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Message from Morris County Freeholder Tayfun Selen

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Tayfun Selen

MORRIS COUNTY — Message from Morris County Freeholder Tayfun Selen:

I am Freeholder Tayfun Selen – and I’m as fed up with JCP&L as you are. On Tuesday, a tropical storm impacted 150,000 Morris County customers. Five days later, there are still 31,000 customers in Morris County without power.

Yes, it was a bad storm.  But this is unacceptable and people must be held accountable.

As we speak, 64% of Harding customers without power, 34% of Boonton, 28% of Chatham Township, 33% of Denville, 30% of Lincoln Park, 51% of Mendham Borough, half the town, 23% of Morris Township, 22% of Randolph Township, 21% of Montville, also are without power.

People who need electricity for their medical equipment were put at risk. Untold amounts of milk and groceries have gone bad.

A real hardship for seniors on a fixed income or a single mom working multiple minimum wage jobs to make ends meet.

These are real consequences of JCP&Ls failure.

Folks, a utility company that made over $380 million in profit as of June 30 needs to step up and make this right and the BPU should demand it if they don’t.

CEO Charles Jones, who lives in Ohio, by the way, needs to answer for why more of those profits haven’t been invested back into infrastructure improvements in Morris County and other parts of New Jersey. If he can’t answer that question to the satisfaction of his customers – like you and me – he should resign and JCP&L should put someone in charge who is accountable.

Enough is enough. Every time there is a storm, Morris County residents lose power for days.

JCPL its time to get your act together. New leadership. New strategy.

I am not only asking for the resignation of your CEO, but I am also asking for a refund of the utility bills of Morris County residents for July and August. Morris County residents are going thru this nonsense far too long.

If you would like to reach out to me, my cell phone number is (973) 222-0484.

Thank you!
Tayfun Selen
Morris County Freeholder

Morris County Has Cleared 14 Major County Roads Blocked by Isaias Debris

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Office of Emergency Management announced the re-opening of 14 major county roads that were still closed or partially closed this morning due to debris and power wires downed by Tropical Storm Isaias on Tuesday.

Storm Damage in hard-hit Harding Township
Work continues on seven other county roads that remain completely closed and two additional county streets that are partially blocked. The streets were impacted by both downed trees or limbs and fallen power lines, requiring county crews to work closely with JCP&L and other utility companies to be certain the power lines were not live before beginning any clearance of the debris.

“At this time we are down to seven full closures and two partial closures. JCP&L and the other utilities have been making good progress today. A transformer fire caused some major damage to the pavement on Center Grove Road, Randolph, north of Route 10. JCP&L is still working to repair the utility damage,” said Jeff Paul, Director of the Morris County Office of Emergency Management

When work began this morning, 15 roads were completely shut down and another 8 were partially closed. OEM anticipated some of the remaining streets may be cleared by the end of the day.

The county roads that remain impacted include:

Closed Roads
· Harding Twp: Long Hill Road at Lees Hill and Pleasantville Road
· Long Hill Twp: Long Hill Road Myersville and Broadview Road
· Long Hill Twp: Lees Hill Road at Longhill at Youngs Road
· Long Hill Twp: Spring Valley Road at Loantaka Lane and Village Road
· Mendham Boro: Tempe Wyck Road at Leddell Road and Jocky Hollow Road
· Randolph Twp: Center Grove and Quaker Church
· Rockaway Boro: Academy Street

Partially Closed Roads (One Lane Open)
· Montville Twp: Main Road #243
· Roxbury Twp: Center Street at JCP&L substation

Murphy Announces Emergency Grant Funding Program to Assist Small Landlords and Tenants

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Governor Phil Murphy. Photo by Rich Hundley III, Trentonian

MORRIS COUNTY — As part of the Administration’s coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Phil Murphy and Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver today announced the creation of the Small Landlord Emergency Grant Program. The program, administered by the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, will provide emergency grant funding to small property owners for COVID-19 related decreases in rent revenue for a four-month period between April and July 2020.

Funded through the CARES Act, grant amounts will be generated based on the total amount of missed rental payments and the number of COVID-impacted rental units that serve low- and moderate-income tenants.

Landlords who receive assistance will be required to pass along benefits to their tenants by forgiving back rent and late fees accumulated by COVID-19 impacted units.

“To emerge stronger from this crisis, we need to make direct investments in our hardest-hit neighborhoods and communities,” said Governor Murphy. “Ensuring that responsible landlords can continue to maintain their properties and provide quality housing to our tenants is essential to our recovery. Through this program, we can also provide direct support to COVID-impacted renters by forgiving back-rent.”

We know that many of New Jersey’s landlords are not companies or corporations. Rather, they are families and individuals. And like the families they rent to, they are struggling because they are often locked out of access to capital and federal resources,” said Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver, who serves at Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and Chair of the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) Board. “The number one priority of this program is to offer much-needed relief to small landlords, who will in turn pass along the benefits to their tenants who are also fighting to stay afloat in the midst of this ongoing public health and economic crisis.”

“No family should be without a home, especially in a national pandemic. Approximately 30% of all New Jersey renters and 27% of low- and moderate-income renters live in 3-10 unit buildings. We have designed this grant program to ensure that our most vulnerable renters and landlords get the help that they need,” said Charles A. Richman, Executive Director of the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency. “At NJHMFA, our mission to ensure safe and equitable housing for every resident of New Jersey has never been more critical than during this crisis. These dollars will have an increased impact on securing financial sustainability for New Jersey’s families. HMFA is enormously proud to provide this assistance to landlords and tenants and thankful for Governor Murphy and Lt. Governor Oliver’s championing of this program.”

“No one should lose the roof over their head or their business because we failed to act during this crisis,” said Congressman Andy Kim. “I voted to pass the CARES Act because we needed bold action to help get our communities through this pandemic, and I’m proud to see programs like this being set up that will help our neighbors stay on their feet during these tough times.”

“This funding from the CARES Act will ensure that small landlords are able to maintain their livelihoods and support their families and that tenants do not lose their homes during a pandemic,” said Congressman Tom Malinowski. “I will continue to fight in Congress to bring federal resources home to help struggling New Jerseyans get through this crisis.”

One-third of program funds will be reserved for applicants who are registered in DCA’s RIMS database as individual or family owners. Qualified applicants must meet the following specifications:

  • Owners with properties that have at least 3 but no more than 10 total housing units;
  • Owners with properties that are not seasonal or vacation rentals;
  • Properties must have current fire inspection certificates as of March 9, 2020;
  • Owners of properties with at least one non-vacant rental unit impacted by COVID-19 between April and July 2020; and
  • Owners with properties that have low- to moderate-income rent levels or rent based on up to 80% of the median area income.

Applications must be submitted between August 19 at 9:00 a.m. and August 26 at 1:00 p.m. to be considered. Grant funding will be allocated on a case by case basis, based on the number of COVID-impacted units, and the amount of missed rent. Applicants must be the Primary Property Owner of residential rental property in New Jersey and be registered with DCA’s Bureau of Housing Inspection as of July 17, 2020. Applicants can check here to see if their property is registered.

For more information on the Small Landlord Emergency Grant Program click here.

Live Streaming of Ballot Positions

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq.

MORRIS COUNTY — On Monday, August 10, 2020, Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq. will merge the old with the new through the use of innovation and modern technology by live-streaming the drawing of ballot positions to comply with the statutory requirement of a public “witnessing”.

“Due to the Covid-19 restrictions inviting the public into the building to witness the drawing is prohibited. To comply with the statutory requirement and offer a very real-time view of the workings of election law, the use of innovation and modern technology allowed us to create a new pathway for compliance and permitted accessibility to a broader public audience,” said Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq.

The Morris County Clerk’s Office invites all who are interested in witnessing the drawing for ballot positions to visit their Facebook page for the live stream at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, August 10. Please stay safe and healthy. We will get through this together.

Meet Carmelo! Gorgeous Caramel Coat and Bright Brown Eyes Waiting for You

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — Meet Carmelo! He is a 10-year-old Pit Bull Lab mix. He has a gorgeous caramel coat and bright brown eyes that add to his gentle soul.

He is laid-back and calm. He prefers to sleep in a comfy, cool spot during the day, or go explore the backyard and lay in the shade with a nice breeze.

He has had a rough start to life. He was abandoned at a garbage site eating scraps until animal control found him. He is very frightened which has to do with his neglect and abuse from his previous owner. Despite this, he is becoming trusting towards people.

Melo comes out of his shell whenever another dog is around. His tail wags immediately and he tries to give his new doggy friend kisses! He would greatly benefit from having a confident friend who will show him the ropes in his new home.

He is mostly house trained and doesn’t mind being left in a crate. He walks nicely on a leash and loves to smell new scents on his walks! Melo would do best in a quiet home with kids above the age of 16.

With time and patience, Melo will warm up to you and show how much of a sweet boy he is. He will always accept the love you have to offer. He will gently rest his head in your lap and drift to sleep, followed by his soft snores!

Since he is an older gentleman, he is looking for a home that will keep him in comfort for the rest of his golden years. His spine is unfortunately arthritic and causes him pain so his activity is low. He has been through so much and needs a place where he can relax and receive unconditional love.

Carmelo’s name comes from his beautiful coat and mellow disposition. He is also as sweet as a Caramel treat! He is eager to find a family that will show him the good things life has to offer!

If you are interested in adopting or fostering, please fill out an application by clicking here.

Follow on Instagram: Click here.
Like on Facebook: Click here.

 

Morris Plains Power Outage Status as of August 6

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS PLAINS — The Community Center will be open again today from 10:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. for cooling and device charging. This will continue until power is restored. Please remember to practice social distancing and bring masks if possible, if not one will be provided. Temperatures will also be taken prior to entering the Community Center.

For NON-EMERGENCY police assistance call (973) 538-3993 between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Mayor Jason Karr has been in contact with Mikie Sherrill’s office, Governor Murphy’s office, Assemblyman Weber’s office, JCP&L representatives and local leaders regarding the lack of response. After many conversations with these state and local leaders, there is now a JCP&L representative assessing damage in the Borough with repairs hopefully soon.
To register a complaint with the BPU (Board of Public Utilities) you can call their Customer Assistance helpline at (800) 624-0241 or (609) 341-9188.
For updated information on current outages, FirstEnergy’s storm restoration process, and tips for staying safe, visit the 24/7 Power Center by clicking here.
You can also contact JCP&L at the following phone numbers:
Customer Service: 1-800-662-3115
Outage Reporting: 1-800 544-4877
Up to date information from FireEnergy’s website:

Morris County Freeholders Share ‘Frustration’ In Storm Recovery

By
Frank Cahill
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0
A scene in Mountain Lakes with trees and powerlines down

MORRIS COUNTY — The following statement is being issued on behalf of the entire Morris County Freeholders by Freeholder Director Deborah Smith:

“At the outset, you should know we share your frustration over what seems to be an inordinate delay in reopening our roads and restoring power to many neighborhoods. What you need to know is that our county Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is actively working with utilities and first responders in all 39 towns to expedite the recovery.

Freeholder Director Deborah Smith

“In a phone conference this morning, including OEM, local police and emergency officials, JCP&L reported that of the 150,000 Morris County customers impacted by the storm on Tuesday, 92,361 remain without power. By this afternoon, JCP&L reported they got that down to 84,622 customers.

“The utility explained Morris County was the third hardest-hit county in the state and said the key to restoring power and clearing roads is the ongoing repair work JCP&L is conducting at multiple substations that were knocked out by Isaias.

“Today, as in previous daily phone conferences, local police and officials expressed frustration with Verizon and JCP&L, especially regarding downed trees, poles, and wires that have isolated entire communities. As this situation unfolds, we want to assure you that our county OEM is in constant contact with all local first responders, who are relaying their priority lists of road closures, water supply interruption, sewer interruption, power outages and potential hazards in every neighborhood in every town.

“OEM has been providing each town in need with additional generators to keep major facilities operating, coordinating the clean-up effort, and enlisting the Morris County Sheriff’s Office to provide equipment and manpower to every town in need of support.

“Many towns have set up “cooling stations” for people in need of water and ice, while emergency officials and the county Human Services Department are keeping in direct contact with every hospital, care facility, and senior complex in our county.

“Due to the COVID pandemic, our Human Services Department already developed a process of checking on our most vulnerable populations. But today our OEM reminded each town to conduct their own welfare-checks on vulnerable citizens who may require emergency services, particularly those without power who may need to relocate to the homes of family and friends.

“Our Morris Area Paratransit System (MAPS) is active and available to vulnerable Morris County residents who may need to relocate. Additionally, anyone in need of assistance is being urged to dial 211. Because police and fire departments are focused on keeping residents safe and resolving dangerous situations, please do not dial 911 unless you face a life-threatening emergency.

“While the power outages and road closures are troubling for many families, all of us in Morris County have successfully pulled through similar situations in the past, including Hurricane Irene, the October 2011 Snowstorm and Superstorm Sandy because we have worked together, remained calm and provided our first responders with the resources necessary to restore our community to normalcy.

“Please rest assured, we will get beyond this crisis.’’

The Morris County Board of Freeholders includes Director Deborah Smith, Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Doug Cabana, Kathy DeFillippo, John Krickus, Tom Mastrangelo, and Tayfun Selen.

Parsippany Resident Charged with DWI in Hanover Township

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Officer Josh Williams arrested Ms. Rachel Grant, 28, Parsippany, for DWI, on Monday, July 29.

Ms. Grant was originally stopped for a motor vehicle violation when it was determined she was intoxicated.

Ms. Grant was charged with possession of CDS and drug paraphernalia. She was also issued summonses for DWI, failure to follow the marked course, failure to maintain lane, failure to keep right, possession of CDS in a motor vehicle, reckless, careless, failure to signal, failure to yield, tailgating, speeding, and failure to stop for an emergency vehicle.

She was released to a friend pending her court date.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

 

 

Jared Feldman Left Dog In Sweltering Car; Charged With Animal Cruelty

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Hanover Township Police Officer Dan Acquaro charged Mr. Jared Feldman, 18, Morristown with animal cruelty, on Monday, July 27.

Officer Acquaro responded to the Lowe’s Home Improvement parking lot, 230 East Hanover Avenue, for a report of a dog being left inside a vehicle with no water.

Upon arrival, Officer Acquaro located the vehicle and observed the dog locked inside the vehicle with the windows only slightly rolled down.

The temperature outside at the time was 97 degrees.

After approximately 30 minutes, the owner of the vehicle responded from inside Lowes.

The dog was provided water and appeared to be ok but was panting heavily due to the heat. Mr. Feldman was mailed a summons with a court date.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Juvenile Caught With Stolen Vehicle from Summit Avenue

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Hanover Township Police Officer Matt Garrison arrested a juvenile for a motor vehicle theft, on Wednesday, July 22.

The juvenile was originally stopped for a motor vehicle violation and during the stop, Officer Garrison noticed a black ski hat, latex gloves, and a single ignition key.

After an investigation, it was determined that the juvenile had stolen the vehicle from a resident on Summit Avenue in Cedar Knolls. There were also several car burglaries that occurred on Summit Avenue and Grand Avenue that are believed to have been committed by the same juvenile that was in custody for the stolen car.

The juvenile was charged with theft of a motor vehicle and burglary. He was also issued motor vehicle summonses for driving without a license, careless, driving without lights on, and operating a motor vehicle without consent.

The juvenile was transported to the Morris County Juvenile Detention Center pending his court date.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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