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Issue: 2017 December 22
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December 22, 2017 |
One of the Best Places to Live in America
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Mayor
Carl Suraci
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Deputy Mayor
Gloria McCauley
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Committeeman
Greg Burchette
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Committeeman
Frank DelCore
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Committeeman
Doug Tomson
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Hillsborough Township Municipal Offices will be closed on December 25th and 26th in observance of Christmas and January 1st in observance of New Year's Day
The Library will be closed December 24th for Christmas Eve, December 25th for Christmas Day, December 31st for New Year's Eve and January 1 for New Year's Day
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The 2018 Reorganization Meeting will be held on
Tuesday, January 2nd
at 7:00 pm
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Note from the Finance Department:
2018 Property Tax Payments can be prepaid in 2017.
You may mail a check, pay in person, or pay using the online tax payment.
If received by close of business 12/29/17, your payment will show as paid in calendar year 2017.
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HHS Boys Relay Track Team Wins National Title
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Pictured: The HHS Boys Relay Track Team with Coach Rosenthal, Mayor Carl Suraci and Deputy Mayor Gloria McCauley
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The Hillsborough High School Boys Relay (4x800) Track Team was honored with a proclamation at the December 19th Township Committee Meeting for another very successful season.
The team, consisting of Jeremy Shipley, Mitchel Baron, Dominic DiNardi and Thomas Deluca, led by Coach Eric Rosenthal, won the national title in the Emerging Elite race in Greensboro, North Carolina this past June and set a new meet record for the Emerging Elite race with their time of 7:51:48.
The Mayor and the Hillsborough Township Committee commend all of the members of the Hillsborough High School Boys Relay (4x800) Track Team, not only for their amazing season and the national title they have achieved, but also for their unwavering teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the season.
Congratulations Team!
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Hillsborough Township Again Achieves Sustainable Jersey's® Highest Certification Level
One of 14 Towns in 2017 to Achieve Silver
Sustainable Jersey representatives announced on November 14, 2017 at the Sustainable Jersey Luncheon that Hillsborough Township has once again met the rigorous requirements to achieve its sixth Sustainable Jersey certification. Hillsborough Township is one of only 14 New Jersey municipalities to have attained certification at the silver-level in 2017. The first three certifications for Hillsborough have been at the bronze-level. This is the third year in a row that Hillsborough has been certified at the silver level, the highest available certification.
"Hillsborough Township began sustainable initiatives in 2006. Sustainability and planning has been ongoing with the focus being to plan for the future to ensure our community has balanced economic, environmental and social objectives, developed with public input," stated Deputy Mayor Gloria McCauley, Liaison to Sustainable Hillsborough Steering Committee.
"Thanks to the efforts of our Business Advocate/Sustainability Director, David Kois, who once again, spearheaded the submission along with the volunteers of the Sustainable Hillsborough Steering Committee and Employees from our Municipal Departments, we are extremely proud of this achievement," stated Mayor Carl Suraci.
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Hillsborough Township Receives the New Jersey Smart Workplaces Platinum Award, Fourth Year in a Row
Five Local Businesses Recognized
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Pictured: Township Administrator Antony Ferrera, RideWise Executive Director Donna Allison and Business Advocate/Sustainability Director, David Kois
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"Hillsborough Township was once again honored at the Annual RideWise recognition breakfast as one of only two municipalities in Somerset County to receive Platinum status in the New Jersey Smart Workplace Program. In 2014, Hillsborough was the first Somerset County Municipality to achieve platinum, which was achieved again in 2015 and for the 4th year in a row for 2017," announced Mayor Carl Suraci at Tuesday's Township Committee meeting.
The 10th Annual Recognition Breakfast was held on November 16, 2017. Somerset County business and government leaders gathered to recognize programs implemented to improve commuters' quality of life. RideWise, a Transportation Management Association (TMA) based in Somerset County, is a source for sustainable travel and alternatives that improve mobility, reduce traffic and decrease carbon emissions.
New Jersey Smart Workplaces is a statewide program that recognizes employers and municipalities who show vision and leadership by providing commuter benefits to employees.
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Rotary Club Helps Community Assistance Network Distribute Holiday Gifts
On Thursday, December 21st the Rotary Club of Hillsborough, in conjunction with the Hillsborough Community Assistance Network, gathered to pack and distribute holiday gifts for those in need this season.
The Rotary Club generously donated gift cards to supplement donations received from community members to ensure that there were plenty of gifts to go around.
Pictured: Hillsborough Township Social Services employees, members of Hillsborough Rotary Club and volunteers.
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Hillsborough Township Police Department reminds residents of the Township Ordinance prohibiting the parking of vehicles on snow covered streets. Keeping the streets free of cars facilitates the Department of Public Works
ability to clear the streets of snow making it safer and more convenient for all
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Tickets Now Available for NJ Devils' "My Town" Hillsborough Night
NJ Devils vs Philadelphia Flyers, Jan. 13th
The "My Town" Series Program now in it's 4th year highlights New Jersey towns during National Hockey League games played at the Prudential Center in Newark. The New Jersey Devils tested the program during the 2013-2014 National Hockey League season with 5 New Jersey towns as part of their pilot program. The success of the initial program, lead to an expanded program during the 2014-2015 season and will continue with enthusiasm this season.
This is a great event open to all ages! Tickets and Group Packages will be on sale for township residents who would like to attend. The Hillsborough Police Department will present the Honor Guard at the beginning of the game. Hillsborough Township will be recognized throughout the game, including a group welcome on the scoreboard. Following the game, Hillsborough residents will be invited to the ice for a post-game photo! In addition, January 13th is Chico Resch mini stick night honoring former Devil and current color commentator Glenn "Chico" Resch. The first 9,000 fans in attendance will receive a commemorative mini stick.
Stay tuned for more information about a possible future visit from NJ Devil!
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What Township Residents Can Do with Fall Leaves
Keep Your Lawn Healthy & Green by Cutting and Leaving it!
With Autumn in full swing, the leaves have begun to fall and cover your lawn. Hillsborough Township encourages you to help the Sustainable Hillsborough initiative by Cutting and Leaving It. Instead of disposing of your lawn clippings and leaves, try leaving your grass clipping on your lawn. This practice helps keep your lawn healthy and green. In addition, instead of placing leaves at the bottom of your driveway, place them in a compost heap in your yard. Compost piles are easy and cheap to construct and help to reduce Hillsborough's waste. For more information about Cut and Leave It, read the brochure on the township website.
"If you currently recycle your lawn clippings and leaves by staging them for pick-up through the Hillsborough Public Works Department leaf pick-up program, you are already helping to avoid air pollution and wasted resources. However, you can do more by reducing waste at the source. Leave the grass clippings on your lawn when you mow, compost your leaves, and let nature do the recycling for you," stated Deputy Mayor McCauley.
The Hillsborough Public Works Department will be running their annual leaf pick-up program starting in November.
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Township Job Line
Hillsborough Township is currently looking to fill the following positions:
- Part Time Building Inspector
- Full Time Police Officers
- Multi-Licensed UCC Inspector, Full Time
- Building Maintenance Part time
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Deck the Halls with Boughs of Safety
NJ Poison Center's Holiday Hazards List
Another toy, another disc battery. So far this year, the NJ Poison Control Center sent over 30 children into hospital emergency rooms for swallowing a disc battery. X-rays must be taken to be sure a disc battery is not stuck in the esophagus where it may go undetected and eventually kill a child.
The holidays are an exciting time of year, but it gets hectic with cooking, entertaining, home decorating, gift buying, etc. We become distracted and forget to pay attention to what's happening around us, especially in our homes. Mishaps and injuries often occur right under our noses. Take a step back from your busy schedule to increase your awareness of the common hazards that occur during the holiday season. The well-being of you and your family depend on it.
Gifts
- Disc batteries - These are usually found in watches, toys, games, flashing costume jewelry, singing greeting cards, remote control devices, etc. They are easy to swallow and can cause serious harm to children and pets. Besides being a choking hazard, these batteries can cause serious burns if stuck in the throat or stomach and may even cause death.
- Toys - Antique toys and those made outside of the United States may contain lead or other toxic substances. Look for chipping or worn paint before letting children play with them. Many toys can be a potential choking hazard for young children and pets. Look for recalls before buying toys. Visit U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission https://www.cpsc.gov.
- Small magnets - If a child consumes two or more magnets, they can attract each other, resulting in serious harm to internal organs. You must get help immediately.
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Space heaters can provide extra comfort during the winter season. Following are some basic tips* that will help ensure their safe use.
Do's:
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For heating purposes, use only equipment that is made for home heating. Use all types of heaters carefully and follow all directions for safe use.
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Use a space heater that has been tested to the latest safety standards and has been certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. These heaters have the most up-to-date safety features. Older space heaters may not meet newer safety standards. Always follow the manufacturer's directions for proper use.
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Place the heater on a level, hard, non flammable surface, such as a ceramic tile floor.
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Keep the heater at least three feet away from bedding, drapes, furniture, and other flammable materials.
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Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
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Turn the heater off if you leave the area.
Don'ts:
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Never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep.
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Don't place a space heater close to any sleeping person.
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Never use gasoline in a kerosene space heater, as even small amounts of gasoline mixed with kerosene can increase the risk of fire.
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Don't use portable propane space heaters indoors or in any confined space unless they are specifically designed for indoor use.
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Never use your oven, grill or clothes dryer to heat your home. This could cause a fire or dangerous carbon monoxide gas.
Portable heaters and burning candles that are left unattended, especially around children and pets, can create a fire hazard. In addition, gasoline- or diesel-powered generators and appliances can produce deadly levels of carbon monoxide and should never be operated inside the home or garage.
Also, be sure to place smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside of sleeping areas and inside each bedroom. Guard against carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings as well by installing carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Make sure that your batteries in all alarms are fresh and working.
Using extension cords to bring electricity into a location where electric service was shut off may create a fire hazard. If this situation is detected, the Local Codes Enforcement Officer will be notified.
*This includes information from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
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Ring in 2018 Financially Prepared
As we get closer to saying goodbye 2017, let us propose a News Year's Resolution that everyone should consider, and implement - Financial Preparedness. If you speak to your financial advisor they might start by saying how you need to have at least three months of living expenses in an emergency fund. I'm not talking about that kind of financial preparedness. What I am referring to is having your financial records in order, in case a disaster strikes. The 2017 hurricane season affected 25.8 million people following the impact of hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. When a disaster strikes, whether it be a hurricane, flood, tornado, or a long term power outage, you will typically be without power, communication, utilities, fuel, food and water.
What steps can you take to better prepare yourself and your family? Let's assume that you have your GO-BAG. What do you need to be financially prepared? There are four simple steps to financial preparedness that include you 1) compile, 2) review, 3) safeguard, and 4) update your important documents.
You should compile hard copies of:
- All important telephone numbers (doctors, family members, banks, pharmacies, insurance agents)
- Passports/driver's license, military/work I.D.
- Banking/investment/retirement accounts, mortgage/deeds, insurance policies, tax statements, estate planning, cemetery deeds
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List of all passwords
- Car/motorcycle/boat registration and title, if applicable
- Cash on hand, in small denominations, for up to seven days
You have to prepare for the possibility of a total communication blackout. Add to that the possibility that all your records at home may be lost. Plan on ATM's and credit card machines not being operable as well. The list will be different for everyone, so use this as a starting point and make it your New Year's Resolution.
The
Emergency Financial First Aid Kit created by FEMA and Operation HOPE is a flexible tool designed to help individuals and families at all income levels collect and secure the documentation they would need to get on the road to recovery.
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News From Somerset County
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January Recycling Calendar
Due to the holiday, some recycling pickups scheduled in Somerset County the week of Jan. 1 may be delayed. Residents are asked to leave their recyclables at the curb. Remaining collections will be completed as soon as possible. The Recycling Division thanks residents for their patience and understanding.
There will be a First Saturday of the Month Drop-off event on Jan. 6th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Somerset County Recycling Center, located at 40 Polhemus Lane, Bridgewater 08807.
The next free-of-charge Saturday electronic waste drop-off event is Jan. 6th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the South County Public Works Garage at 410 Roycefield Rd., Hillsborough 08844.
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January Program Schedule for Senior Centers
The senior centers operated by the Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services have announced the January program schedule. All programs begin at 11 a.m. unless otherwise listed.
This month, all centers will be closed on Jan. 1 and 15.
All Somerset County-operated senior centers offer a nutritionally balanced lunch, Monday through Friday, for a suggested donation of $2.50 for anyone age 60 and above. Menu choices include a hot meat-based or meatless entrée and a cold meat-based or meatless boxed lunch.
Please make reservations before 10 a.m., at least one business day in advance. Why not invite a friend or neighbor to join you for lunch! Or come earlier in the day and enjoy one of the center's many programs.
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Residents Denied Social Security Disability Benefits Can Schedule a Free Consultation
Have you been denied Social Security disability benefits? Are you having difficulty applying for these benefits? If so, you may want to apply for a free consultation with an attorney from the Community Justice Center of Trenton.
The Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services will provide an opportunity for eligible residents to meet an attorney at its office at 27 Warren St. in Somerville Thursday, Jan. 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Somerset County residents living with disabilities who are interested in this free consultation should contact Paulann Pierson of the Office on Aging and Disability Services by Dec. 29 at (908) 704-6334 or
[email protected]
to obtain a referral form that is required by the Community Justice Center.
Eligibility for a consultation requires an income at or below 175 percent of the poverty level, or eligibility for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or General Assistance (GA).
Community Justice Center staff members are experienced in advocacy before the Social Security Administration and have assisted people with all kinds of disabilities in obtaining benefits.
They have extensive experience with "invisible" impairments, especially those associated with traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder and other cognitive or mental health issues.
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Nominations Due
Dec. 31
for Outstanding Women Awards
Do you know a Somerset County woman who has made extraordinary contributions to her career field or her community?
The
Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women is seeking nominations for its 2018 Outstanding Women in Somerset County awards program. Nominations must be received by
Dec. 31, 2017.
"We have many women in Somerset County doing amazing things every day," said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, commission liaison. "It is most appropriate that during Women's History Month, we take the time to publicly recognize them and say thank you."
Download and print a nomination form and guidelines from
http://bit.ly/2018WomenAwards or call Commission Chair Janice Fields at
908-599-1637 if you do not have internet access.
Email submissions are preferred. Send an electronic copy of the completed and signed nomination form, along with any supporting documentation, to
[email protected] Entries also may be mailed to the Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women, Attn: Janice M. Fields, Chair,
36 Darren Drive, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920.
Nominees must be women who live in Somerset County. All nominations will be reviewed by the commission's selection committee.
Categories are arts/entertainment/sports; business/entrepreneur/informat
ion technology; education; environmental initiatives; government/public/social service; hometown hero; journalism/media/law; medicine/health services; and volunteerism.
Nominations should be as specific as possible, citing the ways the nominee has demonstrated outstanding performance or dedication in her job or community.
Awards will be presented
March 16, 2018, at the commission's annual Women's History Month celebration and dinner.
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Visit the Community Events Calendar Page for More Information
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Important Upcoming Meeting Dates
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ARIS/HMS Discount Card 2017-2018
On Sale Now!!
ARIS/HMS 2017-2018 Discount Cards are on sale now at a cost of $10.00 each, with all proceeds going to ARIS and HMS school programs and staff grants. The card includes reusable discounts from 34 local businesses including ShopRite's $4.00 off $100.00 purchase, McDonald's, Super Sundaes, Lenny's, Philly Pretzel, Revival Barbershop, Olympia Sports and many more!! Discounts are valid through 9/30/18.
Special Promotion: Buy 5 cards, get 1 card free!
If you would like to purchase a discount card, please email [email protected] or stop by Super Sundaes (near the Post Office) and pick one up.
Thank you for your support!
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MUNICIPAL BUILDING EVENING OFFICE HOURS
CLERK'S OFFICE
2nd & 4th Tuesdays until 7pm
HEALTH DEPARTMENT
2nd Tuesday until 7pm (No Evening Hours January, February, and March)
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
Tuesdays until 7pm
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For information regarding Online Payment and Tax Notices, please click
here
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Recreation 2017 Fall Activities Guide
Registration now ongoing
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LINKS
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