Message from Mayor John L. Madden: Our Municipal Budget
The road of financial recovery; Coffee with Council resumes; Save the date for 9-11 ceremony…
Since taking office in November, 2019, I was faced with an unprecedented financial challenge which I inherited by my predecessor. Working with our Business Administrator, Acting CFO, auditor and accountant, we formulated a rather austere fiscal policy and subsequent budget that would be acceptable to all parties involved including our credit reporting agency, Standard and Poors Global. This was the big hurdle to convince them of our financially conservative plan of which they approved.
However, within the next few months we were facing another difficult unanticipated challenge - the devastating worldwide Pandemic. The net effect of this included a significant drop in all revenue streams for the Borough while all departments were shut down and working remotely. All our residents were left with this unavoidable scourge.
Turning It All Around
Our first step on the road of financial recovery was to quickly and severely cut discretionary expenses while only a small fraction of vital revenue was trickling in. Some timely Covid-19 relief also contributed to the slow rebound.
Important Highlights
Getting into the weeds of the approved budget there are some important highlights of which I would like to share:
Total budget increase amounted to approximately $75,000 over the previous year.
The amount of revenue that the Borough needs to raise via property taxes (the levy amount) is identical to last year.
Even with the pandemic, our Tax Collector continued bringing in tax revenue at an excellent collection rate of 98%.
Court revenue fell by 50 % due to the pandemic. The decrease was due to in a drop of traffic tickets and other violations. The State allowed a one-time averaging of the previous 3 years for that line item to “normalize” it.
A spike in construction projects brought in almost double the revenue that was anticipated. In addition, some larger construction projects are expected to generate higher revenue figures throughout 2021 into 2022.
The Budget includes replacing retiring staff in both the Police and Public Works Departments to maintain stable work force levels.
We were able to include some funding for Recreation, Seniors, Community Policing opportunities including the Fishing Derby, National Night Out, trips for Senior Citizens and some free or low-cost Recreational programs.
The Budget also includes an increase in funding for the Shade Tree Commission for tree maintenance.
Our surplus went from $325,000 in 2019 to approximately $925,000 in 2021.
Our town is on a fiscal rebound with a nearly completed redevelopment project. This project, a warehouse being built by Rockafeller Group, will soon bring in the equivalent of Net Present Value of approximately $450,000 per year for 30 years. Our second warehouse redevelopment project being built by Claremont, will be breaking ground this fall which, when completed will bring in an additional revenue stream of about Net Present Value of $400,000 for 30 years.
No Increase
The bottom line is that there will be NO increase in municipal property taxes to our residents in 2021. This is what I hope is the beginning of a trend that will last many years.
I hope this synopsis gives you a glimpse of what it takes and also the hard work involved to provide this successful budget. This process represents a true road to financial recovery although the hard work is not yet done. Please know that without the very difficult teamwork of our dedicated staff and professionals, this budget would not have been accomplished. Thank you all for making this budget possible.
Mayor John Madden
It’s Back! Coffee with Council
Join us at the Rec Center from 10:30am - Noon. Coffee with Council will be held the last Friday of each month beginning June 25.
Save the Date: September 11, Twentieth Year Remembrance Candlelight Memorial Service
Middlesex Borough will hold its annual September 11th Remembrance Ceremony on Saturday, September 11th at 7:00 pm in Victor Crowell Park at the Memorial. The public is invited to attend this ceremony to remember all those who lost their lives and all those who served on September 11, 2001.
Names of all Borough families and friends who know of any one in active Military service may submit their name, rank, branch of military and to where they are stationed (optional) to smpenrose@aol.com no later than September 1. These names will be announced during the ceremony. Candles will be provided by the Borough. If the event of rain, the ceremony will be moved to either the High School or rescheduled for Sunday, September 12th, 7:pm, at Victor Crowell Park
PLEASE NOTE: the ceremony will have to comply to whatever the current phase of dealing with the Coronavirus and the restrictions that are, or may be, imposed by the Governor at the time of this event. That information will NOT come from the Committee but through the town and local News.
Time to Get Outside at the Community Pool!
It’s time to get the kids out from behind their computer screens, out of the house, and into the sunshine at the pool…
Community Pool: Summer 2021
May’s Open House – Thank You!
We would like to thank all who attended our Open House! It was a pleasure meeting everyone and showcasing everything our Pool has to offer. We look forward to seeing everyone for our Summer 2021 Pool Season!
Our Summer 2021 Season is underway!
Opening weekend may have been a chilly one, but things are starting to “heat up” at the Middlesex Community Pool! Our programs are preparing to start and some have already begun! We are looking forward to an exciting Summer pool season and getting back to a sense of normalcy. As things are starting to open, it’s like a new beginning. We’re excited to share it with you!
Time to get outside at the pool!
It’s time to get the kids out from behind their computer screens, out of the house, and into the sunshine at the pool. We have a lot to keep the kids occupied for hours, from our kids’ wading pool and swim lessons, to the diving board and waterslide.
There are also lots of activities for the adults like Aqua Zumba, Early Morning Lap swimming, and Adult swim lessons.
Membership Registration
Registration is still open and memberships are still available. Membership sales have been brisk this year and we are quickly approaching our limit, so don’t get shut out! Don’t miss out on the fun! Visit our website for an application or to register online today! https://www.middlesexboro-nj.gov/pool
Pool Hours
The Pool is open weekends only starting Memorial Day weekend. We are then open seven (7) days a week starting June 21st through Labor Day weekend, including Monday.
Hours of Operation: The pool is open from 12:00 Noon to 8:00pm.
Guests
We are allowing guests for our 2021 Season. Guest fees are $10, 7 days a week including holidays.
Find us on Facebook!
Follow the Pool on Facebook here.
Middlesex Rec: Offering Many Local Classes, Sports, and Activities
Get ready for a fun and healthy summer with a return of many local classes, sports, and activities!
Make Note of Our New Social Media Accounts
Instagram - @middlesexrecreation
Twitter - @middlesexrec
Sun, Sand, & a Craft in My Hand
Don’t miss our next fun drive-through event! Tuesday, June 22 from 11am - 2pm at the Rec Center on 1400 Mountain Ave. Sponsored by Home Depot. For more information, see the flyer here (pdf).
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: Middlesex Recreation Center - 1400 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846
When: Monday Evenings - June 21, 28; July 12, 19, 26 from 7:00 - 8:15 PM
Who: Ages 15 and Above (if under 18, must sign with parental consent)
Registration Deadline: June 18, 2021
INSTRUCTOR: Joy Provenzano Kozlowski, Certified RYT 200, Raja Yoga Teacher
For more information and to Register, visit the Google Form link here.
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
Dates and Time: JULY 13, 20, 27 @ 5:30 – 6:30PM
For more information and to Register, visit the Google Form link here.
Middlesex Mission Impossible
FREE FOR ALL AGES! PLEASE HAVE 1 MEMBER REGISTER PER TEAM TO INCLUDE ALL PARTICIPANTS BELOW.
Dates: Noon July 2, 2021 - Noon July 5, 2021
Registration Deadline: Noon July 1, 2021
Age: ALL (families and friend groups encouraged to register)
Price: FREE
Compete as a family or friend group. Every family or group will create one team name. Every team will consist of 2 - 6 people per team. Every team registered will receive a list of missions to complete. This list will be distributed at the same date and time, July 2 @ Noon, for all teams, so no team has an early advantage. All missions will have instructions and a designated point total. The objective is to record the highest total of points by completing the missions. The team with the final highest total of points will win a Unity Bank gift basket including a $50 Visa gift card.
For more information and to Register, visit the Google Form Link: visit the Google Form link here.
Discount Consignment Tickets
Middlesex Recreation is offering discounted tickets for the 2021 season at Adventure Aquarium, Morey’s Piers, 6 Flags Great Adventure! Cash or personal checks are accepted, made out to “Middlesex Recreation Department.” Tickets cannot be exchanged, and all sales are final. For additional questions or inquiries, please call or email Middlesex Recreation Department at (732) 356-7400 x277 or fill out this online form.
ADVENTURE AQUARIUM Camden, NJ
Price Gate Price Rec Department Discounted Tickets
Adult (Over 12 yrs) $34.99 $30
Child (ages 2-11) $21.99 $20
MOREY'S PIERS Wi1dwood N
Price Gate Price Rec Department Discounted Tickets
Waterpark ONLY $57.32 $48
Amusement ONLY $57.32 $48
SIX FLAGS-Great Adventure Jackson, NJ
Price Gate Price Rec Department Discounted Tickets
Theme Park ONLY-Adult $44.99 $40
Youth Arts and Crafts
The Recreation Department is offering a Youth Arts & Crafts program on Wednesdays: JULY 28 + AUGUST 4 & 11 from 10:30-11:30AM @ the Middlesex Recreation Center (1400 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846). Ages to register are 3-6. Drop-off participants must be potty trained. At every session, the young artist will complete a creative craft by the end of the hour. Cost of the program is $15.00. Cash or checks must be made out to Middlesex Recreation Department and mailed to 1400 Mountain Ave, Middlesex, NJ 08846. Registration payment can also be dropped off at the Recreation Center. Youth Arts and Crafts is limited to the first TWELVE (12) registrants, so register NOW!
For more information and to Register, visit the Google Form Link here.
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)
For more information, visit the Google Form link here.
Movie Night in the Park
Thursday evening, July 15th
Grab your beach chair & blanket and head to the park for a night at the movies in the great outdoors! The large screen will take some of us back to the good ol’ days of drive-in movies—without the car! Admissions: Adults (13+): $2 Children: $1
All tickets purchased will be eligible for the chance to win a prize! The winning ticket will be announced after the show!
What's playing you ask? Sorry we' re not allowed to advertise the movie that will be featured due to copyright issues, but we can tell you that it'll be a fun family movie of a "G" or "PG" rating.
The movie will begin at 8:00 PM. Come early get a good spot and some refreshments! Popcorn & refreshments will be sold. In case of inclement weather call the hotline as of 5PM for updates: (732) 356-7400 X600.
In the Works for this Summer:
Middlesex Recreation Summer Science Program
The Middlesex Recreation Department is pleased to present a Summer Science Program for children in grades 4 through 6. This program is available for participants who reside in Middlesex. This 2 week long experience will combine fun, and science in a nurturing learning environment. This program is designed to help develop the participants knowledge of science. Throughout this program children will develop a better understanding of the sciences including Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Physics, Forensics, etc. that will aide their Middle and High School years. Participants will be given the opportunity to interact in a wide arrange of group and individualized activities such as growing their own bacteria and creating their own languages. They will record their experiments in their notebooks allowing them to reflect and recreate what they have learned.
Each child MUST be registered through the recreation department before attending the program. Each child must provide their own notebook and pencil. There will be a $35 fee for this program, all registration forms must be turned into the Middlesex Rec. Dept. only—instructors CANNOT take registration forms. Only children on the roster will be allowed to participate. Limited spots available. Registration will be held on a first come basis.
Fall Soccer Registration
Children entering grades K through 8 in September of 2021 are eligible to participate. All games will be played on Saturdays, September through November. Practice is typically once a week and at the complete discretion of the volunteer coach. The Recreation Department also needs volunteer coaches for the teams! If interested, please call the office at (732) 356-7400 x277. Registration Deadline: August 23, 2021
For more information and to Register, visit the Rec Department web page and scroll to “Autumn 2021: Soccer Registration.”
Library: Summer Books and Programs
Beach and pool reading season is among us! Make sure to always check out (pun intended) the Middlesex Public Library for the perfect bestsellers and stories to keep you company in your hammock, lawn chair, or chaise lounge.
Our Hours are Extending!
As Covid restrictions are being lifted more and more, we are extending our hours as well! Please be sure to check our website here for the most up to date browsing and Walkup/Pickup hours!
Collection
Beach and pool reading season is among us! Make sure to always check out (pun intended) the Middlesex Public Library for the perfect bestsellers and stories to keep you company in your hammock, lawn chair, or chaise lounge.
We have a rotating display of FREE paperbacks also! PERFECT to drop in a beach bag and not worry about sand and suntan lotion. Make sure to check out our free books – no checkout needed – by the Director’s Office!
Adult Summer Reading
Adult Summer Reading is back at Middlesex Public Library. From Monday, July 12 through Friday, August 20, for every book you read or audiobook you listen to, you can write a short review and your review will be entered in a raffle to win a gift card. Drawings for gift cards will take place July 23, August 6, and August 20. All reviews will also be entered in a Grand Prize drawing for a Kindle Paperwhite on August 20. Winners need not be present at the drawing; Middlesex Library will call or email you.
Registration is required. Register at the Reference desk or email mtoole@middlesexlibrarynj.org to register. Review sheets can be picked up and turned in at the Reference desk, or reviews can be emailed to the above email.
Adult Summer Programs at Middlesex Public Library
Middlesex Public Library has some fun programs for adults planned for this summer:
July 21 - Family Movie Trivia Night - You will need a Zoom connection with video capabilities to participate! Prizes awarded to families who get the most answers correct!
August 18 - Paint and Sip - Garden Scene Canvas via Zoom - Middlesex Public Library will provide the canvas and brush!
Please email tbond@middlesexlibrarynj.org to register or call the reference desk at 732-356-6602 extension 3.
We also have some first come, first served Grab and Go craft kits coming up! In June, we will have a DIY Kitchen Herb Garden kit; in July we will have a Movie Night Bag - everything you need to get out of the heat and enjoy a fun movie night; and in August, we will be doing a Blind Date with a Beach Book giveaway - great summer reads will be wrapped in plain paper with genre and plot points listed for readers to select and take home to keep!
2021 Summer Reading for Kids (Birth through grade 6)!
Monday, July 12 through Friday, August 20
Gameboard: Complete a rainbow color-coded weekly board of challenges! Once you have completed a color, stop in the library to pick up your Brag Tag! Collect all 6 colors by the end of the summer to show off and brag about your tags!
Programs: Join us for weekly virtual programs for all ages! We will also have both Virtual Special Event programs and In-Person Special Event programs like Dino Day where we will have dinosaur themed crafts and a roaring contest!
For more information and program registration, visit www.middlesexlibrarynj.org/kids
2021 Summer Reading for Teens (entering grades 7-12)!
Monday, July 12 through Friday, August 20
This year teens can submit book reviews online as raffle tickets for the grand prize! Each book review submitted will count as one entry into our Summer Reading Grand Prize for Teens! The form can be found on the Teen section of the Middlesex Public Library website! These book reviews may be published on our website or social media so that other teens in the community can benefit!
For more information, visit www.middlesexlibrarynj.org/teens
Police: Summer Safety and Local Notes
Summer safety; Working to build trust and improve officer safety and efficiency…
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
Buckle Up
Buckle Up! Every trip. Every time.
Leash and Curb Your Dog
The warming weather will bring increases 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 (scoop the poop) and to keep your dog on a leash. Remember – our children depend on these parks and fields for recreation.
Wear your Helmet
Originally applicable to cyclists under 14 years of age, in 2006 the law was updated to apply to all cyclists under 17 years of age. 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 result in a fine as high as $100.
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-emergent traffic concerns to:
Middlesex Police Department – (732) 356-1900 ext. 235, or trafficsafety@middlesexpd.com
New Stops!
Dayton Avenue at Woodrow Street
New 4-Way Stop Intersection
National Night Out
Tuesday August 17, 2021
Mountainview Park
6pm-8:30pm
The Middlesex Police Department will be holding its 11th Annual National Night Out Celebration on Tuesday, August 17, 2021 from 6:00pm-8:30pm at Mountain View Park. At National Night Out our officers seek to build new relationships with the members of the community we serve as well as strengthen relationships that have already been established. We hope that through our partnerships with members of our community we foster a true sense of community, build camaraderie and enjoy a fun and safe event! All are welcome to enjoy this free event which includes giveaways, activities, refreshments and introductions to other members of your community! Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or chairs to sit, stay and enjoy time with their family, friends and community members.
Middlesex Police Department is Working to Build Trust, Improve Officer Safety and Efficiency
Today’s police agencies and their officers face increasing calls for more transparency. Middlesex Police Department is in the process of purchasing body-worn cameras to help officers do their jobs efficiently and safely, as well as build trust. The Middlesex Police Department will be rolling out new body worn cameras in the near future.
The Middlesex Police Department is in the process of transitioning to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS)
Implemented to improve the overall quality of crime data collected by law enforcement, NIBRS captures details on each single crime incident—as well as on separate offenses within the same incident—including information on victims, known offenders, relationships between victims and offenders, arrestees, and property involved in crimes.
Unlike data reported through the UCR Program’s traditional Summary Reporting System (SRS)—an aggregate monthly tally of crimes—NIBRS goes much deeper because of its ability to provide circumstances and context for crimes like location, time of day, and whether the incident was cleared.
As recommended by professional law enforcement organizations, the FBI has made nationwide implementation of NIBRS a top priority because NIBRS can provide more useful statistics to promote constructive discussion, measured planning, and informed policing. To increase participation, the UCR Program is partnering with the Bureau of Justice Statistics on the National Crime Statistics Exchange, working with advocacy groups to emphasize the importance of NIBRS data, and transitioned the UCR Program to a NIBRS-only data collection, as of Jan. 1, 2021. In addition, the UCR Program has made resources available to help agencies address the cost of transitioning, as well as the potential perception that an agency has higher crime levels when NIBRS actually establishes a new baseline that more precisely captures reported crime in a community.
Records Bureau
The Police Department’s Records Bureau window is located inside the lobby of the Middlesex Borough Police Department at 1101 Mountain Avenue. For the summer, the window is open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Citizens can obtain motor vehicle crash reports and police incident reports by completing a request form providing their information and by providing a form of identification.
Please allow up to 5 business days for report availability.
Contact the Records Bureau at (732) 356-1900 ext. 230 for information or to check the status of your report request.
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.
Department of Aging and Disabled Services: We Can Help!
Let us assist with your forms; Summer Chair Yoga and Ageless Grace; Join our mailing list…
We Can Help!
We can help you with Property Tax Reimbursements forms, Social Security issues, Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged & Disabled (PAAD)/Senior Gold, and LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program). Please reach out to us at 732-356-0414 to schedule an appointment for assistance with any application and forms.
2021 Eligibility for PAAD - Maximum income: single - $28,769 couple - $35,270
2021 Eligibility for Senior Gold - Maximum income: single - $38,769 couple - $45,270
Ageless Grace and Chair Yoga
Ageless Grace and Chair Yoga are continuing throughout the Summer. We are planning for a soft reopen on July 12th. Bingo will start on July 14th at 11am!!! Space is limited, please call-in advance to reserve your spot.
Join Our List
Send us your email address - We are in the process of gathering email addresses to virtually connect with our seniors. If you or a loved one would like to get on our email distribution list please give us a call or email seniors@middlesexboro-nj.gov
DPW: Summer in the Borough
In order for our department to be able to provide great service to an outstanding town, we ask our residents…
Yard and Garden Trimmings
Summer is a great time in your yard and garden, and we’re here to help you clean up all your trimmings. In order for our department to be able to provide great service to an outstanding town, we ask our residents to place grass clippings in biodegradable bags at the curb the night before in time for Wednesday’s pick up. Please remember not to block any storm drains with your yard debris.
Branch Pickup Policy
Effective immediately we will be enforcing our branch pick up policy to cut and tied 4 foot sections, no logs, no stumps, and not to exceed 5 inches in diameter. Branches must be placed at the curb no sooner than the night before. All loose branch piles will be reported to the code enforcer and not be picked up.
Bulk Pick up
As a reminder Bulk can be scheduled for pick up at the curb by calling 732-968-1603. Each resident is allowed one pick up at the curb and 2 bulk coupons for use at our recycle center. Please be advised we will be enforcing coupons at the Recycle center and the town policy for curbside pick-up. Bulk pick up at the curb is not to exceed 5 cubic yards, approximately the size of two office desks. As a reminder electronics are accepted at the recycle center and paint is available for drop off on the first Saturday of the month.
Recycling News
Please note the Borough of Middlesex Recycle Center has no longer been responsible for the town’s curbside recycling. The Department of Public Works has been doing our best to clean up after this contracted company. For any questions or complaints please call MCIA 1-800-488-6242.
Our Sanitation Department
Please don’t forget twice a week garbage collection began on Memorial Day and ends on Labor day. During this time if your curbside pick-up falls on a holiday it will be collected on the day of your second pick up.
Help keep Middlesex Clean! Do not store garbage at the curb. Garbage should be placed at the curb the night before, and empty cans should be removed by 8pm. We are urging our residents to not place garbage bags at the curb for disposal, they should be placed in regulation garbage cans. Refer to ordinance # 351-4 for procedures and details on solid waste disposal.
Recycling Center
Hours of Operation – Open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
Monday >> Closed
Tuesday >> 6:00am - 1:45pm
Wednesday >> Closed
Friday >> Closed
Thursday >> 11:00am - 6:45pm
Saturday >> 7:00am - 2:45pm
Sunday >> Closed
Rules
Must be Middlesex resident
Must be able to show proof of identification
Please be respectful to employees
Must have Bulk coupon for disposal of bulk items
No trailers allowed on Saturday
No Hazardous waste
No fluorescent bulbs
No construction materials
"How Do I Know if It's Recyclable?" Download Recycle Coach!
Please download 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 Middlesex County UA. Many complaints can be reported on the app as well. Or call the Recycle Hotline, 1-800-488-6242.
Department of Public Works
(732) 968-1603
dpw@middlesexboro-nj.gov
Office of Emergency Management: Be Prepared
Be Prepared: Hurricane Season is upon us…
Be Prepared: Hurricane Season is upon us
Disasters are unexpected by nature, which is why it is important to have an emergency plan long before a disaster strikes. By creating a strategy and organizing resources ahead of time, you can reduce the confusion and chaos during an actual emergency. Make sure you’re prepared for a disaster. Being prepared means being equipped with the proper supplies you may need in the event of an emergency or disaster. Keep your supplies in an easy-to-carry emergency preparedness kit that you can use at home or take with you in case you must evacuate. For more information on preparedness go to www.ready.gov has been prepared by FEMA.
Middlesex Borough has a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT Team) which is under the auspices of the Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management (OEM).whose mission is to help the community prepare for, cope with and recover from the effects of natural and manmade disasters. OEM does this through all four phases pf emergency management, preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation.
CERT team members are trained as a Team and as Individuals to assist the Citizens of the Borough of Middlesex in the event of disaster.
The CERT program educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, disaster medical operations and terrorism, together with additional training in first aid, CPR and AED.
CERT offers a consistent, nationwide approach to Volunteer training and organization that professional responders can rely on during disaster situations, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. CERT became a National Program in 1985. There are now CERT programs in all 50 states, including many tribal nations and U.S. Territories. Each is unique to its community and all are essential to building a Culture of Preparedness in the United States. Nationwide there are over 600,000 trained CERT represented in 2700 CERT programs.
Some information enclosed in this document in courtesy of FEMA. For more information contact them at fema.gov.
FOLLOW THE OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ON FACEBOOK: Middlesex Borough OEM.
Email: Certmiddlesex@yahoo.com
Hurricane, Ready or Not
As the 2021 Hurricane Season is upon us, the Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management advises all Borough residents to plan and prepare for potential tropical storms.
The hurricane season usually runs from June 1 through November 30. The peak time for hurricane and tropical storm activity in New Jersey runs from mid-August through the end of October. The combination of warm ocean water, humid air and consistent winds contributes to the formation of *tropical cyclones* - low-pressure systems of circulating winds, clouds and thunderstorms - over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico.
As they gain strength, these cyclones are classified as tropical depressions, tropical storms or hurricanes. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale rates hurricane strengths, from Category 1 to Category 5. Most of these storms remain over the ocean without affecting the U.S. coastline. When they approach land, tropical storms and hurricanes can be extremely deadly and destructive - even as far north as New Jersey, and even when they do not make landfall.
*In recent months, New Jersey has seen its fair share of weather emergencies ranging from nor*easters to flooding. As we enter hurricane season, we ask all of our residents to either create or refresh your household or businesses emergency plan*
Middlesex OEM in conjunction with NJOEM suggests the following readiness steps in preparation for Hurricane Season:
Get a Kit of emergency supplies - the items that will help you stay self-sufficient for up to three days (72 hours), if needed.
Make a Plan for what you and your family will do during an emergency - this includes knowing how to evacuate and how to Shelter-in-Place.
Stay Informed of possible threats - especially during Hurricane Season. Tune into your local media outlets for the latest breaking weather news. In the event of an emergency a battery powered radio is a great tool.
Additionally, NJOEM remains in constant communication with all New Jersey county offices of emergency management, the National Weather Service as well as state and federal partners. These relationships allow NJOEM to deliver timely information to the local OEM and public as well as
respond to any incidents in a timely manner.We are committed and dedicated to planning and preparing for all storms during hurricane season and beyond. From a minor shower to a tree bending, torrential wind ridden vortex, Middlesex OEM is ready. For us, it doesn’t start on June 1st and end on November 30th. Instead, it is an
ongoing process that is detailed, studied, operationally trained and enhanced regularly for the benefit of our state residents and visitors.
For more information regarding Hurricane Season and how to properly prepare your household or business, please visit the Hurricanes and Tropical Storms page on the State "Ready.gov" website here, o
or call 211.
To receive emergency text messages and email alerts from the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, log on to http://www.ready.nj.gov.
Additionally, you can follow the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management on social media:
Facebook @ReadyNewJersey
Twitter @ReadyNJ