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Letter to the Editor: Where are the Jefferson Township Meeting Minutes?

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Letter to the editor
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Dear Editor:

The Jefferson Township Mayor, Administration and Council have a problem with the definition of ‘transparency’. They state on their agenda that their meetings are following Robert’s Rules of Order, but they are not. According to Robert’s Rules of Order, meeting minutes are to be approved at the next regular meeting. Yet this Administration and Council seem to pick and choose which meeting minutes will appear on an agenda and when. Why?

Our Mayor and Council President, claim that they are the most transparent Administration ever! Yet my husband and I constantly, for the past few years, keep having to ask during the Public Comment section where previous meeting minutes are and why they aren’t approved for months and sometimes even until the next year. We’ve even had new Council members have to abstain from approving minutes because the meetings took place before they took office.

At the last Council meeting on April 8, 2026, the 10/15/25 and 10/29/25 meeting minutes were finally approved. However, 10/1/25, 12/3/25, 12/17/25, 2/11/26, 2/17/26, 3/25/26 meeting minutes have NOT YET been approved. This is absolutely not the definition of being transparent!

Not approving meeting minutes in a timely, transparent manner, goes against Robert’s Rules of Order and even OUR OWN Town Code § 70-12 Minutes.

Town Code § 70-12 Minutes. “Minutes of every regular or special meeting shall be kept and shall include the names of the persons appearing and addressing the Board and of the persons appearing by attorney, the action taken by the Board, the findings, if any, made by it and reasons therefor. The minutes shall thereafter be made available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Township Clerk. Any interested party shall have the right to compel production of the minutes for use as evidence in any legal proceeding concerning the subject matter of such minutes. Such interested party may be charged a fee for reproduction of the minutes for his use as provided for in the rules of the Board.”

Then there is the issue of Council Executive Session meeting minutes. By State law, once the business that was the reason for the Council to enter into Executive Session is complete, the minutes of those meetings are to be made Public. After two recent OPRA requests requesting Minutes of Executive Meetings for the years of 2023 through 2025, the responses received have resulted in being told that there are no minutes. How can this be when the agendas for the last few years clearly show the Council going into Executive Session and why they did?

To me, we have an example of malfeasance.

Donna Vander Ploeg

VFW Post 3401 Hosts Successful Roast Beef Dinner in Morris Plains

By
Frank Cahill
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Residents gather at VFW Post 3401 in Morris Plains for the annual Roast Beef Dinner, enjoying an evening of food, fellowship, and community support for local veterans.

MORRIS PLAINS — Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3401 welcomed residents and supporters for its annual Roast Beef Dinner on Friday, April 10, bringing together the community for an evening of great food, camaraderie, and support for local veterans.

Mayor Jason Karr joins residents at VFW Post 3401 in Morris Plains for the annual Roast Beef Dinner, celebrating community spirit and honoring local veterans.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious meal while connecting with friends, neighbors, and members of the veteran community. The event highlighted the strong bond between Morris Plains and VFW Post 3401, an organization that continues to play a vital role in supporting those who have served our country.

The evening served as a reminder of the importance of community-driven events that not only raise funds but also foster appreciation and recognition for veterans. Organizers and volunteers were praised for their dedication in making the event both welcoming and meaningful.

Dedicated volunteers in the VFW Post 3401 kitchen prepare and serve meals with a smile, helping make the annual Roast Beef Dinner a welcoming and successful event.

Residents expressed gratitude for the continued efforts of VFW Post 3401 and the many community members who support its mission throughout the year.

Events like the Roast Beef Dinner continue to strengthen the connection between Morris Plains and its veteran community, ensuring that those who served are honored and supported.

Jefferson Township Announces Spring 2026 Town-Wide Garage Sale

By
Frank Cahill
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JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Residents and bargain hunters alike are invited to take part in the Spring 2026 Town-Wide Garage Sale, a community-wide event set to bring neighbors together for a weekend of great deals and local connection.

The event will take place on Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and is organized by the Jefferson Township Recreation Department.

Homeowners throughout the township are encouraged to participate by hosting their own garage sales. Registration is free and must be completed through Community Pass to be included on the official town-wide map, which helps guide shoppers to participating locations.

Key Details:
    •    Dates: Saturday & Sunday, May 16–17
    •    Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    •    Registration Deadline: Friday, May 1
    •    Cost: Free to participate
    •    Requirement: Registration is necessary to be listed on the official garage sale map

The event offers a great opportunity for residents to declutter, connect with neighbors, and attract visitors from surrounding communities looking for unique finds.

For more information, residents can contact the Jefferson Township Recreation Department at (973) 663-8404 ext. 5 or email [email protected].

With dozens of homes expected to participate, the Town-Wide Garage Sale promises to be a lively and rewarding weekend for the entire community.

Driver Charged with DWI After Crash on Rockaway Place

By
Frank Cahill
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Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

PARSIPPANY — A Dover man was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated following a motor vehicle crash on Rockaway Place, according to a report from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department.

On February 25, 2026, at approximately 3:39 p.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Richard Nicoletti responded to the area of 16 Rockaway Place for a report of a motor vehicle crash. Upon arrival, Police Officer Nicoletti determined that a parked vehicle had been struck by a Honda Civic that fled the scene prior to police arrival.

Nicoletti was able to identify the driver as Richard Dellisanti, 71, of Dover, through the vehicle’s registration. Officers later located Dellisanti’s residence and observed damage to his vehicle consistent with the reported crash.

According to the report, Dellisanti admitted to being involved in the crash, stating that glare from the sun affected his visibility, causing him to strike the parked vehicle. He told officers he left the scene without reporting the incident.

While speaking with Dellisanti, officers observed signs of impairment, including slurred speech, an unsteady gait, and difficulty following instructions. Field sobriety tests were conducted, which Dellisanti was unable to complete successfully.

Dellisanti was placed under arrest and transported to Parsippany Police Headquarters for processing. Police said he refused to submit breath samples and declined to answer standard statements.

He was charged with multiple offenses and later transported to St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville for evaluation.

Dellisanti was issued the following summons:

  • Operating Under the Influence
  • Reckless Driving
  • Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Crash
  • Failure to Report a Motor Vehicle Crash
  • Failure to Report Change of Address
  • Refusal to Submit to Breath Samples
  • Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test
  • Obstructed Windshield
  • Disorderly Conduct

A court appearance is scheduled in Parsippany Municipal Court.

Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Community Support ‘Ramps Up’ Safety for Residents with Special Needs

By
Frank Cahill
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Jenny, a resident of the Independent Living program at Rose House’s Hanover Community Residence, is pictured with Rose House CEO Tom Mitchell (left) and Thrift Barns of Morris County President George Janowicz. Image courtesy of Rose House.

MORRIS COUNTY — Rose House, a nonprofit organization that creates affordable, permanent housing for adults with developmental disabilities throughout Morris County, recently received a generous gift from Thrift Barns of Morris County, Denville. For the second consecutive year, the organization donated $5,000 to support Rose House residents with special needs.

The gift will help fund the construction of a new wheelchair ramp at Rose House’s Diane Bloom Group Home in Budd Lake, New Jersey. The ramp is expected to be built later this year by volunteers from Morris Habitat for Humanity, with Rose House covering the cost of supplies.

“We are truly grateful to have members of our community who care so much for their neighbors with special needs,” said Rose House CEO Tom Mitchell. “Once completed, the ramp will help ensure the safety of our residents in the event of an emergency, thanks to the kindness of organizations like Thrift Barns of Morris County.”

Rose House also received generous funding from The Hyde & Watson Foundation and the Mariner Foundation for the wheelchair ramp project.

Thrift Barns of Morris County, which includes Book Barn and Bargain Barn, is a 100 percent volunteer-run organization. All proceeds from donations and sales benefit local charities. For more information click here.

Rose House, a non-profit organization headquartered in Morris Plains creates forever homes that make dreams come true for those with special needs throughout Morris County. It offers customized, self-directed programs to meet every need. The organization’s vision is a future inclusive community, where everyone has a loving home. For more information click here.

Madison Rotary to Host Blood Drive at Madison Area YMCA

By
Frank Cahill
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MADISON — The Madison Rotary, in partnership with the YMCA and the Red Cross, will host a community blood drive on Wednesday, April 16, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Madison Area YMCA.

Organizers are encouraging residents to donate and help meet a goal of collecting 55 units of blood. Each donation can help save up to three lives, making a significant impact on patients in need.

In addition to donors, volunteers are also needed to assist throughout the event. One volunteer is requested per hour, with shifts available at 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m.

Those interested in volunteering can contact Kyle Becker at [email protected]. He will be coordinating the effort and will be present during the event. The Red Cross will also provide staff and additional support.

Community members are encouraged to participate and support this life-saving initiative.

Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair Set

By
Frank Cahill
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The Morris County Aktion Club during a previous Family Fun Day

MORRIS COUNTY — The DAWN Center for Independent Living will host its annual Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair on Sunday, May 17, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Central Park of Morris County, located at One Gov. Chris Christie Drive.

The event, themed “Spring Into Action: Inclusion in Full Bloom,” will feature a wide range of activities for all ages, including a community resource fair, food trucks, live music, games, STEM activities, a reptile show, and prize giveaways. A special guest appearance by Bluey is also planned.

A highlight of the day will be a wheelchair softball game scheduled for 3:00 p.m., following the conclusion of the resource fair.

The event will take place rain or shine. For more information, contact (973) 625-1940 or visit www.dawncil.org

Aktion Club of Morris County Highlights Service and Leadership During April 8 Meeting

By
Frank Cahill
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Purple pinwheels placed at the First Presbyterian Church of Rockaway serve as a symbol of hope and awareness during Child Abuse Prevention Month.

MORRIS COUNTY — On Wednesday, April 8, the Aktion Club of Morris County continued its commitment to service and community engagement with a meaningful day of activities focused on awareness, leadership, and future initiatives.

The day began with members placing purple pinwheels at the First Presbyterian Church of Rockaway in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month. The pinwheels serve as a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the importance of protecting children and supporting families.

Members of the Aktion Club of Morris County gather during their April 8 meeting to discuss upcoming service projects, leadership initiatives, and community fundraising efforts.

Aktion Club members also took time to discuss the significance of the initiative, helping to raise awareness about child abuse prevention and the role communities can play in making a difference.

During the meeting, the club introduced its newly elected board, which will be officially installed on June 3 at the Randolph Diner. Members also reviewed upcoming service projects and fundraising efforts, including a planned plant sale, with additional details expected to be announced in the near future.

Aktion Club, a service leadership program sponsored by Kiwanis, is designed for adults with disabilities, providing members with opportunities to develop leadership skills while making a meaningful impact in their communities.

“Aktion Club represents the very best of what Kiwanis stands for—service, inclusion, and leadership,” said Frank Cahill. “These members are not only giving back to their community, they are inspiring all of us through their dedication, enthusiasm, and heart.”

The Aktion Club of Morris County continues to play an important role in fostering service and connection, demonstrating that everyone has the ability to lead and make a difference.

Members of Morris County Aktion Club placing purple pinwheels at the First Presbyterian Church of Rockaway in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover Hosts Successful Clothing Distribution

By
Frank Cahill
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Volunteers and community members gather in Dover for the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover’s Annual Clothing Giveaway, helping provide free clothing and support to local families in need.

DOVER — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover once again demonstrated its commitment to the community with a highly successful Annual Spring Clothing Giveaway held on Saturday, April 11.

The event provided essential clothing, food, and refreshments to individuals and families in need throughout the Dover area. By the end of the distribution, nearly all donated items had been shared, with only two of the original 12 large boxes of clothing remaining and all food and beverages fully distributed.

Volunteers assist community members during the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover’s Annual Spring Clothing Giveaway, where clothing, food, and essential items were distributed to local families in need.

The initiative was made possible through the generous support of community partners, including Howard’s Mission, The Gellman Foundation, and the Sparta Community Food Pantry, whose continued dedication helped ensure the event’s success.

Volunteers played a vital role, organizing donations and assisting attendees in a welcoming and respectful environment focused on dignity and care.

“This is what Kiwanis is all about—helping our neighbors and making a positive impact in the community,” said Frank L. Cahill. “When people come together with a shared purpose, we can truly make a difference.”

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover remains actively engaged in service projects and outreach efforts aimed at supporting residents and strengthening the local community.

For more information about upcoming events or to get involved, contact Frank L. Cahill at (973) 559-6000.

Hanover Township to Host Human Trafficking Awareness Event

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Hanover Township, in partnership with the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, will host a Human Trafficking Awareness Event on Wednesday, May 6, at 7:00 p.m. at the Hanover Township Municipal Building, located at 1000 Route 10. Doors will open at 6:15 p.m.

The event will feature Gina Cavallo, a speaker, author, and advocate, who will lead an important community discussion focused on education, prevention, and awareness surrounding human trafficking.

Attendees will gain valuable insight into:

  • Warning signs of human trafficking
  • How trafficking occurs locally
  • Ways to protect themselves and others
  • Resources for help and reporting

Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher emphasize the importance of community awareness and encourage residents to attend this informative session aimed at helping individuals recognize and prevent trafficking in their own communities.

The event will also include food generously provided by Chimney Rock Inn. Seating is limited, and advance registration is required.

For more information, contact Krista DiGiorgio at (973) 428-2466 or [email protected].

Note: The event will not be recorded or videotaped.

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