Young Adults (16 to 18) Encouraged to Apply for OEM’s Cadet Program
If you are an individual aged 16 to 18 and looking to gain valuable experience and make a real difference in your community, the Middlesex Borough OEM Cadet Program is a great place to start…
Sunshine Notices 2023
December 2023: Middlesex Borough Sunshine Notices (Open Public Meetings Act).
NEW JERSEY OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT
The Open Public Meetings Law, which is commonly referred to as the “Sunshine Law,” establishes the right of all citizens to have adequate advance notice of all public meetings and the right to attend meetings at which any business affecting the public is discussed or acted upon. (P.L.1975, c.231 (C.10:4-6))
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 28, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846
AMENDED ANNUAL NOTICE
In compliance with the "Open Public Meeting Law" P.L. 1975 C231, the following schedule is set for the meetings of Mayor and Council for the year 2024:
January 2 (Reorganization), January 23
February 13, 27
March 12, 26
April 9, 23
May 14, 28
June 11, 25
July 23
August 27
September 10, 24
October 8, 22
November 26
December 17
Regular Meetings commence at 7:00 p.m.
Meetings will be held at the Municipal Building, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey.
Action may be taken at any meeting above.
________________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were e-mailed to the Courier News, Star Ledger, posted on the borough website, and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building on December 28, 2023.
_____________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 28, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
NOTICE | OFFICE OF SWIM POOL COMMISSION
In compliance with the Open Public Meeting Law PL 1975, C.231, the following schedule is set for the meetings of the Swim Pool Commission during 2024:
Meetings are held every third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Middlesex Public Library with the exception of May, June, July, August, and September, which are held at the Middlesex Community Pool.
2024 POOL MEETINGS
Swim Pool Commission meetings will be held every third Wednesday of the month, at 7:00 p.m. The following dates are scheduled for the meetings:
January 17, at Library
February 21, at Library
March 20, at Library
April 17, at Library
May 15, at Pool
June 19, at Pool
July 17, at Pool
August 21, at Pool
September 18, at Pool
October 16, at Library
November 20, at Library
December 18, at Library
I hereby certify that the following newspapers were mailed copies of this notice: The Star-Ledger, and The Courier News; and said notice were posted on the bulletin board of the Municipal Building on January 1, 2024.
__________________________
Katie Young, Secretary, Swim Pool Commission
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 22, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
OFFICE OF SHADE TREE COMMISSION
2024 SHADE TREE COMMISSION ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE
TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Shade Tree Commission will begin holding their monthly meetings at 7PM at the Middlesex Municipal Building, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ the second Thursday of each month, except July and August, there will be no meeting held.
This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter 231, P.L. 1975.
__________________________
Linda Chismar, Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were sent to the Courier News and Star Ledger and posted in the Municipal Building on December 22, 2024.
__________________________
Linda Chismar, Secretary
Notice Date: December 18, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
Office of Health Department | 2024 Sunshine Notice
TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Board of Health will hold its Board meetings at 7:00 P.M. at the Recreation Building, 1400 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ, on the second Thursday of the month.
This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter 231, P.L. 1975.
_____________________________
Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, Home News, The Star Ledger, and posted in the Municipal Building on December 15, 2023.
______________________________
Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary
Notice Date: December 15, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
Joint Land Use Board
The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday December 27,2023 has been cancelled. The next meeting is the Reorganization Meeting Wednesday January 10,2024 at 7pm at Middlesex Borough Municipal Building, Council meeting room, 1200 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846.
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 8, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
PARKS IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE
TAKE NOTICE, the Parks Improvement Committee January meeting will be held on January 9, 2024 commencing at 7:30 pm in the Library Community Room at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey.
This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter 231, P.L. 1975.
__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger, Borough Website and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building on December 8, 2023.
__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 5, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | Middlesex, NJ 08846
1200Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846
ANNUAL NOTICE
In compliance with the "Open Public Meeting Law" P.L. 1975 C231, the following schedule is set for the meetings of Mayor and Council for the year 2024:
January 2 (Reorganization), January 23
February 13, 27
March 12, 26
April 9, 23
May 14, 28
June 11, 23
July 23
August 27
September 10, 24
October 8, 22
November 19
December 17
Regular Meetings commence at 7:00 p.m.
Meetings will be held at the Municipal Building, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey.
Action may be taken at any meeting above.
________________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were e-mailed to the Courier News, Star Ledger, posted on the borough website, and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building on December 1, 2023.
_____________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date November 28, 2023
Borough of Middlesex
1200Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846
In compliance with the “Open Public Meeting Law” P.L. 1975 C231, the Governing Body of the Borough of Middlesex will hold a Special Remote Meeting on Friday, December 8, 2023 commencing at 2PM. to approve the Middlesex NJIB Fall Pool Bonds Confirming Resolutions. Action will be taken.
This will be held remotely and anyone can access the meeting via a telephone with the following call in number and password:
Call in Number: +1 848-220-3300
Password: 561-913
The meeting is open to the public for comments or questions and we will also accept that public comments or questions can be emailed to lchismar@middlesexboro-nj.gov up to 48 hours prior to the Remote Meeting. Said comments shall be read aloud at the meeting by the Borough Clerk.
_____________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted on the website and bulletin board in the Municipal Building on November 27, 2023.
______________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date November 2, 2023
Borough of Middlesex
1200Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846
In compliance with the “Open Public Meeting Law” P.L. 1975 C231, the Governing Body of the Borough of Middlesex will hold a Special Remote Meeting on Friday, December 8, 2023 commencing at 2pm to approve the Middlesex NJIB Fall Pool Bonds Confirming Resolutions. Action will be taken.
This will be held remotely and anyone can access the meeting via a telephone with the following call in number and password:
Call in Number: +1 848-220-3300
Password: 561-913
The meeting is open to the public for public comments or questions.
_____________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted on the website and bulletin board in the Municipal Building on November 2, 2023.
______________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date October 17, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
PARKS IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE
TAKE NOTICE, the Parks Improvement Committee has rescheduled their November 7, 2023. The November meeting will be held on November 6, 2023 commencing at 7:30 pm in the Library Community Room at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey.
This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter 231, P.L. 1975.
__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger, Borough Website and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building on October 17, 2023.
__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date October 12, 2023
The Middlesex Shade Tree Commission has rescheduled their October 12, 2023 Meeting to be held on October 19, 2023 commencing at 7pm in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey. Action may be taken.
_____________________________
Linda Chismar, Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were emailed to the Courier News and Star Ledger posted on the website and bulletin board in the Municipal Building on October 12, 2023.
______________________________
Linda Chismar, Secretary
Notice Date: October 5, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
Joint Land Use Board
The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday October 11,2023 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday October 25,2023 at 7pm at Middlesex Borough Municipal Building, Council meeting room, 1200 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846
Notice Date: August 24, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
Joint Land Use Board
The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday, September 13, 2023 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 7pm at Middlesex Borough Municipal Building, Council meeting room, 1200 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846.
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date July 14, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
PARKS IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE
TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Parks Improvement Committee will hold its monthly meetings at 7:30PM in the Middlesex Library Community Room. The schedule for the remainder of 2023 is as follows:
July 31, 2023
September 5, 2023
October 3, 2023
November 7, 2023
December 5, 2023
This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter 231, P.L. 1975.
__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger, Borough Website and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building and Recreation Center on July 13, 2023.
__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date July 6, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | Joint Land Use Board
The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday July 12,2023 has been cancelled. The application JLUB 2023-001 Dream 700 South Ave LLC, 700 South Ave, Block 267 Lots 4,5,6 has been adjourned to the August 9,2023 meeting at 7pm at Middlesex Borough Municipal Building, Council meeting room, 1200 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846.
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date May 12, 2023
OFFICE OF HEALTH DEPARTMENT
In compliance with the “Open Public Meeting Law” P.L. 1975 C231, the Middlesex Board of Health will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, May 22, 2023 at 7:00 P.M. in the Municipal Building, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ, to discuss Creighton Lake with the DEP/EPA and Middlesex County Board of Health.
_____________________________
Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, The Star Ledger, and posted to the borough website and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building on May 12, 2023.
______________________________
Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date April 24 2023
Borough of Middlesex
1200Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846
In compliance with the “Open Public Meeting Law” P.L. 1975 C231, the Governing Body of Middlesex Borough will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, May 22, 2023 at 7PM in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey to discuss Creighton Lake with the DEP/EPA and Middlesex County Board of Health.
_____________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, The Star Ledger, and posted on the website and bulletin board in the Municipal Building on April 24, 2023.
______________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date April 21, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | Joint Land Use Board
The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday April 26, 2023 has been cancelled.
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date March 30, 2023
Middlesex Community Pool
NOTICE OF MEETING
First Annual Middlesex Community Pool Grizzly Bear Plunge Meeting
Date: April 4, 2023
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: The Middlesex Public Library Community Room
(Please enter through door in vestibule)
Middlesex, New Jersey
Please note that there will be a special meeting to discuss the upcoming First Annual Middlesex Community Pool Grizzly Bear Plunge. This meeting is scheduled to be held at the Middlesex Public Library Community Room (please enter through door in vestibule), on April 4, 2023, at 6:00 pm.
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were e-mailed to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building on March 30, 2023.
Katie Bird-Young, Secretary
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date March 20, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | Joint Land Use Board
The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday March 22, 2023 has been cancelled.
JLUB 2022-012
New Hope Family Enterprises LLC
Lincoln Blvd
Block 314 Lot 11
Major Preliminary and Final Site Plan
has been carried to the April 12,2023 meeting which will take place at the Borough Hall, Courtroom, 1200 Mountain Ave. at 7pm.
No further notice will be provided.
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date February 10, 2023
OFFICE OF HEALTH DEPARTMENT
TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Board of Health, Borough of Middlesex, Middlesex, New Jersey has amended the 2023 meeting schedule, effective immediately. Board of Health 2023 meetings will be held monthly on the second Thursday of the month, at 7:00pm at the Recreation Building, 1400 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ. The March meeting will be held at the Middlesex Library, 1300 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ.
This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter #231, P.L. 1975.
_____________________________
Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were sent to the Courier News, Home News, Star Ledger and posted in the Municipal Building on February 10, 2023.
______________________________
Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date February 1, 2023
Borough of Middlesex
1200Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846
In compliance with the “Open Public Meeting Law” P.L. 1975 C231, the Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Monday, February 6, 2023 at 7:00 P.M in the Recreation Center at 1400 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey to discuss the use of HUD grant money for the Middlesex Borough Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee. All Borough residents are invited to the meeting.
_____________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, The Star Ledger, and posted on the website and bulletin board in the Municipal Building on February 1, 2023.
______________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 18, 2023
OFFICE OF HEALTH DEPARTMENT
TAKE NOTICE that the regularly scheduled Board of Health meeting for Thursday, February 9, 2023 and Thursday, March 9, 2023 will now be held at the Middlesex Library, 1300 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ.
This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter #231, P.L. 1975.
_____________________________
Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were sent to the Courier News, Home News, Star Ledger and posted in the Municipal Buildingon January 18, 2023.
______________________________
Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 13, 2023
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
In compliance with the "Open Public Meeting Law' P.L. 1975 C231, the Governing Body of Middlesex Borough will hold a Special Meeting Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 7PM in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey to discuss the position of Borough Administrator in Executive Session.
__________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, The Star Ledger, and posted on the website and bulletin board in the Municipal Building on January 12, 2023.
__________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 6, 2023
In compliance with the “Open Public Meeting Law” P.L. 1975 C231, the Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on Monday, January 23, 2023 at 7:00 P.M in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey to discuss the use of HUD grant money for the Middlesex Borough Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee. All Borough residents are invited to the meeting.
_____________________________
Linda Chismar, Secretary
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, The Star Ledger, and posted on the website and bulletin board in the Municipal Building on January 6, 2023.
______________________________
Linda Chismar, Secretary
Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 3, 2023
AMENDED SUNSHINE NOTICE
Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
In compliance with the “Open Public Meeting Law” P.L. 1975 C231, the Governing Body of Middlesex Borough will hold a Special Meeting on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 8AM in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey to interview for the position of Borough Administrator in Executive Session and also to approve a resolution to apply for a grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
__________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
I hereby certify that copies of this notice were mailed to the Courier News, The Star Ledger, and posted on the website and bulletin board in the Municipal Building on January 3, 2023.
__________________________
Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk
OEM Celebrates Maggie Schneider's Master's Degree
Corporal Maggie Schneider graduated Summa Cum Laude from Arizona State University with a Master’s degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security…
Meet Corporal Maggie Schneider, our incredible Office of Emergency Management member who just graduated Summa Cum Laude from Arizona State University with a Master’s degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security! May 2022, she attained two bachelor’s degrees in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management and Law and Justice. Along with a certificate in Counterterrorism and Emergency Response Operations. Maggie is also a lifelong resident and graduate of Middlesex Boro District Schools.
Maggie is a graduate of the borough’s 2017 CERT program, OEM council member, and was promoted to Corporal this year. Her dedication to keeping our community safe is truly inspiring.
Maggie has gone above and beyond, seamlessly blending her passion for community service with academic excellence. This milestone is a testament to her unwavering commitment to keeping our community safe and resilient.
Join us in celebrating Maggie’s hard work, dedication, and the positive impact she brings to our emergency response efforts. Her expertise is an invaluable asset, and we’re immensely proud to have her as part of our team.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more prepared community. Congratulations Maggie on this well-deserved achievement!
Follow us on the Borough website and social media!
Reflections – My Time As Mayor
Farewell Address from Mayor John L. Madden | Upon being asked to run, I was very much aware of the imminent gathering storm brewing at Borough Hall…
December 19, 2023
Farewell Address from Mayor John L. Madden
Upon being asked to run, I was very much aware of the imminent gathering storm brewing at Borough Hall.
My initial reaction was why? Why do I need to insert myself in the vortex of this simmering, swirling entropy? Was I delirious? I was planning on leaving office on a high note as Council President.
However with much painful apprehension, I finally made the decision to run with my wife’s blessing.
The general election of 2019 produced many surprises for me. First was that I actually won. Secondly, I won by the largest margin between any two mayors in Middlesex Borough history. Unfortunately, this yielded very little respite with a seemingly insurmountable task still before me.
With no mentoring or mayoral training, I was given a day or two to prepare to run the next council meeting due to the immediate resignation of my predecessor. It was time to roll up my sleeves and take the plunge – so much for leaving office on a high note, which then became a mere footnote of the past.
Not long after the first couple of meetings, I received a call from Standard & Poor’s, Global, our credit reporting agency. Their ominous message concerned the potential drop in our favorable credit rating of AA., due to our burgeoning debt and significant drop in our surplus all of which were largely ignored. In addition, the Best Practices guidelines as set forth by our auditors were also largely ignored. These were indeed perilous times. So my reply to S&P Global was to reassure them that we are addressing the problem now, but some time was needed. My reassurance was my “collateralized” offering that my business of 41 years at the time was due to prudent conservative fiscal planning. If we survived through the “great recession” of 2008 then we were doing something right. We were then given some time to retire the debt burden and replenish the surplus.
The Best-Laid Plans…
With a new plan in place coupled and some Divine Intervention, it looked like we were on the right track thanks to the diligent work by our staff. Then the next shoe dropped.
In March 2020 a new guest quickly took up lodging- the pandemic. So soon we were faced with another unexpected challenge which hit hard. The virus brought not only an unprecedented amount of illness but also much of our anticipated revenue took a nose-dive.
And if things couldn’t get any worse for me on a personal level, I lost my mother in 2020, and my son Kyle in 2021 – both unexpectedly – and the recent loss of my dear mother-in-law.
The Financials
Looking at the fiscal situation of the Borough during my term, in 2019, our net fund balance (our surplus) was down to $397,000. In 2022, the last reporting year, our net fund balance came in at a much healthier $1,566,000.
Due to the burgeoning debt in 2019 which accrued in the prior years, a plan was put into place to address the arrearage. However, we still had to increase property taxes by approx. 7 % in the first year in order to stabilize future municipal tax rates. Since that increase, property taxes up to the present stayed relatively flat. In addition, we were able to retire much of the old debt.
Accomplishments
I was the first mayor to push through the Borough-wide revaluation which had been kicked down the road since 1986. This mandatory plan equitably spread the tax burden to all properties. Taxes on most residential properties dropped, while valuations significantly increased. The burden of the taxes shifted to the commercial and industrial properties.
In addition:
I have been an active participant on the Master Plan reexamination committee which is a ten year plan to create a vision of the needs of our town.
Merged the planning and zoning boards to save time and expense for both residents, developers and attorneys.
Acquired 302 Union Ave, to be part of Victor Crowell Park.
Welcomed 2 warehouse projects with pilot programs which will provide substantial revenue for 30 years.
Revised the Lincoln Blvd. Redevelopment Plan
Established the Cultural Arts and Heritage Committee
Established the Film committee
Received back the once-heavily-contaminated Middlesex Sampling Plant, once utilized for the Manhattan project regarding the Atomic Bomb. The federal government cleaned the property to “residential” standards and sold it back to us for $1.00 dollar.
Upgrades to our parks including playground equipment, new bathrooms and other improvements
The Street Scape project along Rt. 28 is close to completion.
Established the Environmental Commission
Rewrote our Shade Tree Ordinance
Authorized emergency appropriations for Covid funding
Upgraded a large part of our Sanitary Sewer Rehab. Project.
Hired a grant writer to reduce Borough expenditures on projects.
Police dispatching established
Swore in a total of 9 officers which brings them to full staff.
Planted many shade trees along Rt 28 and MVP
Many road paving projects completed including road-related improvements
Baekeland Ave infrastructure project underway.
Borough properties sold to USACE for continuation of flood control project.
1,400 number of resolutions adopted
119 number of ordinances adopted
Final Remarks
So now I come to you tonight with mixed emotions, some bittersweet with unfulfilled tasks, and others of pleasant and meaningful accomplishments in the pursuit of making Middlesex Borough a true “hallmark” town.
That said, my next contemplation was to put my parting thoughts down into words which was probably the most difficult task before me in this epilogue of my tenure as your mayor.
I have had many amazing memories, enjoyed the many years of varied Borough duties assigned to me, established some wonderful friendships and acquaintances, and really gained insight of how demanding the roles are of each employee and all personnel connected with the operations here.
My sincere gratitude goes out to all our staff, employees, our professionals, our governing body members, all the departments, committees, commissions, Jason Cilento, the Dunellen Mayor, the League of Municipalities for their guidance, and our Fire Department, OEM, Rescue Squad, and Police Department for their dedication in making this community a wonderful place to live.
I wish to give a particular shout out to Lenny, our DPW Supervisor, Linda, our Clerk, Chrissy, our Library Director, Chief Geist of our Police Department with our many pleasant conversations, our Business Administrator, Michael LePlace who has been my sounding board here and our highly capable Borough Barrister, Chris Corsini.
If I left anyone or any group out please accept my apologies.
At this time I would like my wife, Barbara and Grandson to come up o the lectern… Lastly, all this was only possible due to my wife’s constant support and advice. Barbara has always provided a ready ear and sounding board for all four years of frustrations and exhilaration when the stars aligned. She has been an indispensable voice of reason for me all throughout this experience. In addition, dealing with all the problems, paperwork, Doctor’s appointments, hospital visits, Bright Beginnings School schedules and meetings, Transportation issues, Children’s Specialized Hospital for Tanner and yet have time to manage the business especially in my absence for Borough Hall time, I cannot thank her enough.
Each day at Borough Hall I always paid a convivial visit to many departments to share some non-work conversation, some levity and often burst forth in song to put a smile on faces for a day’s worth of serenity.
I want to sincerely thank all our residents who put their faith and trust in my leadership along the way.
"The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The Optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”
– Winston Churchill
In the final analysis, I would not have wanted it any other way. Thank you. Merry Christmas and happy holidays!
Mayor John L. Madden
Middlesex Rec Presents: Teen Night 2023 Farewell Fiesta
Join us for the Teen Night '23 Farewell Fiesta at the Rec Center on 12/28/23 at 6 pm! Pre-registration is required…
Exciting News for Teens ages 12-14!
Join us for the Teen Night '23 Farewell Fiesta at the Rec Center on 12/28/23 at 6 pm.
Get ready for an evening filled with fun and laughter as we bid farewell to 2023 in style! Activities include:
Indoor Cornhole
Foosball
Karaoke
Board Games
Refreshments
Other Games & Music
Come and enjoy a laid-back vibe with your friends, enjoy some grub, play awesome games, and make some unforgettable memories! There are limited spots available, so don't miss out – register today to secure your spot. Cost $5.
You must pre-register for this event before 12/21/23. No walk-ins.
Quarterly Newsletter - December 2023 Edition
Check out the PDF version of our newsletter, or browse this edition’s departments and topics here.
Hello, Middlesex Borough – welcome to our cold-weather update!
Our Borough newsletter is ready to help you catch up on local activities, upcoming events, and opportunities to participate in Borough life this winter.
Read the entire publication by using the button below (PDF) — or review the Departments of your choice by scrolling through this edition’s current topics.
Departments and Topics
Now Hiring: Lifeguards & Swim Instructors Needed for Summer 2024
It’s the right time of year to plan for a summer job at the Middlesex Community Pool!
It’s the right time of year to plan for a summer job at the Middlesex Community Pool!
Lifeguards • Swim Instructors
If you are age 15+ and looking for a summer job as a Lifeguard or Swim Instructor, the Middlesex Community Pool is a great place to work! Lifeguards must be 15+ years old and certified.
Interested in becoming a Lifeguard?
We will be offering a class in late-May. Dates to be determined. Or, you can take a Red Cross Class nearby – visit www.redcross.org/local/new-jersey/take-a-class/lifeguarding for a class and date that is best for you.
For information on how to apply, read the "Summer Jobs" tab in our FAQ Section at the bottom of our web page here
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.