MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners honored Maria Rosario with a heartfelt tribute during their meeting in Morristown, celebrating her well-earned retirement after an incredible 25 years of dedicated service to the county. Maria’s extensive career in public service saw her take on crucial roles in multiple county departments, including the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Office on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming. Her unwavering commitment to the residents of Morris County, particularly in the Town of Dover, has left a lasting impact on the community.

Beyond her official responsibilities, Maria was a passionate advocate for local businesses and was pivotal in securing critical financial support for Dover entrepreneurs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she worked tirelessly to connect small business owners with Morris County’s emergency grant programs, ensuring they had access to much-needed relief during unprecedented challenges. Due to her efforts, nearly 10% of all small business grants distributed by the county were awarded to businesses in Dover, helping them sustain operations and recover from financial hardship.

Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen expressed the Board’s deep appreciation for Maria’s outstanding contributions, recognizing her for her years of dedication and the tangible difference she made in the community. “Maria’s dedication and commitment to Morris County have made a lasting impact. Her hard work and advocacy, particularly for the Dover business community, will not be forgotten. We thank her for her years of service and wish her the best in retirement,” he said before presenting her with a beautifully framed resolution of honor.

Maria, accompanied by her son Tony—who serves as a lieutenant in the Dover Fire Department and as an EMT—was visibly moved by the recognition. She expressed her deep gratitude to the Commissioners and reflected on her meaningful experiences throughout her career. She also shared her excitement for the future, emphasizing that although she is retiring from her official role, she has no plans to stop serving the community she loves. Maria looks forward to continuing to support local initiatives and remain actively involved in making a difference in Morris County.

CONDADO DE MORRIS – La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Morris honró a María Rosario con un emotivo homenaje durante su reunión en Morristown, celebrando su merecida jubilación tras 25 años de excepcional servicio al condado. A lo largo de su extensa carrera en el servicio público, María desempeñó roles clave en varios departamentos del condado, incluyendo la Oficina del Sheriff del Condado de Morris y la Oficina de Envejecimiento, Discapacidades y Programación Comunitaria. Su compromiso inquebrantable con los residentes del Condado de Morris, especialmente en la ciudad de Dover, ha dejado una huella duradera en la comunidad.

Más allá de sus responsabilidades oficiales, María fue una ferviente defensora de los negocios locales y desempeñó un papel fundamental en la obtención de apoyo financiero crucial para los empresarios de Dover. Durante la pandemia de COVID-19, trabajó incansablemente para conectar a los dueños de pequeños negocios con los programas de subvenciones de emergencia del Condado de Morris, asegurando que tuvieran acceso a la ayuda tan necesaria en tiempos de desafíos sin precedentes. Gracias a sus esfuerzos, casi el 10% de todas las subvenciones para pequeñas empresas distribuidas por el condado fueron otorgadas a negocios en Dover, ayudándolos a mantener sus operaciones y recuperarse de las dificultades económicas.

El Director de la Junta de Comisionados, Tayfun Selen, expresó el profundo agradecimiento de la Junta por las extraordinarias contribuciones de María, reconociendo sus años de dedicación y la diferencia tangible que ha hecho en la comunidad. “La dedicación y el compromiso de María con el Condado de Morris han dejado un impacto duradero. Su arduo trabajo y defensa, particularmente en apoyo a la comunidad empresarial de Dover, no serán olvidados. Le agradecemos por sus años de servicio y le deseamos lo mejor en su jubilación”, afirmó antes de entregarle una hermosa resolución de honor enmarcada.

María, acompañada por su hijo Tony—quien se desempeña como teniente en el Departamento de Bomberos de Dover y como técnico en emergencias médicas (EMT)—se mostró visiblemente conmovida por el reconocimiento. Expresó su profundo agradecimiento a los comisionados y reflexionó sobre las experiencias significativas que ha vivido a lo largo de su carrera. También compartió su entusiasmo por el futuro, enfatizando que, aunque se retira de su función oficial, no tiene intención de dejar de servir a la comunidad que tanto ama. María espera continuar apoyando iniciativas locales y seguir participando activamente para marcar la diferencia en el Condado de Morris.

DOVER — The 2024 Holiday Window Contest marked the exciting return of a cherished tradition in Dover, with 12 businesses participating to spread holiday cheer. Members of the Recreation Department toured the downtown area, capturing photos of each storefront’s festive decorations. They carefully judged and voted in collaboration with the Administration Department, ultimately naming First Class Studios as this year’s top winner.

First Class Studios, located in Dover, is an award-winning tattoo studio known for its exceptional jewelry selection and highly skilled artists. Setting itself apart from traditional tattoo studios, First Class Studios offers a modern and interactive experience, redefining industry standards in an evolving field.

With a focus on professionalism and innovation, the studio provides a clean and welcoming environment, encouraging visitors to explore artist portfolios and learn about apprenticeship opportunities. Prioritizing safety and client care, First Class Studios also offers comprehensive body art aftercare instructions to ensure the best possible experience for its clients.

The Holiday Window Contest has been a beloved event in past years, and its revival underscores the town’s commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering a vibrant, festive downtown atmosphere. This year’s enthusiasm and creativity set the stage for an even more spectacular event in 2025.

Businesses interested in participating next year can sign up starting November 3rd. Registration will close on November 30th, just in time for the annual Christmas Parade.

A heartfelt thank you to all participants for helping bring the holiday spirit to the community. This tradition is here to stay, and we look forward to seeing even more businesses join in the celebration next year!

Congratulations to Julian Cruz for his participation!

DOVER — In 2015, former Dover Police Sergeant Richard “Rico” Gonzalez received a $175,000 settlement from the Town of Dover to resolve a federal employment lawsuit. As part of the settlement agreement, Gonzalez agreed not to make negative or derogatory statements about Dover, its current, past, or future employees or officials.

Despite prior warnings, Dover filed a motion to enforce the 2015 settlement in federal court, reviving the long-dormant case. Attorney Richard Flaum of the DiFrancesco Bateman law firm, who had previously represented Gonzalez, was included in the proceedings, though he reportedly stated that he no longer represented Gonzalez in 2024.

During a February 4, 2025 conference, the Magistrate Judge noted that given the age of the settlement, the matter likely fell outside of federal jurisdiction. The judge advised that if Dover believed Gonzalez had violated the settlement’s non-disparagement clause, it was free to pursue the matter as a breach of contract claim in state court. Following this guidance, Dover’s attorney, Jonathan Cohen, withdrew the federal motion and proceeded with the state court lawsuit the next day.

In the newly filed case, Dover is seeking an injunction to prevent future negative or derogatory statements by Gonzalez, as well as a return of the $175,000 settlement payment. The claim alleges that Gonzalez has repeatedly made negative comments on Dover Forum and other platforms, in violation of the terms of the 2015 settlement agreement.

Dover Focus reached out to Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney for comment, but he has not responded.

DOVER — En 2015, el exsargento de la Policía de Dover, Richard “Rico” Gonzalez, recibió un acuerdo de $175,000 del Municipio de Dover para resolver una demanda federal por empleo. Como parte del acuerdo, Gonzalez aceptó no hacer declaraciones negativas o despectivas sobre Dover, sus empleados o funcionarios actuales, pasados o futuros.

A pesar de múltiples advertencias previas, Dover presentó una moción en la corte federal para hacer cumplir el acuerdo de 2015, reactivando el caso, que había estado inactivo durante años. El abogado Richard Flaum, del bufete DiFrancesco Bateman, quien previamente representó a Gonzalez, fue incluido en el proceso, aunque, según informes, afirmó que ya no representaba a Gonzalez en 2024.

Durante una conferencia el 4 de febrero de 2025, la jueza magistrada señaló que, debido a la antigüedad del acuerdo, era probable que el caso quedara fuera de la jurisdicción federal. La jueza indicó que, si Dover consideraba que Gonzalez había violado la cláusula de no desprestigio del acuerdo, tenía la libertad de presentar una demanda por incumplimiento de contrato en la corte estatal. Siguiendo esta recomendación, el abogado de Dover, Jonathan Cohen, retiró la moción federal y presentó la demanda en la corte estatal al día siguiente.

En la nueva demanda, Dover busca una orden judicial para evitar futuras declaraciones negativas o despectivas por parte de Gonzalez, así como la devolución del pago del acuerdo de $175,000. La denuncia alega que Gonzalez ha realizado repetidamente comentarios negativos en Dover Forum y otras plataformas, incumpliendo los términos del acuerdo de conciliación de 2015.

Dover Focus se comunicó con el Jefe de Policía de Dover, Jonathan Delaney, para solicitar comentarios, pero hasta el momento no ha respondido.

DOVER — Dover Town Hall was bustling with activity as Assemblywoman Aura Dunn hosted her first Mobile Office Hours, a dedicated day for meeting constituents and addressing state-related concerns. From start to finish, the event remained busy, as residents took the opportunity to discuss issues ranging from unemployment and MVC appointments to tax relief and other state services.

“It was wonderful to meet with so many constituents and hear their thoughts on the issues that matter most to them,” Assemblywoman Dunn said. “Engaging directly with the community is invaluable, and today’s turnout was a testament to the importance of staying connected.”

Mayor James Dodd and his team collaborated to make the event possible. Their efforts helped ensure a smooth and productive experience for all attendees, and their support created a welcoming environment where residents felt heard and valued.

As the day concluded, Assemblywoman Dunn thanked everyone who participated. “A big thank you to Mayor Dodd and his team for making this a huge success.

And to all the residents who came out to share their concerns and ideas—your voices matter, and we are here to help.”

For those who couldn’t attend, there’s good news: Mobile Office Hours will be held on the First Friday of every month, providing ongoing access to state resources and assistance for the people of Dover.

DOVER — The Town of Dover Mayor and Council will meet on Tuesday, February 11 at 7:00 p.m. at 37 North Sussex Street.

Click here to download the agenda.

This meeting is being held in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, also known as the Sunshine Law, N_.J.S.A. 10:4-6.” Notice of the meeting was sent to the Daily Record and Citizen on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and published in the Daily Record on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, and the Citizen on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Notice was also posted on the Bulletin Board of the Municipal Building. These notices were sent within 48 hours before this meeting, and insufficient time for the publications to publish them. A copy of said notice is on file with the Municipal Clerk. It should be noted that an interpreter is present if a resident should need one.

A summary of items on the agenda includes:

1. Ordinances for Consideration:
   • Ordinance 01-2025: Amending the town’s tree removal policy, replacing it with a new Tree Protection and Preservation ordinance. It includes stricter regulations on tree removal, replacement requirements, and penalties for violations.
     
2. Resolutions for Approval:
   • Resolution 76-2025: Approval of a bills list totaling $2,193,720.60.
   • Resolution 77-2025: Approval of taxi/limo licenses in the Town of Dover.
   • Resolution 78-2025: Approval of taxicab driver licenses.
   • Resolution 79-2025: Renewal of social and athletic club licenses (e.g., Casa Puerto Rico).
   • Resolution 80-2025: Awarding a $20,000 contract to Triad Associates, LLC for the Crescent Field Snack Stand and Restroom Facilities project under the NJDCA Small Cities Public Facilities Program.
   • Resolution 81-2025: Authorization to purchase a 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee from Dover Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram for $38,474.40.
     
3. Public Comments & Executive Session:
   • Public input is limited to three minutes per person.
   • Closed session for private discussions, with potential actions following.

Key Focus Areas:

• Environmental Policy Update: Strengthening tree protection regulations.
• Infrastructure Investment: Approving a snack stand/restroom project at Crescent Field.
• Public Safety & Services: Issuing transportation licenses and acquiring a municipal vehicle.

Mayor James Dodd
(December 31, 2027)

Claudia P. Toro
Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Sandra Wittner
Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2026)

Sergio Rodriguez
Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Geovani Estacio
Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2026)

Michael Scarneo
Council Member – Third Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Veronica Velez
Council Member – Third Ward
(December 31, 2026)

Marcos Tapia, Sr.
Council Member – Fourth Ward
(December 31, 2026)

Arturo “A.B.” Santana
Council Member – Fourth Ward
(December 31, 2025)

DOVER — The 2025 Screening Committee is proud to announce that, on February 14, 2025, we will begin accepting applications for consideration for endorsement by the Dover Democratic Committee.

Please send an email by February 28, 2025, with your responses to the following questions and resume to [email protected]

1. Are you a registered Democrat?
2. Are you a registered voter in the Town of Dover?
3. What motivates you to run for Town Council, and what impact do you hope to make?
4. What experience or skills do you bring that would benefit our community?
5. Please share your leadership/volunteer experience in the Town of Dover.
6. Please share any community involvement experience in the Town of Dover.
7. What qualities set you apart from other candidates?

Once we receive your email, a member of the Screening Committee will contact you regarding the next steps.

Thank you for being so interested in serving our community.

DOVER — El Comité de Evaluación 2025 se enorgullece en anunciar que, a partir del 14 de febrero de 2025, comenzaremos a aceptar solicitudes para ser considerados para el respaldo del Comité Democrático de Dover.

Por favor, envíe un correo electrónico antes del 28 de febrero de 2025 con sus respuestas a las siguientes preguntas y su currículum a [email protected]

• ¿Es usted un demócrata registrado?
• ¿Está registrado como votante en la Ciudad de Dover?
• ¿Qué lo motiva a postularse para el Concejo Municipal y qué impacto espera lograr?
• ¿Qué experiencia o habilidades aporta que beneficiarían a nuestra comunidad?
• Comparta su experiencia en liderazgo/voluntariado en la Ciudad de Dover.
• Comparta cualquier experiencia de participación comunitaria en la Ciudad de Dover.
• ¿Qué cualidades lo distinguen de otros candidatos?

Una vez que recibamos su correo electrónico, un miembro del Comité de Evaluación se pondrá en contacto con usted para indicarle los próximos pasos.

Gracias por su interés en servir a nuestra comunidad.