Middlesex Public Library
Touch-A-Truck is back; How to put a “hold” request on your wish list items; NJHealthConnect resources; and more…
We’re So Popular
We’ve had a wonderful, busy 2021 – and our numbers certainly reflect that! The total amount of materials checked out for 2021 was 50,765!
These Books
We always enjoy looking at the most popular books for our patrons in 2021 – here are this past year’s most popular MDSX materials!
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
Welcome Home: A Cozy Minimalist Guide to Decorating and Hosting by Myquillin Smith
Win by Harlan Coben
The Sanatorium by Sarah Pearse
Hour of the Witch by Chris Bohjalian
A Tale of Two Sisters by Melissa Lagonegro
The Evening and the Morning by Ken Follett
Ask a Manager How to Navigate Clueless Colleagues by Alison Green
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
You can put a hold on these or any other books by:
Clicking Search Our Catalogue,
Searching for the Title you are interested in, then
Clicking Place Hold and entering your Library Card Number and PIN.
If you need any help, our staff is here to guide you M-Th from 10am - 8pm; Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday 10am - 2pm.
NJHealthConnect @ Your Library!
Middlesex Public Library is thrilled to be participating in a new telehealth opportunity funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, to bring health equity to all, called NJHealthConnect @ Your Library!
From the NJ State Library website: The ongoing pandemic has put a spotlight on inequities in the healthcare system, especially among those most vulnerable. There is a need for public libraries to play a role in advancing health equity that can be bridged through the NJHealthConnect @ Your Library, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) opportunity.
This new program, administered by New Jersey State Library, and implemented by Just For The Health Of It! at East Brunswick Public Library, addresses inequities through a combination of technology that offers links to telemedicine apps for doctor appointments, and links to COVID and high quality health literacy resources.
NJHealthConnect @ Your Library supports the New Jersey’s Healthy People 2030 mission to help people get timely, high-quality health care services so that good health is within the grasp of everyone.
We are still working on implementing this program, so be sure to check our website often for updates on this valuable telemedicine platform for our Middlesex community!
Summer Reading is Coming…
As in previous years, the MDSX library childrens and adult staff are primed and prepped to bring you the most sensational and interactive summer literacy and community enrichment program! Plans are in the works, and we are all just brimming with excitement to get gameboards and activities started – June can’t come fast enough! We will start releasing information at the end of Spring on all the opportunities and programs the Library will be offering!
Adult Programming
We’ve got some GREAT spring programs coming – a Zentangles workshop, a watercolor art class, and MORE! Be sure to keep your eyes on our Instagram and Facebook, as well as our website, for the most up to date offerings!
Children’s Programming
We’re so excited to announce and introduce our new Children’s Librarian, Kaila Ward! Kaila comes to us from Rutgers University, where she earned her Master of Information Science in 2020, and worked in Rutgers University libraries. She brings an exuberance and creativity that we are thrilled to share with all our MDSX patrons!
Stay tuned for programs and events soon – check our website at http://www.middlesexlibrarynj.org/kids/
Children’s Special Events
Touch-A-Truck Is Back!
TOUCH-A-TRUCK is scheduled for JUNE 4, 2022 at Mountainview Park!
Hosted jointly by the Middlesex Department of Public Works and the Middlesex Public Library, Touch-A-Truck is back this year! Explore and learn about all the big trucks and equipment used by our Department of Public Works, as well as all the ways to get your brain working with hands on experiences – activities, treats, giveaways, and more surprises to be announced!
Public Works DPW
Can’t wait to see you at this year’s Touch-A-Truck event; Bulk pickup information; Street sweeping schedules; and more…
From the DPW family
Warmer spring weather has arrived at last, and our busy work schedule is underway. There is a lot of activity at the Department of Public Works and at our work sites throughout the town. Please take extra care when you encounter our crews so they can complete their work as safely as possible.
In this newsletter you will find updates within the Borough, Bulk pick up information, and Street sweeping schedules per district.
As usual, if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call our shop. Your help is always appreciated in every way to make us a better department. Thank you and we hope everyone has a safe and happy spring.
Bulk Pickup
Got Junk? The Borough of Middlesex is here to assist residents with any of their spring clean ups. Bulk pickup is limited to one per year and is arranged by appointment only. Rules are strictly enforced, so please read carefully.
Bulk items NOT ACCEPTED curbside include:
Construction debris
Propane tanks
Cement
Television (accepted at the Recycling Center only)
Hazardous materials
Yard waste
Tires and metal
Pallets
Lumber
Fencing
Household garbage
Please call (732) 968-1603 between 6am and 2pm. Please leave your name and number; your call will be returned within 24 hours to arrange for pickup. Please do not place anything at the curb without scheduling an appointment.
Large appliances ("white metal") can be picked up by appointment throughout the year.
Grass Will Only Be Picked Up In Biodegradable Leaf Bags
Grass/Leaf Collection
Grass and Leaf pick up will begin the last Wednesday of March and end on the last Wednesday of December. Place bags at curb the night before for pick up. Grass/leaves will only be picked up in paper biodegradable bags. Plastic bags will NOT be picked up. Grass/leaves can also be taken to the Recycling Center. Refer to Ordinance #1727-06, Chapter 355 or call 732-968-1603 for more information. Branches are accepted at the Recycling Center all year and must be tied and bundled in 4-foot sections. Only place branches at the curb on designated days (third Wednesday of the month from April thru October). Branches that are not tied and bundled will not be disposed of and will be subject to a violation.
Recycle Coach
Please download the Recycle Coach app to stay up to date on recycle pickup news and schedule changes. Recycle hotline for missed pick up or complaints should be directed to MCUA. Many complaints can be reported on the app as well. Feel free to download.
1-800-488-6242 Recycle Hotline
Street Sweeping
Street sweeping will commence weather permitting on March 28, 2022.
We always strive to keep our roads clean from stone and debris from the winter months. Cars should be off the street from 7am until 3pm on scheduled sweeping days in your district. Please read the following schedule. If you have any questions, feel free to call 732-968-1603.
DISTRICT.......... SPRING............................ FALL
District 10........ March 28 to April 1........... August 1 to August 5
District 9.......... April 4 to April 8................ August 8 to August 12
District 8.......... April 11 to April 15............ August 15 to August 19
District 7 ......... April 18 to April 22............ August 22 to August 26
District 6.......... April 25 to April 29............ August 29 to Sept 2
District 5.......... May 2 to May 5................. Sept 5 to Sept 9
District 4.......... May 9 to May 13............... Sept 12 to Sept 16
District 3.......... May 16 to May 20............. Sept 19 to Sept 23
District 2.......... May 23 to May 27............. Sept 26 to Sept 30
District 1.......... May 30 to June 3.............. Oct 3 to Oct 7
Flushing Wipes is a Bad Habit
Periodic congestion from the discharge of thousands of wipes entering the sanitary system has been a perennial problem. Wipes and feminine paper products do not break down rapidly and they have a tendency to start clogs which lead to sustained blockages – which may cause serious damage and needless expense. (In contrast, toilet paper disintegrates very quickly.)
Most wipes are NOT flushable at all. Baby wipes have plastic fibers in them and should never go down a toilet. Due to the plastic fibers that are carried along with the sewage, food particles, grease and other material will collect on these fibers. This can become a total lateral blockage, cause a backup into your home, and further down the line, any excessive sewer costs are passed on to our residents.
Middlesex Borough asks you to ONLY put toilet paper down the toilet. Please help us keep our sanitary system healthy while preventing costly emergency repairs for both the Borough and your home.
Clerk's Office
Shred day is June 10 at 1200 Mountain Ave; Election news for the June primaries; and more…
“Shred Day” is Friday, June 10 in the Borough
Date: Friday, June 10, 2022 (rain or shine)
Time: 9:00 am - 12 pm, or until shredding truck is filled, whichever occurs first.
Location: Middlesex Boro Municipal Complex, 1200 Mountain Ave.
County residents only. Residential paper only – No businesses.
Limit of 5 file boxes or 100 pounds per car.
Paper must be in a manageable container - no Plastic Bags.
NOTE: No need to remove paper clips or staples.
Residents must keep their vehicle windows closed and stay in their vehicles at all times. Please have your materials in your trunk, cargo area or truck bed, easily accessible to our staff, who will remove it from your vehicle.
This free service is coordinated by the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners in conjunction with the Middlesex Borough DPW.
Election News
The 2022 Primary Election will be held on June 7, 2022, with the polls being open from 6am-8pm. Polling locations have not been approved by the Board of Elections at this time. These locations will be posted on the borough website upon approval and also noted on the sample ballot that you receive in the mail. As a reminder, the last day to register to vote for the 2022 Primary Election will be May 17th. If you wish to change your party affiliation, all Party Affiliation forms must be submitted to the Board of Election by April 13th. Any resident who would like to receive a Mail in Ballot for the Primary Election must apply by the May 31st deadline.
Community Pool
Registration for residents is open now; Open House May 21; New activities and services for this summer; and more…
Welcome to the Middlesex Community Pool 2022!
A Summer Swim Club…. where happy memories are made!
The Middlesex Community Pool has been open and enjoyed by Middlesex and local residents for over 50 years. It is located behind Middlesex High School at 300 John F. Kennedy Drive, Middlesex.
Our pool opens Memorial Day Weekend, including Monday (May 28th-30th). We are open weekends‑only starting Memorial Day weekend. We are then open seven (7) days a week starting June 23rd through Labor Day weekend, including Monday.
Hours of Operation
The pool is open from 12:00 Noon to 8:00pm
Registration for Middlesex Residents Only began March 1st
Pool Membership is Open!
You may register online or download an application. Look for our membership application on our website here! Read more about discounts when you join early!
Registration for Non-Middlesex Residents starts on May 1, 2022.
If you would like a membership application mailed to you, please call the Pool Secretary at 908‑202‑3651. Applications may also be found at Middlesex Borough Hall, Middlesex Public Library, and in the lobby of Middlesex Borough Senior Center/Recreation building.
Guest Passes
We are continuing to offer guest passes for our 2022 season. Guest(s) must be accompanied by a member of the pool. The fee is $10.00 a person, 7 days a week including weekends and holidays.
Open House May 21st – Visit our pool facility!
The Middlesex Community Pool will hold an Open House on May 21st from 9am-12 Noon; Rain date May 22nd, from 9am-12 Noon. If you’ve ever thought about joining the pool, you can now visit us prior to the season to view our facility and discover all that we have to offer! Once you see our pool, we know you’ll want to be a member! We are also one of the most affordable pools in the area!
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS NOT A SWIMMING EVENT.
New This Season!
Yoga!
We are adding Yoga to the programs we offer! Watch our website and social media for details.
Credit cards now accepted at the snack bar!
You may now charge your food purchases at the Snack Bar!
Pool Apparel
You can now order Middlesex Community Pool apparel and accessories! Check out our store on our Pool web page!
Information About Our Facility
Our pool facility boasts many different activities. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Main Pool
The main pool is a 50 meter Olympic size pool with diving board and water slide
Lap Pool
Our lap pool is 25 yards long with 6 swimming lanes. We offer early morning lap swimming on weekdays from 6-9:00am.
Kids’ Wading Pool
Our kids’ wading pool is a zero‑entry to 2.5 foot deep pool. It has several activities for hours of fun! Features include ground sprays, fish dump buckets, an interactive on/off waterfall, and a fun kid‑sized “frog” sliding board.
Birthday Parties and other celebrations
Celebrate your special occasion at the pool for a small fee!
Snack Bar
Members can purchase food at the snack bar, bring their own refreshments, or have food delivered from their favorite restaurant. New this year: Credit cards now accepted at the snack bar.
Activities We Offer
Swim Lessons
We offer swim lessons for a nominal fee for children and adults.
Swim Team
The Middlesex Water Wrats Swim Team is a competitive team for children ages 5 to 18. It is preferable that they have some swimming background. All swimmers must be members of the pool to join the team. There is a fee to join the team. There is an informational meeting on Saturday, May 28th, 1:00pm at the Pool. Please contact the Swim Team Coaches with any questions: h2owrats@gmail.com Visit their Facebook page: “Middlesex Water Wrats Swim Team”.
Synchronized Swim Team
This year the Aqualytes will be celebrating their 50th Anniversary! Their seasonal show will be in early August. Watch our website and social media for more information.
The Aqualytes Synchronized Swim Team is a recreational team that is inclusive of all genders ages 5‑17 with basic to advanced swim skills. Synchronized swimming combines elements of dance, swimming, and gymnastics. All swimmers must be members of the pool to join the team. There is a fee to join the team. Please contact the Team Coaches with any questions: middlesex.aqualytes@gmail.com Visit their Facebook page: Middlesex Aqualytes and on Instagram: Middlesex.Aqualytes
From our Coaches
Middlesex Aqualytes is a recreational team. Synchronized swim is almost like a dance routine, however, in the water. Team members are taught different arm and leg movements, called “figures,” matched up with designated music. Team members are put together in groups to perform. It is not as hard as it sounds! Each year we pick a theme for the season such as Decades. Children as young as five can join and they love the team! We put the music and swimming together and have an amazing, non-competitive performance at the end of the season!
Aqua Zumba
Our certified Zumba instructor will help you splash your way into shape with fun and invigorating low‑impact aquatic exercise. Aqua Zumba is a workout that is fun cardio-conditioning and body-toning. Our Aqua Zumba program was so popular in 2021 that we added a 3rd session!
For more information:
Pool Secretary 908-202-3651
Website: https://www.middlesexboro-nj.gov/pool
Email: middlesexpoolnj@gmail.com
Facebook: Middlesex Community Pool
Recreation
The Rec Department has a large selection of activities, sports, discount tickets, playgroups; and more…
Spring Yoga
Yoga is a set of practices which help lead us toward a healthy mind in a healthy body. This class begins each week with a breathing meditation, followed by warm-up activities for the muscles and joints. It includes poses in sitting, supine, prone, standing, and/or kneeling. Adaptations for varying levels are suggested. The class includes flow segments, activities to improve alignment and strength, flexibility, body awareness, and breathing control and awareness.
Where: Beechwood Fire House – 118 Union Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846
When: Wednesday Evenings
Who: Adults & Teens
INSTRUCTOR: Joy Provenzano Kozlowski – Wednesdays 645 – 8PM
START DATE: Tentative March 2
Spring Photography
BYOC (bring your own camera) - anything from an iPhone to a Polaroid - photographers will learn the basics of their digital or vintage camera and how to use it creatively. They will also learn with a “hands on” instruction by taking images using the different modes, lighting and angles. More experienced photographers can capture images at their own pace. The expectation is that each photographer will conquer their fear of the camera and begin to experience it’s potential as well as enjoying a great day in the park.
The program is absolutely FREE! Photographer's images will be uploaded to Middlesex Recreation social media pages.
Age Groups: Children: 12 and Below; Teens: 13 - 19; Adults: 20 and Above
Tentative Dates and Time: May - Wednesdays @ 5 – 6PM
Spring Morning Playgroup
Playgroup promotes play, imagination, sharing and fun for children ages 1-5 or has walking/cruising ability! Three sessions are offered. The fall session begins the Playgroup year. There is also a winter and spring session. Sessions are 8 weeks long. Registration for winter and spring sessions will be listed on the class calendars. Siblings/or other children NOT REGISTERED are not allowed to attend with the exception of an infant in a seat. Proof of residency may be required. No refunds will be issued after the second week of each session. Refunds prior are subject to a 10% administrative fee. Classes must have a MINIMUM of 8 registered children. Cash, personal checks made payable to “Middlesex Rec. Dept.”, and credit cards are accepted as payment. PARENT/GUARDIAN MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES DURING SESSIONS.
SESSION DATE START: Tuesdays April 19 @ Middlesex Recreation Center from 9:00 – 10:30AM
FEES PER SESSION: $80 for Borough resident, $100 for Non Borough resident. Drop in offered at $15 a day.
Spring Evening Playgroup
Our very popular playgroup program is once again offering an evening class for children ages 1-7 in the Recreation Center. The class is designed to introduce socialization, cooperation and sharing in a fun and safe environment. Children will have 40 minutes of free play then a small snack followed by a group activity. Activities include parachute play, puppets, motor skill elements, musical instruments and more! An adult must attend with the child(ren). A minimum of 8 children is required to begin the session. Cash, credit cards, or personal checks made payable to “Middlesex Rec. Dept.” are accepted as payment.
FEES PER SESSION: $80 for Borough resident, $100 for Non Borough residents. Drop in offered at $15 a day.
TENTATIVE SESSION DATE START: Mondays April 18 @ Middlesex Recreation Center
TIME: 6:00 - 7:30PM
Discount Movie Tickets Available
AMC Green tickets = $9 (not valid for Walt Disney Company and subsidiaries)
Reading Cinemas Tickets = $9 (cannot be used during film’s first two weeks of release)
Reading Cinema Gift Cards = $10 (can be used at admissions or concessions)
Google Form Link: https://forms.gle/C99g6q6cFqQSYvqF8
Hop on Through Mountain View Park on April 9!
2022 Spring Basketball Clinic: Grades 3-12
The Middlesex Recreation Department along with program instructors Jared Goldstein, Stew Lester and Kevin Reynolds are pleased to present basketball clinics to boys and girls in grades 3 through 12 who reside in Middlesex. These sessions are intended to practice previously acquired skills and to learn new ones. Team play will be emphasized & practice drills will be demonstrated. Learn the fundamentals of the game:
OFFENSIVE DRILLS: Dribbling • Passing • Shooting Instruction
DEFENSIVE DRILLS: On the ball • Off the ball help • Boxing out •Help and Recover • Rotation
When: CLINICS ARE HELD ON WEDNESDAY’S 6-9PM - March 30; April 6, 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18
Where: IN THE GYM AT MIDDLESEX HIGH SCHOOL
Who: Grades 3-8 from 6PM-7PM (gym divider); Grades 9-12 from 7PM-9PM (no gym divider)
2022 Basketball Clinic: Grades K-2
The Middlesex Recreation Department is pleased to present basketball open gym to boys and girls in grades K—2 who reside in Middlesex. These sessions are intended to practice previously acquired skills and learn new ones. This program is priced at $20. Team play will be emphasized & practice drills will be demonstrated; 60 minutes to work on different basketball skills each week. The drills will focus on fundamentals while helping the athlete enjoy the game. The fundamentals of the game will include:
OFFENSIVE DRILLS: Dribbling • Passing • Shooting Instruction
DEFENSIVE DRILLS: Man-to-Man Defense Skills• On the ball • Off the ball help •Defensive Talking
Boxing out and outlet passing •Help and Recover • Rotation •
Each child MUST be registered through the Recreation Department before attending the clinic.
When: OPEN GYM BASKETBALL IS HELD ON TUESDAY’S 630-730PM - March 29 ; April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17
Where: AT WATCHUNG SCHOOL IN THE WATCHUNG GYM
Esports! GGLeagues
We have joined forces with GGLeagues, an online esports gaming company, to bring in a new program that offers players a safe and fun way to participate in a community activity from home. Esports is a rapidly growing competition venue around the world. While we are not going worldwide, we are going statewide by participating in the NJ Esports Rec League through GGLeagues. Details for the upcoming Spring season are below!
Spring 2022 Season Leagues (April through June)
Games that we are offering include Rocket League (3v3, any device), Rocket League (1v1, any device), Madden22 (1v1, Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X/S), Super Smash Bros. (1v1, Nintendo Switch), Fortnite (Solos, any device), Fortnite (Duos, any device), and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (1v1, Nintendo Switch).
There are three age groups: youth division (ages 8-12), teen division (ages 13-18), adult division (ages 18+). The season starts the week of April 18th with games being played on varying days depending on the game title. Players will participate from their own homes and by purchasing a GGLeagues spring esports pass for $40, can compete in as many different games as they would like. The registration deadline for the spring season is April 13th.
Throughout 2022 GGLeagues will be offering esports leagues, educational events, free gaming events, and more in your community. Leagues will be run online through GGLeagues and will consist of an eight-week season. Games will be at the same time and day each week with a flexible rescheduling policy. At the end of the season, players will participate in a two-week playoff and championship event to crown the champion.
All games will be played within NJ. All players need to register through GGLeagues – Borough of Middlesex and the winner of the league will be crowned the champion of NJ. Winners for each region will receive prizes including a GGLeagues champion shirt and medal!
To play, you must have a console/computer to play on, email address, own the game you are registering to play and can play live. All games are monitored by GGLeagues and players are held to a code of conduct to maintain a fun and safe gaming atmosphere.
This is new to us and possibly to you as well. We have lots of great information to share but can’t fit it all here. https://www.ggleagues.com/page/esports-passes
GGLeagues Parents Page: https://www.ggleagues.com/parents
Police
Spring is a time when flowers bloom, grass grows – and burglars, thieves and scammers are more active. Check out our advice and info from the Department…
News and Events
Spring is a time when flowers bloom, grass grows and burglars, thieves and scammers are more active. Remember:
Lock your vehicle!
Unlocked vehicles are popular targets for opportunistic thieves. The modern convenience of key fobs also makes vehicles more susceptible to theft when the fobs are left in vehicles. PLEASE lock your vehicles at all times when they are unattended and keep valuables stored out of view of prying eyes.
Think twice before engaging with a solicitor
Burglars often pose as solicitors, enabling them to approach homes to determine if anyone is present, without arousing suspicion. For this reason, the Borough of Middlesex requires that all solicitors obtain a license before engaging in such activity. If you suspect that someone is soliciting without a license, please report them to the police.
Garage Sales have rules, too
Springtime is also a popular time for yard sales and garage sales. Residents are reminded that New Jersey law prohibits signs from being “painted, drawn, erected or maintained upon trees, rocks, other natural features or public utility poles”. You may stake signs advertising your sale on your property, or on private property with the permission of the property owner. We also ask prospective buyers to make sure to obey all traffic and parking laws while attending a garage, yard or estate sale.
Internet Exchange Zone
The Middlesex Police Department has established an Internet Exchange Zone in the parking lot at police headquarters. The zone is monitored by a dedicated video surveillance camera. The goal is to create a place that promotes safer transactions between individuals making sales, purchases or exchanges with total strangers.
Body Worn Camera Deployment
Beginning in March, 2022, and pursuant to P.L. 2020, c. 129, section 1d-e, the Middlesex Police Department will begin utilizing Body Worn Cameras. The department has long maintained a tradition of safeguarding the rights and dignity of our community, beginning with the use of mobile video recording equipment in our police cars in 1995. The use of the technological advancement of body worn camera will further enhance our professional accountability, public transparency, and community trust.
Leash and Curb Your Dog
Local Ordinance 129-5, 129-10
Spring brings the increased use of our parks and ballfields. Those that choose to use these recreational areas to walk their dogs are reminded that it is their responsibility and it is the law to clean up after their pet and to keep their dog on a leash. Remember – our children depend on these parks, schoolyards and ballfields for recreation. Dog feces, when not disposed of properly, is a health hazard and an environmental hazard.
Buckle Up
Under state law, drivers and passengers must all wear seat belts, and failure to do so for those in the front seat is a primary offense, meaning police can pull a car over if someone up front isn’t wearing one. The fine for not wearing a seat belt in is $46.
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 trafficsafety@middlesexpd.com
Stop For Pedestrians in Marked Crosswalks
Vehicles must stop for a pedestrian within a marked crosswalk but must only yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Nineteen states put the burden on vehicles to stop and yield if a pedestrian is located anywhere in the roadway. Failure to stop carries a $200 (court costs additional) fine, a 2-point license penalty, 15 days community service, and insurance surcharges.
Warm weather also brings with it increased pedestrian traffic. Keep these tips in mind:
Pedestrians:
Always cross at corners, within marked crosswalks where available.
If crossing in other locations, yield the right of way to vehicles. Failure to obey the law carries a $54 fine (court costs additional).
Look left, right and left again before crossing. Watch for turning cars.
Always walk facing traffic.
Obey traffic signals, especially “Walk/Don’t Walk.”
Remain alert! Don’t assume that cars are going to stop.
Wear reflective clothing when walking at night.
Stay sober. Walking while impaired greatly increases your chances of being struck.
Wear Your Helmet
Applicable to cyclists under 14 years of age, but in 2006, the law was updated to apply to all cyclists under 17. This law comes into focus quite often in New Jersey and violation of the law comes with a price tag: $25 for a first offense. A second offense can possibly result in a fine as high as $100.
Share the Road: It’s Everyone’s Responsibility
Milder temperatures also mean that there will be more people taking to the roads on bicycles and motorcycles. Drivers should be mindful that bicyclists and motorcyclists have the same rights as you. They also face unique safety challenges, such as being smaller and less visible. Look for cyclists before making a left-hand turn at an intersection. Also, be aware that motorcyclists may have to downshift and weave to avoid bumps and road hazards so follow at a safe distance.
Torch Run
The Middlesex Police Department will participate in the 38th annual New Jersey Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics on Friday, June 10th.
Nixle Community Notifications and Alerts
Nixle is a free communication system that connects residents to the agencies that protect, serve and communicate with them. 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 (Standard text message rates apply), and over the World Wide Web. Notifications may include crime related alerts, traffic advisories and other relevant safety and community event information.
Register now to receive text messages: Text “MIDDLESEXPD” to 888777 to begin receiving SMS/text only. You can also sign up through the registration form on this page.
To learn more about Nixle and to sign up, please visit our web site at www.middlesexpd.com
Requesting Records
The Police Department’s Records Bureau window is located inside the lobby of the Middlesex Borough Police Department at 1101 Mountain Avenue. The window is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Starting the week of Monday, May 30, 2022, the window hours will change to Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, and Fridays, from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm.
Citizens can obtain motor vehicle crash reports and police incident reports by completing a request form, by providing their information and a proper form of identification.
Please allow up to 5 business days for report availability.
Contact the Records Bureau at (732) 356-1900 ext. 230/231 for information or to check the status of your report request.
National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day
The next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day will be April 30, 2022. National Take Back Day is a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs.
Middlesex Police Headquarters
1101 Mountain Avenue.
Turn in your unused or expired medication for safe disposal.
Saturday, April 30, 2022
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Middlesex Police Department
1101 Mountain Ave.
Visit www.dea.gov
or call 800-882-9539 for additional information.
Report Streetlight Outages
To report a problem with a Streetlight, please call 1-800-436-PSEG (7734)
Or,
Login to My Account (www.pseg.com/myaccount)
Click on Streetlight Outages
Then click on Report Streetlight Outage.
The following information will assist us in expediting repairs:
Is the light off at night or on during the day?
Is the fixture or pole damaged or missing?
Street and nearest cross street
Nearest house number
Pole number
Your name and phone number
Firearms Applications
Firearms Applications can now be completed online at https://njportal.com/NJSP/FARS
All forms, payments, Identification Cards, and Purchasers Permits are ELECTRONIC. Paper cards and permits are no longer generated or provided to applicants.
See https://middlesexpd.com/firearm-applications/ with questions.
Cultural and Heritage Committee
Borough Photo Exhibition on March 28; Volunteer and Committee opportunities; Art workshop; Open Mic dates; and more…
2021 Art Workshop
A big thank you to all our participants in our Winter Zoom Art Workshop! We all had a wonderful time coming together on Zoom and learning different painting techniques and artistic elements to create holiday gifts!
Middlesex Tidbits
How many names has Middlesex had?
Who is Victor Crowell, and why did we name a park after him?
How did some of our streets get their names?
Orchids, trolleys, Knickerbocker Toys, Lincoln statue…Middlesex is famous for those things AND MORE!
Learn about the storied and entertaining history of our gem of a town every other month, with Middlesex Tidbits, a feature on the Middlesex Borough website, starting in April! Every other month, the Cultural and Heritage Committee will spotlight a different fun fact about Middlesex and explore the history behind it.
Suggestions? Email us at culturalheritage@middlesexlibrarynj.org
Open Mic Nights
Practice strumming those guitars, belting out an aria, or reciting a sonnet - we have three outdoor Open Mic Nights scheduled for 2022 so far!
These Open Mic nights will take place, weather permitting, on the front lawn of the Middlesex Public Library, and are first come first serve for performers. For viewers, bring a lawn chair to sit in the audience and enjoy live entertainment from the Borough’s best! Refreshments served.
Open Mic Dates:
April 14
May 12
June 9
Performances begin at 7pm; performers are asked to arrive starting at 6:45pm to sign up for a time slot.
Photo Exhibition
Our juried photo exhibition will open March 28 at the Middlesex Public Library! Come view beautiful photography from Middlesex residents!
Volunteer and Committee Opportunities Available
The Committee is always on the lookout for volunteers to help at events to promote and encourage bringing the history and heritage of Middlesex to its residents.
Want to be more involved? Inquire about joining the Committee! For more information, email us at culturalheritage@middlesexlibrarynj.org
Office of Emergency Management OEM
Your pets need to be included in your family’s emergency plan. To prepare for the unexpected, follow these tips with your pets in mind…
Shade Tree Commission
The Commission is looking to plant FREE shade trees on the borough right of way, and would like any residents that are interested…
Free Shade Tree Planting for Eligible Locations
Middlesex Borough Shade Tree Commission is responsible to maintain and protect all shade trees on Borough streets or roadway.
The Commission is looking to plant FREE shade trees on the borough right of way, and would like any residents that are interested in receiving a FREE shade tree planted to contact the Shade Tree Secretary at 732-356-7400, Ext. 238.
Get to Know the Middlesex Borough Shade Tree Commission
1. What are the Shade Tree Commission’s priorities when looking at trees for the Borough?
Our first priority in regards to looking at our town's trees is the safety of our residents. Then we consider any property or utilities around the area and under the tree. We realize that our tax payers are ultimately footing the bill so we are quite pragmatic with the tree's assessment.
Sometimes upon arrival at the site it is extremely obvious that it is a Borough tree. If there is any question of who owns the tree, we will ask a town official for a measurement to find out who it belongs to. Then we proceed with the inspection.
Oftentimes, residents feel it is their responsibility to decide the fate of the tree in front of their property. If it is a Borough tree, it is the Borough’s responsibility. Residents have been fined for taking action into their own hands. See Shade Tree Ordinance Chapter 395. Trees
When we look at a tree we’re looking for anything that may be broken, dead or otherwise hazardous. We then assess whether it’s a good tree or a bad tree.
2. What can we expect from this tree in the near future?
If it’s a good tree we ask, what, if anything, needs to be done to it to mitigate any potential hazards.
If it’s a bad tree, then we ask how swiftly this should be addressed. If the answer is that it doesn’t need to be addressed immediately then more than likely it’s in a location far enough away from causing harm to residents or property.
As a commission a strong focus is towards tree retention. If we remove one tree we replace it with one which means we have no net loss. If we can replace it with two trees then even better.
Trees have been proven to cool homes and businesses, improve air quality and reduce noise pollution. There is even a study suggesting that communities with fewer trees have higher crime rates.
So when we come out to look at the tree in front of your house, we have many considerations in mind before we make a decision on the tree's future.
Finance Office: Tax Assessor & Collector
Reminder to residents: Professional Property Appraisers, Inc. has started conducting tax re-appraisals of the residences in town.
Beautification Committee
We are changing our procedure for the ‘Homes of the Month’ program for 2022 – instead of the committee selecting residences, we are asking the citizens of Middlesex to nominate homes.
