Borough News Room

COVID-19 AWARENESS MESSAGE FROM MAYOR ROBERT H. CONLEY

Madison, NJ – March 10, 2020 – Mayor Conley and the Borough Council recognize that residents are concerned and may be experiencing feelings of uncertainty and fear about the growing number of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases that have been reported in the United States, as well as the recently reported presumptive positive cases within New Jersey. We would like to assure all residents that we are working diligently within Madison, in conjunction with county and state partners, to respond to the public health threat posed by this virus.

Last week, Mayor Conley convened a strategic preparedness meeting in regards to CONVID-19 with key stakeholders throughout the Borough to discuss preparation and response strategies, as the situation changes every day. Attendees included the Madison Health Department, Madison Office of Emergency Management, Drew University, Madison Public Schools, St. Vincent Martyr School and the Madison YMCA. Working closely in coordination with our local Health Department and Office of Emergency Management, we are prepared and ready to respond should the virus emerge in Madison. Members of our first responders (police, fire and ems) are routinely trained, and complete frequent emergency response drills of this nature. In communication with Morris County and local area hospitals, ample volunteers and first responders are prepared to assist in the event of an emergency.

Simple steps that you can take to prevent the spread of the flu and common cold will also help prevent COVID-19:

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer;
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands;
Avoid contact with people who are sick;
Stay home while you are sick and avoid contact with others;
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing;
Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces.

This is not a time to panic, but a time for preparation. We ask that you do your part to help keep Madison safe and healthy.

Please share fact not fear and refer to credible sources like the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the New Jersey Department of Health or Rosenet to obtain updated information on COVID-19. Information from these organizations can easily be found on our COVID-19 update page at www.rosenet.org.

The Council, Administration, Health Department and Office of Emergency Management would like to emphasize that this is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation, but we remain vigilant in providing updated information and guidance as it becomes available.

The safety of all residents is our highest priority, and we assure you that we stand ready to respond should COVID-19 appear in Madison.

For the latest information, please visit our Coronavirus Update page on www.rosenet.org

A PDF of the release can be found here.

LAW ENFORCEMENT ASKS FOR THE PUBLIC’S HELP TO COMBAT CAR THEFT AND CAR BURGLARIES

An Auto Theft Task Force has been created to stop a persistent trend in car thefts and car burglaries in Morris County, as experienced by other counties in northern New Jersey.

Vehicle owners, too, can reduce the thefts and protect their property by following a few simple steps.

In a recent three-day period alone in Morris County, six vehicles were stolen – in Madison, Mountain Lakes, Montville, Mount Olive and Roxbury – including two that were taken in afternoon daylight.

In 2019 in Morris County, 215 vehicles were stolen and another 233 vehicles were burglarized.

In 2018, 227 vehicles were stolen in Morris County and another 231 vehicles were burglarized, with valuables removed, but the vehicles were not removed from the premises.

In the majority of these cases, stolen vehicles have been left unlocked by the owner with a key fob left in the car allowing a thief to immediately drive it away.

Alarmingly, in some incidents in Morris County, suspects have entered victims’ homes by using garage door openers found in unlocked vehicles. Once inside the homes, thieves have been able to locate key fobs and steal cars.

Unlocked vehicles that do not have a key fob inside are also being searched for valuables. In some cases, car burglars have resorted to smashing windows of vehicles parked at gyms, parks, and day care centers and grabbing purses, wallets and other valuables left inside. Bank and credit cards stolen from inside these vehicles are being used in multiple locations, compromising victims’ finances.

Of critical concern to law enforcement is that some vehicles stolen in Morris County have been used to commit violent crimes in other areas, such as shootings, armed robberies and homicide. One incident involved a vehicle stolen from Parsippany that was used in a shooting involving three firearms in Essex County.

High-end makes and models – Mercedes Benz, Lexus, Range Rover, Porsche, Audi and Ford pick-up trucks – are most commonly targeted. But when they are locked, and no key fob is available, other models are targeted.

Communities targeted by thieves are generally close to highways, including Routes 80, 287, 46 and 24. Most of the vehicles have been recovered – 75 percent – but typically are damaged. The stolen vehicles have predominantly been disposed of in Essex County.

Community members are asked to be the first line of defense in preventing car thefts and car burglaries. Law enforcement asks you to take simple, proactive steps

to discourage thieves who roam residential neighborhoods in the dark of night, checking parked vehicles on streets and in driveways to determine whether they are locked.

Vehicles should never be left unlocked.
Never leave a key fob in a vehicle.
Neighbors should watch out for neighbors. Call your neighbor if you see that their car is unlocked or valuables are visible inside the vehicle.
Report any suspicious activity or person.
Call 911 to report crimes in progress.

To further combat this and other issues affecting our community, a multi-agency auto theft/anti-crime task force has been launched to enhance patrols and further investigations of auto theft and other pattern-type crimes. This initiative, first conceptualized by Chief Andrew Caggiano of the Montville Police Department, has come about through a partnership between the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, the Morris County Police Chiefs’ Association, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey State Police Auto Theft Task Force, in coordination with various law enforcement agencies.

“This vital task force will help us identify thieves and stop a stream of offenders from entering Morris County to steal from people when they’re asleep, visiting a gym or store, or when they are out of their home at work. The task force will enable us to conduct immediate investigations, across county lines, in an effort to locate vehicles and hold suspects accountable more quickly,” Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon said.

Montville Township Police Chief Andrew Caggiano said of his call for an Auto Theft Task Force: “In Montville, we are a geographically and economically convenient location. As such, we are experiencing a scourge of vehicle thefts and burglaries. I realized that there is strength in the combining of our forces, and proposed the Auto Theft Task Force.”

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp lauded this initiative, saying, “Chief Caggiano has taken the lead on this effort. However, we need our residents to be vigilant to prevent these crimes.”

Chester Police Chief Thomas Williver, who serves as President of the Morris County Police Chiefs’ Association, said: “We find that by joining agencies and supplying personnel to a task force, we can create a situation of force multiplication. We support Chief Caggiano and all of the Morris County Chiefs whose jurisdictions are affected by this dangerous crime spree. This is intelligence-led policing and will help all of our communities.”

The Newark Police Department also is a partner in the task force, and in February 2020 started its own 90-day pilot program called the Felony Auto Theft Investigative Unit. According to Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose, Newark police as of February 2020 recovered 120 vehicles stolen from other municipalities, with 41 of them, or 34 percent, involved in violent crimes.

Law enforcement is also tapping into technology to communicate with neighborhoods where car thefts or burglaries occur and ask residents to check for surveillance footage that may prove helpful in identifying suspects and other vehicles that may have been involved. Several apps that use home Wi-Fi to alert homeowners to the presence of someone at their door or within range of a security camera can provide a high-density video stream of activity on the exterior of their property.

The critical aspect of this initiative is to partner with members of the community, who are asked to be alert and provide information to law enforcement so that they can target suspects committing crimes in the county. “If you see something, say something.” Not just near your home but anywhere you observe something suspicious.

The Morris County Auto Theft Task Force can be contacted at 973-285-6300 or after hours at 973-285-2900.

Press inquiries may be made to Peggy Wright, Public Information Officer, Morris County Sheriff’s Office. 973-285-6654

STUDENTS TO STAR AT GREEN VISION FORUM

Madison, NJ – March 9, 2020 – The Madison Environmental Commission is holding its third annual Green Vision Forum on Thursday, March 19 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Madison Community Arts Center, 10 Kings Road. Once again, the stars of the evening will be students from Madison’s elementary, junior and high schools, along with college students from Drew University and Fairleigh Dickinson University.

The students will present their ideas for a greener Madison to an audience that includes both parents and town officials—Mayor Robert H. Conley, members of the Borough Council, district administrators and members of the Board of Education

“We want to listen to student voices in Madison and see what we can do to take action,” said Mayor Conley. “At last year’s Green Vision Forum, students presented on the environmental hazards associated with plastic bags - and now we’ve enacted a plastic bag ban. Another presentation on plastic straws led to Madison’s Skip the Straw initiative during Restaurant Week,” continued Conley.

This year, Kirsten Wallenstein will join Renee Shalhoub of the Environmental Commission, who has chaired the Green Vision Forum since it first started three years ago, as her co-chair.

“I’m looking forward to hearing the kids’ ideas and gaining a deeper understanding of what environmental issues Madison cares about,” says Maureen Byrne, Borough Council liaison to the Environmental Commission. “It’s exciting to see this level of enthusiasm from our students and future leaders.”

For more details, please contact the Environmental Commission at MEC@rosenet.org.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

Pictured: Central Avenue School Green Team and Debbie Mantone, Special Education Teacher, are collecting plastic bottle caps to be recycled into park benches. As the students will report, the teams have sorted, cleaned, and weighed 350 pounds of plastic caps. It takes 200 pounds of plastic caps to make one park bench.

BOROUGH OF MADISON RECYCLING CHANGES

Madison, NJ – February 12, 2020 – The Borough of Madison announced important changes to our recycling program that began on January 1, 2020. Starting this year, only plastic containers (bottles and non-bottles) coded 1, 2 and 5 will be accepted for curbside recycling.

Residents are encouraged to look for the recycling symbol on the bottom of plastic containers before disposing of plastic.

Acceptable plastic bottle/containers include the following:

Containers that are coded #1 (PET/PETE, Poly-EthyleneTerephthalate) include water, soda and salad dressing bottles, microwavable food trays, and peanut butter containers;
Containers coded #2 (HDPE, High Density Polyethylene) include milk jugs, shampoo bottles, and butter and yogurt tubs;
Containers coded #5 (PP, Polypropylene) include ketchup and syrup bottles, and some yogurt containers.

These changes to the recycling program are due to restrictions imposed by China on their imported recycling commodities. Due to the restrictions put in place, Madison’s recycling program has been negatively impacted, thus resulting in certain plastic containers no longer being accepted as part of curbside recycling.

Madison’s contract for hauling and recycling was recently re-bid. Due to the restrictions, our hauler for recycling now had to make other arrangements for disposal and recycling of all goods. This has caused garbage and recycling costs for 2020 to go up approximately $322,500.00 for the year. Waste removal, which is the hauling of waste and recycling, cost $1,657,300.00 in 2019. In 2020, that cost has increased by 19.46% to $1,979,800.00 due to the restrictions and lack of facilities within the area accepting recyclables.

Those plastic bottles/containers that are now unacceptable include:

Plastics with no container code (no number in a recycling symbol);
Plastics coded #3 (V, PVC Vinyl), which include cooking oil and mouthwash bottles, clear food packaging, and PVC piping;
Plastics coded #4 (LDPE, Low Density Polyethylene) used in plastic shopping bags and trash bags;
Plastics coded #6 (PS Polystyrene) used in disposable cups, plates, egg cartons, and clamshell take-out containers;
Plastics coded #7 (Other) used in three-to-five gallon water jugs and some food containers.

Recycling materials that will be collected, including plastic bottles and containers coded 1, 2 and 5, include aluminum cans, glass bottles and jars, steel (tin) cans, newspaper, corrugated cardboard, mixed paper, and organics, including leaves, grass clippings, brush, logs, stumps, branches and tree parts.

Residents are reminded to ensure that recyclables are empty and clean before placing them to the curb. Plastic bags are not to be used for curbside recycling as they can be caught in the machinery at the recycling center and cause delays, contamination and increased processing costs. Clean, dry plastic bags should be recycled at local supermarkets. Contaminated materials could result in the entirety of the truck being denied at the recycling center, and cause all of its contents to be brought to a landfill instead.

For additional information, including your recycling/garbage/yard waste collection schedule, and a simple ’What Goes Where?’ feature, download the free Recycle Coach App through the App Store or Google Play

A PDF of the release can be found here.

MADISON ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION ECO TIP FORUM: REDUCING PLASTIC WASTE

Madison, NJ – January 31, 2020 – The Madison Environmental Commission is hosting an Eco Tip Forum to help residents easily reduce plastic waste. The forum will be held on Wednesday, February 12 at 7 pm in the Chase Room of the Madison Public Library, 39 Keep Street.

“Many of our habits are being challenged by Madison’s new recycling rules that limit plastics to #1, #2 and #5 items,” says Claire Whitcomb, Chair of the Madison Environmental Commission. “The March 1 plastic bag ban, which takes place in Madison and the Chathams, will present further challenges. Fortunately, many Madison residents have developed creative, effective ways to reduce their reliance on plastic. We decided to hold a community event so we can all learn from them—and each other.”

At the Eco Tip Forum, Jessica Griffin, a mother of four small children, will talk about packing waste-minimizing lunches; recycling; and small, easy waste reducing steps that make a big impact.

Olga Coman, an expert in essential oils, will share DIY recipes for making cleaning and beauty products—in reusable containers.

Other residents and MEC members will offer tips for plastic-free shopping, foolproof composting and sustainable gift giving.

“This forum couldn’t be timelier,” notes Maureen Byrne, Borough Council liaison to the Environmental Commission. “Madison is going through big changes because the market for recycling has contracted now that China is no longer taking US waste. Recycling used to generate revenue for the Borough, now materials that were formerly recycled add to our trash costs,” continued Byrne.

Residents are invited to bring both questions and solutions, along with any eco products they love—folding metal straws, muslin bags for holding fresh produce, beeswax wrap to replace plastic wrap and more.

Admission is free but seating is limited, so reservations are requested. RSVPs can be made on the Madison Public Library’s website, www.madisonnjlibrary.org.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

BOROUGH OF MADISON AWARDED $10,000 FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY PROJECT

Madison, NJ – January 21, 2020 - Sustainable Jersey announced that the Borough of Madison was one of ten recipients awarded a $10,000 grant funded by the Gardinier Environmental Fund. The grants support proposals such as adding electric vehicles (EVs) to municipal fleets, solar projects such as the purchase of solar technology, completion of solar energy feasibility studies and solar education; and innovative energy efficiency projects in municipal buildings.

“I applaud the efforts of the Sustainable Madison Committee for their determination to help improve Madison’s green footprint through grants like this one from Sustainable Jersey,” said Mayor Robert H. Conley. “This grant will support engineering studies and financial analyses to evaluate community solar feasibility at three borough-owned parking lots, while also allowing us to generate preliminary design material and conduct community outreach,” continued Conley.

“The need for innovative energy projects has never been more urgent as New Jersey tops the list as one of the fastest-warming states in the nation,” said Randall Solomon, Executive Director of Sustainable Jersey. “These grant recipients demonstrate leadership and a commitment to advancing climate action that will help New Jersey meet more ambitious targets moving forward toward a low-carbon future.”

“The Gardinier Environmental Fund is committed to conserving the Earth’s energy resources and enhancing renewable energy measures,” said Gene Wentzel, president, Gardinier Environmental Fund. “We are proud to stand alongside Sustainable Jersey, and to continue to fund worthy projects that support our mutual goals in New Jersey.”

Since 2009 the Sustainable Jersey Grants Program has distributed over $5.5 million in grants to New Jersey schools and municipalities to help make their communities more livable, environmentally friendly, and prosperous.

ABOUT SUSTAINABLE JERSEY

Sustainable Jersey provides tools, training, and financial incentives to support communities as they pursue sustainability programs. Currently, 80 percent or 453 of New Jersey’s 565 municipalities are participating in the municipal certification program and 347 school districts and 900 schools are participating in the Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification program.

Sustainable Jersey’s partners include the New Jersey State League of Municipalities, Sustainability Institute at The College of New Jersey, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Clean Energy Program. Program underwriters include the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Clean Energy Program, the PSEG Foundation, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The Sustainable Jersey Grants program for municipalities is funded by the PSEG Foundation and the Gardinier Environmental Fund. Platinum sponsors are South Jersey Gas, New Jersey Natural Gas and PSE&G. The Gold Sponsor is Elizabethtown Gas. Silver Sponsors are NJM Insurance Group, Bayshore Recycling, Northfield Bank, New Jersey American Water, Jersey Central Power & Light, Atlantic Health System and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. The Bronze Sponsors are Covanta, Greener by Design, Ørsted, Florio, Perrucci, Steinhardt & Cappelli LLC, First Environment, Roux Associates, Republic Services, The ECG Group, Bryan Electric and Red Oak Power.

Website: www.SustainableJersey.com; www.SustainableJerseySchools.com

A PDF of the release can be found here.

BOROUGH OF MADISON TO HOLD REORGANIZATION MEETING ON JANUARY 5, 2020

GOVERNOR MURPHY TO CONDUCT THE SWEARING IN CEREMONIES

Madison, NJ – December 17, 2019 - The Borough of Madison will hold its annual public reorganization meeting for 2020 on Sunday, January 5, 2020 at 3:00 P.M., in the Council Chamber of the Hartley Dodge Memorial, 50 Kings Road.

Recently re-elected Mayor Robert H. Conley, will take the oath of office for his third term as Mayor of Madison, a four-year term, which has not happened in Madison since Madison’s first Mayor James Preston Albright in 1906. As the 32^nd Mayor of the Borough of Madison, Conley, came into office in 2012 after serving for seven years as a Council Member.

In addition, recently re-elected Council Member Maureen Byrne, and newly elected Rachel Ehrlich will take the oath of office as Council Members, a three-year term. Byrne, who began her first term in office in 2016, will start her second term. Her running mate, Ehrlich, has been involved with the Planning Board since August 1, 2017, but will begin her first term in office.

Conducting the oath of office for Conley, Byrne and Ehrlich will be New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. Expected to be joining Governor Murphy is recently re-elected Assemblyman John F. McKeon and Assemblywoman Mila Jasey, as well as Governor Richard J. Codey.

Mayor Conley, Council Members and Borough Officials will honor the service of outgoing Council Member Patrick W. Rowe, who served two terms as a Council Member from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2019, and served as Council President in 2018.

The agenda will also include official action, which includes, but is not limited to, appointments and reappointments of Boards and Committees for 2020, adoption of resolutions to facilitate Borough business including awarding professional services contracts for 2020 and naming of Borough Officials.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

MADISON ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION HOLIDAY ECO TIPS

Madison, NJ – November 27, 2019 – The holidays are a time of giving—and creating waste. Annually, Americans discard 38,000 miles of ribbon and $11 billion worth of packing materials, according to the National Environmental Foundation. The Madison Environmental Commission has compiled a list of easy ways to go green this holiday season:

Recycle styrofoam peanuts and bubble wrap at Pack Ship N More at the Staples Mall (300 Main St.);
Give your gifts in reusable boxes, bags and decorative tins to minimize gift wrap. Consider decorating old shoe boxes which you can use year after year;
Save and reuse ribbon;
Choose gift wrap that is 100% paper so that it can be recycled. Foil or paper with glitter or tape cannot be recycled. Rope or ribbon handles on gift bags must be removed before recycling;
Recycle non-alkaline batteries at the back door of PC Problems, 50 Main St. Button cell, lithium and rechargeable batteries are accepted;
Try non-material or experiential gifts such as gift certificates to local spas, movies and restaurants. Give a membership to a museum or simply donate to a charity in your recipient’s honor;
Opt out of catalogs and junk mail at dmachoice.thedma.org or catalogchoice.org;
Avoid buying products with single-serve packaging — whether it’s for gifts or entertaining;
If you have leftovers at a party, pack them up in reusable containers and send your guests home with goodie bags. Food waste is a major contributor to greenhouse gases;
Support Small Business Saturday and shop local on November 30. Madison’s stores, which include five eco-friendly consignment and thrift shops, add to the vibrancy of our town;
If you receive new appliances or electronic devices, donate your old ones to groups like the Vietnam Veterans (vva.org) who pick up at your door. If items are in poor condition, recycle them with Green Vision in Randolph (gvinc.org). They take “anything with a plug”;
Donate extra reusable bags at the Hartley Dodge Memorial, 50 Kings Road. The MEC will distribute them to the Senior Center, Drew students and the Wind of the Spirit Immigrant Resource Center.

“All of us can see a visible increase in trash at our curbs during the holidays,” says Maureen Byrne, Borough Council liaison to the Madison Environmental Commission. “Fortunately it’s easy to reduce our holiday impact.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

BOROUGH OF MADISON ACHIEVES PRESTIGIOUS
SUSTAINABLE JERSEY SILVER-LEVEL CERTIFICATION

Madison, NJ – November 27, 2019 – Sustainable Jersey representatives announced yesterday that the Borough of Madison has met the rigorous requirements to achieve Sustainable Jersey certification. Madison is one of only 27 New Jersey municipalities that have attained certification at the silver-level in 2019. All of the municipalities were honored at the Sustainable Jersey Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, November 19 in Atlantic City with Mayor Robert H. Conley accepting the award for Madison.

“The achievements of the Sustainable Madison Advisory Committee in this silver certification process shows that the volunteerism of long hours, hard work and dedication paid off for this dedicated team of volunteers as they were determined to prove that Madison is a town that is committed to being sustainable,” said Mayor Robert H. Conley. “Achieving the third highest total points out of all participants is not an easy task, but thanks to all that reside and/or work in Madison, your day-to-day actions help us keep Madison green! This is just another reason why New Jersey Monthly recently ranked Madison the #1 Town To Live In,” continued Conley.

To become Sustainable Jersey certified at the silver-level, the Sustainable Madison Committee submitted documentation to show it had completed a balance of the required sustainability actions, meeting a minimum of 350 action points. In addition to reaching 350 points, each community had to create a green team and select at least three out of twelve priority action options. Madison completed seven of the twelve priority actions, with an additional action pending, by completing a fleet inventory, energy tracking and management, municipal carbon footprint, natural resource inventory, prescription puse pledge. In addition to the seven priority actions, they also submitted the final documentation for another priority action, energy efficiency for municipal facilities, and once approved by Sustainable Jersey by year end, it would bring our priority actions up to eight out of twelve.

“Congratulations to all of the municipalities that have achieved certification this year,” said Randy Solomon, Executive Director of Sustainable Jersey. “Earning certification involves more than just implementing sustainable actions. It takes extraordinary leadership and a real commitment to making our communities better. As New Jersey tops the list as one of the fastest-warming states in the nation, the next ten years will be a critical period for making progress. Sustainable Jersey certified towns are a force for change as they create a path forward to advance sustainability.” Certified towns excelled in areas such as improving energy efficiency, health and wellness, reducing waste, sustaining local economies, protecting natural resources and advancing the arts.

About Sustainable Jersey

Sustainable Jersey provides tools, training and financial incentives to support communities as they pursue sustainability programs. Currently, 80 percent or 450 of New Jersey’s 565 municipalities are participating in the municipal certification program and 339 school districts and 884 schools are participating in the Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification program.

Sustainable Jersey’s partners include the New Jersey State League of Municipalities, Sustainability Institute at The College of New Jersey, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Clean Energy Program. Program underwriters include the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Clean Energy Program, the PSEG Foundation and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The Sustainable Jersey Grants program for municipalities is funded by PSEG Foundation and the Gardinier Environmental Fund. Platinum and 10th Anniversary sponsors are South Jersey Gas, New Jersey Natural Gas and PSEG. The Gold Sponsor is Elizabethtown Gas (10th Anniversary Sponsor). Silver Sponsors are NJM Insurance Group (10th Anniversary Sponsor), Bayshore Recycling (10th Anniversary Sponsor), Northfield Bank (10th Anniversary Sponsor), New Jersey American Water (10th Anniversary Sponsor), Jersey Central Power & Light (10th Anniversary Sponsor), Atlantic Health System (10th Anniversary Sponsor) and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. The Bronze Sponsors are Covanta, Greener by Design, Ørsted, Florio, Perrucci, Steinhardt & Cappelli LLC, First Environment, Roux Associates, Republic Services, The ECG Group and Bryan Electric.

Website: www.SustainableJersey.com; www.SustainableJerseySchools.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SJ_Program; www.twitter.com/SJ_Schools
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainableJersey
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sustainable_jersey/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sustainable-jersey

Pictured above left to right are Randall Solomon, Executive Director, Sustainable Jersey; Joan Maccari, Sustainable Madison MEC Rep.; Kathleen Caccavale, Chair, Sustainable Madison; Mayor Robert H. Conley; Council Member Maureen Byrne, and Anne-Marie Peracchio, Chairperson, Sustainable Jersey Board of Trustees.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

MADISON ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION TO HOLD REUSABLE BAG DRIVE

Madison, NJ – November 25, 2019 - In anticipation of the March 1, 2020 plastic bag ban, the Madison Environmental Commission is launching a reusable bag drive. “We hope to collect a large amount of bags to donate community groups that are not likely to have a stash of reusable bags,” says Claire Whitcomb, Environmental Commission Chair.

Clean, gently used bags can be dropped off in the lobby of the Hartley Dodge Memorial Building (50 Kings Road) or at Grace Church (4 Madison Avenue). They will be distributed to Drew University students, the Madison Senior Center and the Wind of the Spirit Immigrant Resource Center, a nonprofit that is working on a Rethink Plastic campaign with the Latinx community in Madison.

Working together with the Mayors from Chatham Borough, Chatham Township and Morris Township, Madison Mayor Robert H. Conley is proud to see a large regional approach to the plastic bag ban. “There is no doubt that New Jersey will ban the single-use plastic bags sometime in the future, but we knew that we could make a difference by acting now. So many of our residents visit their neighboring town to shop, so by acting regionally we have minimized confusion by having similar rules in Madison, the Chathams and Morris Township,” said Conley. “While New Jersey is known as the ‘Home Rule Capital of the World’; time and time again, we have shown that we can work together! I look forward to seeing more partnerships implementing bans as we march towards a statewide regulation,” continued Conley.

“I am proud that Madison is taking a truly sustainable approach to ensuring that everyone in town has a reusable bag to use for their local shopping,” says Maureen Byrne, Borough Council Liaison to the Environmental Commission. Byrne has already donated a dozen of her own bags to the Senior Center.

“Drew University is proud to partner with the Madison Environmental Commission in this collaborative effort to reduce the use of disposable bags in our community,” notes Stephanie McCormick, the Drew University Director of Facilities Administration. “Beyond simply shopping with reusable bags, our students and other community members are eager to contribute to this ongoing zero waste education program.” Sustainability efforts are not new to Drew, which has been named by The Princeton Review in its Green Guide to Colleges for 10 years running.

There are no requirements as to the type of bags that can be donated, other than that they be in good condition. “Though materials matter—and biodegradable bags are preferred—the least sustainable bag in anyone’s closet is the one that’s not getting used,” says Whitcomb.

Questions about the Madison Environmental Commission’s reusable bag drive can be addressed to MEC@rosenet.org

A PDF of the release can be found here.

NEW SCHOOL YEAR DRIVER AWARENESS REMINDER
SLOW DOWN WHEN DRIVING WITHIN SCHOOL ZONES

Madison, NJ – August 27, 2019 – With the new school year starting in Madison in one week, on Tuesday, September 3, 2019, we would like to remind residents of some things that come with the new school year, as it pertains to driving.

Younger children are more likely to be excited to see their friends, meet their new teachers, and get their seats in freshly decorated classrooms. Younger children are also more likely to make mistakes around roads;
Many children will be starting new schools;
They will be learning new walking paths, either to the school or to a bus stop;
They may not have given themselves enough time on the new route, and will be hurrying;
Their parents will be learning new driving patterns at an unfamiliar school;
Older, high school children may be driving their own cars to school for the first time, also struggling with new traffic routes, congested school zones, and even more congested and confusing parking lots;
Some schools have adjusted their drop-off or pick-up zones. School crossing guard posts may have been changed to meet demands;

All of this can have a ripple-effect to other drivers who will be coping with the actions, inactions, or bad actions of children and drivers.

The Borough of Madison and the Madison Police Department wants to take this opportunity to remind everyone to be especially aware as they operate their personal vehicles and work vehicles. The Madison Police Department will be strictly enforcing distracted driving. The next couple of weeks can be challenging. Please:

Watch your speed. A couple of mph faster will not make a real difference in your arrival time;
Scan sidewalks and parked cars for signs of movement;
Keep a safe following distance. Even if you anticipated something, the driver in front of you may not be as alert as you are.
Be particularly alert at intersections. Practice ‘covering your brake’ when called for;
Put your phone down if you are operating a car.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH IN EFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH SUNDAY

Madison, NJ – July 18, 2019 – The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Watch for the area from Friday, July 19 through Sunday, July 21 with heat index values ranging from 100 to 112.

As part of the Borough of Madison Department of Recreation Policies and Procedures Heat Policy, should the relevant office of the National Weather Service issue a Heat Advisory, all athletic fields will be closed from noon until 5:30 p.m., automatically rendering any and all use during that time-frame as unauthorized by the Borough.

Residents are advised that the excessive heat and humidity, which is forecast for Friday through Sunday, can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, and are recommended to stay in an air-conditioned environment, stay out of the sun, and check on elderly relatives and neighbors.

Madison’s cooling stations are open and available for residents in need. The locations and their hours are:

Madison Public Library - 39 Keep Street
Monday - Wednesday: 10 A.M. - 9 P.M.
Thursday - Friday: 10 A.M. - 6 P.M.
Saturday: 10 A.M. - 5 P.M.

The Madison Civic Center - 28 Walnut Street
Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.

Hartley Dodge Memorial Building - 50 Kings Road
Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.

Madison Community House 25 Cook Avenue
Monday - Friday: 1 P.M. - 5 P.M.
Saturday & Sunday: 10 A.M. - 4 P.M.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

SUMMERHILL PARK TRAIL RIBBBON CUTTING CEREMONY

Madison, NJ - May 28,2019 - The Madison Open Space, Recreation & Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and Parks Committee will be holding their ribbon cutting ceremony on National Trails Day® to celebrate the new trail loops at Summerhill Park. This event will be held on Saturday, June 1 at 11:00 a.m. and will include a ceremony as well as a tour of the new trails.

Summerhill Park is a beautiful wooded park in Madison, NJ. The land was acquired to preserve open space and natural resources as part of the Borough’s Open Space and Recreation Plan. The many access points within the park allows for the connection to downtown Madison, other parks and recreational facilities, and two of our schools.

Throughout Summerhill Park, trails were created due to generous support from the Morris County Planning and Preservation Trail Construction Grant Program. The estimated hiking mileage throughout the park is approximately 1.5 miles, but the Madison Open Space and Parks Committee continues to work to expand the trail network throughout our community.

Visitors can access the park from Dehart Place, Central Avenue, and Ridgedale Avenue. Open from sunrise to sunset, visitors can start at the Ridgedale trailhead and take the loop to Dehart Place where they can then walk down to get ice cream, a smoothie, or a delicious meal from one of Madison’s fine restaurants.

Access to the park for the ribbon cutting ceremony is best via Ridgedale Avenue between the Luke Miller House and Fairview Avenue.

“We look forward to the ribbon cutting at the new Summerhill Park Trails on National Trails Day®,” says Council President Astri Baillie. “These trails have been made possible thanks to a Morris County Trail Construction Grant, so join us as we officially open the park and take a walk on the newly created trails,” continued Baillie.

National Trails Day®, which is held on June 1, is a day of public events that is aimed at advocacy and trail service. The coming together of thousands of bikers, hikers, rowers, horseback riders, trail clubs, federal and local agencies, land trusts, and businesses aims to advocate for, maintain, and clean up public lands and trails.

A PFD of the release can be found here.

PLASTIC-FREE WEEK IN MADISON AIMS TO ENGAGE RESIDENTS IN REDUCING POLLUTION FROM SINGLE-USE PLASTICS

Madison, NJ – April 22, 2019 – The Madison Environmental Commission will be holding their first ever Plastic-Free Week from Saturday, April 27 to Saturday, May 4. The week includes giveaways as well as ideas for how to take action.

“We’re starting the week with a reusable bag giveaway at Stop & Shop and ending with a milkweed giveaway for residents who take our Plastic-Free Pledge,” says Claire Whitcomb, Chair of the Madison Environmental Commission.

The pledge, available online at https://www.rosenet.org/1140/Plastic-Free-Week, lists seven simple steps residents can take. Those steps include, but are not limited to utilizing reusable bags, skipping straws, saying no to Styrofoam, giving up bottled water, bringing a mug for take-out coffee, carrying cutlery and toting plastic containers for restaurant leftovers.

“Plastic-Free Week is meant to educate and inspire residents to take action,” says Maureen Byrne, Borough Council member and Madison Environmental Commission liaison. “Plastic pollution is a serious issue for our health and our water systems. Even bottled water contains microplastics,” continued Byrne.

Events that will take place during Plastic-Free Week include;

A reusable bag giveaway at Stop & Shop (131 Main Street) on Saturday, April 27 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Milkweed will be given away on two separate occasions for those who take the Plastic-Free Week Pledge. The giveaways will take place at Madison Library’s Green Fair on Saturday, April 27 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm as well as on Saturday, May 4 at May Day in Madison, 11:00 to 1:00 pm at Hartley Dodge Memorial.

Both giveaways will be on a first-come, first-serve basis during the allotted times, or until they have all been given out, whichever comes first.

Madison residents are also urged that they can bring their plastic bags to Stop & Shop to be recycled, as well as learn about everyday products that can help reduce single-use plastic consumption. Bags that are recycled at Stop & Shop are picked up by TREK and turned into decking, benches and other products.

As an effort to engage Madison businesses in Plastic-Free Week, a team of Madison Public School students, Christian Wong, Maya Sze, and Carissa Finnerty of Madison High School and Amelia Nevin of Torey J. Sabatini School, have visited all Madison restaurants to explain the benefits that come when someone skips the straw. “Plastic straws are not recyclable and they are a hazard for wildlife,” explains Amelia Nevins. “Plastic-Free Week will help everyone understand how much plastic they really use,” explained Nevin.

“I commend the Madison Environmental Commission for preparing what is going to be a very useful week in Madison, Plastic-Free Week,” said Mayor Robert H. Conley. “Their efforts will, over the long term, help allow Madison residents and establishments learn the dangers that plastic has for our environment. I encourage you to take the Plastic-Free week pledge as we help keep Madison the environmentally friendly borough it is,” continued Conley.

In addition to the students who visited Madison businesses, volunteers were out educating stores on a recent Madison Borough Resolution (R108-2019) which encourages the use of recyclable paper bags and reusable bags instead of plastic bags, and requests that all retail establishments train their employees to “Ask before bagging” to give shoppers an opportunity to save a bag.

“We have a huge cast involved in Plastic-Free Week,” says Whitcomb. “This is an issue residents are passionate about.”

A PDF of the release can be found here.

MAYOR CONLEY LEADS DISCUSSION ON TRAFFIC ISSUES RELATED TO RT 24, 124 AND PARK AVENUE

ATTENDEES INCLUDED FEDERAL, STATE, COUNTY AND LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES

Madison, NJ – April 18, 2019 – Earlier this morning, Mayor Robert H. Conley lead a discussion regarding Route 24, Route 124 and Park Avenue traffic issues. Joining Mayor Conley was Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Governor Richard J. Codey, Assemblywoman Mila M. Jasey (District 27), Assemblywoman Nancy F. Munzo (District 21), Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco (District 25), members from NJDOT including, Deputy Commissioner Joseph D. Bertoni, Chief of Staff Jay Jimenez, Office of Community Relations representatives Zenobia Fields and Andrew Swords, and representatives from Morris County including Freeholders Heather Darling and Stephen H. Shaw and Administrator John Bonanni and Engineer Christopher Vitz.

Also in attendance were the Mayors of six surrounding communities; Chatham Borough Mayor Bruce Harris, East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, Hanover Township Mayor Ronald Francioli, Morris Township Mayor Jeffrey Grayzel, and Morristown Mayor Timothy Dougherty. The Mayors all offered critical insight on the impact the worsening traffic issues are having on their respective communities. They offered their commitment to working together to find potential solutions.

“Today’s discussion with federal, state, county and local representatives was a productive continuation of prior meetings addressing this topic,” stated Mayor Conley. “Now that we have new players in the game, and the willingness from state officials, including NJDOT to continue this discussion, I feel that we can move at an accelerated process to start to make changes that will benefit residents and employees who work within the surrounding area,” continued Conley.

At the recommendation of all in attendance, a committee will be formed to further the discussions that took place this morning so that a plan that is beneficial for all involved can be presented and funding can be sought after from the state and federal level. NJDOT has committed to listening and engaging in conversations with the committee, as they are eager to work together to create the best plan possible.

“I want to thank all that participated this morning,” said Conley. “The people that were present this morning expressing concerns and raising questions, are the same people, that when we all work together, will get something done, and, I look forward to getting something done that will benefit all,” continued Conley.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

BOROUGH OF MADISON RESTORES POWER FOLLOWING EARLIER WIDESPREAD OUTAGE DUE TO BLOWN JCP&L INSULATOR AT KINGS ROAD SUBSTATION

Madison, NJ – March 7, 2019 – This morning, around 11:00 A.M. the Borough of Madison experienced a widespread power outage. Upon immediate dispatch and investigation, the Madison Electric Department discovered a blown JCP&L insulator at the Madison Substation on Kings Road.

By 12:00 P.M. (noon) Madison Electric Department was able to restore power borough wide through our secondary feeder line. JCP&L arrived on scene to address the extensive damage to their infrastructure. As JCP&L continues to work on repairs to the damage that was caused by their blown insulator, Madison Electric Department is able to power the entire borough through the second feeder line.

“Thanks to the Madison Electric Department for their quick efforts as they efficiently and safely worked to address and correct the issue that was caused by JCP&L’s malfunctioning equipment,” said Mayor Robert H. Conley. “Safety, service and reliability are what Madison Electric Department endeavors to provide, and through their rapid response to restore power to all electric customers within an hour, they did just that,” continued Conley. Conley continued on, stating, “In addition to the Madison Electric Department, I would like to thank the Madison Police and Fire Departments, as well as Morris County, Chatham Borough, Florham Park and Harding Township, as they quickly and effectively responded to an onslaught of calls, including reports of individuals stuck in elevators, throughout the borough.”

Conley has been in communication with JCP&L President James Fakult, to ensure that repairs to their damaged infrastructure are addressed in a timely manner, as well as preventative maintenance so that another incident of this nature does not occur. JCP&L indicated that the full repair would be completed by end of day tomorrow, Friday, March 8th, returning the feed into Madison to full reliability. The Madison Electric Department will be working closely with JCP&L during the repair.

At this point, we do not expect any further blips in power or power surges. In the unlikely event that power has to be temporarily effected to allow JCP&L to address their issues, notice will be made via Borough social media and through Nixle.

We appreciate residents patience and understanding throughout the duration of the widespread outage, and remind residents that in the event of a power outage to please call (973) 966-7330. The Madison Police Department Dispatch Desk (973) 593-3000 and 911 are reserved for emergencies.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

BOROUGH OF MADISON HEALTH DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES WITH ST. HUBERT’S ANIMAL WELFARE CENTER OF MADISON

Madison, NJ – January 31, 2019 – The Madison Health Department is pleased to announce that the Borough has partnered with St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center of Madison to take over animal control services.

The new agreement began January 1st and covers not only traditional animal control services—like apprehension of loose or lost domestic animals such as cats and dogs, emergency sheltering and quarantine services—but also enhanced support for other animal welfare programs like Madison’s trap, neuter and release (TNR) program, which aims to address the feral cat population.

“We are thrilled to be able to partner with one of the nation’s leading animal welfare groups, right here in Madison, to ensure that the animals that live in the borough are well cared for and are a safe addition to our community. Our partnership with St. Hubert’s means we can not only provide the animal control services required by law, but a number of additional benefits not available to most communities,” said Eric Range, President of the Madison Board of Health.

Additional benefits include domestic animal ambulance services for those unable to transport their sick or injured pet to the vet, and the ability to surrender animals in the event that residents can no longer or are unwilling to care for their pets. In addition, St. Hubert’s will remove deceased dogs and cats from Madison residents property and properly dispose of the remains at no charge.

Mayor Robert H. Conley echoes Range, stating; “our partnership for Animal Control is unique in benefit for Madison residents, as they are based right here within borough limits. The services and additional benefits that are included in our partnership provide caring and dedicated services towards the humane treatment of animals within Madison.”

For more information about animal control services in Madison, visit rosenet.org. Residents in need of immediate animal control services should contact the Madison Police Department 24-hours a day at 973-593-3000.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

NEW JERSEY TRANSIT REMOVES SERIOUSLY DISEASED COPPER BEECH TREE AT MADISON TRAIN STATION

Madison, NJ – January 29, 2019 – New Jersey Transit is in the process of removing the seriously diseased Copper Beech tree on their property at the Madison Train Station at the corner of Kings Road and Prospect Street today.

The Borough of Madison Shade Tree Management Board arborist, along with an arborist from NJ Transit determined that the tree had come to the end of its circle of life, due to the drought this summer, and posed a significant safety hazard to residents as well as the Midtown Direct train tracks.

When the roots on Copper Beech trees eventually deteriorate, the tree does not lose a limb here and there; the whole tree uproots and falls over as one. This poses a safety issue for residents at and near the train station, including pedestrian and vehicular traffic. As resident safety is our top priority, NJ Transit, based on the recommendations by both arborists, determined it was necessary to remove the tree.

The Friends of the Madison Train Station have already begun to make arrangements to purchase and plant a native replacement Copper Beech Tree in it’s location when weather allows this spring. In addition, pieces of the trunk will be salvaged and repurposed.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

BOROUGH OF MADISON HOLDS PREPAREDNESS MEETING AHEAD OF WINTER STORMS

Madison, NJ – January 17, 2019 – The Borough of Madison is continuing to monitor the inbound weather event that will impact Madison. The snow that is anticipated to arrive later this evening (Thursday) and fall into tomorrow morning (Friday) appears to be a minor storm, with accumulations between 1.0” – 2.0”.

Madison Department of Public Works is currently applying a salt paste pre-treatment to all borough roadways, and will have crews ready to treat roadways when accumulation occurs. In addition, Madison Police, Fire and Electric Departments have adequate employees ready to be dispatched in the event of emergencies and power outages.

The weekend storm system is currently a changing storm system. Due to the data and forecasts varying over the course of the next 24 hours, the borough is closely monitoring the weather system and will continue to provide updates as necessary.

“Madison officials held an internal pre-storm meeting this afternoon, where it was determined that we are ready and prepared for both storms - the one late this evening and the one that is forecasted to begin on Sunday afternoon into Monday morning,” said Mayor Robert H. Conley. “All departments that are critical during these times have met and prepared required equipment and personnel. The Department of Public works is prepared to treat and maintaining roadways as the weather shifts from snow to freezing rain, followed by a quick change of temperature. As with any storm, I ask that all residents please obey direction and communication from borough officials, so that we can safely treat and clear roadways,” continued Conley.

We encourage residents to remain off the roadways when snow accumulation takes place, to allow for the Department of Public Works, Morris County and State DOT crews to plow and treat covered roadways. Residents are reminded that in the event of a power outage to please call (973) 966-7330 which is answered 24/7/365. Please reserve 911 for emergencies only.

Updates, as necessary, will be posted on borough social media (Facebook & Twitter), www.Rosenet.org and sent out via Nixle.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

BOROUGH OF MADISON TO OFFER 0% INTEREST LOANS FOR FEDERAL WORKERS DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY THE PARTIAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

Madison, NJ – January 14, 2019 – Mayor Robert H. Conley announced at this evenings Council Meeting that the Borough of Madison will work with federal government employees that reside in Madison to offer assistance during the partial government shutdown, to ensure that residents are not displaced due to the effects of being furloughed without pay.

Through the Jacob Henry Perkins Trust, the borough will advance funds to establish 0% interest loans for families that are in need. This agreement would ensure that once the government re-opens and employees receive back pay for work during the shutdown that they would repay the trust with 0% interest.

The Borough of Madison will also seek legislation to waive interest charges on any municipal fees, which include but are not limited to, utility charges and property tax payments.

“As we all know, Madison is all about a strong sense of community, a community that stands and supports our residents, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. During this temporary government shutdown we understand that it is taking a toll on government workers not only in Madison, but nationwide,” said Mayor Conley. “Advancing funds from the Jacob Henry Perkins Trust will ease government workers during this difficult time,” continued Conley.

Government workers that are affected by the shutdown and would like to discuss the boroughs 0% interest loans are encouraged to contact Borough Administrator Raymond M. Codey at codeyr@rosenet.org. All inquiries will be kept anonymous and no public discussion will take place.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

REMARKS ON RECENT ARREST BY MADISON POLICE DEPARTMENT

RECENT VANDALISM DOWNTOWN LEADS TO ARREST OF MADISON RESIDENT

Madison, NJ – November 19, 2018 – On the morning of November 18, 2018 at 2:02 a.m., Madison Police Detectives Ken Shannon and Adam Riley arrested Jesse J. Kimball, 48 of Madison, NJ. During the evening of November 17^th and the morning of November 18^th, Madison Police were notified of vandalism throughout the borough, including several buildings on Waverly Place and Main Street, various signs on Main Street, and several locations within New Jersey Transit train station property on Kings Road. The spray paint vandalism depicted racial slurs that were targeted at a veteran Madison Police Officer.

Through the investigation, it was determined that Kimball was responsible for the vandalism. Within 12 hours of the initial report, Kimball was later located at a Main Street location, where he was arrested by Madison Police Officers and charged with 4^th degree criminal mischief and harassment. Subsequently, Kimball was charged by NJ Transit Police with 4^th degree criminal mischief. Kimball was later released pending a court appearance in Morris County Superior Court.

Upon initial report of the vandalism, the Madison Department of Public Works on call crew was called in to cover up the depicted racial slurs. The damage has been totaled in the amount of several thousands of dollars.

“These unfortunate set of events resulted in an outpouring of support from our residents and friends in Madison towards our Police Department and officers. The swift reporting by witnesses and thorough police work of our Madison officers helped bring the incident to a close, but I would not expect anything else from all involved,” said Darren Dachisen, Madison Police Chief.

“I appreciate the quick work of the Madison Police Department and Department of Public Works, to ensure that this incident was addressed and corrected as quickly as possible. I echo the statement from Chief Dachisen, and want to emphasize that this type of behavior is not accepted in Madison or anywhere for that matter,” said Mayor Robert H. Conley.

No further information is available at this time, and no further comments will be made on this case. The suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

BOROUGH OF MADISON INSTALLS THIRTEEN LIFESAVING AED CALL-BOX STATIONS

MADISON VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE CORPS TO OFFER FREE CPR CERTIFICATION COURSE TO ALL MADISON RECREATION VOLUNTEERS

Madison, NJ – November 6, 2018 – The Borough of Madison Recreation Department has installed three Automated External Defibrillator (AED) call-box stations and 10 AED cabinets’ at select playing fields and parks throughout the borough.

An AED is a portable device that has the capability to check a hearts rhythm, and, if needed, administer an electric shock during cardiac arrest to the heart in hopes of restoring a normal rhythm. If an AED is used in the first few minutes of cardiac arrest, the victim’s chance of survival is three times more likely. The three AED call-box stands have the capability that when removed, they automatically broadcast a message over the police radio channel to allow for an expedited response by the Madison Police Department and the Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps (MVAC). The 10 AED cabinets are supplied with an AED, that when opened sets off an alarm.

“The installation of the AEDs throughout Madison allow us to be prepared when an emergency situation arises,” said Robert H. Conley, Mayor. “The accessibility throughout Madison will make it possible for Madison Recreation volunteers who are trained in proper use of an AED to provide rapid defibrillation until medics arrive, in the event that it’s needed by a player, coach or spectator,” said Conley.

Beginning on November 10th, the Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps, in conjunction with the Borough of Madison, will be offering free CPR certification courses to all Madison Recreation volunteers. Classes will be held on two Sundays per month at the Ambulance Corps Building, 29 Prospect Street. Each class will be instructed by one of the MVAC’s certified trainers. Classes will begin at 9:00 a.m. and last approximately four hours. Each class has a limit of 10 participants. After successfully completing the course, participants will receive a 2-year Basic Life Support certificate. To sign up, please visit www.bit.ly/madisonaed

“We feel the presence of these AEDs at our athletic fields, along with the corresponding training program, will go a long way toward enhancing the safety of our players and spectators alike,” said Zach Ellis, Director of Recreation. “We would also like to extend our thanks to the leadership of the Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps and specifically Paul Rogers and Kevin DeBiasse for providing a flexible course schedule for our coaches and volunteers,” said Ellis.

The three AED call-boxes are located at the Madison Recreation Complex, Dodge Field Playground and Dodge Field Baseball Field. The 10 AED cabinets are located at Bayley Ellard Field, Memorial Field (Rosedale Soccer Field), Memorial Field Ice Rink, Summerhill Park, Niles Park, Lucy D. Anthony Complex, Rosedale Baseball Complex, Madison High School and Madison Junior School.

Residents are reminded that the use of AEDs are intended for life saving use only. In the event that an AED is used, please call 911 immediately.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

ROAD IMPROVEMENT UPDATE INFORMATION
AS IT PERTAINS TO THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL

Madison, NJ – August 31, 2018 – The Borough of Madison would like to thank all residents for the continued patience, understanding and cooperation as we continue to work diligently to upgrade required infrastructure throughout the borough. As we enter the beginning of the school year, we wanted to take this time to update you on three projects that have an impact on travel throughout the borough.

Greenwood Avenue:
The only road closures we expect through Friday, September 7^th with a potential impact to the school and traffic, is the closure and detours at the intersection of Greenwood Avenue, Fairview Avenue and Rosedale Avenue. Madison Police Department will ensure that detours are in place for an easy flow of traffic. PSE&G has finished up with the required gas main improvements between Main Street and Fairview Avenue. In the next few weeks, the borough will have our contractor, Midwest, complete a few minor curb and sidewalk repairs near Greenwood and Fairview, as well as lay down soil and seed in affected areas. The complete mill and paving of Greenwood is scheduled to take place at the end of September.

Central Avenue:
We only expect minor intermittent road closures between Main Street and Cook Avenue through Friday, September 7^th. Small areas of sidewalks will be repaired. The work that will be done by Morris County, includes handicap ramps at the sidewalks, catch basins and a complete mill and overlay and is out of our jurisdiction. When more information becomes available we’ll ensure that it gets relayed to borough residents via Rosenet, NotifyMe^® and our social media channels.

Cook Avenue & Community Place:
The entire length of Cook Avenue and Community Place will be closed to through traffic. Cook parking lot will be accessible. Beginning next week and lasting approximately three weeks, PSE&G will be working on Cook Avenue, from Central Avenue to Ridgedale Avenue and Community Place, from Park Avenue to the end to replace the gas main infrastructure. The Cook Avenue parking lot will remain OPEN and accessible throughout the duration of the project. For continued safety, the Madison Police Department will be assisting vehicles in and out of the lot during construction hours.

Please note that the potential end-dates, schedule and closures are all tentative and subject to changes due to weather. For the latest updates on road improvement projects, please visit: bit.ly/madisonriu. The next update will be available on Friday, September 7^th.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

BOROUGH OF MADISON ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT AND JCP&L REFINE PROCESS FOR HELPING NEIGHBORS

MADISON AND JCP&L CONVERSATION ENDS WITH PLANS FOR EASIER DISPATCHING DURING ELECTRICAL OUTAGES

Madison, NJ – May 9, 2018 – Mayor Conley and Borough Staff met with JCP&L officials last week to establish a process for dispatching Madison Electrical Department personnel during significant electrical outages to assist in restoring power to neighboring towns.

Madison Electric Department is a ‘home town’ electrical department that for more than 100 years has been providing the Borough with reliable and safe electrical services. Madison Electric Department will first and foremost address any/all electrical outages within the Borough. When these outages are addressed, Madison Electric Department will help restore power in bordering neighbors (Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, Morris Township and Florham Park).

The Madison Electric Department, along with JCP&L will participate in annual training exercises that will allow Borough staff to be immediately dispatched by JCP&L in a time of need. This will allow for quicker dispatching than previously encountered.

“The ‘home town’ utility service that the Madison Electric Department provides all of its customers is something that we’re proud of here in Madison,” said Robert H. Conley, Mayor. “With this established process between the Borough and JCP&L, we’re able to utilize our Electric Department personnel when they’ve finished getting Madison back up and running, to help assist our neighboring towns get power restored, a shared service that I’m proud has been created so we can assist our neighbors during times of need.”

Madison’s Electric Department is prepared for and willing to meet any challenge to insure that customers have and will continue to have the finest electric service in the state of New Jersey. Their top priority is a commitment to their valued customers. Safety, service and reliability is what Madison Electric Department endeavors to provide. Visit www.rosenet.org for more information.

A PDF of the release can be found here.

Message from Madison Mayor Robert H. Conley regarding Federal Tax Reform Legislation (Senate Bill 1893)

On May 4, 2018, Governor Murphy signed Senate Bill 1893 which authorizes municipalities, counties, and school districts to establish one or more charitable trust funds, each for specific public purposes, and permits certain donations to those charitable funds to be credited toward the donor’s property tax obligation.

The entire message from Mayor Conley can be found here.

Police Department Accreditation Award - February 13, 2017

The Madison Police Department was recognized at Monday’s Borough Council meeting for receiving accreditation from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP). Out of 470 Law Enforcement Agencies in New Jersey, there are 170 police departments that are accredited in the state of New Jersey. To achieve accreditation from NJSACOP, the police department’s policies, procedures, operations, support services and over one-hundred other standards were reviewed by NJSACOP.

The Madison Police Department accomplished something further; less than 1% of the accredited agencies have a flawless final onsite, as they did.

LIFT ASSIST. Pictured above are members of the Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps testing new electric stretchers and electric power lifting equipment. Through the generous donations of Madison residents, the Corps was able to purchase this equipment which will help safely lift patients into the ambulance, making transport of patients safer and reducing the risk of injuries to Corp members and other first responders. In this picture, Kimberly Marotts is suspended in mid-air from the back of the ambulance by this equipment without the assistance of any Corp members.

The Corps would like to thank the residents of Madison and the Borough Government and Administration for their continued support which allows us to provide 24/7 emergency medical services free of charge to our residents year-round.

Pictures clockwise from bottom left are:
MVAC Captain Robert Landrigan, Tim Fawcett, Jenn Bruns, Corey Minnick, and Ahsan Ullan. Seated is Kimberly Marotts.

Congratulations to Detective/Sergeant Paul Kosakowski and the Madison Police Department, Bureau of Investigation for receiving the Morris County Sheriff’s Department’s Leaping Leo Award for their extensive use of the CrimeStoppers program. “This recognition shows how working together through programs such as CrimeStoppers our police department not only serves Madison but also supports the County law enforcement efforts," said Mayor Conley. Police Chief Darren Dachisen noted “Madison Detectives received 7 tips, 4 follow up tips and released 3 ‘Crimes of the Week’ publications”. The award will be received by Detective Kosakowski and Chief Dachisen during the CrimeStoppers yearly fundraiser on December 12, 2016. From left to right: Lieutenant John Miscia, Detective Paul Papamarkos, Chief Darren Dachisen, Award Winner, Detective/Sergeant Paul Kosakowski, Mayor Robert Conley, and Detective Ken Shannon at the Madison Public Safety Building.

The Madison Policemen’s Benevolent Association Local 92 will be sponsoring a Thanksgiving food drive beginning Wednesday, October 1st and ending Saturday, November 1st. During that period residents may drop off non-perishable food donations at the Madison Police Department on Kings Road, where a portable storage unit has been set up to receive the donations. Shoppers of Whole Foods Market may also purchase items and drop them in a box set up at the store. In addition to residents donating, the Madison P.B.A. and Whole Foods Market will be making substantial donations of food towards the effort.

The food will be delivered to the Interfaith Food Pantry (IFP) in Morris Plains, where it will be sorted, packed and distributed throughout the month of November to Morris County households. According to Pantry officials, they expect to distribute 1,600+ complete Thanksgiving meals.

Items being sought include instant potatoes, stuffing, roll mix, turkey gravy, canned fruits and vegetables, brownie mix or cake mix and icing, Parmalat or powdered milk, coffee and tea, jello or pudding, salad dressings, condiments such as pickles and olives. Everyday items are also needed such as regular, hearty and low-salt soups, pasta and cereal.

This is not the first time the Madison P.B.A. Local 92 has helped the Pantry feed local families in need. The local P.B.A. has organized several community events to help the Pantry collect much needed food donations over the past few years. Carolyn Lake, IFP Director of Community Relations & Development commented “Just over the course of two years the Madison P.B.A. members have collected more than 1,800 pounds of food, which helps us tremendously as our program continues to grow.” Lake said that so far this year, the IFP has served over 7,300 residents. “Our clients are primarily low-income working families, people living on fixed incomes and folks unable to find adequate employment. We’re so grateful to the P.B.A. and the residents of Madison for reaching out to those in need”.

The IFP is also accepting donations of fresh and frozen turkeys, chickens and hams at their Resource Center, located at 2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains beginning October 27th.

“A lot of people don’t realize that it’s our own neighbors that need help.” said Dellavalle. “There are about 50 families in Madison alone that rely on the IFP to feed their families. It may be someone you know – a lot of people are living day to day just barely scraping by. We’re happy to be able to help them make their holidays a little brighter.”

Mayor Conley, Drew President Dr. MaryAnn Baenninger and Madison resident and retired CEO of Verizon NJ Dennis Bone participated in a panel discussion on the importance of municipalities engaging their business communities at the New Jersey League of Municipalities Convention in Atlantic City earlier this afternoon.

All three panelists are members of Mayor Conley's Chief Executive Council for Madison, an organization of executives that live or work in Madison that is dedicated to civic engagement, corporate social responsibility and mentoring Madison public school students and Drew college students.

Over 130 municipal officials from around the state attended the panel discussion, which was moderated by Christy Tighe of Junior Achievement of New Jersey.

Many thanks to Dr. Baenninger and Mr. Bone for their time and support.

Local Execs Mentor MHS Students

Over 50 Madison High School students were treated to lunch and career advice from Cali Yost and Kathleen Lynch as part of the Chief Executive Council for Madison Emerging Leaders Lunch Series. Students learned about industry trends in the workplace, the challenges and benefits of entrepreneurship and the importance of informal networking at home, college and on the job. Cali and Kathleen met while undergrads at Bucknell University.

Cali is an internationally recognized flexible workplace strategist, speaker and author and is the founder and CEO of Flex+Strategy, Group/Work + Life Fit, Inc. For nearly two decades, she has helped hundreds of businesses and thousands of individuals partner for flexible work success. Kathleen is Chief Operating Officer for UBS Americas and Wealth Management Americas (WMA) and is responsible for the oversight of the front to back control environment and supports the execution of the business division's strategy, while also ensuring operational efficiency and effectiveness. Critical areas in Kathleen's portfolio include technology and operations, risk management and UBS's regulatory framework.

The Chief Executive Council for Madison is a program that connects executives that live or work in the Madison area with students from Madison High School and Drew University for mentorship, civic engagement and corporate citizenship. Founded by Madison Mayor Bob Conley, the organization is sponsored and supported by Quest Diagnostics, Drew University and over 80 C Suite and mid-level executives.

Mayor Conley and the Madison Council members welcomed four new volunteering chaplains to the Police Department of Madison on Thursday, October 13th. The Council unanimously approved a resolution appointing Father Derek Anderson of the Saint Mary’s Church, Reverends A. Craig Dunn of the First Baptist Church, Pastor Scott Foster of the Presbyterian Church of Madison, and Monsignor George Hundt of Saint Vincent Martyr Church to the position. Police Chief Dachisen and Lieutenant Miscia attended the ceremony that took place in the Council Chambers in the Hartley Dodge Memorial Building at the regularly scheduled Council meeting.

“I appreciate the chaplains volunteering for this important position” said Mayor Conley. “Policing initiatives like this are extremely important and help strengthen the bond between the Police Department and the community.” Reverend Dunn has been serving as an unofficial chaplain for the Police department and was instrumental in helping the officers deal with the loss of Police Captain Joseph Cirella, noted Chief Dachisen.

Chaplains are trained to be certified for the Police Department, and help for a year-long position serving the community. The Chaplains will assist the Police Department with death notifications, youth offenders and other police related duties. Any ordained clergy member in the Borough is eligible to apply for the position.

At the direction of Mayor Conley, American Flags have been placed in downtown and flags in Madison have been lowered to half-staff in support of the Dallas Police Department, the Madison Police Department and public safety employees across the country. Police Chief Darren Dachisen has ordered all officers to wear a mourning band on their badge for the next 30 days to honor the officers who lost their lives in the Dallas shooting. Thanks to complimentary plane tickets from Jet Blue, Madison Police Officers Goncalves and Morales will attend this weekend’s memorial service in Dallas for Officer Zamarripa.

Mayor Conley read the following statement at the Council meeting on July 11th.

“In my time as Mayor, we have stood here in these Council Chambers in silence for moviegoers in Aurora, Colorado, children and teachers in Sandy Hook, Connecticut, office workers in San Bernardino, California, adults enjoying a night out in Orlando, Florida and tonight I am asking for a moment of silence for five police officers murdered in Dallas, Texas. Five officers protecting citizens exercising their right of freedom of speech. Five officers willing to risk their lives to save others.

So please join me in a moment of silence for:
Transit Officer Brent Thompson
Officer Patrick Zamarripa
Officer Michael Krol
Officer Lorne Ahrens
Officer Michael Smith

And personal prayers and thoughts for the families they have left behind, the entire Dallas Police force, the members of the Madison Police Department and police officers across our country who need and deserve our support as they put their lives on the line every day for us.

In honor of the slain police officers and to show our support as a community for our police department, I have ordered the flag in front of the Hartley Dodge Memorial Building be flown at half staff through Friday, July 15th and American flags be flown on all Borough poles throughout town.”

Styrofoam and Electronic Recycling

Residents are reminded that the Borough Yard on John Avenue is open from 9am - 11:30am on Monday and Friday for drop off of televisions, Styrofoam and other recyclable materials. Note, Pack, Ship & More in the Plaza is NO LONGER accepting Styrofoam recycling material. It must be brought to the Borough Yard. Electronic recyclable materials including vcrs, fax machines, computers and printers can be brought to the Borough Yard or they can be brought to PC Problems at 50 Main Street during normal business hours.

Pictured above are Madison residents Spencer and Tim Koppenol along with the Borough's newly hired Recycling Monitor, Bonnie Mulcahy. If you have any questions on recycling or trash, please visit www.rosenet.org or call 973-593-3088.

The Madison Health Department Urges Residents to Reduce Areas on their Property that Could Attract Rodents and Mosquitoes.
The Madison Health Department has received numerous complaints about rat sightings and properties that are potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The Health Department is encouraging Madison residents to be aware of steps they can take to ensure the health and safety of themselves and their neighbors by keeping their properties well maintained.
To prevent mosquitoes from breeding and becoming a nuisance, follow these steps to reduce standing water in your yard:
• Unclog rain gutters
• Cover trash cans
• Clean out bird baths and stagnant fountains
• Repair leaky hoses
• Maintain small ponds
Steps to prevent rodents in your yard:
• Deny food source (use hard sided trash containers, plastic or metal to prevent garbage leakage)
• Make sure garbage containers have tightly fitting lids
• Remove any ripe fruits or vegetables from home garden
• Eliminate water sources (see above)
• Trapping
• Remove any accumulated garbage or debris
• Elevate any stacked wood
• Professional exterminator service
The Madison Health Department will take legal actions on any properties that do not attempt to alleviate these issues.
Please contact the Health Department at 973-593-3079 if you have any questions.

On Monday, May 9, 2016 the Police Unity Tour passed through Madison for the 20th year. The Police Unity Tour began in 1997 and was led by Patrick Montuore (retired Police Chief) of the Florham Park Police Department. In 1997, 18 officers, 4 of whom were from the Madison Police Department, raised $18,000 for the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund by bicycling 305 miles from Florham Park to Washington D.C. Today well over one thousand officers representing 7 chapters nationwide participate in the Police Unity Tour and continue to raise money for this fund.

The Madison High School Girls Softball Booster Club (Diamond Club), after years of fundraising, has recently purchased and donated an LED scoreboard to be used at the Madison Recreation Complex for all MHS Girls Varsity softball games as well as Madison Rec and Travel softball games. The scoreboard was graciously installed this past week by the town of Madison (see photo).

Madison Softball in conjunction with the Madison Recreation Department has also recently completed an $11,500.00 field upgrade at the Madison Junior School. With increased usage of the school fields necessary due to the loss of the Green Village Road Fields, new safety fencing and dugout areas were necessary to protect players and fans. With tremendous cooperation from the Board of Education and the Recreation Department, the project was completed over spring break and ready for opening day. Players in grades 3-8 will keep the fields busy 7 days a week. This marks the second field project initiated by Madison Softball at the Junior School. In 2010, the program also provided funds for an extensive field upgrade.

This cooperation is what makes Madison a great town to live in.

Borough News Room

COVID-19 AWARENESS MESSAGE FROM MAYOR ROBERT H. CONLEY

LAW ENFORCEMENT ASKS FOR THE PUBLIC’S HELP TO COMBAT CAR THEFT AND CAR BURGLARIES

STUDENTS TO STAR AT GREEN VISION FORUM

BOROUGH OF MADISON RECYCLING CHANGES

MADISON ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION ECO TIP FORUM: REDUCING PLASTIC WASTE

BOROUGH OF MADISON AWARDED $10,000 FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY PROJECT

BOROUGH OF MADISON TO HOLD REORGANIZATION MEETING ON JANUARY 5, 2020

GOVERNOR MURPHY TO CONDUCT THE SWEARING IN CEREMONIES

MADISON ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION HOLIDAY ECO TIPS

BOROUGH OF MADISON ACHIEVES PRESTIGIOUSSUSTAINABLE JERSEY SILVER-LEVEL CERTIFICATION

MADISON ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION TO HOLD REUSABLE BAG DRIVE

NEW SCHOOL YEAR DRIVER AWARENESS REMINDERSLOW DOWN WHEN DRIVING WITHIN SCHOOL ZONES

EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH IN EFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH SUNDAY

SUMMERHILL PARK TRAIL RIBBBON CUTTING CEREMONY

PLASTIC-FREE WEEK IN MADISON AIMS TO ENGAGE RESIDENTS IN REDUCING POLLUTION FROM SINGLE-USE PLASTICS

MAYOR CONLEY LEADS DISCUSSION ON TRAFFIC ISSUES RELATED TO RT 24, 124 AND PARK AVENUE

ATTENDEES INCLUDED FEDERAL, STATE, COUNTY AND LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES

BOROUGH OF MADISON RESTORES POWER FOLLOWING EARLIER WIDESPREAD OUTAGE DUE TO BLOWN JCP&L INSULATOR AT KINGS ROAD SUBSTATION

BOROUGH OF MADISON HEALTH DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES WITH ST. HUBERT’S ANIMAL WELFARE CENTER OF MADISON

NEW JERSEY TRANSIT REMOVES SERIOUSLY DISEASED COPPER BEECH TREE AT MADISON TRAIN STATION

BOROUGH OF MADISON HOLDS PREPAREDNESS MEETING AHEAD OF WINTER STORMS

BOROUGH OF MADISON TO OFFER 0% INTEREST LOANS FOR FEDERAL WORKERS DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY THE PARTIAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

REMARKS ON RECENT ARREST BY MADISON POLICE DEPARTMENT

BOROUGH OF MADISON INSTALLS THIRTEEN LIFESAVING AED CALL-BOX STATIONS

ROAD IMPROVEMENT UPDATE INFORMATIONAS IT PERTAINS TO THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL

BOROUGH OF MADISON ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT AND JCP&L REFINE PROCESS FOR HELPING NEIGHBORS

Message from Madison Mayor Robert H. Conley regarding Federal Tax Reform Legislation (Senate Bill 1893)

Police Department Accreditation Award - February 13, 2017

MVAC Lift Assist - January 5, 2017

CrimeStoppers Program Award - November 28, 2016

Saint Vincent Thanksgiving Outreach Program - November 22, 2016

Madison PBA Local 92 Thanksgiving Food Drive - November 16, 2016

New Jersey League of Municipalities Convention - November 15, 2016

Local Executives Mentor Madison High School Students - October 21, 2016

Madison Police Department, Fire Department, and Volunteer Ambulance Corps - October 14, 2016

Mayor & Council, Madison Police Department - October 14, 2016

Mayor & Council, Madison Police Department - July 14, 2016

​Dept. Public Works: June 28, 2016

Health Department - June 23, 2016

Department of Public Works

Police Unity Tour 2016

Madison Softball Gives Back to Community 2016

Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day 2016

Spring Brook Clean-Up 2016

Pine Acres Annual Disaster Drill 2016

Contact Us

Michael Pellessier

Borough Administration

BOROUGH OF MADISON ACHIEVES PRESTIGIOUS
SUSTAINABLE JERSEY SILVER-LEVEL CERTIFICATION

NEW SCHOOL YEAR DRIVER AWARENESS REMINDER
SLOW DOWN WHEN DRIVING WITHIN SCHOOL ZONES

ROAD IMPROVEMENT UPDATE INFORMATION
AS IT PERTAINS TO THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL

Dept. Public Works: June 28, 2016