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Jefferson Township – Township Council Meeting – January 21, 2026

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Council will convene for its regular public meeting on Wednesday, January 21, at 7:00 p.m. at the Jefferson Township Municipal Building. Several policy, financial, and administrative matters are scheduled for discussion and action.

Click here to download the agenda.

Council and Mayor Discussion
Council members and the mayor will discuss a proposed right-of-way vacation for a portion of Edgewood Road, as well as proposed dates for upcoming budget workshops. The Council will also consider appointments to the Jefferson Township Library Board, including filling an unexpired term and a new full-term appointment.

Administrative Reports
Mayor Eric Wilsusen and Township Administrator Debi Millikin are expected to provide updates, including discussion regarding a Dial-A-Ride vehicle, a service used by seniors and residents with disabilities.

Appointments and Board Assignments
The Council will act on several internal appointments, including:

  • A Council representative to the Land Use Board
  • A Council appointment to the Community Development Revenue Sharing Advisory Committee
  • Two Council representatives to the Economic Advisory Board

Professional Services and Contracts
Multiple resolutions are scheduled to be voted on, including:

  • Awarding professional contracts for Township Labor Attorney, Township Attorney, and Municipal Planner
  • Approval of a water and sewer utility consulting services contract
  • Authorization of a five-year solid waste and recycling collection contract
  • Lease approval for the Train Cabin used by the Berkshire Dover and West Milford Train Club
  • Final payment and change order approval for Schoolhouse Road improvements

Budget and Financial Matters
Council members will consider:

  • A temporary budget amendment reflecting updated state allowances
  • Transfers of appropriations within the water and sewer operating budgets
  • Payment of bills and routine financial resolutions

Cannabis-Related Actions
The agenda includes discussion and resolutions related to renewal of local cannabis retail licenses, including establishments previously approved by the township.

Ordinance Introduction
An ordinance will be introduced on first reading to establish clear standards for the placement and use of shipping containers within Jefferson Township. A public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for a future meeting.

Public Comment
Residents will have two opportunities to address the Council during public comment portions of the meeting.

• Eric F. Wilsusen (R) – Mayor
• Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026

  1. Robert “Bob” Birmingham (R) – Council President
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028
  2. Josh Kalish (R) – Council Vice President
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026
  3. Melissa Senatore (R) – Councilwoman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026
  4. Barbie Garruto (R) – Councilwoman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028
  5. Dan Schultz (R) – Councilman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028

Breakfast With the Mayor Set for January 22 at Jefferson Diner

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township Mayor Eric F. Wilsusen

JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast With the Mayor on Thursday, January 22, beginning at 7:30 a.m., at the Jefferson Diner, 5 Bowling Green Pkwy, Lake Hopatcong.

The event will feature Eric Wilsusen, who will provide members of the business community with an update on the latest developments, initiatives, and economic activity taking place throughout Jefferson Township.

Admission is $20 per person and includes breakfast. Advance registration is required and can be completed online by clicking here.

This breakfast program offers local business owners, professionals, and community leaders the opportunity to hear directly from the mayor while networking with fellow members of the Jefferson Township business community.

Denville Police Arrest Randolph Man for DWI Following Route 10 Traffic Stop

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

MORRIS COUNTY — On January 15, 2026, at approximately 4:20 a.m., Denville police stopped a vehicle traveling 25 miles per hour in a posted 50-mile-per-hour zone and failing to maintain its lane on Route 10 westbound.

The driver, identified as Luis Cadena, 41, of Randolph, exhibited signs of intoxication during the investigation and was placed under arrest. He was transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing.

Cadena was issued motor vehicle summonses for driving while under the influence, reckless driving, careless driving, refusal to submit to breath testing, failure to maintain lane, and possession of an open container of cannabis in a motor vehicle. He was released on his own recognizance pending a future appearance in Denville 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.

Lakeland Hills Family YMCA and Sunrise Senior Living to Host Winter Jazz Concert

By
Frank Cahill
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Members of a jazz ensemble perform during a live concert, showcasing the rich sounds of brass instruments in a dynamic musical setting.

MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, in partnership with Sunrise Senior Living, will present a Winter Jazz Concert on Thursday, March 26, at 2:00 p.m., as part of the program “Chase the Winter Blues Away.” The concert is free and open to the community and will take place at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes.

The afternoon performance will feature the talented Mountain Lakes High School Jazz Band, showcasing the energy and musical skill of local student musicians. Attendees can look forward to a lively selection of jazz favorites designed to lift spirits and celebrate the season.

The event reflects the YMCA’s ongoing commitment to wellness, community connection, and intergenerational engagement, while Sunrise Senior Living continues its mission of promoting vibrant living and meaningful experiences for older adults and the wider community.

Advance registration is requested and can be completed online at www.lakelandhillsymca.com.

Please note that all guests aged 18 and older who are not YMCA members will be required to present a driver’s license or state-issued identification upon arrival.

For more information about this event or other upcoming programs, visit the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA website.

Jefferson Township Book Club to Host Cookbook Book Club Event at Public Library

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township Public Library is located at located at 1031 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Public Library invites residents to spice up their reading routine with a fun and flavorful Cookbook Book Club meeting on Saturday, January 25, at 3:00 p.m. at the library, located at 1031 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge.

This month’s theme, “Party Dips,” is inspired by the excitement of game day. Participants are encouraged to bring a favorite dip and sides to share, offering everyone a chance to discover new recipes and crowd-pleasing flavors. From classic favorites to creative twists, the event promises a fun and flavorful afternoon.

The Cookbook Book Club blends a love of reading with hands-on culinary inspiration, giving attendees an opportunity to discuss cookbooks, exchange recipes, and connect with fellow food enthusiasts in a relaxed, social setting.

The event is open to the public, and no prior book club experience is required. Residents looking for a unique way to enjoy food, conversation, and community are encouraged to attend.

For more information about the Cookbook Book Club or other upcoming programs, visit the Jefferson Township Public Library or check its calendar of events.

Oak Ridge’s Kyla Ann Butler Named to Dean’s List at Clarkson University

By
Frank Cahill
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Kyla Ann Butler with her younger brother, Matthew, celebrating her academic achievement

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Kyla Ann Butler has been named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester at Clarkson University.

Butler is a senior majoring in civil engineering. Dean’s List recognition at Clarkson is awarded to students who achieve a minimum 3.25 grade-point average while carrying at least 14 credit hours during the semester.

A graduate of Jefferson Township High School, Class of 2022, Butler continues to distinguish herself academically at Clarkson, a nationally recognized leader in technological education, research, and innovation. The university serves more than 7,800 students annually through STEM-designated undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, business, science, and health professions, with campuses and research facilities in Potsdam, the Capital Region, and the Hudson Valley.

Clarkson alumni earn salaries among the top 2% nationally, with one in five holding C-suite leadership positions.

For more information, visit www.clarkson.edu.

Boonton Township Man Sentenced to 55 Years Incarceration for 2023 Christmas Eve Murder

By
Frank Cahill
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Greg Meyer

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert M. McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Boonton Township Chief of Police Thomas Cacciabeve confirmed the sentencing of Kyle Meyer, 35, formerly of Boonton Township, in connection with a homicide that occurred in the Township on December 24, 2023.

On January 16, 2026, the Honorable Ralph E. Amirata, J.S.C. sentenced the defendant to serve 55 years in New Jersey State Prison subject to the No Early Release Act. On December 15, 2025, a jury returned guilty verdicts following a seven-day trial. Meyer was found guilty of first-degree murder, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. The defendant has been in custody since his arrest in 2023.

On December 24, 2023, at approximately 1:15 p.m., law enforcement was dispatched to a residence located on Old Denville Road in Boonton Township, New Jersey in response to an emergency call. Gregory Meyer, 61, was discovered deceased, and subsequent investigation determined his son, Kyle Meyer, to be a suspect. Following further investigation, Kyle Meyer was detained in Paterson at approximately 9 p.m. Kyle Meyer is the victim’s son, and the two resided at the same Boonton Township residence.

The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the victim’s cause of death to be exsanguination due to multiple injuries, and the manner of death to be homicide. Investigators identified a battery-operated pole saw as the weapon utilized by Kyle Meyer to commit the murder.

Prosecutor Carroll acknowledges the agencies that participated in the investigation that led to the successful guilty verdict in this difficult case, including the exhaustive efforts the Boonton Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Paterson Police Department. The Prosecutor would also like to especially thank Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Tara Wang and Assistant Prosecutor Kyle Herda who tried this case in court, and Boonton Township Sgt. Christopher Chicoris and Det. Peter Ricciardi, and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Lt. Michael Gomez, Sgt. Matthew Magnone, Det. Gregory Federici, and Det. Jenna Powers for their outstanding efforts in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

Prosecutor Carroll said, “Today’s sentence is the culmination of countless hours of coordinated local/county labor and dedication across multiple law enforcement agencies. I thank them for all their hard work in bringing this defendant to justice for such a heinous and cruel act.”

Boonton Township Police Chief Thomas Cacciabeve said, “I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the collaborative effort displayed by multiple police agencies on this case. This investigation was a textbook example of outstanding teamwork by multiple police agencies. The Boonton Township Police Department is truly thankful for the assistance we received from our partner agencies, which resulted in a favorable outcome to what began as an absolute tragic situation. The officers of the Boonton Township Police Department worked tirelessly on this case to ensure that justice prevailed. On a more personal note, I would like to say that I am sincerely grateful to the numerous officers and investigators who spent countless grueling hours at this tragic crime scene on the night of Christmas Eve 2023; their efforts undoubtedly had a direct impact on the successful conclusion of this investigation.”

Motor Vehicle Facilities will be Closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — All New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission facilities will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

The closure includes motor vehicle agencies, road test sites, and inspection stations, according to the commission. Facilities will be open for regular business for the remainder of the week, including Saturday, January 17.

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s website will remain available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

New Jersey residents who need motor vehicle services are encouraged to visit the website first to access more than 25 online services, schedule appointments for in-person visits, and find answers to frequently asked questions.

Most customers can complete motor vehicle transactions online. However, nearly all in-person services — including permits, driver testing, document renewals, Real ID credentials, and new titles and registrations — require an appointment scheduled through the commission’s website.

Morris County Courthouse Expansion Project Breaking Ground

By
Frank Cahill
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0
The complex, situated along Washington Street between Court Street and Western Avenue

MORRIS COUNTY — The County of Morris is starting a long planned and publicized construction project to expand its courthouse campus, thereby meeting the security and space needs of the New Jersey Judiciary courts and staff stationed in Morristown.

The project, which will take approximately 24 months to finish, involves the construction of a new criminal courthouse facility on the open-air parking lot and part of the adjacent pocket park along Schuyler Place.  The building will be eight (8) stories to accommodate eight (8) new courtrooms and additional space to meet the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts’ current standards and requirements for courtroom security and design.

Counties in New Jersey are obligated to provide sufficient court facilities for the state Superior Courts, and Morris County is among several counties that have been compelled to take on these large capital projects. 

Important Facts:

  • The historic Morris County Courthouse facing Washington Street IS NOT being demolished and the new courthouse is not being built on that footprint. The historic building, which underwent extensive refurbishing and roof replacements in 2024, will continue to be preserved.
  • The new facility is being designed to accommodate existing state Superior Court judges, staff and services, not expand operations.
  • The pocket park facing Washington Street will not be accessible during construction, but more than 60 percent of the space will be restored as a greenway when the project is completed.

The new building will include jury assembly areas as well as collegial chambers for the judges.  A new main entrance to the county’s courthouse complex and the county Administration and Records Building will be constructed facing the corner of Washington Street and Schuyler Place.

This new building will replace antiquated space and facilities attached to the historic Morris County Courthouse complex located between Court Street and Western Avenue, where security, access for people with disabilities and safety systems are inadequate.

Morris County is working to minimize the disruption along Schuyler Place during the construction, but inconveniences are inevitable.

In cooperation with the Town of Morristown, Schuyler Place will be reduced to a 20-foot travel width and all but two street parking spaces will be removed. However, replacement parking for store patrons and visitors already has been provided.

Morris County and the Morristown Parking Authority have reallocated parking spaces available just steps away on the Schuyler Place level of the authority’s Ann-Bank Garage (30 Schuyler Place Building). The parking spaces have been marked with a 2-hour time limit. Temporary loading and unloading from the businesses and residential properties will still be permitted on Schuyler Place.

There will be certain days that Schuyler Place may need to be closed intermittently to vehicular traffic. Advanced notice will be provided to those affected along Schuyler Place, and the Town of Morristown will have police directing traffic on those specific days.

Work hours will be 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the week. There is no work anticipated for evenings or on Saturdays, Sundays or major holidays. Construction workers will be required to park at the Headquarters Plaza Building, maintaining parking in the construction area for residents, shoppers and local employees.

Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township Officially Organized with 30 Charter Members, Doubling the Impact

By
Anikait Sota
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Kiwanis Clubof Jefferson Township Organizational Meeting

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Congratulations are in order for the newly formed Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township, which officially organized this week with an impressive 30 charter members, doubling the minimum required to charter a new club.

The club is led by the following officers: Stephanie Kaulfers, President; Christian Barranco, Vice President; Bryan Lance, Treasurer; and Yvonne Ioffredo, Secretary. Board members include Kim Schutte, Karen Helmstetter, and Donna Vander Ploeg.

The milestone was achieved in just three days, serving as a powerful example of “Double Down with Frank,” the membership growth and impact theme championed by Frank Cahill, Governor New Jersey District Kiwanis International. The initiative encourages clubs to think bigger, act faster, and multiply their reach in service to children and communities.

To officially charter a new club, Kiwanis International requires a minimum of 15 charter members. By doubling that number, the Jefferson Township club demonstrated extraordinary momentum and positioned itself to expand its service footprint from day one.

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world, one child and one community at a time. Local clubs focus on hands-on service projects, fundraising initiatives, and partnerships that support children and families while addressing the unique needs of their communities.

A key component of the Kiwanis mission is its support of Service Leadership Programs, which provide young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills through service. These programs include Key Club at the high school level, Builders Club for middle school students, K-Kids in elementary schools, and Circle K International at the college level, helping to develop the next generation of civic-minded leaders.

Reaching 30 charter members allows the Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township to apply for a Kickstarter Grant through the Kiwanis Children’s Fund. The $1,000 grant can be used to launch a hands-on service project addressing the most pressing needs within the Jefferson Township community.

“This is exactly what Double Down with Frank is all about — building stronger clubs faster so we can serve more children right from day one,” Kaulfers said. “Instead of meeting the minimum, this club chose to double its commitment and its impact.”

The next meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township will be held on Monday, February 2, at 6:30 p.m. at Jefferson Diner, located at 5 Bowling Green Parkway, Lake Hopatcong. Everyone is invited to attend and learn more about getting involved.

With strong leadership, enthusiastic charter members, and immediate access to grant funding, the Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township is off to a powerful start as it joins a global network of volunteers committed to service, leadership, and community impact.

For more information click here.

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