This Year's “Paper Shredding Day” in the Borough is Saturday, June 14th

Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025 (rain or shine)

Time: 9:00 am - 12 pm – or until the shredding truck is filled, whichever occurs first.
Location: Middlesex Boro Municipal Complex, 1200 Mountain Ave.
Borough Hall Parking Lot
Middlesex County Residents only

Important Guidelines

Following the rules below will assist us in getting you through the event as quickly as possible.

• No Plastic Bags. Use a box, crate or other sturdy container – we will give it back to you.

• Limit of 5 file boxes or 100 pounds per car.

• Paper must be in a liftable, manageable container. If it is hard for you to bring it to your car, it is too heavy!

• Note: No need to remove paper clips or staples.

Do not bring: Plastic binders/sheet protectors, newspapers, magazines, hardcover books, junk mail, photos, x-rays, CDs, shredded paper or garbage.

Residential personal paper only – no business (home-based or other) paper.

Loads containing unacceptable items will be rejected.

Event coordinated by Middlesex County.

Victor Crowell Park Master Plan

Victor Crowell Park Master Plan Public Meeting #1 of 4

We want to hear from you!

Join us for our next public meeting to share your ideas on the Victor Crowell Park Master Plan.

Date: Tuesday April 1, 2025
Time: 6:30PM - 8:30PM
Location: Borough of Middlesex Library - Community Room

The purpose of the meeting is to obtain public input and gather ideas from park users and project stakeholders so that our design team can proceed with the conceptual master plan development of the improvements to the park.

Middlesex Police Department: Pet Supply Drive

The Middlesex Borough Police Department will hold a week long Pet Supply Drive to benefit our partners at the Franklin Township Animal Control/Shelter. Donations can be made in the Middlesex Borough Police Department lobby. Open or expired food or treats will NOT be accepted.

When: March 24th - 30th
Where: Middlesex Borough Police Department - The Police Lobby is open 24/7 for convenient drop off.

items needed:

• Canned/dry cat food

• Purina kitten chow

• KMR kitten replacement milk

• Bleach

• Laundry detergent

• Dish soap

• Paper towels

• Scrubber sponges

Middlesex Borough Memorial Day Parade 2025

Save the Date!

The Middlesex Borough Recreation Department and American Legion Post 306 invite you to this year’s Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26!

• 10:00 am…..Ceremony at Victor Crowell Park

• 10:45 am…..Parade Kickoff Rain or Shine

• Refreshments will be served at the Legion immediately after the parade.

All Middlesex community organizations are welcome to participate in the parade!

If you are interested, please contact the Middlesex Recreation department at 732-356-7400 x277 or recreation@middlesexboro-nj.gov.

Download and share the flyer

UPDATE: Senior Freeze & Property Tax Relief Program

Update from the State of New Jersey reading Senior Freeze booklets and Property Tax Relief Program applications

Mailed application booklets will begin shipping in mid-March - please allow until April 15th for delivery.

New in 2025 — Single Combined Application: We have made it easier for seniors and those receiving Social Security Disability in New Jersey to apply for Property Tax Relief with a new, simplified process. Our goal is to make the filing experience more straightforward and efficient. We have a single combined application for the Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement), ANCHOR, and Stay NJ programs for residents 65 and over, or those collecting Social Security Disability Benefits. We will determine your eligibility for you and send a letter with the specific benefits you qualify for.

Visit the State website at https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml

Hometown Heroes Banner Program

Mission

The Borough of Middlesex is proud to announce The Hometown Heroes Banner Program. This program is a living tribute meant to honor Middlesex Borough residents and former residents who have served or are currently serving in any branch of the military.

Requirements

• Service member must be a current or former Middlesex Borough resident.

• Service member must have served in one of the following branches: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard.

• Service members must be currently serving, honorably discharged, missing in action, or killed in the line of duty.

Banner Design

Banners will be double sided, 18” x 36”, vinyl, and displayed for approximately two years. Each banner will include a photo of the soldier in uniform, along with their name, branch, dates of service, conflict, and any medals or commendations. The name of the sponsor will also be displayed on the bottom. Banners will be returned to sponsors after their two-year display cycle.

Installation Deadlines, Location, and Pricing

• Banners will be displayed on decorative light poles in front of Mountain View Park and Victor Crowe Park until November.

• Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the limit for the current cycle is reached. Any submissions beyond that will be included in our next phase of submissions.

• The location of banners will be randomly selected.

• A fee of $100 is required for each submission. Fee includes production of banner, Photoshop photo restoration, installation, and removal.

• The deadline for all submissions is Wednesday April 30, 2025.

Eras of Service – Official Department of Defense Dates *for reference only*

Global War on Terror: September 11, 2001 – present Korean Conflict Era: June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955

Persian Gulf: August 2, 1990 – August 31, 1991 WWII Era: December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946

Cold War: September 2, 1945 – December 26, 1991 WWI Era: April 6, 1917 – November 11, 1918

Vietnam Era: February 28, 1961 – May 7, 1975 Peacetime:_____________________________

Submissions

Submit applications in person at the Recreation Department located at 1400 Mountain Ave Middlesex Nj 08846 or by mail to: 1200 Mountain Ave Middlesex Nj 08846 (Attention Recreation Department).

Applications will not be considered complete until all documents are received and approved. These include:

• Submission Form

• High-resolution photo in military uniform; preferably in dress uniform. (If you need the photograph returned to you, please include your address.)

• Military verification: A copy of DD Form 214, military ID, etc.

• Payment by Credit card through MYREC or Check made payable to “Middlesex Recreation”.

Message From The Mayor: Annual Tax Reassessment

Hello:

The recent appraisal updates have brought about a bit of concern. Although discussed at the time of the original reassessment a bit of a refresher may help.

Since the revaluation a couple of years ago as a Borough we have moved into a system of annual reassessment. This method allows for the tax burden to be divided in the most equitable way by keeping all properties as close to 100% of market as possible and should avoid the big swings that we had when the revaluations were not done in over 30 years. This applies to 100% of the residences in the Borough. It is more accurate and reflects current market conditions for your residence. The values of the properties, even homes that have not had any physical changes are all affected by the market and the residential real estate market has been very strong for the past several years. To establish the value of the residential homes, comparisons of similar homes that have sold in the past year are utilized. The increase this year represents a 2 year increase since the revaluation. It is important to note that an increase in assessment does not equally increase the tax dollars because the assessment of the entire town has gone up about 14%. The assessment relates to the percentage of the overall cost of the boroughs budget that is allocated to your particular property.

Another piece of the process is the in house assessment which is being done on an 5 year rotating basis. The purpose of this is get an idea of the general condition of your residence and more importantly to make sure your residence is categorized and is being taxed properly.

The third piece and most important is the tax rate which is a value per assessed dollar of the whole town which is derived from the Boroughs annual budget, the Schools annual budget, plus the county’s budget requirement for Middlesex Borough. This is a straight calculation based on our financial obligations for the year. This rate times your assessed value gives you your personal real estate tax due.

It seems a bit complex, and it is, but it is the most fair way at this time to allocate our tax burden.

Need more information or have a question? Our tax assessor's info is below. She will be able to answer any questions you may have.

Dawn Guttschall - Tax Assessor

Phone: 732.356.7400 x270

Email: taxassessor@middlesexboro-nj.gov

Dawn will be presenting at the upcoming council meeting on the 25th at 7PM.

Thank you,

Mayor Jack Mikolajczyk

Press Release: New Jersey Residents May Notice Salty Taste in Tap Water Amid Winter Weather and Drought Conditions

CAMDEN, N.J. (FEB. 14, 2025) – Due to the use of salt and brine for public safety during the recent extreme winter weather and, ongoing drought conditions, New Jersey residents may have noticed a salty taste in their tap water. Despite the slight change in taste, New Jersey American Water wants to assure its customers that the water it provides continues to meet all health-based primary drinking water standards.

Each winter, local road departments, commercial parking lot owners, and homeowners use salt to melt snow and ice and to maintain roads and other surfaces for safe traction. As snow and ice melt, this salt can wash into nearby waterways, some of which serve as drinking water sources. This causes higher concentrations of sodium and chloride in the source water, which is exacerbated by lower reservoir and river levels caused by the statewide drought conditions, and results in a salty taste. These impacts typically diminish once road salt applications and associated runoff from snow melt have ceased.

“We are continuing to monitor water quality at the source and throughout our systems and can confirm that the water we’re providing to customers continues to meet primary drinking water quality standards,” said Ben Morris, Vice President of Operations, New Jersey American Water. “This issue is not unique to New Jersey American Water, but part of a larger statewide issue, as confirmed in our communications with the NJDEP. We will continue to work closely with our neighboring water systems and the NJDEP to keep our customers informed.”

According to NJDEP, increased concentrations of sodium and chloride in water during winter weather events, like this past week’s, do not pose a health concern for most individuals in comparison to other sources of sodium in an average person’s diet. However, customers with health concerns, and those on a sodium-restricted diet, may want to contact their healthcare provider if they have questions.

For more information about the effects of road salting on New Jersey source water, visit The New Jersey Watershed Watch Network’s website at njwatershedwatch.org/road-salt. New Jersey American Water continues to work with source water protection organizations dedicated to finding less impactful means of road maintenance.

Resolution #56-2025: Amended Fair Housing Act

Be it Resolved, by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Middlesex, New Jersey that:

Resolution #56-2025

Resolution pursuant to the Amended Fair Housing Act committing the borough to Round 4 present and prospective need affordable housing obligations was adopted by the Governing Body on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.

Valentine’s Day Card Making Workshop for Kids

Join the Middlesex Arts and Cultural Committee for a Valentine’s Day Card Making Workshop for Kids on Saturday, February 1 at 11 am in the Library Community Room (1300 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846).

Ages from Toddler to Pre-teen Welcome. Supplies will be provided.

Coffee with a Cop - Feb 8, 2025

Coffee with a Cop

Saturday, February 8, 2025, 10am-12pm at the Middlesex Elks, 545 Bound Brook Road.

Please join the officers of the Middlesex Borough Police Department for one of the most popular Community Policing events of the year! We look forward to this event to discuss neighborhood concerns, strategies and the successes of our partnerships! Coffee and breakfast will be served and the event is free to attend.

2025 NJDEP Green Acres – Public Hearing Announcement

PURPOSE: Middlesex Borough is seeking funding through the State of NJ Green Acres Program for improvements at Victor Crowell Park, located along Willow Drive, at the intersection of Union Ave and Raritan Ave.

PROJECT SCOPE: Middlesex Borough proposes to create the following new facilities at Victor Crowell Park: walking trails, updated playground equipment, picnic areas, and enhanced landscaping for improved community use and accessibility. A concept plan showing the proposed changes, a preliminary cost estimate, and an environmental impact assessment for the project can be found at www.middlesexboro-nj.gov/njdep-green-acres

PUBLIC HEARING INFORMATION: The public is encouraged to attend a public hearing to learn more about the proposal and to ask questions or provide comments on the proposed plan on January 28, 2025, at 7PM. The meeting will be held in person as part of the regularly scheduled Council meeting at the Middlesex Borough Municipal Building, 1200 Mountain Ave., Middlesex, NJ 08846.

WRITTEN COMMENTS: Written comments on the proposed application may be directed to:

Michael LaPlace, Borough Administrator

mlaplace@middlesexboro-nj.gov
732.356.7400 x.264

Message from the Mayor: New Years and 2025

Going from councilman to mayor has been interesting to say the least. The first year has flown by. I have several things to cover. Let’s start with some recognition. I want to thank outgoing councilmen Doug Rex and Martin Quinn for their service. I’d like to welcome Ken Griggs Jr and Joe DeScenza. It’s a different world on the dais, but I have confidence that you will make a positive contribution to our borough.

I’d like to thank my wife, Jan, and my family. I have said this before and I’ll say it again. I am nothing without them. They are the ones that make the most sacrifices, as anything I do for the town is at a direct cost in terms of time away from them. Their willingness to see the big picture and sacrifices made to support me leaves me forever grateful for their love and support.

I am starting my 11th year as a part of the Middlesex leadership. I’ve seen a lot of things happen in that time, some good and some not. At this point I feel we are on a good path.

In 2024, we’ve made excellent progress in a number of areas. I would like to mention a few highlights.

• We still have a way to go fiscally, but we have added to the surplus and plan to continue on this path. This is necessary for our fiscal stability as well as helping us to secure the best financing rates to save cost. It’s easy to kick the can down the road but we have made it a point to address and resolve outstanding issues and in the balance be as fiscally conservative as possible.

• We brought back the councilmatic committees. Used correctly they help with transparency, accountability, efficiency and communication. This program continues to develop as some are more effective than others but overall have been helpful in developing departmental goals and plans.

• We requested departments, commissions, and committees to come in on a scheduled basis and present to the council and public on their activities, goals and accomplishments at council meetings. Several have come in, and we have more to come.

• We held a Town Hall Meeting to discuss openly where we are and where we want to go as a borough. Residents need to be heard and this meeting highlighted several areas where we can improve. This will do this again in 2025.

• The flood wall project has removed approximately 90 houses from our taxable base. We sold some underutilized properties bringing in over $800,000, which in addition to the sales price will turn into ratable properties.

• We investigated the possibility of purchasing the presbyterian church adjacent to the municipal building. After concluding our due diligence and making a lower counter offer, an agreement could not be reached.

• We made some headway on the Cedar Avenue RR crossing. This will be a very long term project with a potential $180,000,000 price tag before brought to the proposed long term solution.

• New compliant crosswalks are being installed along Route 28.

• We finished the Streetscape project. This was a 1,000,000 grant that gave us the lighting, sidewalks, fencing and safety improvements in front of the high school and mountainview park at no cost to the borough. • Our DPW did a stellar job of making a retaining wall for the Heather Lane neighborhood which is staving off the erosion caused by the floodwall project.

• We purchased log splitting equipment and we offer free firewood to our residents. This has saved us the costs of disposal while providing popular free service to our residents.

• Our Rock snake came back but Larry the Alligator did not.

• We added a bit of holiday decorations on the streetscape as well as in Victor Crowell Park and Mountainview park for all of our residents to enjoy and plan to expand on a yearly basis to celebrate the holidays.

• We held several community events including a volunteer fair, coffee with a cop, community day, national night out, as well as our winter festival with a bonfire. We are looking to do more events in 2025.

• We started on the rotating revaluation plan which in the end will save the borough money as well as stave off radical property valuation changes as properties are kept more current.

• We instituted the Mayor Emeritus a position for the immediate past mayor which enhances and helps promote our legacy volunteers as well as helps fulfill ceremonial duties when the mayor is not available.

• Our police department marked their 85th anniversery.

• We invested in our police department with a 2 year program, hiring 9 officers and instituted remote dispatching investing in our public safety to keep crime down to protect our community with an active and visible police department.

• Our environmental commission has been reactivated and hit the ground running with the creation of a tree farm, and a rain garden, as well as, instituting a Green Team which in addition to being more hands on deck will prove helpful in securing grants for future projects.

• We have finalized our Board of Health move to Somerset County which should result in us receiving better service to our Borough for the money spent.

• We have purchased a HydroRake and are looking to clean and provide flood relief improvements to Lake Creighton (Duck Pond).

• With the purchase of the HydroRake I am looking for some tangible progress on a clean out as well open a dialog with the necessary state agencies over the operation and inspection of the dam.

• We are well underway for a comprehensive plan for Victor Crowell Park. This will take several years to bring to fruition but in the end will be a real multiuse centerpiece for our Borough.

• We have started the “Pillars of Middlesex” and “Citizen of the Year” program to recognize people who have been instrumental in making Middlesex the borough it is. Our 2024 Pillar Honorees were:

o John and Sheila Fuhrman

o Ed Johnson

o Jim Grimm

o Bob and Amelia Sherr

o Jack Costa

• Citizen of the Year

o Barbara Bensen

But now it is 2025 and despite the successes we still have some significant challenges and some pesky outstanding challenges facing this borough. 2 of the more public outstanding issues are flooding and Lake Creighton. We continue to work with and press the urgency and necessity of these projects and these will take years to complete but we will continue to push the state agencies to make our needs a priority.

Last year I talked about General Colin Powell’s “A Leadership Primer” where he states “Strategy equals execution. All the great ideas and visions in the world are worthless if they can’t be implemented rapidly and efficiently.” The crux of the lesson is that as a leader you need to have a knowledge of and pay attention to the operational details if a project is going to be completed. A key tenant we had in place for last year was a proper budget process and adherence to the plan. We did pretty good at this and will continue down this path in 2025.

The last 2 years we saw a couple of necessary tax increases. These were brought about by several factors. Investment in staffing, rising costs of benefits, overall economic price increases and timing. In hindsight 2 years of a zero municipal tax increase with these other factors may not have been the most helpful but the extraordinary economic circumstances caused by covid and the uncertainty of the future made this decision reasonable at the time. We will endeavor to keep the increase for 2025 as reasonable as possible.

During the past year I have had the opportunity to interface with many officials from other towns. In my conversations I have come to realize

that as a borough we offer quite a bit of included services that many other municipalities do not. (Garbage/ Sewer / Bulk Pick up come to mind quickly). For 2025 Our goal is to retain all services.

We will be looking at all expenditures with an eye towards reducing costs while retaining quality service.

We have several contracts that are in the middle of negotiations. A key factor in these negotiations is health insurance. Our state plan has risen 48% in the last 3 years, 16.3% in this year alone. We are currently in the process of looking at the options that are available as this increase is unsustainable for us as a borough and to continue as it is would possibly result in a reduction in services or staff or both. I do believe we have an opportunity here for a win for our employees as well as our borough.

I am looking at folding the Beautification committee into the Culture and Arts committee. This combination of complimentary committees should help with membership and results.

2025 will see major improvements to Mountainview park. There already paid for improvements will include, new restrooms, as well as playground equipment and pathways and improvements to the Pavilion area including an adult fitness area.

Looking at our businesses I see there is a bit of inconsistency in the way they are looked at and handled. For 2025 we are looking to implement a mercantile license whereby all business in the borough would be required to register giving us an accurate count of businesses in the borough as well as a knowledge of their proposed business activities before start-up.

Later this month we are looking for the opening of the History Room at the Library.

We have a plan to upgrade to a fulltime construction official to review our construction office workflow as well as have a larger in-field presence for routine and zoning/code enforcement issues.

As I mentioned before the flood wall project has removed approximately 90 houses from our taxable base. This equates to approximately $900,000 loss of revenue each and every year. We need to attract businesses and developers to our Borough. Our reputation is that we are difficult to work with and not really interested in change. We need to be amenable to controlled development. The redevelopment committee has been inactive for a number of years. I will be reactivating this committee in the 1st quarter and put some emphasis behind it to see what we can do to bring people to the table. This is a must to stay competitive in terms of making Middlesex attractive to be here as well as afford to stay here. Landlocked as we are we have limited opportunities as it is. It’s time to be aggressive and let people know we are OPEN and ready for business.

Lastly, I’d like to talk about volunteerism. The Borough Council, the Fire Department, OEM, rescue squad and many of the committees and commissions in Middlesex Borough are made up of volunteers. And these volunteers are the backbone of what makes our Borough tick. Unfortunately, volunteerism is at a low the past few years with some of our key areas being down a significant number of members to the point where their ability to be effective is being challenged. Maybe it is a matter of people not having the knowledge that many of these services are volunteers. Or perhaps a culture that is being brought up on door dash and other services not realizing that these services that are free now will no longer be able to be sustained without an influx of new members. This will happen quickly especially as the older members continue to age out. Middlesex residents need to take notice and get involved. Continued low volunteerism will result in us paying for things we now take for granted that are free.

Robert Kennedy said - Progress is a nice word. But change is its motivator. And change has its enemies.

For our dedicated employees and volunteers that we are grateful for, and our residents, I’d like to wish everyone a happy healthy and prosperous new year.

Thank You

Middlesex Borough Fire Department - Swearing In

Volunteer Officers of the Middlesex Borough Fire Department officers were officially sworn in on January 1, 2025. Chief Ken Bartok was sworn in for his second consecutive one-year term as well.

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Sunshine Notices 2024

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))

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 31, 2024

TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Borough Environmental Commission will hold its Commission meetings on the following dates:

• January 21

• February 18

• March 18

• April 15 

• May 20

• June 17

• July 15 

• August 19

• September 16

• October 21

• November 18

• December 15 

These meetings will be held at 7:00pm at the Middlesex Public Library, Community Room, 1400 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ.

This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter #231, P.L. 1975.

I hereby certify that copies of this notice were sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted in the Municipal Building and on the Borough website on December 31, 2024.

Clare Levourne, Middlesex Borough Environmental Commission Chairperson

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 30, 2024

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 2025:

• January 7 (Reorganization), 28

• February 11, 25

• March 11, 25

• April 8, 22

• May 13, 27

• June 10, 24

• July 22

• August 26

• September 9, 23

• October 14, 28

• November 25

• December 16

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.

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 18, 2024.

Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 27, 2024

 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 2025: 

Meetings are held every third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Middlesex Community Room with the exception of May, June, July, August, and September, which are held at the Middlesex Community Pool. 

2025 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 15, at Library 

• February 19, at Library 

• March 19, at Library 

• April 16, at Library 

• May 21, at Pool 

• June 18, at Pool 

• July 16, at Pool 

• August 20, at Pool 

• September 17, at Pool 

• October 15, at Library 

• November 19, at Library 

• December 17, 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, 2025. 

Katie Young, Secretary Swim Pool Commission 

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 20, 2024

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 Thursday, January 16, 2024 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.

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 December 20, 2024.

Kelsey Meixner, Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 19, 2024

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.

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 18, 2024.

Linda Chismar, Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 13, 2024

TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Board of Health will hold its Board meetings at 7:00pm, 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. 

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 December 13, 2024. 

Carmen Modica 

Board of Health Secretary 

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date December 13, 2024

In compliance with the “Open Public Meeting Law” P.L. 1975 C231, the Governing Body of Middlesex Borough will hold a Special Meeting on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 6:30 PM (Prior to the Regular 7PM Meeting) in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey to discuss Contract Negotiations – Affordable Housing.  Action will not be taken.  

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 December 17, 2024.

Linda Chismar, RMC

Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date November 27, 2024

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 Monday, December 2, 2024 commencing at 4:30 PM. to introduce Ordinance No. 2140-24 An Ordinance Fixing and Determining the Salary Range of Certain Officers and Employees of the Borough of Middlesex.  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. 

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date November 18, 2024

The Middlesex Shade Tree Commission has rescheduled their December 12, 2024 Meeting to be held on December 5, 2024 commencing at 7pm in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey. Action may be taken.

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date October 23, 2024

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 Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 7PM in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey to discuss the following: 

1. Borough Needs

2. Desired Borough Services and Programs

3. Borough Department and Services Review

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 October 23, 2024.

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date August 14, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846

In compliance with the "Open Public Meeting Law" P.L. 1975 C231, the following schedule is set for the meetings of the Culture and Arts Committee for the year 2024:          

• September 12, 2024

• October 10, 2024

• November 14, 2024

• December 12, 2024

• January 9, 2025

 Regular Meetings commence at 7:00 p.m.

 Meetings will be held in the Community Room at the Middlesex Library, 1300 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey.

 Action may be taken at any meeting above.

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date August 12, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846

In compliance with the "Open Public Meeting Law" P.L. 1975 C231, the following schedule is set for the meetings of the Cultural and Heritage Committee for the year 2024:          

• September 12, 2024

• October 10, 2024

• November 14, 2024

• December 12, 2024

• January 9, 2025

 Regular Meetings commence at 7:00 p.m.

 Meetings will be held in the Community Room at the Middlesex Library, 1300 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey.

 Action may be taken at any meeting above.

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date April 18, 2024

Borough of Middlesex
Joint Land Use Board
1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, N.J. 08846

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday April 24, 2024 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday May 8, 2024 at 7pm in the Courtroom.

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date March 27, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ  08846
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION | 2024 SUNSHINE NOTICE

TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Borough Environmental Commission will hold its Commission meetings on the following dates:

• April 16

• May 21

• June 18

• July 16

• August 20

• September 17

• October 15

• November 19

• December 16

These meetings will be held at 7:00pm at the Middlesex Public Library, Community Room, 1400 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ.

This notice is given in compliance with the provisions of Chapter #231, P.L. 1975.

__________________________
Linda Chismar, RMC, Borough Clerk

I hereby certify that copies of this notice were sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted in the Municipal Building and on the Borough website.on March 27, 2024.

__________________________
Linda Chismar, RMC, Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date March 26, 2024

BOROUGH OF MIDDLESEX | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
JOINT LAND USE BOARD

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday March 27, 2024 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday April 10, 2024 at 7pm in the Courtroom.

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NOTICE OF ADDENDUM NO. 1: TO BIDDERS FOR THE SALE OF MUNICIPAL PROPERTY

Published Date: March 22, 2024

Sale of Municipal Property - 201 Grove Avenue, Block 265, Lot 25

Addendum No. 1 has been issued for the Bid Package pertaining to the Sale of Municipal Property - 201 Grove Avenue, Block 265, Lot 25 from the Borough of Middlesex on Thursday, March 21, 2024, and posted on Borough website.

TO ALL CONCERNED: The original bid package for the above referenced project is amended as noted in Addendum No.1. CONCERNING QUESTIONS RECEIVED:

QUESTION:

• The "Notice to Bidders" and the "Contract for Sale of Real Estate" indicated that the 10% down payment for the property must come in with the bid. The ordinance indicated that they have 10 days within notice of acceptance of their bid to pay the 10%.

ANSWER:

• Bidders are to comply with Ordinance #2113-24; section 5 (a). Which states "Bidder shall deposit cash, check, or money order in the amount of not less than 10% of the bid price within 10 days of notice of acceptance of their bid. In the event a bidder fails to timely deposit 10% of the bid price, the Borough may re-auction the subject property.

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Advertised Dated: March 19 & March 26, 2024

Notice to Bidders: Sale of Municipal Property Lot 25 in Block 265

NOTICE TO BIDDERS FOR THE SALE OF MUNICIPAL PROPERTY
SALE PURSUANT TO N.J.S.A. 40A:12-13(A)

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 2113-24 adopted on March 12, 2024 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 April 2, 2024 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 document link below.

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date February 23, 2024

BOROUGH OF MIDDLESEX | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
JOINT LAND USE BOARD

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday February 28,2024 has been cancelled. All items have been carried to the March 13,2024 meeting which will take place in the Court Room at the at 7pm. The following applications will be carried to the March 13,2024 meeting at 7pm:

• JLUB 2023-012 Memorialize Resolution
  Wilder Jacinto
  600 Sheridan Ave
  Block 278 Lot 1

• JLUB 2023-011 Major Preliminary and Final Site Plan
  156 Baekeland Ave LLC
  156 Baekeland Ave
  Block 341 1.01
  *** This applicant will be re-noticing for the March 13, 2024 meeting Due to discrepancy with address***

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date February 14, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ  08846
SUNSHINE NOTICE | MIDDLESEX RECREATION COMMITTEE

The Recreation Committee of the Borough of Middlesex will conduct its regular meetings on the second Monday of each month with two exceptions noted with an asterisk at 7 :00PM in the Recreation Center, Legion Place, Middlesex, New Jersey.

Dates:

• Monday, January 8, 2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday, February 12, 2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday, March 11, 2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday, April 8, 2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday, May 13, 2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday,June l0,2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday, July 8, 2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday, August 12,2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday, September 9, 2024 – 7:00PM

• *Monday, October 21, 2024 – 7:00PM

• *Monday, November 18, 2024 – 7:00PM

• Monday, December 9, 2024 – 7:00PM

__________________________
Linda Chicarelli, Recreation Committee Secretary

I hereby certify that copies of this notice were emailed to the The Courier News, and The Star Ledger and posted in the Municipal Building on January 3, 2024.

__________________________
Linda Chicarelli, Recreation Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date February 6, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ  08846
Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee
SUNSHINE NOTICE

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 Thursday, February 15, 2024, 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.

__________________________
Kelsey Meixner, 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 February 6, 2024.

__________________________
Kelsey Meixner, Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 18, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ  08846
SUNSHINE NOTICE | 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; with the exception of August and November which will be held at the Middlesex Recreation Center. There will be no meeting in July. The schedule for the remainder of 2024 is as follows:

• February 6, 2024

• March 5, 2024

• April 2, 2024

• May 7, 2024

• June 4, 2024

• August 13, 2024

• September 3, 2024

• October 1, 2024

• November 12, 2024

• December 3, 2024

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 January 18, 2024.

__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 11, 2024

BOROUGH OF MIDDLESEX | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ 08846
JOINT LAND USE BOARD
2024 Meeting Schedule

The Joint Land Use Board of the Borough of Middlesex will conduct its Meetings on the Wednesdays which were approved at reorganization meeting on January 10,2024. These meetings will be held at 7:00pm in Borough Hall, Court Room, 1200 Mountain Ave. Middlesex, NJ 08846.

Regular Meeting Dates for 2024:

• January 10,2024- Reorganization

• January 24,2024

• February 14,2024

• February 28,2024

• March 13,2024

• March 27,2024

• April 10,2024

• April 24,2024

• May 8,2024

• May 22,2024

• June 12,2024

• June 26,2024

• July 10,2024

• August 14,2024

• September 25,2024

• October 9,2024

• October 23,2024

• November 13,2024

• December 11,2024

• January 8,2025- Reorganization

• January 22,2025

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 11, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ  08846
SUNSHINE NOTICE | PARKS IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE

TAKE NOTICE, the next Parks Improvement Committee’s meeting will be held on January 16, 2024 (rescheduled from January 9, 2024) commencing at 7:30 pm at the Middlesex Municipal Building, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ.

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 January 11, 2024.

__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 9, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ  08846
EMERGENCY CANCELLATION | PARKS IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE

TAKE NOTICE, the Parks Improvement Committee January meeting on January 9, 2024, has been CANCELLED due to forecasted weather conditions in the area. The next meeting date is to be determined and once finalized will be communicated.

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, and posted on the Borough Website on January 9, 2024.

__________________________
Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 5, 2024

Borough of Middlesex | 1200 Mountain Avenue | Middlesex, NJ  08846
Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee
SUNSHINE NOTICE

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 Thursday, January 25, 2024 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 5, 2024.

__________________________
Linda Chismar, Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Publish Date January 2, 2024

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 January 2, 2024.

__________________________
Linda Chismar, Secretary

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Sunshine Notices: Previous Years

Select here to view archived 2023 Sunshine Notices.

Select here to view archived 2022 Sunshine Notices.

Select here to view archived 2021 Sunshine Notices.

Select here to view archived 2020 Sunshine Notices.

No Water Advisories in Effect: Raritan System Water Quality Update

Following NJ DEP’s Identification of a Third-Party Compound Leak, New Jersey American Water Continues to Monitor Water Quality in its Raritan System; No Drinking Water Advisories in Effect

New Jersey American Water continues to monitor water quality following reports of changes in the taste and odor of drinking water from customers served by its Raritan System. In a statement today, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJ DEP) reported the initial results of its investigation, which attributes these changes to a leak that occurred on Dec. 16 from a repackaging facility in Branchburg, N.J. into a tributary of the Raritan River. The facility repackages fragrances, essential oils, and flavorings.

New Jersey American Water continues to monitor water quality and laboratory testing indicates that the water leaving New Jersey American Water’s two Raritan system treatment plants meets state and federal primary drinking water standards established by NJ DEP and US EPA and does not pose a public health risk.

“Providing safe drinking water to our customers is our foremost priority,” said Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water. “Since Tuesday, Dec. 17, our teams have worked tirelessly, collecting hundreds of water quality samples around the clock throughout our system to help address the cause of the changes in taste and odor. Our proactive measures to adjust our treatment process and flush our system have allowed us to continue to provide water to our customers that meets state and federal drinking water quality standards, despite these challenges.”

New Jersey American Water first received customer inquiries regarding a change in taste and odor in the water in its Raritan system late in the evening on Tuesday, December 17. The company began to investigate and performed a series of actions including sampling and testing from the source water, different points in the treatment system of its water treatment plants, and sites throughout the distribution system. To address the issue, New Jersey American Water proactively adjusted its treatment processes and commenced targeted hydrant flushing across the system.

According to the NJ DEP, the material of the spill consisted of compounds, most notably alpha-pinene, which are commonly used as fragrance and food additives. Due to the fragrant nature of the compound, it can be smelled at minute concentrations measured in parts per trillion (ppt). For context, 1 ppt is equivalent to 4 drops of liquid in the amount of water that would fill Rutgers University’s SHI Stadium. Though detection levels of the compound are infinitesimal, customers may continue to notice the taste and odor over the next several days.

Barbara Benson honored as 2024 Citizen of the Year

The Borough of Middlesex has awarded 2024 CITIZEN of the YEAR to Barbara Benson. Barbara is being recognized and honored for her 2024 volunteer efforts in addition to her long-term commitment and accomplishments through a broad range of volunteerism to Middlesex Borough.

Barbara Benson, the 2024 Middlesex Borough Citizen of the Year, along with her son, the OEM Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator, Jack Costa, and the OEM Deputy Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator, Lee Poandl and Mayor Mikolajczyk & Council President Conahan.

Councilmen Quinn and Rex honored

Mayor Mikolajczyk along with Councilman Martin Quinn receiving a Citation for his service to the Borough Council from 2020 – 2024.

Councilman Rex with  Mayor Mikolajczyk, along with Council President Conahan, receiving his Citation for his service to the Borough Council from 2019 – 2024.

Message from Mayor Jack Mikolajczyk: Drone Activity

On Tuesday December 10th I received an email from the state. On Wednesday December 11th at 11am I attended an in-person briefing in Ewing with representatives of the NJ State Police and the NJ Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness at the New Jersey Regional Operations & Intelligence Center regarding the recent reports of drones flying in the state. The email further stated that due to the nature of the briefing, this invitation is open only to Mayors. No staff, Business Administrators or Council people will be allowed to attend.

While the meeting provided some insight, it also raised more questions.

Here are my notes:

According to the NJ Office of Homeland Security, there is no known credible threat, but the situation remains unresolved. The State Police has been investigating for three weeks. The first sighting was November 18th and there have been reports of sightings every night since. Last night (12/10) there were 4 sightings. 180 were reported the night before. The drones fly for 6-7 hours at night. No sightings during the day. They have no radio frequency signals, so they can’t be detected. Their lights shut off when approached. No daytime sightings reported. The state does not have the authority to take one down as the authority in this case belongs to the federal government.

They don't know where they take off from or where they land. They don't know who owns them or where they are going. They are flying in unrestricted airspace. Their efforts to date have mostly been trying to observe them as policy and legislation prevent additional action without a credible threat. Many of them fly in groups. While many of them are in unrestricted airspace they have been spotted around non-military but essential locations. Water supplies and power stations. They mentioned that the federal government is cooperating but did not go into detail as to what they are doing. It was a non-informative response. The state is promoting a "See Something, Say Something" protocol. Residents may report suspicious drone activity to local law enforcement, or NJOHSP’s Counter-Threat Watch Unit at 866-4-SAFE-NJ (1-866-472-3365) or tips@njohsp.gov.

I was disappointed that the governor who requested all the mayors to drop everything (many of us are part time volunteers who work) to come to a meeting failed to come himself. New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan chaired the meeting and offered what information he had.

The attached file is the handout they had for us.

I have relayed this information to our chief of police who is working with his staff and the OEM as we incorporate this information in our Borough Readiness plan. We will continue to update as more critical information comes in.

We are taking this developing situation seriously and are working to do our best to be prepared and keep our residents safe and as informed as possible. If you see a drone, call the Middlesex Police Department at (732) 356-1900 Ext. 0. They will investigate and report as appropriate to the proper authority. (Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and the FBI).

Jack Mikolajczyk

Mayor

Borough of Middlesex

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Snow Removal: Information for Business Owners

Passed in 1999, Snow Removal Law (P.L., 1999, Chapter 182. (N.J.S.A. 39:4-207.9), which requires owners and operators of parking lots to remove snow, ice and other obstructions from accessible parking spaces, access aisles and curb cuts.

Business owners and operators must remove snow and ice within 24 hours of the occurrence or be fined $500 to $1,000.