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Hathaway Proposes Federal Relief for Communities Facing High-Density Housing Mandates

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Press Release
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Joe Hathaway

RANDOLPH — Joe Hathaway, Republican nominee for Congress in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, has proposed providing federal relief to municipalities facing large population growth resulting from state-mandated high-density housing development.

Hathaway’s proposed High-Density Housing Relief Act would make federal funding available to qualifying municipalities to help offset three major costs associated with rapid population growth:

  1. School expansion needed to accommodate increased enrollment;
  2. Police, fire and emergency medical services personnel and equipment, including equipment needed to respond to new multi-story construction; and
  3. Infrastructure improvements to roads, water systems and sewer capacity.

“I know these local issues because I’ve had to deal with them firsthand as Mayor,” said Hathaway. “When hundreds of new housing units are coming into a community, somebody has to figure out what that means for the schools, the fire department, the roads, and the water and sewer systems, and who is going to pay for it. This is the kind of practical problem I want to solve in Congress because representing a district should be about understanding what your communities actually need, not fighting over political ideology all day. I want to bring that local perspective to Washington and focus on getting things done for NJ-11.”

As Mayor of Randolph, Hathaway helped lead the township through its Fourth Round affordable housing planning process, reducing the township’s anticipated high-density housing requirement from 355 units to 28 units while saving taxpayers more than $1.1 million.

Under Hathaway’s proposal, eligibility would be determined using a data-driven formula that examines a municipality’s historical population growth and the projected population impact of new housing obligations. The legislation would use those factors to establish a growth threshold identifying communities facing unusually significant new demands on schools, emergency services and infrastructure.

Hathaway serves on the Randolph Township Council and is the immediate past Mayor. He lives in Randolph with his wife, Whitney, and their three young children. For more information, visit joehathawayforcongress.com.

East Hanover Airman Promoted to Major in New York Air National Guard

By
Frank Cahill
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New York Air National Guard

EAST HANOVER — Nicholas Evans assigned to the New York Air National Guard’s 105th Airlift Wing, was promoted to the rank of major on July 29.

Air Force Major General Gary Charlton, commander of the New York Air National Guard, recognized the recent promotions of members of the New York Air National Guard for their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Air National Guard promotions are based on an Airman’s overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.

These promotions recognize the best qualified Airmen for a career in the New York Air National Guard, according to Charlton.

Air National Guard Citizen Airmen who serve the state and nation are eligible for monthly pay, educational benefits from the state and federal government, travel across the globe, technical and leadership training, health and dental insurance, and contributions toward retirement programs similar to a 401(k).

For more information about the New York Air National Guard or to contact a recruiter, visit dmna.ny.gov/ang.

Calvary Presbyterian Church to Host Blessing of the Animals

By
Frank Cahill
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Families and their pets are invited to the upcoming Blessing of the Animals

FLORHAM PARK — Calvary Presbyterian Church will hold a “Blessing of the Animals” event at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 4, at the church, 144 Ridgedale Avenue.

The event will take place rain or shine.

Pets should be leashed or in a carrier. Residents may also bring a photo or stuffed animal for Pastor Carie Stanley to bless.

The church says blessing pets serves as a reminder of the gift of non-human companionship in our lives.

The event is an opportunity to show appreciation for the lives of pets and the bond they share with their human families.

Workers’ Compensation Myths Every Local Business Owner Should Know

By
Frank Cahill
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Employers have a lot to think about the second they take on their first employee. While the employee may have a lot of responsibilities to fulfill on in the course of their role, you have far more responsibilities in terms of ensuring they are safe, and that their wellbeing is sufficiently protected.

Unfortunately, there are still so many misconceptions and myths floating around when it comes to workers’ compensation rights. Here are just a few of the most damaging ones.

1. It doesn’t count if the injury happened outside of work hours or on premises

While this is true in most cases – for instance, if an employee goes home and trips over the doorway on their way inside, that’s certainly not your fault – there are plenty of potential scenarios in which you are liable for an injury that happens off the clock, or off the premises.

Workplace errands may take an employee beyond your four walls, but you are still responsible for them for as long as they are on your watch. Similarly, remote work does not totally absolve you of responsibility, even though your employees are in their own homes rather than your office space.

Workplace events outside of the regular 9-5 are also opportunities for you to be liable for an injury, even though the employee is technically off the clock.

Also, consider the injuries you don’t realise are taking place on your premises. Repetitive strain injuries, for instance, can take months or years to become apparent, but they are gradually building every day that your employee works on-site without proper safety training, ergonomic desk equipment, or sufficient PPE. You may think you are operating a site or workplace that has a low accident rate, but that doesn’t mean injuries aren’t happening right in front of your eyes.

2. I only work with independent contractors so I don’t need to worry

We tend to be a little too black and white when thinking about employees on the books versus independent contractors, since contractors operate entirely separately and have their own insurance policies covering them (something you should always check before signing any contracts with anyone).

The trouble is, the line between the two (at least, when it comes to your responsibilities) is surprisingly blurred.

State agencies and courts can reclassify the relationship after an injury based on how the work was actually performed, not what the paperwork says. For that reason, you want to make sure that your insurance policy is robust enough to cover you.

3. The waivers my employees signed absolve me of any legal responsibility

Not true, and incredibly risky to believe. Liability wavers offer some protection, but there are plenty of circumstances where employees can still make a claim against you if they are injured at work. This is why a robust policy like workers comp coverage at ERGO Next Insurance cannot be replaced with a simple legal waiver.

Workers compensation rights remain intact, no matter what your waiver states you are absolved of responsibility for. You have a legal duty to offer a safe and respectful workplace to your employees, and that cannot be written away with a couple signatures.

Pathways of History Fall Tour Opens More Than 29 Historic Sites Across Morris County

By
Frank Cahill
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The Henry Doremus Dutch Stone Farmhouse, 490 Main Road, Towaco. Built circa 1760, the farmhouse will be open to the public Saturday, Oct. 3, courtesy of the Montville Township Historical Society

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Historical Society will host the 17th annual Pathways of History Fall Tour on Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering residents and visitors a free opportunity to explore more than 29 historic sites and museums across Morris County.

The free, family-friendly, self-guided tour will highlight historic homes, museums, American Revolution-era landmarks and other features that tell the story of Morris County and the people, industries and events that shaped the region. The tour will be held rain or shine.

The New Jersey Merci Train boxcar, a rare surviving example of a late 19th-century French “40 & 8” military railcar designed to transport 40 soldiers or eight horses. The United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey will have the boxcar on display at Boonton Yard, 104 Morris Ave., Boonton.

“The Pathways of History Tour is a great way to experience the history that surrounds us in Morris County,” said Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw. “As we celebrate the Semiquincentennial, we encourage everyone to visit the places where that history happened and learn from the volunteers dedicated to supporting these special sites.”

“The Pathways of History Tour is a great way to explore local history, see some of Morris County’s incredible historic sites, and meet some of the region’s most dedicated historians. This year, in honor of America 250, a record number of locations will be open across the weekend, and organizations will be offering special exhibits and presentations,” said Amy Curry, Executive Director of the Historical Society.

The Glenburn Estate, 211 Hamburg Turnpike, Riverdale. In 2006, the Borough of Riverdale purchased the Glenburn Estate with funding from the Morris County Historic Trust and the Open Space Funds. The Borough, together with the Riverdale Land Conservancy, is overseeing the restoration of the house and barn and the preservation of the land itself for the enjoyment of future generations.

Visitors can begin at any participating location and follow one or both of the tour routes:

  • Blue Tour: Saturday, October 3, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Red Tour: Sunday, October 4, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Blue and Red Tours: Participating sites open both Saturday and Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Launched with five participating organizations, the tour has grown to include more than 29 sites and more than 115 volunteers. The participating organizations operate independently and offer free admission during the tour weekend.

Among this year’s participating locations is the L’Ecole Kinnelon Museum, 25 Kiel Avenue, Kinnelon, housed in a former one-room schoolhouse and featuring exhibits on education and women’s health. Also participating is the United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey, which recently received a Merci Train boxcar, a World War I-era railroad car with a unique history, joining a collection of approximately 60 historic locomotives and railroad cars at the Boonton Yard, 104 Morris Avenue, Boonton.

Earlier this year, the County Commissioners awarded a Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund grant of $18,560 to the railroad society to support construction documents for interior and exterior preservation work on the boxcar.

The Pathways of History Fall Tour is part of Morris County’s ongoing commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence, providing visitors with another way to explore the county’s connection to the nation’s founding and its unique history.

A complete list of participating sites, maps and tour information is available at PathwaysofHistoryNJ.net. Visitors are encouraged to check individual organization websites and social media pages for specific exhibits, presentations and other programming.

The Morris County Historical Society is a member-supported 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the region’s history through education, advocacy and community engagement.

The Morris County Historical Society thanks the FM Kirby Foundation, New Jersey Historic Trust, County of Morris, Morris County Historic Preservation Trust, Morris County Heritage Commission, Morris County Tourism Bureau, Morris County 250th Celebrations Committee, Kraus Marketing, RevNJ and Crossroads of the American Revolution for their support.

Madison Education Foundation to Host “Under the Lights” Fall Social

By
Frank Cahill
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MADISON — The Madison Education Foundation (MEF) is planning an evening of school spirit, hometown pride, great food, live music and fundraising at its Fall Social, “Under the Lights: Tailgate, Tasting, and Taps,” on Saturday, October 10.

This year’s event features a new, family-friendly format that brings school spirit and community together, creating an opportunity for families across Madison to connect, celebrate and support the schools at the heart of the community.

MEF is encouraging guests to wear their favorite college sweatshirt, hometown jersey, or old letterman jacket or cheerleading uniform. The event will be held at Rose Hall in the Madison Community Arts Center, 10 Kings Road.

The evening will feature local food favorites including Rose City Wurst, Pizza Vita and Butter and Jam’s Slider Bar, along with local craft beers, themed cocktails, live music by Tom Sellwood and Friends, a late-night DJ, a cornhole tournament and a silent auction.

“We’re excited to reimagine our annual fundraiser as a fun, relaxed night that truly reflects the incredible spirit of our Madison community,” said Gabrielle Brown, co-chair of the event. “Whether you’re a longtime resident, a current school parent, an alumnus, or simply someone who believes in supporting local education, this is a night to celebrate what makes Madison so special.”

The silent auction will be available online, allowing supporters to participate whether they attend the event or cheer from home. Bidding opens at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 8. Auction items will include school experiences, dining and beverage packages, fashion and retail offerings, local adventures and experiences, and exclusive outings.

Guests can also participate in the event’s popular Wine Pull, where every bottle purchased helps fund classroom grants and educational opportunities for Madison students. Community members can support the Wine Pull by sponsoring a bottle of wine in advance or purchasing a Wine Pull ticket during the event, raising a glass to Madison teachers and schools.

“We can’t wait to see everyone under the lights,” said Christina Notaro, co-chair. “From the cornhole tournament and live music to the food, drinks, and nostalgic memories, every part of the evening helps support educational grants for Madison students and educators.”

For ticket information, sponsorship opportunities and event details, visit the Madison Education Foundation at mefnj.networkforgood.com/events.

Jefferson Township Kiwanis Club Named Number One New Club in the Nation

By
Frank Cahill
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New Jersey District Kiwanis International Governor Frank Cahill presents Yvonne Ioffredo, Treasurer of the Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township, with a plaque recognizing the club as the number one new Kiwanis club in the nation.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — New Jersey District Kiwanis International Governor Frank Cahill presents Yvonne Ioffredo, Treasurer of the Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township, with a plaque congratulating the club on achieving the highest number of member registrations at its organizational meeting in January.

Of all the clubs chartered during the service year, the Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township ranked number one in the entire United States. Cahill’s theme for his year was “Double Down with Frank,” and Jefferson far exceeded the membership required to charter a new Kiwanis club. The presentation was made during the New Jersey District Kiwanis Convention, held September 17–20 at the Tropicana in Atlantic City.

Kiwanis International’s mission is to empower communities to improve the world by making lasting differences in the lives of children.

For information, email [email protected] or call (973) 559-6000.

New Vernon Equities Secures $20 Million Loan for East Hanover Industrial Project

By
Frank Cahill
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A speculative project by New Vernon Equities will bring 100,000 square feet of industrial space to the firm’s Arena campus off Route 10 in East Hanover.

EAST HANOVER — New Vernon Equities has secured a $20 million construction loan from Provident Bank to build a 100,000-square-foot speculative industrial building at its Arena campus off Route 10, according to brokers with CBRE.

The project at 80 Arena Way is redeveloping a former office building site within the campus. Plans call for 32-foot clear ceiling heights, 26 dock-high loading doors, two drive-in doors and parking for 196 vehicles. Delivery is scheduled for the first quarter of next year.

CBRE’s Matthew Pizzolato, Josh Stein and Carlos Silva arranged the financing on behalf of New Vernon Equities. Newmark’s Michael Schipper, Kyle Eaton and Robert Loderstedt will handle leasing at the property, and ARCO Design/Build is the general contractor.

“80 Arena Way addresses a clear gap in Morris County, where demand for small-bay, multitenant industrial space has outpaced availability,” Pizzolato said. “By partnering with Provident Bank, we were able to structure a construction loan that supports New Vernon Equities’ vision for a Class A facility with the flexibility to accommodate tenants from 20,000 square feet up.”

Each suite will have up to 5% office space, plus up to 20,000 square feet of mezzanine space. The 17.89-acre site is about three miles from Interstate 287 at Exit 39A, with Interstate 80 and Route 46 nearby, giving tenants access to New York City, regional ports and the broader Northeast Corridor, with 20.2 million people within a 90-minute drive.

Morris County has roughly 28.8 million square feet of industrial inventory, and buildings under 100,000 square feet have averaged 98 percent occupancy over the past five years, according to CBRE, which called the county one of New Jersey’s strongest industrial submarkets.

Jefferson Township Police Respond to 4,906 Calls for Service in August

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township Police

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Police Department responded to 4,906 calls for service in August, according to its monthly recap, which also highlights back-to-school safety reminders and a month of community policing events.

Here is the department’s August activity:

  • Calls for service: 4,906
  • Motor vehicle crashes: 59
  • Motor vehicle stops: 500
  • Domestic incidents: 12
  • Medical emergencies: 104
  • Adult arrests: 9
  • Driving while intoxicated arrests: 6
  • Assists to other agencies: 8
  • Alarm calls: 39
  • Residential and commercial property checks: 2,325

Back to School Safety Reminders

With school back in session, police are reminding drivers to stop for stopped school buses, watch for walking students, and leave extra time to account for school bus traffic.

Community Policing

The recap lists the following community policing activities for the month:

  • Junior Police Academy, which graduated 47 participants.
  • National Night Out.
  • Ice Cream with a Cop at Jefferson Dairy and AJ’s Country Cone.
  • Special Needs Program calls and check-ins.
  • Side-by-side vehicle patrol details on School House Road and Cozy Lake Road.
  • Milton School security meeting.
  • LEAD update training for the department’s school resource officers.
  • Jefferson Township High School senior parking meeting.

The department is accredited by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.

Christian Castaño Leads Parsippany Past Mountain Lakes, Redhawks Improve to 6-0

By
Rohan Mruthik
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Parsippany captain Christian Castaño helped lead the Redhawks past Mountain Lakes with a goal and an assist in the 2-1 victory. Shot by Nishchay Kochhar.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School boys soccer stayed perfect with a 2-1 victory over Mountain Lakes, improving to 6-0 on the season.

Aniket Mishra opened the scoring for Parsippany off a free kick from Christian Castaño, using a backheel finish to put the Redhawks ahead 1-0.

Aniket Mishra celebrates after scoring Parsippany’s opening goal with a backheel finish off a Christian Castaño free kick. Shot by Nishchay Kochhar.

Christian added Parsippany’s second goal with a long-range volley, striking the ball from well outside the box and sending it into the back of the net to give Parsippany a 2-0 lead.

Mountain Lakes pulled one back in the second half, but Parsippany’s defense responded well. The Redhawks fought together as a team, and the defenders prevented Mountain Lakes from scoring again to preserve the one-goal advantage.

Christian was named Man of the Match after finishing with a goal and an assist while helping Parsippany secure another victory.

The win also ended a frustrating stretch at Smith Field. Parsippany had gone several years without winning a varsity game on the field, something players had referred to as the “Smith Field curse.” With Tuesday’s victory, the Redhawks finally broke it.

Parsippany now turns its attention to one of its biggest games of the season, hosting Madison on Thursday, September 24, at 4:00 p.m. at Smith Field. A win over Madison would put Parsippany in an excellent position to win its new conference, making the possibility of back-to-back conference titles across two different divisions increasingly real.

The Redhawks will enter the matchup undefeated at 6-0 as they look to continue their perfect start.

Author’s Note: Special thanks to Christian Castaño and Ajay Rathinam for providing game information and details, and to Nishchay Kochhar for providing photos. Check out more of Nishchay’s photography on Instagram at NSK_Flicks.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, lLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

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