Coffee with a Cop

Coffee, Community and Conversation

Please join the Chief Matthew P. Geist and the officers from the Middlesex Borough Police Department for our Annual Coffee with a Cop at The Middlesex Elks (545 Bound Brook Road). The event will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10am-12pm and is free to attend. Please come for coffee and breakfast and stay for conversation and community engagement. 

Mayor and Council Reorganization Meeting 2026

Mayor and Council, January 2026

Councilwoman Clock, Councilman Griggs, Council President Conahan, Mayor Mikolajczyk, Councilman Dotey, Councilman DeScenza, Councilwoman Quinn

Councilwoman Quinn swearing in.

Councilwoman Clock swearing in.

Annual Landlord Registration

REMINDER: Annual Landlord Registration Form & Fee are due by March 31, with proof of insurance to avoid penalties. Download the fillable PDF form below.

Mayor's New Year Address

Good evening and welcome.

2025 has been a busy year in Middlesex.  

I want to thank outgoing Councilmen Jeremiah Carnes and Bobby Dessino for their service. I’d like to welcome Jennifer Clock and Shannon Quinn.  You will find it's a different world on the dais, but I'm confident that you will make a positive contribution to our Borough.

I’d like to thank my wife, Jan, my family and all the families that contribute to the success of Middlesex.  They are the ones that make the most sacrifices, as anything we do for the town is at a direct cost in terms of time away from them. Their willingness to see the big picture leave us forever grateful for their love and support.

I am starting my 12th year as a part of the Middlesex leadership. I’ve seen a lot of things happen in that time and we are on a good path.

In 2025, we’ve made excellent progress in a number of areas.

We had a very conservative municipal budget with a very modest 2.5% increase.  We continue to chip away at issues having added to the surplus and plan to continue on this path. This continues to be a cornerstone of our fiscal stability as well as helping us to secure the best financing rates to save cost.  We continue to address and resolve outstanding issues, and in the balance, be as fiscally conservative as possible.

The use of the Councilmatic Committees has been successful in our efforts to be transparent, accountable, efficient and communicative. 

We opened the Middlesex history room at the library.

Once again, we held a Town Hall Meeting to openly discuss where we are and where we want to go as a Borough.  Our residents need to be heard, and this meeting highlighted several areas where we can improve. We will do this again in 2026.

The flood wall project continues to slowly progress and has removed approximately 90 houses from our taxable base with more to come.  The flood wall we constructed at Heather Lane is doing the job to stave off erosion and preserve the neighborhood. We continue to push the related parties involved with the flood wall project. The sooner that it is completed the better, but we are still years away with some significant hurdles coming as part of the plan includes construction of a flood gate on Route 28, which will certainly create some logistical issues, that it is our intention to minimize.

We have upgraded our Zoning and Code Enforcement to a full-time position.  We are seeing progress and we will see the benefits as we have enhanced enforcement to keep our Borough looking at its best.  

We completed the streetscape project in front of the High School and Mountainview Park, and are working on securing grants for another phase of streetscape improvements. These grants are at no cost to the Borough and are a pure benefit to us. Smart planning and purchasing enabled us to purchase some new holiday decorations this year.

Our Environmental Commission had a productive year receiving recognition from the State as the “Rookie of the Year”, as well as reaching Bronze level status for their environmental work.  This is a huge honor to the Borough and represented countless hours by the Environmental Commission to earn this recognition.  As you look around the Borough you can see evidence of their thumbprint on the Borough.

Victor the Rock Snake once again was back, and had quite a lengthy level of participation. 

We used our Hydro Rake several times this year and the condition of the lake continues to improve. We've been able to verify this through testing.  

We are in the middle of replacing the bathrooms and upgrading the Mountainview Park Grove area despite the delay caused by the playground equipment fire. 

We have completed our plan for Victor Crowell Park, so that we can submit for grant funding to bring the concepts to reality.  The plan presents a framework, and not a definitive final project but is a critical piece for us to secure this funding.

As brought up in our Town Hall, volunteerism continues to be a challenge and a need.   Residents need to get involved.  Without volunteers, we will be put in a position to cut programs or hire professionals to provide essential services.  Please consider helping out.  

Two biggies for 2025 were the contract negotiations, and the health coverage change.

During 2025, we successfully completed fair negotiations with our 3 main Unions, the Police, DPW, and White Collar in addition to our Chief of Police and the DPW Superintendent and the Deputy Superintendent.  No easy task and in the end, fair for our employees as well as the Borough.

For the first time in a few years, we changed our health insurance.  This saved our employees and the Borough a considerable amount of money.  We are continuing to be proactive here, as the excessive recent state insurance increase of 36% has once again presented a challenge to us in terms of budgeting.   

Our “Pillars of Middlesex” were:

• Jason Bond

• Beverly D Weber

• James Benson

• Lee Poandl

• William Winkleman

Our “Citizen of the Year” was: Clare Levourne

But now in 2026 and despite the successes we have some significant challenges and some outstanding challenges facing this Borough. 

A mantra we had in place last year was a proper budget process and adherence to the plan. It worked well, and we will continue down this path in 2026. With excessive increases in health insurance, 36% for 2026 and a NJ inflation rate around 3.5%, and a continued lack of adjustment in state aid it will be impossible to have another under the inflation rate increase of 2.5%.  Our efforts are always to be as conservative as possible but with the cuts we made last year it is unrealistic to get there again this year without a reduction in services. We continue to look at all insurance rates, but we need to have a year under our belt for the health insurance to be able to shop for better rates.

Our investigation into the sewers will be a priority for 2026.  We really need to know where we stand here. This may take a couple of years, but we will have a plan when we are done.

Two other 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.

We continue to lose revenue from the flood wall project. A strategy of controlled redevelopment is going to be crucial for the success of Middlesex going forward.  I would hope to have one project underway and another in the wings by the end of 2026.  It's no easy task, but we are starting to garner interest as word gets out that we are open for business.

By using a grant writing service in 2 years through 2025, we have secured nearly one million dollars in grants for the Borough.  We have been very aggressive in this area, and right now we have approximately six million dollars of applications in.  We may not always be successful but as my grandmother would say - "You don't ask-you don't get".  

The Borough Council, the Fire Department, OEM, Rescue Squad and many of the Committees and Commissions in Middlesex Borough are made up of volunteers. 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, challenging their ability to be effective. Maybe it is a matter of people not having the knowledge that many of these services are provided by volunteers. Or perhaps a culture that is being brought up on Door Dash, Uber Eats and other similar services not realizing that these Borough 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 age out. Middlesex residents need to take notice and get involved. We are reaching a critical point and low volunteerism will result in us paying for things we now take for granted that are free.

Mel Robbins has said "Optimism isn't believing nothing bad will happen.  It's about believing in your ability to handle it when it does."  I'm optimistic about 2026.  We have made many changes in 2025 to plan and prepare for the opportunities and challenges the future brings.  

For our dedicated employees and selfless volunteers, and our residents, I’d like to wish everyone a happy healthy and prosperous new year.

Thank You,

Mayor Jack Mikolajczyk

Culture & Arts Committee Presents: Art & Crafts Supply Swap

Do you have craft supplies you’ll never use? Leftovers from a finished project? Well meaning gifts from friends for a new hobby you’ll never pick up? Please join the Culture and Arts Committee & your fellow crafty neighbors to swap all things crafting!

When: Saturday, January 24th, from 11am - 1pm
Where: Library Community Room

2026 Annual Dog/Cat License Renewal Applications

BOROUGH OF MIDDLESEX RESIDENTS

Annual Dog/Cat License Renewal Applications for 2026 have been sent out via email to all pet owners who have supplied the Borough with a valid email address. If you did not receive a renewal notice, you may apply by clicking on the link(s) below. Payment must be received before a license can be issued. Proof of updated rabies vaccination required if new rabies vaccination was recently administered or if this is a new registration. Rabies vaccination cannot expire prior to November 1, 2026. Payment must be received no later than February 28th in order to avoid a $10.00 late fee.

Be sure to use Google Chrome as your web browser

If you require assistance with your application, please contact Kelsey at (732) 356-7400 ext. 236.

Sunshine Notices 2025

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: December 31, 2025

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.

2026 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 21, at Library

• February 18, at Library

• March 18, at Library

• April 15, at Library

• May 20, at Pool

• June 17, at Pool

• July 15, at Pool

• August 19, at Pool

• September 16, at Pool

• October 21, at Library

• November 18, at Library

• December 16, 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, 2026.

Katie Young, Secretary Swim Pool Commission

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Sunhsine Notice: December 18, 2025

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 17, 2025.

Mayensi Recinos, Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: December 17, 2025

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

• January 20

• February 17

• March 17

• April 21 

• May 19

• June 23 

• July 28 

• August 25  

• September 15

• October 20

• November 17

• December 8 

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 updated notice were sent to the Courier News and posted in the Municipal Building and on the Borough website on December 16, 2025
Clare Levourne, Middlesex Borough Environmental Commission Chairperson

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Sunshine Notice: December 16, 2025

TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Parks Improvement Committee will hold its 2026 monthly meetings on Tuesdays at 7:30PM in the Middlesex Library Community Room. The following dates are scheduled for the meetings

• January 13, 2026 (re-organization meeting)

• February 3, 2026

• March 3, 2026

• April 7, 2026

• May 5, 2026

• June 2, 2026

• September 1, 2026

• October 6, 2026

• November 10, 2026

• December 1, 2026

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, Borough Website and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building and Recreation Center on December 16, 2025.

Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: December 15, 2025

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 2026:

January 6 (Reorganization), 27                      July 14
February 10                                                     August 18
March 10, 24                                                   September 22
April 14                                                            October 13
May 12                                                            November 10
June 16                                                           December 15

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 15, 2025.

Kelsey Meixner, Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: November 11, 2025

Notice of Special Town Hall Meeting

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 Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 7PM in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey to discuss the following:

1. 2024 SWOT Analysis Review

2. 2025 Update

   1. Borough Needs

   2. Desired Borough Services and Programs

   3. Borough Department and Services Review

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 November 7, 2025.

Kelsey Meixner, Borough Clerk

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Amended Sunshine Notice: October 17, 2025

Notice of Location Change: Middlesex Environmental Commission

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, 1300 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 October 17, 2025.

Kelsey Meixner, RMC
Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: September 22, 2025

Notice of Location & Time Change: Parks Improvement Committee Meeting

TAKE NOTICE, the location and time of the Parks Improvement Committee meeting on Tuesday, October 7th, has changed. The meeting will begin at 6:30PM at the Middlesex Borough Courtroom, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey.

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

I hereby certify that copies of this notice were emailed to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted on the Borough website on September 22, 2025.

Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: September 17, 2025

Notice of Cancellation: Board of Health Committee Meeting

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Health for September 18, 2025 has been cancelled. The next Regular Meeting will be held on October 16, 2025 in the Library Community Room located at 1300 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ commencing at 6:30 p.m.

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 September 17, 2025.

Kelsey Meixner, Municipal Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: September 17, 2025

Notice of Cancellation: Joint Land Use Board Committee Meeting

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday September 24, 2025 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday October 8, 2025 at 7pm in the Courtroom.

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Sunshine Notice: September 9, 2025

Notice of Cancellation: Culture & Arts Committee Meeting

The Regular Meeting of the Culture and Arts Committee for September 11, 2025 has been cancelled. The next Regular Meeting will be held on October 9, 2025 in the Library Community Room located at 1300 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ commencing at 7:00 p.m.

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 September 9, 2025.

Kelsey Meixner, Deputy Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: August 29, 2025

Notice of State Planning Commission Public Hearings

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, the State Planning Commission shall conduct six public hearings for the purpose of receiving testimony on the draft Final New Jersey’s State Development and Redevelopment Plan and the draft Infrastructure Needs Assessment pursuant to the State Planning Act at N.J.S.A. 52:18A-202(c) as set forth in the State Planning Rules N.J.A.C. 15:30-5.2.

Additionally, under N.J.A.C. 15:30 -1.7 (c), municipalities and counties are required to post the attached notice on their website by August 29, 2025.  The public hearings notice can also be found here.

Agendas and status updates will be posted to the NJ Office of Planning Advocacy website at: https://www.nj.gov/state/bac/planning/state-plan/development/.

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Sunshine Notice: August 26, 2025

LOCATION CHANGE - PARKS IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING SEPTEMBER 2nd

TAKE NOTICE, Location of Parks Improvement Committee meeting on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, has been changed. The meeting will begin at 7:30PM at the Middlesex Recreation Center, 1400 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey.

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

I hereby certify that this notice was sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted on the Borough Website on August 26, 2025.

Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: July 17, 2025

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 2025:

• January 7(Reorganization), 28

• February 11, 25

• March 11, 25

• April 8, 22

• May 13, 27

• June 17

• July 15

• August 19*

• September 9, 23

• October 14, 28

• November 25

• December 16

Regular Meetings commence at 7:00 p.m.

*Regular Meeting of August 19 commences at 7:30 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 July 17, 2025.

Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: July 1, 2025

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday July 9, 2025 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday August13, 2025 at 7pm in the Courtroom.

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Sunshine Notice: June 20, 2025

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday June 25,2025 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday July 9, 2025 at 7pm in the Courtroom.

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Sunshine Notice: June 20, 2025

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, June 23, 2025 commencing at 5PM to discuss the hiring of part-time and full-time positions and approve a member of the Fire Department. 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.  

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 June 20, 2025.

Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: Cancellation: June 10, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Health for June 19, 2025 has been cancelled. The next Regular Meeting will be held on July 17, 2025 in the Library Community Room located at 1300 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ commencing at 6:30 p.m.

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 June 10, 2025.

Kelsey Meixner, Board Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Notice of Special Meeting - June 3, 2025

Please be advised the Middlesex Joint Land Use Board will hold a special meeting Wednesday June 18, 2025 at 7:00 pm in the Municipal Building at 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, New Jersey for the purpose of public hearing and take action on the Borough’s proposed Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Shar Plan (“HEFSP”).

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Sunshine Notice: Notice of Special Meeting - June 1, 2025

Please be advised the Middlesex Community Pool, Swim Pool Commission has meeting on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 6:00 pm. The location of the meeting is the Middlesex Community Pool. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the drain cover for the Large Pool. Any questions please feel free to contact the pool at middlesexpoolnj@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Katie Young, Pool Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Special Remote Meeting - May 31, 2025

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 Tuesday, June 3, 2025 commencing at 5PM to approve all necessary documents needed to change the health insurance for all municipal employees in Middlesex Borough effective September 1, 2025. 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.

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 May 31, 2025.

Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: Notice of Special Meeting, April 17, 2025

Please be advised the Middlesex Community Pool, Swim Pool Commission has an Executive Session on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 7 pm. The location of the meeting is the Middlesex Public Library Community Room. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Aqualytes Synchronized Swimming Team. Any questions please feel free to contact the pool at middlesexpoolnj@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Katie Young, Pool Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: Cancellation: April 17, 2025

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday April 23, 2025 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday May 14, 2025 at 7pm in the Courtroom.

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Sunshine Notice: Location & Time Change: April 2, 2025

TAKE NOTICE, the starting time and location of the Parks Improvement Committee meeting on Tuesday May 6, 2025, has been changed. The meeting will be from 6:00pm-8:00pm at the outside area adjacent to the Victor Crowell Park Annex Building located at Willow Drive and Bound Brook Road in Middlesex, New Jersey.

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

I hereby certify that this notice was sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted on the Borough Website on April 2, 2025.

Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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Notice of Special Meeting: March 26, 2025

Please be advised the Middlesex Community Pool, Swim Pool Commission has an Executive Session on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 7 pm. The location of the meeting is the Middlesex Public Library Community Room. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the personnel. Any questions please feel free to contact the pool at middlesexpoolnj@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Katie Young, Pool Secretary

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2025 Amended Sunshine Notice: March 21, 2025

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday March 26, 2025 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday April 9, 2025 at 7pm in the Courtroom.

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2025 Amended Sunshine Notice: March 17, 2025

TAKE NOTICE, the starting time of Parks Improvement Committee meeting on Tuesday April 1, 2025, has been changed. The meeting will be from 6:30pm - 8:30pm in the Middlesex Library Community Room.

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

I hereby certify that this notice was sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted on the Borough Website on March 17, 2025.

Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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2025 Amending Annual Notice: February 21, 2025

TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Board of Health, Borough of Middlesex, Middlesex, New Jersey has amended the 2025 meeting schedule, effective immediately. Board of Health 2025 meetings will be held monthly on the third Thursday of the month at 6:30pm at the Middlesex Library, 1300 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, Home News, Star Ledger and posted in the Municipal Building on February 21, 2025.

Carmen Modica, Board of Health Secretary

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2025 Amended Sunshine Notice: February 19, 2025

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 23

• July 28

• August 25

• 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 updated notice were sent to the Courier News, Star Ledger and posted in the Municipal Building and on the Borough website on February 19, 2025

Clare Levourne, Middlesex Borough Environmental Commission Chairperson

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Sunshine Notice: February 7, 2025

TAKE NOTICE that the regularly scheduled Board of Health meeting for Thursday, February 13, 2025 has been rescheduled to Thursday, February 20, 2025. This meeting will be held at 7:00pm at the Middlesex Library located at 1300 Mountain Avenue.

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 February 7, 2025.

Carmen Modica

Board of Health Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: February 4, 2025

The regularly scheduled Joint Land Use Board meeting for Wednesday February 12,2025 has been cancelled. The next meeting is Wednesday February 26, 2025 at 7pm in the Courtroom.

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Sunshine Notice: January 31, 2025

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 Tuesday, February 4, 2025 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 January 31, 2025.

Kelsey Meixner, Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: January 28, 2025

TAKE NOTICE that the Middlesex Parks Improvement Committee will hold its 2025 monthly meetings on Tuesdays at 7:30PM in the Middlesex Library Community Room. The following dates are scheduled for the meetings

• January 7, 2025

• February 4, 2025

• March 4, 2025

• April 1, 2025

• May 6, 2025

• June 3, 2024

• September 2, 2025

• October 7, 2024

• December 2, 2025

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, Borough Website and posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building and Recreation Center on December 30, 2024

Marie Filik, Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notice: January 28, 2025

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 2025:

• February 13, 2025

• March 13, 2025

• April 10, 2025

• May 8, 2025

• June 12, 2025

• July 10, 2025

• August 14, 2025

• September 11, 2025

• October 9, 2025

• November 13, 2025

• December 11, 2025

• January 8, 2026

• 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.

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 January 27, 2025.

Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk

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AMENDED ANNUAL NOTICE: January 3, 2025

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 17

• July 15

• August 19

• September 9, 23

• October 14, 28

• November25

• 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 January 2, 2025

Linda Chismar, Borough Clerk

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Sunshine Notice: January 2, 2025

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

Dates:

• Monday, January 13, 2025

• Monday, February 10, 2025

• Monday, March 10, 2025

• Monday, April 14, 2025

• Monday, May 12, 2025

• Monday, June 9, 2025

• Monday, July 14, 2025

• Monday, August 11, 2025

• Monday, September 8, 2025

• *Monday, October 20, 2025

• Monday, November 10, 2025

• Monday, December 8, 2025

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 2, 2025.

Linda Chicarelli, Recreation Committee Secretary

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Sunshine Notices: Previous Years

Select here to view archived 2024 Sunshine Notices.

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.

Community Solar Program Now Available to Middlesex Residents

Middlesex has partnered with Solar Simplified to launch a Community Solar campaign that helps residents save money on electricity bills while supporting clean, locally produced energy.

This voluntary program is open to PSE&G residential customers. Participants will remain PSE&G customers and continue receiving electricity as usual. Once enrolled, they will receive solar bill credits directly on their existing utility bill, reducing the amount they owe each month - with no second bill, no credit checks, and no autopay required.

All participants will receive a guaranteed 45% discount on their monthly solar credits applied directly to their utility bill, reducing the amount owed to the utility.

Enrollment is open now and available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to solar capacity.

Residents will receive a mailer with an enrollment form and a prepaid envelope to make signing up easy.

To learn more or enroll now, visit SolarSimplified.com/middlesex or contact Solar Simplified at (888) 420-9831.

Middlesex Borough Recognized as 2025 Rookie of the Year by Sustainable Jersey

Middlesex Borough, NJ–Middlesex Borough has been honored with the 2025 Rookie of the Year Award from Sustainable Jersey, recognizing the Borough’s outstanding debut in the statewide sustainability certification program.

This marks Middlesex Borough’s first year achieving certification, earning an impressive 245 points for implementing a range of actions that advance sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

“Middlesex Borough is honored to be the 2025 recipient of the Sustainable Jersey Rookie of the Year Award,” said Jack Mikolajczyk the Middlesex Borough Mayor. “The tireless efforts of our Environmental Commission and Green Team, supported where possible by our staff, have been amazing in terms of moving these initiatives forward. Their ability to create innovative programs, educate, encourage volunteerism and achieve results are a real testament to these dedicated members of the team. I'm excited to see what's in store for 2026!"

“It’s inspiring to see communities of every size across New Jersey leading the way toward a more sustainable and resilient future,” said Randall Solomon, director of Sustainable Jersey. “These municipalities are not waiting for change, they’re creating it, through action, innovation, and collaboration.”

About Sustainable Jersey

Sustainable Jersey provides tools, training, and financial incentives to support communities as they pursue sustainability initiatives. As New Jersey faces challenges such as the climate crisis, a growing equity divide, and environmental pollution, municipalities and schools are taking action to be part of the solution. Sustainable Jersey participants have successfully implemented and documented nearly 30,251 sustainability actions, and the program has provided more than $8.6 million in grants to municipalities, school districts, and schools for community-based projects that create healthy and sustainable communities across the state. www.SustainableJersey.com; www.SustainableJerseySchools.com

Mayor's Report: December 2025

Middlesex Residents,

2025 continues to be a busy time in Middlesex. We have upgraded our zoning and code enforcement to a full-time position. As time progresses we will see the benefits as we have enhanced enforcement to keep our Borough looking at its best. The flood wall we constructed at Heather Lane to stave off erosion and preserve the neighborhood is doing the job. We continue to push the related parties involved with the flood wall project. The sooner that it is completed the better, but we are still years away. We completed the streetscape project in front of the High School and Mountainview Park and are working on grants for another phase of streetscape improvements. These grants are at no cost to the Borough and are a pure benefit to us. We have some new holiday decorations this year.

Our Environmental Commission had a productive year receiving recognition from the state as the “Rookie of the Year” as well as reaching Bronze level status for their environmental work. Victor the Rock Snake was back and had quite a lengthy level of participation. We have used our Hydro Lake several times this year and the condition of the lake continues to improve. We have been able to verify this through testing.

We are in the middle of replacing the bathrooms and upgrading the Mountainview Park Grove area despite the delay caused by the playground equipment fire. Our plan for Victor Crowell Park is in its final stages and in the coming years we will be able to use it to solicit grant funding to make the plan a reality. We are holding another Town Hall meeting as a budget kick-off for 2026 in early December.

Like last year, I expect a lot of input to be given, and we will work on prioritizing what we can and can’t do with budget constraints in mind.

Volunteerism continues to be a challenge and a need. Please consider helping out.

I would like to congratulate our elected leaders and thank all who stepped up to run. I challenge all the elected to earnestly strive to create a borough, county, state and country that serves us all.

This is the time of year we are reminded to be thankful for the blessings we have large and small. I would like to thank our DPW, Fire, OEM, Rescue Squad, office staff and our Police, who continue to be here for our residents 24/7.

I mentioned volunteerism before. I think it is one of the most important issues in our Borough. Debasish Mridha wrote “If you want a bright future, ignite your desire filled action today.” In Middlesex Borough, we all want a bright future, but it needs your help to get there.

My best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season (I celebrate Christmas) to all and wishes for a brighter 2026 with our economy flourishing, inflation in check, and our businesses open.

Mayor Jack Mikolajczyk

Quarterly Newsletter - Winter 2025

Hello, Middlesex Borough – welcome to our winter-weather update!

Our Borough newsletter is ready to help you catch up on local activities, upcoming events, and opportunities to participate in Borough life as we approach the cooler weather of seasons.

Select the articles and departments of your choice by scrolling through this edition’s topics.

Toys For Tots 2025

The Middlesex Borough Police Department will be accepting new toys to benefit Toys for Tots, until December 14, 2025.

NJAW Lead Service Line Replacement Schedule

Look Ahead Schedule 11.24 – 11.28 for Middlesex Borough.

Visual Inspection Canvassing will be happening 7 days of the week, from 7AM to 5PM barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Keep in mind that schedule is subject to change due to road conditions, weather, homeowner availability/access, NJAW work order update,  and any other unforeseen circumstances that may occur. 

Any road markings on borough roads or residential properties are due to the lead service inspection within these dates.

Winter Wonderland Festival 2025

Middlesex Recreation Presents:

Winter Wonderland Festival 2025

When: December 7 from 2:30-6:30pm
Where: Mountain View Park
Admission: Free!

Festivities:

• Food Trucks

• Performances by local groups

• Music by Flashover Entertainment

• Kids activities & entertainment

• Mr. & Mrs. Claus

• Tree Lighting & Bonfire Event

• Vendors and more!

Interested in showcasing your professionally made, new or handcrafted items or services? For more information email: recreation@middlesexboro-nj.gov

Special Town Hall Meeting

As a set-up for the 2026 Budgeting process, Mayor Jack Mikolajczyk is holding a Town Hall meeting at Borough Hall to solicit your feedback on where you would like see Middlesex Borough now and in the future.

When: Wednesday, December 3 from 7 - 9pm
Where: Borough of Middlesex, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846

Discussion Topics:

• 2024 SWOT Analysis Review

• 2025 Update

  • Borough Needs

  • Desired Borough Services and Programs

  • Borough Department and Services Review

We are looking for your input!

November 4, 2025 General Election

Election districts will be open from 6am - 8pm for the General Election. Please note the district locations listed below:

District 1, 2 & 3 - High School Gym

District 4 & 10 - Recreation Center

District 5 & 6 - Hazelwood School Gym

District 7, 8 & 9 - Mauger Middle School Gorman Gym

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 26 Kennedy Blvd in East Brunswick before 8pm on 11/4, or return the ballot to the secure election drop box behind the Municipal Building by 8pm on 11/4. You can also bring your ballot to any of the secure ballot drop boxes in Middlesex County listed on the borough website under “Clerk’s Department” and click on “NJ voter information portal – election day polling place locations” by 8pm on 11/4 for all secure drop box locations.

Voters with any questions, please call the borough clerk at 732-356-7400, ext. 236.

Important Update on November SNAP Food Assistance Benefits

We want to let our community know that SNAP benefits may be delayed or temporarily unavailable starting November 1.

If you or someone you know could be affected, please don’t wait to reach out for help. There are several resources in Middlesex County available to help you access food and support during this time.

To get involved or donate: https://feedingmiddlesexcounty.org/donate/

Other Resources: https://linktr.ee/SNAPNJ

REPLENISH Directory and other resources: 732-729-0880 REPLENISH - Food Assistance Directory

FRAUD ALERT: NJ Motor Vehicle Commission Scam

There have been recent reports within Middlesex County and statewide of residents who received a SMS text message phishing scam (SMiShing) impersonating the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This scam was prevalent in the Spring of 2025 and has resurfaced.  The state agency stresses that it only sends text messages to remind residents about scheduled appointments with the commission. They DO NOT send text messages regarding driver’s licenses or vehicle registration status.

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) is a motor vehicle commission, and if you receive communications that allege they are the NJ Department of Motor Vehicles or motor vehicle department, DO NOT click any external links and report the communication as spam.  The NJMVC only sends text messages to remind residents about scheduled MVC appointments. It does not send text messages regarding driver’s licenses or vehicle registration status.

These messages claim that the user has an outstanding traffic ticket and payment is due. The URL displayed in the message includes “ezpassnj” and “.gov” to appear legitimate. The message itself does not allow the recipient to click the included link directly, but instead instructs them to reply to the message with “Y” and reopen the message. The message further instructs the recipient to click the provided link or to copy the URL to their web browser. These links redirect to fraudulent websites that seek to extract personally identifiable information, financial details, and/or account credentials – usually through a computer virus.

New Jersey E-ZPass DOES NOT send unsolicited text messages to collect payments. If your account is in collections and being handled by Credit Collection Services, you may receive text messages from Credit Collection Services regarding your account. Their text message will list a phone number, their website (www.ccspayment.com), and reference a file number.
 
Key actions to be reminded of:

• Avoid clicking links, responding to, or acting on unsolicited text messages.

• Visit official websites directly to determine if there is an issue with an account or outstanding bill.

• Avoid submitting sensitive information, including financial or account details, to unverified websites.

To protect yourself and others from these scams, consider the following:

• Block any phone numbers and report the text as junk/spam.

• Forward the message via text message to 7-7-2-6 (SPAM).

Please call your local police department if you believe you were victimized.  You can also report scams to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) https://www.ic3.gov or to the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC) https://www.cyber.nj.gov/report/incident-reporting/report-a-cybersecurity-incident.

For more information, please click on the link below: https://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/Home/Components/News/News/1828/736

DEA National Takeback Day

Expired or unused prescription medications pose a public safety risk. Safeguard lives and protect the environment by participating in Take Back Day on October 25th. 

Medications can be dropped off a Middlesex Borough Police Department on Saturday, October 25th, between 10am-12pm.

Syringes, sharps and illicit drugs will not be accepted.

Crafting Connections With Our Community

Join the Middlesex Borough Police Department and The Middlesex Borough Senior Services for a special event for the Senior Residents of Middlesex Borough Crafting Connections with our Community. Attendees can expect to enjoy an afternoon with Officers, Senior Services Staff and Community Partners! A craft activity and lunch will be provided! Seniors in need of transportation should contact Senior Services at 732-356-0414.

Crafting Connections with our Community: Friday, November 14th, 2025. 12:30pm-2:30pm @ Middlesex Borough Senior Center, Middlesex, NJ 08846.