Trucks return to Middlesex this autumn on September 30! Celebrate community with 12+ food trucks, and activities like bungee trampoline, face painters, craft vendors, sand art, henna tattoos, and more!
Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and 4-legged friends to Mountain View Park from 11am–-7pm where you will be able to enjoy FOOD, ACTIVITIES, MUSIC, and COMMUNITY!
FOR THE MOST UPDATED LIST of Food Trucks,
visit the Facebook event page here. Ticket pricing: $6 for everyone 6 years and older!
Beverages
Visitors to the event will be able to wash down their food truck feast of choice with a variety of local NJ craft beers, wine, and hard seltzers. The alcohol is being made available by the Middlesex Elks, Lodge 1488.
Live Music
Perhaps a full belly will embolden attendees to sway to the rhythms of live music by the Naughty Humphry and The Berverlees.
Activities
like Bungee Trampoline, Face painters, craft vendors, Sand Art, Henna Tattoos, and more!
FOR THE MOST UPDATED LIST of performers and activities, visit the Facebook event page here.
Tables
Non-profit community organizations will have the opportunity to participate through table display. Some tables are still available; those interested in reserving a table for community outreach at this event should speak to the Middlesex Borough Recreation Department at 732-356-7400 ext. 277.
Tickets
Megabite Events will be organizing ticket distribution. Pricing: $6 for everyone 6 years and older! AVOID THE LONG LINES TO GET IN AND SECURE OUR FASTPASS TICKETS TODAY! Visit https://mega-bite-events.ticketleap.com/2nd-annual-middlesex-borough-food-truck-festival/ to purchase tickets.
Kick of the fall season with us! Grab friends and family and be ready to have a wonderful time celebrating with the community. Be sure to bring your folding chairs!
Keep an eye on the Event page on Facebook here for the most updated information about participating vendors and activities.
* Middlesex Borough is partnering with Mega Bites Events to organize this fun-filled community event at Mountain View Park on September 30, 2023. Musical acts and Food Truck vendors are subject to change.
Mega Bites Events is a premier organizer of community events and festivals throughout New Jersey. If you would like more information on the Middlesex Borough Food Truck Festival, please contact Middlesex Borough Recreation Department at 732-356-7400 ext. 277.
Message from Mayor Madden: The Clarion Call for Heather Lane
“My frustration centers around the interesting responses that I have received from these various agencies…”
After two years of identifying and addressing this dangerous yet growing pernicious environmental problem, bringing the issue to the attention of regional, state and federal governments and agencies, we have yet to secure a practical utilitarian remedy for these residents and neighbors on two other nearby cul de sacs experiencing a similar erosion problem.
The remedy must consist of state and or federal aid probably in the form of grant funding. The Borough cannot get involved in private property even with a matching grant. In my opinion, the best solution would come out of the Governor’s office and the Federal Government, particularly FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) in the form of 100 % grant funding. FEMA offers a “National Preparedness System” in which communities identify and assess such (environmental) risks, threats and hazards.” Thereafter building and sustaining capabilities based on this risk assessment are formulated. Heather Lane in my opinion fits squarely within this purview.
FEMA is a federal agency within the Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS). Their 10 field offices manage disaster response and recovery. In fact, the director of FEMA reports directly to the DHS secretary.
Unfortunately such a callous renunciation of accountability and obligation concerning this issue and of this magnitude lends a compelling wrinkle in the quiver of financial resources available to the state and federal government while accepting zero liability.
An important note is that the Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee maintains complete oversight of FEMA. This subcommittee focuses on “emergency preparedness, response, mitigation, resilience and recovery.” Their hazard mitigation funding comes with a well-defined cost/benefit ratio with a 25 % Borough match.
My frustration centers around the interesting responses that I have received from these various agencies. The most recent one since reaching out to the EPA Region 2 officials last week was that said agency will not get involved since this situation is not covered within their scope or policy even though they acknowledge that Middlesex Borough is an “underserved” community (key for their engagement). Instead their response was to “call Congress since this is where their funding comes from.”
I am urging that all residents please reach out to these government officials to help in this cause. Would this problem have been resolved if these officials lived here in Middlesex on Heather Lane?
Enjoy your day and be well.
Mayor John L. Madden
Watch Mayor Madden’s Interview with News12 About the Urgent Issues on Heather Lane
Image link clicks through to News 12 NJ’s website to view the video.
Community Pool: Thank You to Our Members, Guests, and Staff for Another Special Season
Your excitement and presence always helps us create a real “pool community!”
The sun has set on another successful pool season!
Thank you to our members, guests, and staff that made Summer 2023 another special and successful season! We are very thankful that you included us as one of your outdoor destinations this Summer. Your excitement and presence always helps us create a real “pool community!” Be sure to tell your family and friends how much you enjoy the pool so they may join us next Summer!
We wish everyone good health in the off-season and look forward to seeing everyone for Summer 2024!
Your Middlesex Community Pool
where happy memories are made
SEE YOU NEXT SUMMER!
Follow the Pool on Social Media
Photos: 9-11 Remembrance Candlelight Memorial Service
PHOTO GALLERY: Tuesday, Sep. 12 at 6:00 PM, Middlesex Borough will hold its annual September 11th Remembrance Ceremony in Victor Crowell Park at the Memorial.
RAIN DATE: 9-11 Remembrance Candlelight Memorial Service
Please join us TONIGHT, Tuesday, Sep. 12th at 6:00 PM.
Last night's rain postponed our annual September 11th Commemorative Ceremony which will now be held tonight at Victor Crowell Park. The public is invited to attend this ceremony to remember all those who lost their lives and all those who served on September 11, 2001. Candles will be provided by the Borough.
Original Invitation to this year’s Ceremony
Join us at Victor Crowell Park on Monday, 9/11/2023 at 7pm for our annual September 11th Commemorative Ceremony. The public is invited to attend this ceremony to remember all those who lost their lives and all those who served on September 11, 2001.
The Event Committee is looking for the names of active military from town (or whose relatives or friends live in town) to share during the 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony. Borough families and friends who know of any one in active military service may submit the name, rank, branch of military, and (optional) where they are stationed to Monique Sasso at ms332@optonline.net. Please email your submission(s) no later than September 1. These names will be announced during the ceremony.
Candles will be provided by the Borough.
* In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be postponed to the next day, September 12 (same location at Victor Crowell Park, but at 6:00 PM).
This Football Season Catch Free "Bystander CPR" Sessions at every Blue Jay Varsity Home Game
Do you know CPR? Starting September 15 and continuing through every Varsity Home Game, the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and Library will be presenting a quick 5-minute CPR session…
Your neighbors know CPR. Shouldn’t you? Starting September 15 and continuing through every Varsity Home Football Game, the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and Library, with MedicZero, will offer brief (5-minute) FREE Bystander CPR Sessions.
Cardiac episodes can happen anytime, anywhere, to anyone – this Fall, our “You Are the Help Until the Help Arrives” community outreach series is focusing on athletes and athletic supporters.
In the United States, less than 50% of individuals who go into cardiac arrest in public are given CPR before emergency services arrive.
For every minute that a bystander does not administer CPR, a cardiac arrest victim’s chances of survival decrease 10%.
Training by MedicZero
ANYONE attending these games can learn and practice 5-10 minute sessions of no breath/hands only, Bystander CPR techniques
Home Game Scheduled Dates:
September 15
September 29
October 6
October 20
The trainings are FREE to the Community.
They are held beginning at 6pm prior to start of each game and at half time.
The Middlesex Library and Middlesex OEM want to emphasize the importance of CPR literacy to all our athletes, coaches, staff, and spectators. The goal of this program is to empower bystanders with the confidence and basic knowledge to recognize and act when cardiac emergencies occur.
Since its inception in 2022, the OEM/Library program, “You Are the Help until Help Arrives”: Free Training Programs for Bystander Emergency Preparedness,” has trained over 800 Middlesex Borough community members.
Training is provided by MedicZero, a nonprofit organization of college medical students across the country. With the guidance of board certified and FACEP designated physicians, Medic Zero “seeks to enable bystanders with the confidence to recognize emergencies and initiate care, encourage the delivery of skillful, evidence-based care by providers, and construct community paramedicine initiatives to improve the prehospital landscape.” (https://www.mediczero.org/our-vis)
Classes offered so far: 8 in person, 2 hours classes
Community Events: 2 all day events, where participants got to learn and practice 5-10 minutes no breath hands only CPR techniques
Training is provided by MedicZero, a nonprofit organization of college medical students across the country. With the guidance of board certified and FACEP designated physicians, Medic Zero “seeks to enable bystanders with the confidence to recognize emergencies and initiate care, encourage the delivery of skillful, evidence-based care by providers, and construct community paramedicine initiatives to improve the prehospital landscape.” (https://www.mediczero.org/our-vis)
Feedback from the five emergency preparedness classes that have been offered through this OEM/Library program has been overwhelmingly positive.
“I attended their class in December and highly recommend everyone take this CPR class. The recent injury and recovery of Damar Hamlin is a great example of what can happen if someone is aware of how to use CPR to assist someone who has suffered cardiac arrest. 13 year olds are permitted and I encourage them to attend as well. I am recommending this training to everyone I know!”
“The CPR training class was very informative. I have never taken a hands on CPR class, even though I graduated with a Health Science Degree. Everything was well explained, and presentation was good.”
“Thank you for offering this very much needed course. The presentation and the presenters were wonderful and we loved that there was hands on at the end of the course.”
“This program is another great example of the value that our OEM continues to bring to our residents. I was particularly impressed with the MedicZero team who provides the training. Lastly, a big thank you to our OEM and our Library for collaborating on hosting this program.”
Training Theme: You are the help until help arrives
For every minute that a bystander does not administer CPR, a cardiac arrest victim’s chances of survival decrease 10%. YOU can change that. YOU can be the hero your neighbors, friends, and family need when a cardiac disaster strikes.
Your neighbors know CPR. Shouldn’t you? YOU can be the hero your neighbors, friends, and family need when a cardiac disaster strikes.
Questions? Email bbenson553@yahoo.com or call the Middlesex Library at (732) 356-6602, ext. 4.
Help Clean-up the Green Brook at Mountain View Park on Sep. 16
Celebrate International Clean-up Day with the LRWP and Middlesex Borough DPW on Saturday September 16 for a clean-up of the Green Brook at Mountain View Park…
Saturday, September 16th: Clean-up of the Green Brook at Mountain View Park in Middlesex!
Celebrate International Clean-up Day with the LRWP and Middlesex Borough DPW on Saturday September 16 for a clean-up of the Green Brook at Mountain View Park in Middlesex Borough!
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
302 John F Kennedy Dr, Middlesex, NJ 08846
All supplies will be provided.
Please wear shoes and clothing that can get wet and dirty.
Please plan to join us for lunch following the event at 12:30pm.
Pre-registration required. Visit the Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership website here to register.
Download the flyer
September is National Preparedness Month
Middlesex Borough’s Office of Emergency Management and FEMA encourage you to “Take Control in 1, 2, 3” this month.
Middlesex Borough’s Office of Emergency Management and FEMA encourage you to “Take Control in 1, 2, 3” this month.
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
Disaster Preparedness Month is an annual campaign held every September by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The theme this year is “Take Control 1, 2, 3” It aims to raise awareness about the importance of being prepared for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time.
On September 1, 2023 National Preparedness Month began. We are already in the height of very active and extreme weather conditions. Everyone should be thinking about and having conversations with their family, friends, neighbors or loved ones to discuss what you would do in the event of a disaster in your area to prepare and protect.
Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management strives to educate and empower our residents in preparing for and responding to emergencies including natural and man-made disasters.
Find resources and tips to get your plan started at FEMA’s ready.gov website here.
Get involved in your community today, to help build a culture of preparedness.
Individuals and communities can work together to improve preparedness and respond to disasters and emergencies.
Attend Opportunities sponsored by Middlesex Office of Emergency in collaboration with the Middlesex Library as they are scheduled.
Bystander CPR and Blue Jays Football
Coming right up on September 15 and September 29 are the first of Four Middlesex High School Varsity Football Home Game Presentations of Free- No Breath- Bystander CPR. These individual presentations begin pregame at 6 pm and through half time at the High School field. We hope to see you there! Read more about it in the Latest News article here.
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OEM Facebook | Middlesex Borough OEM | Facebook
Middlesex Boro website | Visit the OEM web page now
OEM Instagram | @middlesexoem