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Georgia Man Arrested in Connection with Christmas Eve Shooting in Boonton

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

BOONTON — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Morris County Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Denville Police Chief Scott Welsch, Town of Boonton Police Chief Christopher Petonak and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon confirmed that Jovan Young, 37, last known address Jonesboro, GA, has been charged in connection with a woman found with gunshot injury in Boonton, New Jersey on December 24, 2025.

Shortly before 9:30 p.m. on December 24, 2025, a woman was found on the side of the road at the intersection of Old Boonton Road and Pocono Road in Denville. She was found laying in the fetal position on the side of the road with an apparent gunshot wound to her abdomen. The woman, who will not be identified at this time, was taken to an area hospital for treatment.

A subsequent investigation revealed that the woman had been with Jovan Young earlier in the day. Both the victim and Young are from Georgia, but have ties to New Jersey.

On December 25, law enforcement officers located Young in Boonton. The defendant was apprehended and officers recovered a 9mm handgun and multiple magazines loaded with hollow point cartridges.

Young was charged and subsequently transported to Morris County Correctional Facility, pending future court proceedings pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act.

As of December 27, the defendant has been charged with the following crimes: third-degree Endangering an Injured Person; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; fourth-degree Possession of Hollow Point Cartridges; and fourth-degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons or Ammunition.

The incident remains under investigation and additional charges are possible. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at 973-285-6200.

Prosecutor Carroll commended the efforts of the Denville Police Department, Town of Boonton Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Division and Major Crimes Unit.

Dover Council Set to Consider Redevelopment Plans, Salary Ordinance, and Historic Preservation Measures

By
Frank Cahill
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Town of Dover Mayor and Council

DOVER — The Town of Dover Mayor and Town Council are scheduled to meet on Tuesday, December 30, where officials are expected to consider a series of ordinances and resolutions addressing redevelopment, municipal salaries, and historic preservation.

The Town of Dover will hold a Regular Meeting on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be conducted via Zoom. Residents and interested parties may attend virtually using Meeting ID 845 5061 6309 and Passcode 222829.

Click here to download the agenda

Among the major items on the agenda are several redevelopment-related ordinances that will be introduced for second reading, public hearing, and possible adoption. The Council is expected to consider adopting a redevelopment plan covering multiple properties along Blackwell Street, Bassett Highway, and Dewey Street. If approved, the action would formally designate the properties as areas in need of redevelopment and authorize updates to the Town’s official tax map.

The Council is also slated to consider an ordinance approving a long-term tax exemption and financial agreement, commonly known as a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes), with JR Asset Urban Renewal, LLC. The agreement is intended to support redevelopment efforts by providing financial certainty while promoting long-term economic investment within the town.

Another ordinance on the agenda would establish updated minimum and maximum salary ranges for officers and employees of the Town of Dover. The ordinance spans a wide range of municipal positions and is designed to maintain competitive compensation structures while preserving fiscal oversight.

In addition, the Council is scheduled to consider an ordinance amending the Land Use and Development Code to establish a Historic Preservation Commission. The proposed ordinance outlines preservation goals, review standards, and procedures aimed at protecting historic districts and properties while encouraging appropriate reuse and redevelopment.

The meeting agenda also includes approval of a consent agenda of resolutions, which encompasses annual renewals of social and athletic club licenses, taxi and limousine licenses, shared services agreements, and multiple professional services contracts for the upcoming year. These contracts include legal, engineering, planning, architectural, and redevelopment services necessary for municipal operations.

A separate resolution proposes designating a property at 45 Leigh Street as a non-condemnation area in need of redevelopment and authorizing the preparation of a redevelopment plan for that site.

Public comment will be permitted on agenda items and on any subject during the meeting, with speakers allotted three minutes each. The Council may also enter into closed session following public business before adjourning.

The December 30 meeting is expected to close out the calendar year with significant policy decisions that could shape Dover’s redevelopment and planning efforts heading into 2026.

East Hanover Resident Thomas Yeh Joins H2M Architects + Engineers as Project Architect

By
Frank Cahill
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Thomas Yeh, R.A., NCARB

MORRIS COUNTY — H2M architects + engineers continues to expand its professional team with the addition of several new hires across its New Jersey and New York offices, including new talent working out of the firm’s Parsippany location. H2M is located at 119 Cherry Hill Road, Suite 110, Parsippany.

Christopher Jason Parris, P.E., PMP

Among the recent hires is Christopher Jason Parris, P.E., PMP, who joined H2M architects + engineers as Deputy PMO Director on December 1, 2025. He is based in the firm’s New York City office and resides in Fanwood.

Sophia Schaefer, E.I.T.,

Joining the Parsippany office is Sophia Schaefer, E.I.T., who began her role as a Staff Engineer on December 15, 2025. Schaefer resides in Hoboken and brings a strong technical background to the firm’s local engineering team.

Also starting December 15, 2025, Thomas Yeh, R.A., NCARB joined H2M architects + engineers as a Project Architect. Yeh is based in the Parsippany office and resides in East Hanover, further strengthening the firm’s architectural services in the region.

Issah Madugu, E.I.T.

In addition, Issah Madugu, E.I.T. joined the firm as a Project Engineer on December 15, 2025. He is based in H2M’s Wall, New Jersey office, and resides in Linden.

H2M architects + engineers is a full-service consulting and design firm employing more than 580 professionals, including architects, engineers, planners, designers, inspectors, surveyors, and scientists. The firm provides expertise across water supply, civil and site engineering, structural, M/E/P, wastewater, and environmental disciplines.

Known for its collaborative approach and technical excellence, H2M has a long-standing reputation for delivering practical solutions with creative results while responding to the evolving needs of its clients.

For more information, visit www.h2m.com.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2026. Click here to view the magazine.

Pennacchio: I’m A Hard ‘No’ On Sales Tax Increase—How Does This Make N.J. More Affordable?

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Joe Pennacchio

MORRIS COUNTY — In light of recent news that Trenton Democrats are considering raising the sales tax to 7%, Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) released the following statement:

“Governor-Elect Mikie Sherill should be angry about being left a budget by Trenton Democrats that is $4 billion in the hole, but I hope she delivers on promises to make NJ more affordable and shuts down insane chatter of more tax increases – sales tax increases or otherwise.”

Assembly Committee Advances Bill Addressing Abandoned Mine Reclamations

By
Frank Cahill
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Assemblywoman Aura Dunn

MORRIS COUNTY — The Assembly Transportation Committee on Monday released a bill that establishes an abandoned mine reclamation program in the state Department of Transportation. 

“New Jersey families deserve a transportation system that is safe and reliable, not one that leaves communities vulnerable to preventable failures beneath our roads. The collapse of I-80 earlier this year made that painfully clear,” Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (R-Morris) said in a written statement. “The shutdown disrupted daily life for months, diverted thousands of commuters, slowed emergency response times, hurt small businesses, and cost the state more than $25 million. The economic, safety, and quality-of-life consequences were enormous.”

The bill (A6069) directs the NJDOT to map all abandoned mines, vestiges of the state’s once booming iron-mining industry, spread throughout Morris, Sussex, Passaic and Warren counties. The department will prioritize identifying and remediating high-risk sites at no cost to private landowners, but funded through the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program Fund, which the legislation creates. That fund would receive federal and state money, and private donations. 

Travelers and businesses suffered after three sinkholes formed along Route 80 in Wharton between December 2024 and March 2025. The highway was finally, fully opened in June. 

Dunn worked closely with state and local officials to ensure timely repairs, and supported all legislative efforts to assist businesses and workers impacted by the closures. 

“This is not a partisan issue. It is a public safety issue, an economic stability issue, and a responsible-governance issue,” Dunn said. “New Jersey residents expect us to plan ahead, act wisely, and protect the infrastructure they rely on every day.” 

The state Department of Environmental Protection lists nearly 600 known abandoned mines.

Unity Bancorp Named to Piper Sandler 

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Unity Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: UNTY), the parent company of Unity Bank, has been named to Piper Sandler’s Sm-All Stars Class of 2025, a prestigious designation recognizing the top-performing small-cap banks and thrifts in the nation.

Unity Bank is one of only 24 banks selected from a pool of nearly 400 institutions under $2.5 billion in market capitalization. 

The rigorous selection process is based on performance metrics such as earnings growth, loan and deposit growth, return on average equity (ROAE), and credit quality. 

Piper Sandler notes that Sm-All Stars outperform peers, with median EPS growth of 28.8% and ROAE of 13.02% over the last twelve months.

“This recognition is a direct reflection of our team’s commitment to consistent, long-term financial performance,” said James A. Hughes, Unity Bank President & CEO. “Our disciplined approach and strong credit fundamentals continue to create value for both customers and shareholders.”

This marks another milestone in Unity’s continued momentum and sustained strength within the industry. The bank’s ability to deliver solid returns while maintaining sound credit practices highlights its focus on responsible growth, even amid economic uncertainty.

To view the full Piper Sandler report click here.

Roxbury Township Public Library to Host First Special Needs Resource Fair

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Families, caregivers, and individuals seeking support and services are invited to attend the first-ever Roxbury Special Needs Resource Fair, hosted by the Roxbury Township Public Library (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=0), on Saturday, February 7, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

The public event will take place at the Roxbury Township Public Library, located at 103 Main Street, Succasunna, and is designed to connect the community with a wide range of local organizations and resources that support individuals with disabilities or special needs, whether school-aged or adults.

Attendees can expect an engaging and informative experience featuring resources, giveaways, activities, and games, while having the opportunity to speak directly with representatives from agencies and organizations specializing in early intervention, therapy services, recreation programs, advocacy, and educational support.

Library officials are also inviting agencies and organizations to participate in the fair by hosting a table, sharing information, answering questions, and offering guidance to families navigating available services. This inaugural event aims to create a centralized, welcoming space where families can learn about the many supports available throughout the region.

Organizations interested in participating are encouraged to register by the end of December using the online registration form.

The Roxbury Special Needs Resource Fair is free and open to the public and reflects the library’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and community engagement.

Governor-Elect Sherrill Announces Inauguration Ceremony at NJPAC

By
Frank Cahill
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Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill

Swearing-In for Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill and Lt. Governor-Elect Dr. Dale Caldwell Set for January 20 in Newark

NEWARK — Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill and Lieutenant Governor-elect Dale Caldwell announced that their inauguration ceremony will take place at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark. During the ceremony, the incoming administration will outline its priorities and vision for New Jersey.

“For more than a year, I’ve been up and down this state and am on a mission to deliver for all New Jerseyans — lower costs, a better future for our kids, and a more transparent and accountable state government,” Governor-elect Sherrill said. “Leadership means listening to the people about what keeps them up at night, and we will start my administration the same way we won this race — by listening and taking action for the people I serve. I couldn’t be more honored to be sworn in as your next governor and begin my administration in the Gateway City.”

Lt. Governor-elect Caldwell, who also serves as transition chair, said returning to Newark for the ceremony is especially meaningful. “As the founding executive director of the Newark Alliance, I’m always excited to come back,” he said. “I’m also forever grateful to the faith community in Newark that helped elect the first pastor to the office of lieutenant governor. Between my background as a pastor, educator, and small business owner, and Mikie’s history of service, we will bring a different kind of leadership to Trenton — focused on lowering costs, supporting small businesses, and standing up for the rights of all New Jerseyans.”

The announcement underscores Newark’s significance to the incoming administration. Governor-elect Sherrill’s first stop outside of Trenton after the election was in Newark, where she visited a local food bank to highlight her opposition to proposed federal cuts to food assistance programs. In November, Sherrill also drove the highest gubernatorial election turnout in Newark since 2005.

Local leaders praised the decision to host the inauguration in Essex County. Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. called the selection an honor, noting that Sherrill is only the second woman elected governor in New Jersey’s history. He said NJPAC’s world-class facilities make it an ideal venue to showcase Newark and Essex County.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka echoed those sentiments, calling it a high honor for the city. “As New Jersey’s largest city, Newark is an appropriate setting for such a momentous occasion,” Baraka said. “NJPAC, the crowning jewel of our downtown district, will shine bright on January 20 and showcase Newark’s radiance for all to see.”

The inauguration at NJPAC is expected to draw statewide attention, marking the formal start of the Sherrill-Caldwell administration and signaling a new chapter in New Jersey leadership.

Shutterbugs 4-H Club to Host Free Photography Workshop in Morristown

By
Frank Cahill
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The Shutterbugs 4-H Club will host a free Photography Workshop on January 20 at the 4-H Office in Morristown, offering young photographers hands-on learning focused on portraiture, composition, and camera techniques.

MORRIS COUNTY — Young photographers are invited to sharpen their skills at an upcoming Photography Workshop hosted by the Shutterbugs 4-H Club, presented through the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Morris County.

The free workshop will take place on January 20 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the 4-H Office, 550 West Hanover Avenue, Morristown. The session will feature a live, hands-on demonstration led by professional photographer Mat Robinson, who will focus on key photography concepts including portraiture, composition, and camera angles.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own cameras and be ready to learn through interactive instruction designed to build confidence and creativity behind the lens. The workshop is open to youth interested in photography, whether they are beginners or already experimenting with more advanced techniques.

The Shutterbugs program is part of 4-H, a nationally recognized youth development organization that empowers young people through hands-on learning, leadership development, and creative exploration.

Registration is free, but advance sign-up is required. Interested participants can register by clicking here.

This workshop offers a fun and educational opportunity for local youth to explore photography, learn from a professional, and connect with peers who share a passion for creativity.

Morris County Expands “Joy for All” Companion Pet Program

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Morris County resident Ana Rios receives her companion pet dog.

MORRIS COUNTY — During the holiday season, Morris County distributed robotic companion pets to seniors living in county-supported housing as part of the “Joy for All” Companion Pet Program, sponsored by the Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming and expanded this year to include the Morris County Housing Authority.

The Office on Aging partnered with the Housing Authority in 2025 to broaden the program’s reach to seniors residing in senior housing. As part of the expansion, the Housing Authority received 36 robotic companion pets, 26 of which have already been distributed to residents age 60 and older.

Morris County resident Carmen Hernandez with her companion pet dog.

“Our aging residents are an essential part of Morris County, and their well-being is a top priority. We look forward to the comfort these companion pets will bring to our older neighbors — people who have contributed so much to our community,” said Commissioner Christine Myers, liaison to the Human Services Department.

The companion pet program was launched in 2024 to help reduce social isolation, loneliness and cognitive decline among older adults by providing the comfort and companionship of a pet without the responsibilities associated with caring for a live animal. In its first year, the program distributed 110 robotic companion pets to eligible residents and facilities throughout Morris County and partnered with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Project Lifesaver program.

The robotic cats and dogs are designed to respond to motion and touch, offering realistic behaviors such as purring, rolling over, barking and wagging their tails.

“The companion pets have been the focus of rigorous, peer-reviewed studies demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing loneliness and social isolation,” said Christine Hellyer, director of the Office on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming. “Recipients often name their pets and keep them as long as they wish, forming meaningful emotional connections.”

The program is funded through the Aging American Rescue Plan. To qualify, recipients must be at least 60 years old, homebound, and either socially isolated or living with dementia or a similar cognitive condition.

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Morris Focus was founded in 2017 and is published in print and online formats. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate news coverage to Morris County residents and promote community engagement and involvement. The newspaper covers various topics, including local government, education, business, and sports. We can be reached by calling (973) 559-6000—a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

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