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Dover Mayor Exposes Secret Police Phone Recordings, Demands Full Investigation

By
Frank Cahill
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Dover officials revealed that municipal phone lines have been secretly recorded without notice, raising legal and ethical concerns. Town Administrator and Chief Financial Officer Dr. Ed Ramirez, Mayor Dodd, and Municipal Attorney Ramon Rivera confirmed the discovery, announcing state and county investigations into possible violations of New Jersey’s wiretapping laws.

DOVER — The Town of Dover is facing serious questions after officials confirmed municipal phone lines were being secretly recorded and stored without public knowledge. Mayor James Dodd announced that state and county investigators have been notified, calling the practice a potential violation of New Jersey’s wiretapping laws and a breach of public trust.

Mayor James P. Dodd said, “Good afternoon, I’m here today with our Town Administrator and Chief Financial Officer Dr. Ed Ramirez and also with our Municipal Attorney Ramon Rivera. The Town of Dover has recently become aware through an open public records request of a deeply concerning issue involving the recording of telephone calls made to and from town phone lines. Yesterday the Dover Police Department confirmed they are recording and storing all telephone conversations not only within Town Hall, but also across other municipal offices outside of Town Hall.

As Mayor, I was not aware of this until yesterday. This revelation is alarming as these recordings appear to violate the New Jersey Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Control Act, NJSA 2A:156A-1, which is a law that regulates how and when an electronic interception of communications may be conducted by the government, including law enforcement. The lack of notice by the Dover Police Department to Town employees and residents that the phone lines were being recorded raises serious legal and ethical concerns as well as questions of accountability.

Immediately upon confirmation of this practice, our Business Administrator and Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Ed Ramirez, notified both the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office requesting a full and thorough investigation. These agencies have been formally alerted and we have requested that investigations be immediately commenced and actions be taken. Specifically, we would like to know how this system was implemented, who authorized it, and whether it violates state and federal law.

This administration is determined to restore the public trust by confronting the problem directly, cooperating fully with the investigating authorities, and implementing reforms to ensure it cannot happen again. While these investigations are underway, residents should be aware that calls placed to town phone numbers may be recorded by the existing system. We are taking steps to suspend the recordings and an entire review of the system will be conducted, but until that process is complete, the possibility of recordings remains.

We want to be upfront and forthcoming with our residents so that everyone is aware when calling our municipal offices. As Mayor, I am committed to ensuring that Dover operates with full transparency and accountability. The people of Dover deserve honesty and openness and I will keep the community informed every step of the way.

This matter is being taken with the utmost seriousness and for those responsible, we expect them to be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Should you have any questions pertaining to this matter, please contact 973-366-2200. Thank you.

Lakeland Hills YMCA and Juventus Team Up for Community Soccer Fun

By
Frank Cahill
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Soccer, smiles, and teamwork

MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, in collaboration with Juventus Academy New Jersey, invites local families to take part in Juventus Open Days—a series of exciting, soccer-themed community events for children ages 3–10.

These free, public events offer families a great way to get active, make new connections, and experience the joy of soccer—regardless of skill level.

Each Juventus Open Day features:

  • Interactive soccer games and skill challenges
  • Meet-and-greets with Juventus Academy coaches and staff
  • YMCA giveaways
  • Insights into youth development and community wellness

Event Schedule

Montville / Pine Brook
Saturday, September 20
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Woodmont Elementary School, 39 Woodmont Road, Pine Brook, NJ 07058
Rain Date: Saturday, September 27

Mountain Lakes
Saturday, October 11
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Halsey Field (behind YMCA), 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
Rain Date: TBD

Parsippany-Troy Hills
Sunday, November 2
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Central Park of Morris County – Field #1, 1 Governor Chris Christie Drive, Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ 07950
Rain or Shine

Bring your friends and join us for a fun-filled day of play, teamwork, and youth empowerment. Whether your child is new to soccer or already loves the game, there’s something for everyone.

To register or learn more, visit: www.lakelandhillsymca.com

Unity Bank Opens New Madison Branch with Community Celebrations

By
Frank Cahill
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MADISON — Unity Bank will officially open its new Madison branch on Tuesday, September 2,, and is inviting the community to join in two celebratory grand opening events later this month.

The branch, located at 265 Main Street, will host festivities on Saturday, September 13 and Saturday, September 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Both family-friendly events will include:

  • Free donuts, hot chocolate, and hot cider from the Glazed & Confused food truck
  • Free children’s face and hand painting by Face Art by Jan

In addition, attendees will have the chance to enter drawings for a $1,000 VISA gift card and a special Unity Bank Hot Air Balloon Ride gift certificate.

Unity Bank will also offer exclusive promotions for new account openings throughout September, giving residents a timely opportunity to explore the bank’s financial services.

Bank officials say the new Madison branch underscores Unity’s ongoing commitment to expanding access and delivering personalized financial services to communities across New Jersey.

For more information on the Madison branch or the grand opening events, visit Unity Bank’s website or stop by the new location at 265 Main Street after its September 2 opening.

Township of Jefferson Prevails in Court; Case Dismissed

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township Mayor Eric Wilsusen

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Township of Jefferson announced today that the Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris County, has issued a Final Judgment of Dismissal in case MRS-L-001085-25, formally ending litigation brought against the Township on May 18, 2025, by a self-proclaimed citizen group, Concerned Citizens for a Better Jefferson. The Court filed its decision on August 22, 2025, denying the Order to Show Cause and granting the Township’s motion for dismissal.

Oral arguments and motions filed by both the Township of Jefferson (defendant) and the plaintiff, Concerned Citizens for a Better Jefferson, were heard by the Honorable Judge Stuart Minkowitz in Morris County Superior Court on July 7, 2025.

This ruling by Judge Minkowitz confirms that the Township and the named defendants acted appropriately within the law, dismissing all counts regarding alleged violations of the Township Salary Ordinance, the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), and the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) in their entirety. With the plaintiffs’ motions denied and the case dismissed, the matter is now fully resolved in favor of Jefferson Township, sparing its taxpayers from prolonged, unnecessary, and expensive litigation. 

Within Judge Minkowitz’s 20-page Final Judgement of Dismissal, he found that the plaintiff(s) lacked legal standing in the matters before the Court. It was revealed that Concerned Citizens for a Better Jefferson was not a “duly formed organization.”. It appears this made-up name was intentionally created to conceal the identity of the actual plaintiff(s). During and after the July 7 oral arguments, the plaintiff’s attorney attempted to amend the lawsuit by adding a single individual, identified in filings as Robert Vander Ploeg, Jr.

Mayor Eric F. Wilsusen issued the following statement: “As I said publicly on June 3, public trust is essential. My administration takes community concerns seriously and operates with transparency and accountability, while vigorously defending against claims we believe are inaccurate or mischaracterized. I believed then—and am even more certain now—that this civil action was politically motivated, designed to embarrass me and my administration for future political ambitions. 

As Mayor, I was confident from the start that no laws were violated by my Administration or by the Township Clerk’s office. Sadly, both the Township Administrator and the Township Clerk were also named personally in the civil suit, causing them unnecessary and undue stress from the pending litigation. What is troubling is this initial anonymous filing by the alleged concerned group—claiming to act in the interest of taxpayers—ultimately cost Jefferson taxpayers approximately $15,000–$20,000 or more, in direct and indirect costs, legal fees, and staff time, to defend what the Court found ultimately to be a baseless lawsuit. A final tally of costs is being conducted. That is time and money that should have been spent on real Township priorities. 

I would like to sincerely thank the many residents who have reached out to offer their support throughout this matter. I am disappointed that some jumped to premature conclusions before all the facts were revealed. 

Since my election in 2018, and even more importantly over my 40+ years in public service to our community, I have remained committed to serving our community with integrity, and I will continue to do so.”. 

In the interest of transparency, all court documents related to this case are available for public reviewed by clicking here.

First Memorial Presbyterian Church Launches New Youth Group in Dover

By
Frank Cahill
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First Memorial Presbyterian Church in Dover is launching a new Youth Group for 6th–12th graders, with the first meeting set for Saturday, September 6, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at 51 W. Blackwell Street.

DOVER — First Memorial Presbyterian Church is opening its doors to area youth with the launch of a brand-new Youth Group designed for students in grades 6 through 12. The group welcomes young people of all faiths and backgrounds and will hold its first meeting on Saturday, September 6, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the church, located at 51 W. Blackwell Street, Dover.

The new Youth Group is centered around the theme “Love God, Love Your Neighbor” and will focus on mission-driven community projects. Planned activities include preparing meals for the local soup kitchen, collecting food for the food pantry, and organizing town cleanups.

“We want to give young people the opportunity to make a difference in their community while building friendships and learning the importance of service,” said church leaders in announcing the program.

The group is open to all area youth, offering a safe and welcoming space for students to come together, grow in their faith, and give back to the community.

For more information about the Youth Group or upcoming activities, contact First Memorial Presbyterian Church at (973) 361-2126.

Falafel Looking for a Loving Home After Rescue from Puppy Mill

By
Frank Cahill
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Falafel, a gentle 9-year-old Havanese, is hoping to find her forever home. This sweet and sensitive small pup is ready to share her love with a caring family.

MORRIS COUNTY — Falafel, a quiet and gentle Havanese, is hoping to find her forever home after being rescued from a life of neglect in a commercial puppy mill. Born on October 15, 2016, Falafel spent her early years as a breeding dog, never knowing the warmth of a loving home or the joy of being part of a family.

When her breeders decided she was no longer useful, they planned to discard her. Thankfully, WISE Animal Rescue stepped in, giving Falafel the chance to start a new chapter. Since coming into their care, she has been learning what it feels like to be safe, cared for, and loved.

Falafel is described as a sweet, sensitive soul who thrives in calm, quiet environments. She loves curling up in a soft bed, cozying in quiet corners, and being near her humans. While still a little nervous when picked up, once in your arms she relaxes and enjoys affection. A patient adopter willing to go at her pace will be the perfect match.

She does best with mellow dogs who give her space and would be most comfortable in a home with children ages 10 and older. Though her past was difficult, Falafel is a quick learner. She is doing well with potty training, has begun learning stairs, and continues to build confidence each day.

“Falafel is the perfect companion for someone looking for a quiet, low-energy, and deeply loving dog,” said representatives from WISE Animal Rescue. “With patience and love, she will continue to flourish and become the loyal companion she was always meant to be.”

Families interested in adopting Falafel can apply through WiseAnimalRescue.org

. WISE adopts to families in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maine, Vermont, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, Washington D.C., Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.

For those unable to adopt, donations in support of Falafel and other rescue dogs may also be made through the WISE website. WISE is entirely volunteer-run, and every dollar donated goes directly back to the animals in their care. By partnering with veterinary practices that support their mission, WISE is able to save animals’ lives and restore them to health. While some animals need only routine care, many others require extensive medical treatment or behavioral support to heal from years of neglect.

Adopting from WISE is not only about finding the right companion but also about sustaining a program that rescues dogs like Falafel from tragic situations. Regardless of which dog an applicant is interested in, WISE asks adopters to support their program with a minimum donation of $850. This contribution may not be applied solely to the dog being adopted but instead supports the rescue’s work for all animals. These donations ensure that WISE can continue its mission of rehabilitation and rescue, offering every animal in their care a second chance at life.

WISE representatives remind potential adopters to keep this commitment in mind before applying. “Every adoption helps fund our mission, and every donation directly impacts the lives of the animals we rescue,” the group noted. “It is through this partnership with adopters, donors, and our community that we can continue to save dogs like Falafel.”

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, September 2025. Click here to view the magazine.

Judge Minkowitz Issues Final Judgment in Jefferson Township Lawsuit

By
Frank Cahill
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Debra J. Milliken, Business Administrator for Jefferson Township, seated at her desk in Township offices.

JEFFERSON — Morris County Superior Court Dismisses Lawsuit Filed by Concerned Citizens for a Better Jefferson.

The legal battle between the nonprofit group Concerned Citizens for a Better Jefferson and the Township of Jefferson has come to a definitive end. On Friday, August 22, 2025, the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division, Morris County, issued a Final Judgment of Dismissal in the matter docketed as MRS-L-001085-25.

The ruling, signed by Hon. Stuart A. Minkowitz, A.J.S.C., officially denied the Order to Show Cause and granted the Township’s motion for dismissal, effectively closing the case and rendering all pending motions moot.

Background of the Case

The lawsuit, originally filed earlier this year, alleged multiple violations tied to Jefferson Township’s adoption of the 2025–2028 collective bargaining agreement (CBA) for white-collar employees. Concerned Citizens for a Better Jefferson claimed that the Township had:

  • Implemented the CBA without properly adhering to Ordinance #21-25, the Township’s salary ordinance.
  • Approved salaries for employees, including Business Administrator Debra Milliken at $163,000 and Police Chief Paul Castimore at $226,376, that exceeded salary caps set by ordinance.
  • Failed to provide timely public access to the CBA despite formal Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests.
  • Violated the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) by adopting resolutions without proper notice or supporting documentation.

The complaint named the Township of Jefferson, Business Administrator Debra Milliken, and Municipal Clerk Michele Reilly as defendants.

Court’s Decision

After months of review, Judge Minkowitz determined that the claims did not warrant further action and dismissed the case in its entirety. The judgment, signed and filed on August 22, 2025, ends the legal challenge under this docket number.

While the specifics of the court’s reasoning were not detailed in the dismissal, the ruling underscores the weight courts place on procedural requirements and adherence to legal standards in civil litigation.

Closing the Record

With the dismissal granted, the matter is now considered resolved, ensuring no further litigation will proceed under this case. For Jefferson Township officials, the outcome closes a chapter of scrutiny over transparency and salary law compliance. For Concerned Citizens for a Better Jefferson, the dismissal marks the end of their effort to legally challenge the Township’s handling of employee agreements.

Thomaso Skorupski Remembered for His Warmth, Humor, and Kindness

By
Frank Cahill
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Thomaso “Tom” Skorupski, Cherished Husband and Friend, Dies at 56

FLORHAM PARK — Thomaso “Tom” Skorupski, 56, of Florham Park, passed away on August 14, 2025, due to chronic respiratory distress. Born on November 2, 1968, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Tom’s journey was filled with milestones that reflected both his dedication to healing and his love for music. 

Tommy was known for his kindness, sense of humor, compassion, and passionate, soulful spirit. Earning his medical and pharmacology degrees, he devoted his career to helping others as an addiction psychiatrist and pain management doctor, offering care touched with genuine warmth and empathy. A gifted musician, Tom found joy in playing drums with friends in hardcore bands around the world, believing deeply in music’s power to connect and heal. 

Tom was the beloved husband of Monica Rodriguez, and a cherished stepfather to his daughters. He will be forever missed by his brother, Charles Skorupski, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. 

Tom was resilient throughout his life—always meeting challenges with a smile, bringing light and laughter to those around him. He will always be remembered for his wonderful warmth, his ever-present smile, and his huge capacity to love. His absence will be felt always. 

May his soul rest peacefully, surrounded by the rhythm he so loved.

A memorial service will be held at a later date, please check back for information. 

Donations can be made in Thomaso’s name to the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter Mt. Pleasant, 194 Route 10 West,Tel: 973-386-0590Web: njshelter.org/support-us/memorial-honorariums/

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Thomaso Skorupski, please visit our Tree Store.

Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional Celebrates Charter Night

By
Anikait Sota
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Secretary Meghan Gilmore, Lt. Governor Division 7 Nicolas Limanov, President Andrew Lanskey, and Treasurer Nathan Vaisbort at the Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional Charter Night held at the Florham Park Diner.

FLORHAM PARK — The Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional celebrated its official charter night on Thursday, August 21, at the Florham Park Diner, marking the beginning of a new chapter of service in the community.

The evening brought together charter members, local leaders, and guests who gathered to recognize the club’s commitment to the Kiwanis mission: serving the children of the world, one community at a time.

With 17 dedicated charter members, the club already demonstrates a strong foundation of leadership and service. Their first project, a food drive benefitting the Interfaith Food Pantry, set the tone for the club’s commitment to making an immediate impact in Hanover, East Hanover, Florham Park, and beyond.

The Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional’s first service project — a successful food drive supporting the Interfaith Food Pantry — demonstrates the new club’s immediate commitment to serving children and families in Hanover, East Hanover, Florham Park, and beyond.

The club, sponsored by the nearby Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, begins its journey with 17 charter members: Andrew Lanskey, Brenda Castelli, Meghan Gilmore, Renee Clemente, Elizabeth Ceravolo, Marco Pagliuca, Andrew Blind, Christian Passione, Benjamin Kirkwood, Stanley Zaborowski, Nicholas Porfirro, Eddie Sych, Roman Petrocelli, PhD, Pete Newman, Nathan Vaisbort, Linda Kemper, and Jonathan Vargas.

During the evening, speakers reflected on the importance of service, leadership, and building connections across the Kiwanis family. Attendees shared enthusiasm for the opportunities this new club will create for children and families in the region.

The charter night not only celebrated the club’s formation but also underscored the passion and energy its members bring to strengthening their community. As one of the newest additions to the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, the Hanover Regional club is already positioned to grow into a vital force for positive change.

“You are beginning this journey at an exciting time. Across the world, Kiwanis clubs are tackling challenges that seem overwhelming—childhood poverty, hunger, mental health, literacy. And yet, time and time again, Kiwanians rise to meet those challenges. Why? Because we know that big change always begins with small acts of service, multiplied by people with passion. Hanover Regional now becomes part of that force for good. You bring new energy, new ideas, and new hope to our District and to Kiwanis International,” said NJ District Kiwanis International Governor Martin Slezak.

Governor-Elect Frank Cahill and NJ District Kiwanis International Governor Martin Slezak present the official charter to Hanover Regional President Andrew Lanskey

“As Governor-Elect, I could not be more proud to welcome the Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional into our New Jersey District family. Your commitment to service is already evident, and I know you will make a meaningful difference in Hanover, East Hanover, Florham Park, and beyond. Remember, Kiwanis is not just about what we do—it’s about the friendships we form, the lives we touch, and the legacy we build together. Tonight is only the beginning, and I look forward to working alongside you as we grow and serve the children of the world,” added Governor-Elect Frank Cahill.

“As President of this new club, I am honored to stand alongside such a dedicated group of charter members who share a common vision of service. We may be a newly formed club, but our passion for helping children and supporting families is already strong. Together, we are ready to roll up our sleeves and make a lasting difference right here in Hanover, East Hanover, and Florham Park. This is just the beginning of what we hope will be many years of service and friendship,” said Andrew Lanskey, President of the Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional.

For more information, click here.

Statewide Program Awards Morris Plains Police Fifth Accreditation

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris Plains Police Set Standard With Consecutive Accreditation

MORRIS PLAINS — At the August 21, 2025 Council meeting, the Morris Plains Police Department was officially presented with its fifth consecutive accreditation, an honor that places the department among just 3.6% of New Jersey law enforcement agencies with this distinction.

This recognition reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to professionalism, transparency, and community safety. The accreditation was awarded through the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) Accreditation Program, a voluntary, statewide initiative designed to enhance accountability and operational effectiveness in policing.

The NJSACOP program is built upon more than 112 standards of excellence aligned with directives from the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office. To achieve accreditation, agencies must undergo a comprehensive self-assessment followed by an independent review conducted by trained assessors to confirm compliance.

Officials credited the award to the collective efforts of the entire police department. “Without the dedication and professionalism of every member of the agency, this prestigious achievement would not have been possible,” said department leaders. Special recognition was also given to Sgt. Rolph, the accreditation manager, for his tireless work ensuring outstanding reviews during each accreditation cycle.

With its fifth consecutive accreditation, the Morris Plains Police Department reaffirms its standing as a leader in law enforcement excellence across New Jersey.

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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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