MORRIS COUNTY — Safe Space Group provides compassionate support for individuals coping with grief and loss. Led by a licensed counselor and grief recovery specialist, our inclusive community offers a safe environment for sharing, healing, and finding solace.

Join Safe Space Group as they navigate the journey of grief together, honoring memories and finding strength in each other. The program begins on Tuesday, May 7, at 7:00 p.m.

Safe Space Group is located at 189 West Chrystal Street, Dover. For more information email griefrecoveryday@gmail.com.

DOVER — The Town of Dover Mayor and Council meeting for Tuesday, May 7, will be held at 6:00 p.m. at 37 North Sussex Street, Dover, NJ 07801.

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 Citizen and Daily Record on April 26, 2024, and was published in the Citizen on May 1, 2024, and was published in the Daily Record on May 2, 2024. A copy of said notice is on file with the Municipal Clerk.

It should be noted that a translator is present if a resident should need one.

The Town of Dover highly values the input of residents in making important decisions that affect the residents of our community. We also believe in the rights of residents to observe Governing Body Meetings. To ensure that all of our residents have the opportunity to offer comments, each statement/comment shall be held to a time of five minutes.

Mayor James Dodd
(December 31, 2027)

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

Sandra Wittner
Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2024)

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

Geovani Estacio
Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2024)

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

Karol Ruiz
Council Member – Third Ward
(December 31, 2024)

DOVER — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover coordinated a “Spring Give-Away” on Saturday, May 4, at Meridia Transit Courtyard. Volunteers offered jackets, clothing, shoes, food, and other essentials to Dover residents.

Taking part in the event were Howard’s Mission, The Gellman Foundation, and Ray of Hope Foundation, whose generous contributions have greatly benefited our Dover community. Throughout the past year, we’ve been fortunate to partner with these exceptional nonprofits, offering jackets, clothing, shoes, and other essentials to our residents.

In addition to Howard’s Foundation part of the Gellman Foundation, and Ray of Hope Foundation, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover was joined by partner organizations including Hope House, Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs, The Milestone House, Excel Treatment Center, Morris Habitat for Humanity, and The Safe Space Group. Each of these participants played a pivotal role in Saturday’s efforts.

•Howard’s Mission: At Howard’s Mission, their mission is clear: to provide clothing and essential items to individuals and families in need. They extend their support to those experiencing homelessness, whether they are on the streets or in shelters across New Jersey. Click here for more information.

•Ray of Hope Foundation: The Ray of Hope Foundation was established in the year 2000. It was founded to honor the Blessed Mother and the power of Her intercession for the healing of the faithful. Our mission is to reveal Our Lady’s message of praying the Rosary to the world. The rosary is a very powerful prayer that heals countless individuals all throughout the planet, both spiritually and physically. It is a true weapon against evil. Click here for more information.

•Hope House: Hope House is located at 101-103 Bassett Highway, Dover. They are a non-profit, social services agency. They are part of Catholic Charities. Click here for more information.

•Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs: At MCOHA, the organization understands that its strength is not only in the words it stands by but also in the actions of its initiatives. That’s why MCOHA works diligently to enhance the lives of over 12,000 of Morris County’s Hispanic and low-income residents annually, offering direct social and legal services as well as client advocacy. Click here for more information.

•The Milestone House: The Milestone House has been dedicated to supporting recovery efforts since its establishment in 2002. After two decades of community service, the organization proudly transitioned into a non-profit agency with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Its houses hold accreditation from the New Jersey Alliance of Recovery Residence. The Milestone House presently operates five facilities situated in historic Dover. Click here for more information.

•Excel Treatment Center: Their goal is to deliver exceptional outpatient substance abuse treatment with a primary focus on the individual client. They prioritize deep listening and engagement with each client to thoroughly comprehend their history, challenges, and issues. Together, they collaboratively develop a tailored treatment plan. They offer a comprehensive array of top-notch clinical services, psychiatric treatment options, and family support choices to promote client well-being. Their extensive aftercare services, alumni resources, sober living facilities, and vibrant recovery community, including a coffee house, equip clients and their families with the necessary tools to maintain sobriety. Click here for more information.

•Morris Habitat for Humanity: Morris Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization and an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International headquartered in Americus, Georgia. Habitat for Humanity provides technical assistance, but each affiliate operates independently raising its funds, finding its sites, and selecting its own families. Each affiliate tithes to Habitat for Humanity to assist in building efforts worldwide. Click here for more information.

•The Safe Space Group: The Safe Space Group is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting individuals of all ages within our community as they navigate the complexities of grief. From the youngest members to seniors, we provide a compassionate environment where people can find solace and support while coping with loss. Our mission is centered on promoting the well-being of our community by addressing grief and its various challenges with empathy and understanding.

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time.

Working together, members achieve what one person cannot accomplish alone. When you help improve a community or give a child a chance to learn, experience, dream, and succeed, great things happen!

For more information about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, contact President Sergio Rodriguez at (973) 234-7099 or click here.

DOVER — Mayor Dodd’s Annual Fishing Derby made a triumphant return, drawing crowds of enthusiastic young anglers and families alike to Hurd Park on Saturday, May 4th. The event, eagerly anticipated by Dover children, showcased the community’s love for fishing and outdoor recreation. Mayor Dodd’s dedication to fostering such cherished traditions was evident in the planning and execution of this year’s derby.

The atmosphere was electric as participants shared stories, traded tips, and cheered each other on in the friendly competition. Mayor Dodd, a passionate advocate for community engagement, was on hand to welcome attendees and join in the festivities. His presence underscored the importance of preserving such time-honored events that bring neighbors together and strengthen the fabric of the city.

“I’ve been looking forward to joining this derby with my kids for years, and today was everything I hoped for. What an incredible day and an amazing turnout! A huge thanks to everyone who helped make it happen. See you next year,” said Councilman AB Santana.

The success of Mayor Dodd’s Annual Fishing Derby was a testament to the enduring spirit of camaraderie and outdoor adventure that defines Dover.

As families packed up their gear and bid farewell to another memorable day on the water, anticipation already began to build for next year’s event.

Mayor Dodd’s commitment to preserving this cherished tradition ensures that the legacy of the Fishing Derby will continue to flourish for generations to come.

Councilman Sergio Rodriguez stated “I want to thank our Mayor James Dodd for bringing back our town’s beloved Mayor’s Fishing Derby. A timeless American tradition we’re excited to keep alive for years to come.”

Mayor Dodd’s Fishing Derby Makes a Splash: Drawing Crowds and Capturing Hearts at Hurd Park. The triumph of Mayor Dodd’s Annual Fishing Derby echoed the enduring camaraderie and love for outdoor pursuits that epitomize Dover.

MORRIS COUNTY — More older adults and individuals with disabilities in New Jersey are now eligible to save on prescription drug prices, Medicaid premiums, hearing aids, utilities, and other household expenses using the NJSave application, thanks to an increase in income eligibility requirements.

Eligible residents can apply for these savings using the NJSave online application. This single application allows the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) – which administers a wide range of state and federal direct assistance programs – to screen and enroll applicants in multiple programs. NJSave paper applications are available upon request.

Recent legislation and funding in Governor Phil Murphy’s Fiscal Year 2024 State Budget expanded income eligibility limits by up to $10,000 for some of these programs to make them more accessible for a larger number of residents.

“By expanding income eligibility for prescription drug assistance, hearing aid assistance, and utility assistance programs for older adults, we are delivering much-needed relief to families throughout our state,” said Governor Murphy. “No one should have to face the difficult choice to skip or ration their medications, and this program expansion makes a real difference in the lives of New Jerseyans as we continue to make prescription drugs more affordable and accessible.”

NJSave will screen and enroll eligible residents into the following health care and prescription drug assistance programs:

• Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD)
• Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program
• Medicare Savings Programs 
• Hearing Aid Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (HAAAD)

“Expanding the income eligibility for these programs means more people in need of support can apply for these savings. We encourage anyone who thinks they are eligible, or knows someone who may be eligible,  click here to learn more about the different assistance programs available,” said New Jersey Department of Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman.

The PAAD and Senior Gold programs are available to residents 65 and older and those with disabilities. The PAAD program income limits are now $52,142 for a single and $59,209 for a couple. The Senior Gold Prescription Discount program limits are now $62,142 if single and $69,209 if married. Assets are not considered in determining eligibility for either program. PAAD cuts drug prices to $5 for covered generic drugs and $7 for covered name brands. Senior Gold co-pay is $15.00 plus 50% of the remaining cost for covered prescriptions.

Income limits for the Hearing Aid Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (HAAAD), and the Lifeline Utility Assistance program – which offsets the costs of gas and electric expenses – also increased by $10,000, as those programs are tied to PAAD.

DHS also will reimburse new enrollees for the amount of money they paid for prescription drugs purchased 30 days before they submitted a complete PAAD and Senior Gold application. Documentation of the purchase would need to be provided to the Department for approval.

The NJSave application also screens applicants for these programs that help middle- to low-income families save on common household expenses:

• Universal Service Fund (USF)
• Low-Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Eligible individuals can apply now through the NJSave online application, by downloading an application from the NJSave webpage, by texting NJSAVE to 844-755-3803 to receive a link to the application, or by asking for a paper application by calling 1-866-NJSAVE-5.

Online and paper applications are available in English and Spanish.

DHS also is raising awareness of the NJSave application and connected programs by implementing a Senior Save Navigator Program that will provide outreach, education, and one-to-one application assistance for older adults and individuals with disabilities, particularly among underserved and hard-to-reach populations.

In addition, the Department launched a statewide advertising campaign in March to promote the benefits of the NJSave application. The campaign includes radio and television ads, ads on NJTransit buses and bus shelters, billboards, and notices at hospitals and pharmacies.

“By raising awareness about the resourcefulness of the NJSave application and increasing application assistance, we hope more people will apply so they can start saving,” said Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire. 

For more information about NJSave or other programs made available through DHS, visit them online by clicking here.

DOVER — A former official from New York and New Jersey Jails has been hired to address significant issues in Dover, including security, staffing, and administrative challenges that Mayor James Dodd describes as “mind-boggling” and straining the town’s budget.

The Town Council convened a closed session on Tuesday evening before reconvening to vote on the hiring of Ronald Edwards.

Edwards, who previously served as a deputy commissioner of administration for the New York City Department of Corrections and oversaw Hudson County’s 2,100-bed jail in Kearny, comes with a wealth of experience in corrections.

Mayor Dodd highlighted the necessity of this position, emphasizing the need for expertise in addressing the complex issues facing the town. He admitted his limitations in handling these challenges and expressed confidence in Edwards’ ability to provide solutions.

Dover faced alarming financial findings in February, with auditors deeming its 2022 financial reports the worst they had ever seen. The town council, led by Dodd, took measures to address the deficit, including approving a $3 million loan earlier this year, given the town’s budget had reached $30.2 million in the previous year.

Council Member Karol Ruiz suggested postponing the vote on the resolution to hire Edwards, citing inadequate time for the council to assess his background.

Ruiz expressed concern that the council received Edwards’ resume late in the evening, around 10:30 p.m., without any accompanying minutes from the interview committee’s meetings. She highlighted the lack of transparency regarding the interview process and emphasized the need for more time to evaluate the candidate and his qualifications adequately.

Dover is a community,” Council Member Ruiz emphasized, noting that oversight from the county and state already ensures local officials’ compliance with professional standards.

“We are not a jail,” Ruiz reiterated, underlining the distinction between Dover’s municipal functions and those of a correctional facility.

Council Member Sandra Wittner echoed Ruiz’s concerns. However, the motion lacked a second and therefore did not proceed.

The town council approved Dodd’s resolution to appoint Ronald Edwards to a newly created role as the Director of Professional Standards, Accountability, and Cybersecurity.

The resolution passed with a vote of 7-1-1, with Ruiz voting no and Wittner abstaining.