Mayor’s Message: Embracing Unfinished Borough Business

Conundrums

If there is anything to mark a capital” C “in conundrum, it would clearly be issues like Heather Lane, damage to Lake Creighton, the legacy landfill, re-use of the former Presbyterian Church , the need for senior housing, flood control and other initiatives. So many of these public projects are interlaced with a myriad of issues that unfortunately stall progress on them. This dynamic is uncommon in the business world. Funded projects usually incorporate a distinct alpha and omega paradigm.

Progress

On the flip side, progress has been made with other projects. These include improving our parks and playgrounds with new trees, recreational equipment and soon, a full replacement (drop in place) bathroom at Mountain View Park. The Borough has benefited from an extensive road paving program this year. And the streetscape work along Route 28 is close to completion. The Borough is also planning to sell surplus property in order to yield much-needed revenue. And a historic move was the successful purchase of a former service station with the vision of expanding and enhancing our beloved Victor Crowell Park. In addition, the new grocery supermarket, Superfresh, opened its doors recently which provides a good fit where the previous Pathmark occupied. New sanitary pump/ lift stations have also been installed around town.

Substantial progress has been made regarding the elimination of our sanitary sampling station on South Ave. with the goal of a permanent pump station on Baekeland Ave for the Borough to collect the sanitary fees directly from the industrial and commercial users rather than the revenue going to Piscataway Township.

We have hired and already in the process of hiring more police officers to get to the budgeted number of 32 officers, the number Chief Geist determined as “full employment,“ all this in the name of public safety.

After much fanfare by the EPA along with other environmental organizations, the Borough finally received the previous Middlesex Sampling Plant parcel back from its contaminated Superfund days. It is now cleaned to “residential standards”, the highest in living quality standards. The purchase price was one dollar. However, we are restricted to use the property only for municipal support and emergency purposes. Si planning is under way to relocate our Public Works, Emergency Management, Fire Department offices and our fueling station, which is currently behind Borough Hall. Post-land transfer testing will be conducted and independent testing will be encouraged.

On the Drawing Board

Among some other projects worth mentioning which have not yet gotten off the drawing board or are in the initial stages are the community garden to be located at Mountain View Park, updating Borough Hall and seeking grants for such areas as historical, cultural and environmental opportunities around town.

Lastly, we are mandated by the state (best practices) to install an Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station which must be on municipal property. This may be a great time to make this a grant priority.

It’s All About Our Residents

Working together with Borough staff, the Borough Council, and all our vendors has been such a wonderful experience all these years knowing that the collective benefit is for our residents. The common denominator is good communication and hard work.

Thank you.
Mayor John L Madden

Legacy Lawn Unveiled at Veterans Day Celebration

Legacy Lawn Unveiling and Reception

It was a stunning day on November 11, 2023, as over 150 attendees gathered at the Middlesex Public Library front lawn for the unveiling of the first Middlesex Borough Legacy Lawn. The lawn was decorated with 116 signs of veterans from town from the 1940’s until present day, noting their service, rank, achievements, and pictures.

Veterans in town were encouraged to fill out a Legacy Lawn form (found on the Library website and at the American Legion) to submit their information for inclusion in the Legacy Lawn. The Library will continue to accept applications on a rolling basis. Signs will be displayed on the lawn from November 11 until December 11, and then put in storage for the Winter. They will return to the lawn (with any new additions as well) over Memorial Day weekend. Every year the Library will maintain the records and signs and add to the database of veterans for the Legacy Lawn.

Library Director Chrissy George, who started and managed the project with Reference Librarian Kristin Bennett, partnered with Helena Gaither, Commander of the American Legion John W Lupu Memorial Post 306 on the Legacy Lawn. The project was supported by the Middlesex Public Library Board of Trustees and Mayor and Council.

Speakers for the unveiling included Library Director Chrissy George, Mayor John Madden, Library Board President Jim Benson, and First Vice Commander of the American Legion, Matt Adams.

“I’ve never been prouder to be a resident of Middlesex than I am today, because of this,” Adams noted. “What I love about today’s ceremony is that we’re able to say thank you.”

“Over the past two months, our Library staff have heard amazing, beautiful, moving stories of resilience, compassion, bravery, friendship, connection, and patriotism from the vets, their families, and loved ones, reflecting on the ultimate sacrifices made in the face of war,” Director George said. “As a Library, our goal is to educate and to continue promoting lifelong learning, and what better way to do that than to encourage the sharing of these stories between families, between friends, creating spaces for history to grow and teach and pass down. These 116 signs represent the history: of our country, of our Middlesex, of families and friends and loved ones and sacrifice and dedication.”

“Serving in the military, even in peace time, is a sacrifice and should never be taken for granted,” Library Board President and former Police Chief, Jim Benson, told the crowd.

After the ceremony, the American Legion’s annual Veteran’s Day event took place, followed by a reception inside the Legion.

The Library will continue to accept applications on a rolling basis for inclusion in the Legacy Lawn. For more information, please check the article from this summer’s announcement here.

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Mayor Madden’s Speech at the Veterans Day Ceremony

“Never was so much owed by so many to so few” This famous quote by Winston Churchill is as relevant, timeless and immortal today as it was back in 1940.

Sadly, so many people around the world live each day in the grip of tyranny and oppression without enjoying the many freedoms of life, peace, liberty and the pursuit of happiness which should be ubiquitous. We have come to enjoy these “natural rights” to espouse our quality of life.

The world today may be on the precipice again of what we dreadfully feared most during the cold war years; the specter of M.A,D. (Mutually Assured Destruction). As we wait, implacable measures are being interwoven within the fabric of a realistic far-reaching destruction of humankind.

So today let us revere this very special day to truly honor all our veterans and their families who answered the call to duty to embrace and sustain our way of life in defense of democracy.

We are gathered here in solemn commemoration of this memorable day of peace and unity.

In the words of JFK :

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them“

Thank you,
Mayor John L. Madden

Clerk's Office: 2024 Dog and Cat Licenses

2024 Dog and Cat Licenses

Applications for the 2024 Dog and Cat License will open on January 1, 2024. Rabies vaccinations must be valid through November 1, 2024. Spayed/neutered Dogs and Cats have a fee of $10.00, unaltered Dogs/Cats have a fee of $13.00.

A late fee of $10.00 will be charged on or after February 28, 2024.

Applications can be submitted online through the borough website – watch for details and links to the 2024 forms in an upcoming “Latest News” article before the end of the month.

DPW: Happy Holidays from Public Works!

Safety is the main concern of Middlesex Borough during the winter months. The Public Works Department provides de-icing and snow removal whenever road conditions call for these services. Please remember snow removal is performed under emergency conditions and our drivers experience extended hours of work to provide safe roads for our residents. The following items are what our residents should be mindful of during the winter months:

• Do not deposit leaves in the roadway. Please make every attempt to keep storm drains clear of snow or leaves.

• Do not park on snow covered roads. Our police department will be enforcing this during snow events.

• Do not place garbage cans in the street. Objects in the roadway are our biggest deterrent for efficient plowing operations.

• Remove all basketball posts that are in the road or within the right of way.

• Please do not blow snow onto plowed roadways. This creates hazardous road conditions.

During snow storms our first priority is to open main roads to provide safe access for emergency vehicles and maintain safe traffic. Plows will continue to clear all streets until every road is safe to travel. Also keep in mind that during these storms, vehicle breakdowns ultimately occur. Your patience during these snow events is greatly appreciated.

We are constantly monitoring the safety of our roads. Please feel free to call us at 732-968-1603 or visit us online at our borough website to report any Public Works related issues. We will address all concerns in a timely manner.

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Reminders:

• Bulk has ended for 2023. Please do not place free items randomly at the curb.

• Leaf collection ends the last Wednesday of December 2023

• Christmas trees will be picked up starting the first Wednesday in January 2023.

• Leaf bags are still available at Recycle Center with coupon while supplies last.

On behalf of our DPW family have a safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Public works contact info

• Office: 732-968-1603

• Web page

Library: Read, Play, and Sing in 2024

Read 24 Books in 2024 and Get a Middlesex Library Mug

Our Second Annual Reading Iincentive!

We challenge you to read 23 books this year – they can be physical books, library books, books you own, ebooks, audiobooks, graphic novels... This challenge is for everyone–kids, adults, and adults who feel like kids, too.

Here’s how to sign up:

• Stop by the library and pick up a book log or print one out from the Library website.

• Log in the books you read.

• Once you have read 24 books, bring the book log to the library and receive your free Middlesex Public Library tote!

Winter is a perfect time to visit the Library!

Follow the Library on social media and watch our website for the latest updates about our winter programs.

LIBRARY WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
PHONE 732-356-6602

LOCATION
1300 Mountain Avenue Middlesex, NJ 08846

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Time to make “Sparks Fly”

Don’t miss out on the most enchanting night the library has ever seen! It’s going to be a “Red” letter night, so mark your calendar and come dressed in your best Taylor Swift-inspired outfit!

No registration is required, so don’t forget to invite your fellow Swifties and make it a night to remember- “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” with the quiet library life!

This is an after hours Library program - the Library will not be open to the public during this program.

Police: Winter News and Events

The Middlesex Borough Police Department has had some very successful initiatives moving into the Winter months of 2023, including support of Wear Pink for a Cause, No Shave November, REPLENISH Food Drive, and National Prescription Take Back.

Parking prohibited on Snow Covered Roadways

Whenever snow has fallen and the accumulation is such that it covers the street or highway, an emergency shall exist and no vehicle shall be parked on any street or highway or portion thereof. This prohibition shall remain in effect after the snow has ceased, until the street has been plowed sufficiently and to the extent that parking will not interfere with the normal flow of traffic. When forecasts suggest that snow will accumulate on our roadways, it is important to remove all vehicles from the roadways so that crews can clear the roads of snow and ice. Snowbound vehicles can choke roadways, preventing the passage of emergency vehicles and delaying the delivery of important - sometimes lifesaving - emergency services.

Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

New Jersey is Cracking Down on Impaired Driving

Nearly one-third of all fatal crashes in New Jersey are alcohol-related. Impaired drivers kill nearly 10,000 people on our nation’s roads each year. If you plan to drink, have a non-drinking, designated driver. The Middlesex Police Department is joining the movement across the state - Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

Ice & Snow - Remove it Before You Go

Remember to remove all ice and snow from your vehicle before driving, especially from the hood, windows and roof. It’s the law in New Jersey! Motorists that fail to do so face fines of $25 to $75 for each offense, regardless of whether the ice and snow is dislodged from the vehicle. If flying ice or snow causes property damage or injury to others, motorists face fines of $200 to $1,000 for each offense.

Removal of snow and ice from sidewalks

Residents shall remove all snow and ice from all portions of sidewalks down to their natural surfaces. The removal snow and ice must be accomplished within 12 hours of daylight after the snow has fallen and/or the ice has formed. Municipal ordinance requires that you remove snow and ice from sidewalks. Also, you can help the dedicated men and women of the Middlesex Fire Department by clearing snow and ice from on and around fire hydrants.

Prevent Holiday Thefts

As the holidays approach, the Middlesex Police Department reminds residents to be extra careful and extra alert and to take measures to reduce opportunities for thieves. Avoid storing valuable items in vehicles. If you must store items in your vehicle, make sure that they are hidden from prying eyes and that the vehicle’s doors are locked when it is unattended.

If you shop online, coordinate the delivery of packages for times when someone can be at home to accept them. You can also have packages delivered to your place of work or to a trusted neighbor. Take measures to keep yourself and your belongings safe. Be a good neighbor and keep an eye out for others, too. And, as always, promptly report any and all suspicious persons and suspicious activity to the Middlesex Police.

Closures of Schools and Government Buildings

From time to time, circumstances necessitate the closure of schools and/or government buildings. Stay informed about closures and adjusted hours of operation.

For school information, subscribe to Honeywell Instant Alert for Schools. Visit the Middlesex School District’s website for details.

For information about borough government buildings and/or borough services, watch for alerts on the Borough’s website.

Beware of Scammers!

Scam activity is not affected by seasonal influences. Scammers know no boundaries. Fraudsters are relentless and are growing increasingly resourceful in the tactics that they employ. To avoid becoming a victim, please educate yourself on the scams that are currently the most popular:

Romance Scam

The Romance Scam is becoming more and more prevalent. The victim is contacted on a dating application or website. The scammer, who often pretends to be serving in the military, fakes romantic interest in the victim and typically offers to pay off any debt that the victim may have. After the scammer tricks the victim into thinking that their debt has been paid off (it has not!), they will convince the victim to purchase large quantities of gifts cards and to send photographs containing the gift card numbers. After receiving the photographs, the suspect quickly activates and takes control of the funds on the cards.

Social Security Administration Scam

Callers claiming to be affiliated with the Social Security Administration contact their victims by telephone and inform them that their personal information has been compromised. The scammers will then convince victims to purchase gift cards or to make wire transfers to help “secure” their financial assets. Similar scams exist involving individuals pretending to be associated with the IRS and with PSE&G.

Employment Scam

This scam begins with fraudsters reaching out to victims online who are seeking employment. After exchanging email correspondence, the scammer will tell the victim that they have been hired. The “company” will then send the victim checks, which they are instructed to deposit in their personal accounts. The victim is then told to use those funds to purchase equipment for their new position. In return, the scammer convinces the victim to send them wire transfers and/or mail them money orders. After doing so, the victim learns that the checks they received and deposited were fraudulent.

Bail Money/Kidnapping Scam

This type of scammer contacts their victims by telephone and pretends that a relative has been arrested or kidnapped. The scammer then convinces the victim to send bail or ransom money, usually by wire transfer, to secure their release.

Online Marketplace Scam

EBay, Craigslist, Letgo, etc. are convenient and easy to use but offer unlimited possibilities to aspiring scammers. As you may have noticed, scammers typically request unusual methods of payment, such as gift cards and wire transfers. The online marketplace is no exception.

Please be wary when engaging with strangers online or over the telephone. Someone that you have never met in person but is seeking to send or receive money should not be trusted. The identity of anyone calling you claiming to be associated with a law enforcement, government, utilities company or civic organization can and should be verified.

This is not an all-inclusive list. If you are contacted by anyone that you suspect might be a scammer, we urge you to immediately contact the Middlesex Police Department

This Winter, the Middlesex Borough Police Humane Law Enforcement Officers Remind You to Not Forget About Your Pets!

• If possible, bring pets indoors.

• If it’s not possible to bring them indoors, make sure that they have a dry enclosure with bedding on the floor.

• Position the enclosure so that the opening is not facing into the wind and, if possible, cover the opening.

• Make sure that pets have sufficient food and water available.

• Increase the food amount for pets kept outdoors to maintain their energy and fur health.

• Make sure that their water doesn’t freeze.

• Salt and other chemicals used to melt ice can irritate a pet’s paw. Wipe paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them.

• Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Promptly wipe up spills and store antifreeze out of reach.

• Wipe off your pet’s paws, legs and underside to remove harmful de-icing chemicals.

• Check paws frequently for signs of cold weather injury or damage.

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Nixle Community Notifications and Alerts

Residents are urged to sign up to receive Nixle Alerts and Messages. Nixle allows the Police Department to send important, valuable community information directly to residents using the latest technology. Messages will be delivered by email, SMS/text message (cell phone), and over the World Wide Web. Notifications may include crime related alerts, traffic advisories and other relevant safety and community event information. Nixle also enables citizens to submit anonymous tips to the police department to aid in crime fighting efforts. To learn more about Nixle and to sign up, please visit our web site at www.middlesexpd.com.

Report a Traffic Safety Concern

We ask that you support our Safe Roads Initiative by obeying all traffic laws at all times. Please report any non-emergency traffic concerns to:

• Middlesex Police Department – (732) 356-1900 ext. 235

• or via Email at trafficsafety@middlesexpd.com

We’re your Middlesex Borough Police Department!

Like us on Facebook • Follow us on Twitter • Follow us on Instagram

Office of Emergency Management: Announcing the Launch of Our OEM Cadet Program

Join Our Team and Serve Your Community

Are you a young, motivated individual with a passion for emergency preparedness and community service? We’re excited to announce the launch of the Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management Cadet Program, an opportunity for you to gain valuable experience, develop essential skills, and make a real difference in your community.

If you are an individual who resides in Middlesex Borough, aged 14 to 18 and looking toward a future in homeland security, emergency preparedness, law enforcement, or public service, the Middlesex Borough OEM Cadet Program is a great place to gain valuable experience.

About the Program

The Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management Cadet Program is a dynamic initiative, aimed at engaging young people in the world of emergency management. As a cadet, you’ll receive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in various aspects of emergency preparedness, response, and recovery.

Who Can Join?

Introducing our new cadet, Natalie at the Winter Wonderland Festival, having fun!

The Cadet Program - Office of Emergency Management, is for Middlesex Borough Residents ONLY, 14 to 18 years of age.

This program is open to individuals who have a strong interest in community service and emergency management. If you’re a student looking to make a meaningful impact, this program is a perfect fit for you.

What You’ll Learn

• Emergency Response: Learn how to assist in disaster response and recovery efforts, including working with first responders and managing emergency shelters.

• Communication Skills: Develop essential communication skills, including radio operations and public outreach.

• Leadership: Gain leadership experience by actively participating in the coordination and execution of emergency management activities.

• Community Engagement: Connect with local community members and organizations to build strong relationships and enhance emergency preparedness.

• Professional Development: Acquire valuable skills and experience that can benefit your future career in emergency management, public safety, or related fields.

• Teamwork: Emphasize teamwork and collaboration. Working as part of a team in high pressure situations helps participants develop strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Program Benefits

• Valuable hands-on experience

• Mentorship from experienced emergency management professionals

• Networking opportunities

• Personal and professional growth

• A chance to give back to your community

How to Apply

To join the Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management Cadet Program, please visit the Local Links Volunteering page here, then click the box for OEM Cadet Program.

Complete the form and submit it.

For any questions or additional information, please contact Capt. Barbara Benson at bbenson@middlesexboro-nj.gov.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to make a difference in your community, gain valuable skills, and embark on an exciting journey in emergency management. Join the Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management – Cadet Program today, and be a part of the team that keeps our community safe.

Community Pool: Thank You For A Great Summer Season in '23!

All Summer long, but especially during this season, we’re thankful for our wonderful members! We look forward to seeing you all for Summer 2024. The Swim Pool Commission and Pool Staff wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

We’ll be right here…..
Your Middlesex Community Pool

(It may be winter, but we're always thinking about summer!)

Follow the Pool on Social Media

Facebook • Instagram • Twitter • Pinterest

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Summer Jobs at the Middlesex Community Pool!

If you are age 15+ and looking for a summer job as a lifeguard or swim instructor, the Middlesex Community Pool is a great place to work! Lifeguards must be 15 years old and certified.

For anyone interested in becoming a lifeguard, we will be offering a class in late May. Dates to be determined. Or you can take a Red Cross Class nearby. Visit www.redcross.org/local/new-jersey/take-a-class/lifeguarding for a class and date that is best for you.

See the "Summer Jobs" tab in our FAQ Section at the bottom of our web page here for information on how to apply.

Middlesex Resident-Only Registration Starts March 1

Middlesex resident registration starts March 1st, which isn’t that far away! You can count down the days with us on our Pool web page here.

Questions?

Pool Secretary Phone: 908-705-2958
Email middlesexpoolnj@gmail.com

Aging and Disabled Services: Here for You

Our Programs are Designed to Promote Well-Being, Camaraderie, and Support

The Middlesex Borough Department of Senior & Disabled Services is open to all Borough residents age 60 and older and their families, as well as disabled residents who receive Social Security. At our Center, we take pride in empowering seniors and fostering a vibrant community that celebrates the rich experiences and contributions of our members.

Our programs are designed to promote well-being, camaraderie, and support. All our daily activities, programs, special events, and trips are highlighted in our bimonthly newsletter. If you are interested in receiving our newsletter, call the Center at (732) 356-0414 to be put on our mailing list!

Monthly Veterans Breakfast Continues for 2024

This past year, our Monthly Veterans Breakfast has been a great addition to the programs we provide. On the second Thursday of each month, we welcome all veterans from the community to join us. This is a wonderful opportunity to share stories, make new connections, and forge new friendships. Please call the Center if you are interested in attending. Our next breakfast will be on December 14th at 10:00 am!

Free Tax Preparation Appointments Begin mid-January

Need help with your taxes? Through AARP, we offer Free Tax Preparation for seniors. The dedicated volunteers will provide you with worry-free, great service. We will start taking appointments on January 16, 2024. To schedule, please stop by or call the Center at 732.356.0414.

Shade Tree Photo Winner, Recreation, and Board of Health

Shade Tree Commission Shares Photo Contest Winner: A Beautiful Fall Foliage Photo in Victor Crowell Park

Our Shade Tree Commisssion 2023 Photo Contest Winner is Susen Edwards.

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Recreation Department

Thanks For A Great 2023!

The Rec Department is excited to see what is in store for 2024.

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Board of Health: Encouraging a Healthy Middlesex

Be Aware of Air Quality Year ‘Round with airnow.gov

AirNow is a one-stop source for air quality data with an easy-to-understand guage accessible from your computer or phone. AirNow reports air quality using local data from the New Jersey Dept. of Environmental Protection and other federal and regional agencies.

Check it out at airnow.gov.

We Invite You to Get Involved

If you have any concerns or suggestions about health-related services in our community, please consider attending one (or more) of our monthly meetings.

For a list of upcoming monthly meetings, visit our page on the Borough website here.

Green Brook Flood Commission: Flood Wall Takes Shape

Flood Wall project on South Lincoln Ave Takes Shape

Meaningful flood reduction is making progress in our area – thanks to the tireless work and advocacy over the past 50 years from the Green Brook Flood Control Commission (GBFCC) and local residents, including Paul Woska and Mark Kranz, our GBFCC Commissioners.

Recent Congressional budgets awarded $496 million for the construction of the Lower Basin and Stony Brook portions of Green Brook Flood Commission projects. With this commitment by the Federal government, projects are beginning to take shape.

In our Borough's geography, Segment C2 & H was awarded in March 2023 and construction began this month.

• The base consists of two closure gates across S. Lincoln Avenue, one on either side of the brook.

• The northern gate will be in the gap where the completed Segment C2 floodwall is located.

• The south side gate, along with 300 or so feet of floodwall to be placed.

• The options consist of levees on both sides of the brook. The northern levee is to the west of S. Lincoln Avenue taking off where the Segment C2, Contract 1 floodwall ends.

• The two southern sections of levee will be on both sides of S. Lincoln Avenue.

• Two pump stations are included in the option.

South of the stream, on the west side of South Lincoln there will be a wall and flood gate installation. North of the stream, on the west side of South Lincoln a 2nd flood gate. These flood gates will both move toward the east and contain the bridge. During flooding when the gates are closed water will flow over the bridge. The pumping station will be up towards Denton Ave where the house was demolished.