Celestino’s Pizza & Ristorante Celebrates Ribbon Cutting in New Providence
By Bobbie Peer
Published December 7, 2025 at 5:05 PM
NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J. — Celestino’s Pizza & Ristorante celebrated its official ribbon cutting on Saturday, formally recognizing the restaurant’s summer opening in New Providence. The family-owned business, which also operates a location in Cedar Grove, has transformed the former Coppola’s Restaurant space with updated lighting, refreshed colors, and new decorative moldings, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere for guests.
Jay Udrija, who operates the New Providence restaurant, welcomed guests alongside his brother, Darryl, who runs the Cedar Grove location. Both restaurants offer the same menu of Italian favorites, including Celestino’s signature pizzas, and an extensive catering menu designed to accommodate a wide range of tastes and events. Click here to view menus.
“We opened the last week of July, and the response has been amazing,” Jay said. “It’s the same food as our Cedar Grove restaurant, but with a fresh new look here. We want everyone to feel at home while enjoying Italian cuisine.”
Mayor Al Morgan joined the celebration, cutting the ribbon alongside Jay, Darryl, their families, and staff. Councilman Matt Cuminskey and Councilwomen Nadine Geoffroy and Kathleen Dolan were also in attendance, along with New Providence Biz President Michele Elefante and Lisa Barfield.
“We’re delighted to welcome Celestino’s to New Providence,” Mayor Morgan said. “It’s exciting to see a family-owned business bring great food, a fresh look, and a strong sense of community to our town. We wish them continued success and know they’ll be a favorite for residents for years to come.”
The New Providence location also offers free delivery to surrounding towns through its own drivers—an added convenience noted by guests, who praised both the updated ambiance and the quality of the menu.
Celestino’s now operates in the former Coppola’s Restaurant, a beloved New Providence staple for more than 40 years. Jay emphasized the importance of building strong community connections and becoming a true part of the town. He added that the welcoming dining space and convenient delivery service make it easy for residents to enjoy quality Italian cuisine, whether dining in or ordering from home.
Celestino’s Pizza & Ristorante is located at 590 Central Ave., New Providence. Visit their website or call 973-566-1078. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @celestinospizza.
New Providence Gathers for a Festive Night of 1,000 Stars at Annual Community Tree Lighting
By Bobbie Peer
Published December 6, 2025 at 10:07 AM
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — Centennial Park shined bright Friday night as families, friends, and neighbors bundled up for the 10th annual New Providence Community Tree Lighting, a beloved “Night of 1,000 Stars” that filled downtown with music, holiday cheer, and a strong sense of community.
Despite the brisk, wintry air, the crowd remained steady throughout the evening. The New Providence Lions Club and Paca Club kept hands warm and spirits high, serving hot chocolate — generously donated by Prestige Diner — along with bags of popcorn for the long line of attendees.
The event, hosted by the New Providence Community Activities Department, featured a new attraction this year: a festive indoor photo booth where guests could step out of the cold, pose with “Naughty” and “Nice” signs, and snap photos with friends and family.
A Night for Community and Giving
Before the official lighting, several local organizations took the stage to highlight their work — groups that play a vital role not only during the holidays but year-round.
Mayor Al Morgan welcomed the crowd and opened the program with a message about the meaning of the season.
“Last week we celebrated Thanksgiving, and we are all thankful for the blessings that have been bestowed on us,” he said. “It’s a time for caring, being thoughtful of others, and being charitable. There are a lot of people for whom this is a tough time of year. Please be generous when you can, and kind and thoughtful.”
The Community Service Association of New Providence, which has supported residents since 1954, expressed gratitude for the community’s ongoing support. Donna Zane thanked residents for their continued generosity.
“Your generosity has made a real difference in the lives of your neighbors,” Zane said. “This holiday season, we’re especially mindful of families in need. Together, we can help warmth, kindness, and hope reach every home.”
The LINK Program — Linking Initiatives for Neighborhood Change — also addressed the crowd. Co-founders Abby Franco and Aiden Barth, who started the youth-led organization as high school students, described their mission of supporting families facing food insecurity.
“For those who don’t know us, we help support our neighbors in need who might be fighting food insecurity or anything else they need support with,” Franco said. “As of last month, we’ve served over 46 tons of food, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies to local families.”
They encouraged residents to visit their table to learn more about donating or volunteering.
To learn more about the CSA, visit www.csanewprovidence.org, and for more information about LINC Resource Pantry, visit www.lincnj.org.
Children’s Ornaments and Community Music Fill the Park
In the weeks leading up to the celebration, the New Providence Business Community distributed blank ornaments at NP Fuel, Elefante Music, Prestige Diner, Terrana Orthodontics, and Braunschweiger Jewelers. Children decorated the ornaments at home and brought them to hang on the community tree.
Before the lighting, Elefante Music and School for the Performing Arts and the New Providence Select Choir led the audience in carols. Volunteers handed out music sheets so the community could sing along, filling the park with holiday favorites.
The evening closed with a lively appearance by La Befana, portrayed by Emma Peterson, who brought an extra touch of magic as she arrived with her guitar to perform a cheerful seasonal tune. Children hurried into the pavilion afterward to pick up a treat before the tree lighting countdown.
As the crowd gathered shoulder to shoulder, Mayor Morgan led the countdown from ten, and the tree sprang to life in a brilliant glow befitting the “Night of 1,000 Stars.”
The lights, music, generosity, and sense of togetherness created a joyful start to the holiday season in New Providence. The festive decorations throughout the park were provided by the New Providence Beautification Committee.
New Providence Council Appoints Michael Carlino to Sergeant Position
By MARIANNE IVERS
Published December 3, 2025 at 6:31 PM
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ – Michael Carlino took the police oath of office at the Tuesday, Dec. 2 Borough Council meeting as he was promoted to sergeant. Additionally, Edgardo Aguilar was sworn-in as a police officer.
The council also approved several police officer promotions. Lindsey Knopf was promoted to a permanent position as a step nine police officer. Christian Cely-Gomez and Andrew Lynch were promoted to step one officers. Jeffrey Bruder and Carmine Boccellari were promoted to step two and three officers respectively. Gregory Miller was promoted to step four and Michael Gelormini to step eight.
Several Department of Public Works (DPW) employees were also promoted. Joseph Pasquale was advanced to assistant plant operator and Noel Santiago to second plant operator. Christopher Nemeth, Jose Hernandez Saravia, Michael Keenan and Douglas Wiley were also promoted.
Regarding other news four high school students provided a recap of the 2025 Unity Day celebration. The celebration, which began in 2019, has grown into a successful community event with over 300 attendees at the latest event. The purpose of the celebration is to unite the community and introduce residents of all ages to different backgrounds. Mayor Al Morgan and council members expressed their appreciation to the event organizers and gave their approval for keeping the Unity Day going as an annual community event.
Sweet Touch Cafe Celebrates Ribbon Cutting, Welcomes Community to New Bakery
By Bobbie Peer
Published November 24, 2025 at 10:27 AM
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — Sweet Touch Cafe officially opened its doors Sunday with a ribbon cutting ceremony that drew a steady stream of visitors eager to sample its freshly brewed coffee and homemade baked goods.
Owner Marta Lazorko, who has long dreamed of opening her own bakery, greeted guests throughout the day as they enjoyed an array of pastries, crêpes, sandwiches and specialty drinks. Lazorko prepares every dessert in the display case herself and says freshness is the heart of Sweet Touch Cafe.
“I put my love into everything I bake,” Lazorko said. “I want people to taste the difference when something is made fresh, from scratch, every day.”
Sweet Touch Cafe features a spacious, bright café area with seating designed for lingering—whether customers want to work remotely, meet friends, or relax with family. Lazorko said one of her favorite sights is watching local teens gather for lattes and conversation.
The menu offers a wide selection, including savory crêpes, a turkey avocado crunch, breakfast croissants, gourmet sandwiches, Sweet Touch’s signature iced latte with cold-foam creamer and an extensive lineup of homemade desserts. Guests are encouraged to browse the full menu on the bakery’s website.
Mayor Al Morgan led the ribbon cutting, joined by Councilwomen Diane Bilicska and Nadine Geoffroy, Councilmen Alex Kogan and Matt Cumiskey, and Councilmen-elect Alan Lerner and Brian Gardner. And Joe Eberle of Weichert Realtors representing the Business Community. Family, friends and community members rounded out the crowd celebrating the bakery’s debut.
Sweet Touch Cafe is located at 1682 Springfield Avenue at the corner of Central Avenue. The community is invited to stop in, enjoy the offerings, and experience what Lazorko hopes will become a warm, welcoming gathering place.
Suburban Chamber Honors Local Leaders, Volunteers and Businesses at Annual Service Awards Dinner
By Bobbie Peer
Published October 24, 2025 at 11:45 AM
BERKELEY HEIGHTS, NJ — Community leaders, volunteers, and business supporters gathered Thursday evening at Embassy Suites for the 11th Annual Suburban Chamber of Commerce Service Awards Dinner, celebrating individuals and organizations whose work has strengthened Berkeley Heights, Summit and New Providence.
State Sen. Jon Bramnick served as master of ceremonies, weaving humor throughout the program while emphasizing the core values guiding civic and business leadership.
The annual dinner benefits the Suburban Chamber of Commerce and the Suburban Chamber Foundation, which funds scholarships for local high school seniors and supports business development initiatives. Guests participated in a silent auction and wine pull, with the chamber aiming to raise $15,000 to fund scholarships and update its technology infrastructure to improve communication, outreach and operations.
Chamber Chairman and event co-chair Jim Kwan and event co-chair Ines Cohron welcomed attendees and highlighted the chamber’s long history of advocacy, networking and partnerships across the three towns. Berkeley Heights Boy Scouts presented the flags and led the Pledge of Allegience.
“The goal of the chamber is to promote our members and help them grow their businesses,” Kwan said. “We are here to support this community — and we see that community in this room tonight.”
Evelyn Davis, executive director of the chamber, was recognized as the welcoming face of the organization, describing her role as “the glue that holds us together.” She highlighted recurring chamber events, including Wind Down Wednesday and First Fridays, which foster networking and collaboration. Davis also introduced the Young Professionals group, which meets quarterly to encourage mentorship between emerging and established professionals.
Davis called on attendees to support two priorities: investing in local students through scholarships and modernizing the chamber’s technology. The Chamber set a modest but meaningful goal of raising $15,000 to help students achieve their dreams and upgrade its digital resources to better serve the business community.
Award Winners
Organization of the Year: GRACE founder Amanda Parrish Block was honored for nearly a decade of service providing weekly distributions of fresh food, hygiene supplies and essential items to more than 800 families. Parrish Block emphasized the impact of community partnerships and noted that 25% of households assisted have advanced to self-sufficiency.
“Each week is a celebration of what our community can be when it is well-resourced, generous and honest,” she said. “In community, we all can thrive.”
Silver Service Award: Bev Luehs was recognized for decades of volunteer leadership across nonprofit and civic organizations, including the Overlook Foundation, CASA of Union County, and St. Teresa’s Christ Child Society. She reflected on her work co-chairing the first renovation of the Summit Village Green playground and advocating for under-resourced youth.
“I am deeply honored to be a recipient of the Chamber’s Silver Service Award,” Luehs said. “The mission of the chamber — keeping our local economy and civic life thriving — exemplifies the work I am most passionate about.”
Beautification & Arts Award: Melanie Cohn, executive director of the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, highlighted her team’s work fostering creativity, healing and expression through art.
“Art is not a thing. Art is a way,” Cohn said. “It allows schoolchildren to find their voice, formerly houseless veterans to find healing, and all of us to find creativity, beauty and joy. I accept this award on behalf of my staff and our dedicated nonprofit board.”
Business of the Year: Joseph Eberle of Weichert Realtors in Chatham recognized the power of community support. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he distributed more than 500 gift cards to local businesses.
“Most people don’t know I happened upon a real estate career by accident… but it became my way to serve the community,” he said. “As you leave here tonight, I hope you walk away with new connections and opportunities, and in the future, think of me when you see a yellow house sign.”
Good Neighbor Award: Apollo Hrehorovich was honored for his work supporting homeless veterans, founding the Summit Homelessness Task Force, and serving in multiple civic and charitable roles.
“Good neighbors aren’t just next door — they are those who cast their energies in the broader community,” Apollo’s brother said. “Apollo exemplifies service above self.”
Public Service Award: Al Morgan, Mayor of New Providence, emphasized that giving back extends from family to public service.
Kelly Boneventre introduced Mayor Morgan, highlighting that he is now serving his fifth term as the 18th mayor of New Providence.
Reflecting on his career, Morgan spoke of the importance of teamwork, mentorship and community. He credited Senator Bramnick for his guidance since 1997 and acknowledged the colleagues he has worked alongside over the years. Morgan emphasized civility and collaboration in leadership.
“First of all, this award should be going to my wife,” he said, recognizing her unwavering support through the demands of public service. “We work as a family, and when anybody in the borough needs help, we all come together and help. We work hand in hand, government and business — together.”
President’s Award: Paul Kieltyka was recognized for transformative leadership at the YMCA, expanding facilities, building new branches, and strengthening community partnerships.
“Paul led the transformative growth across our YMCA, expanding facilities, building new branches, and deepening community partnerships. – Through times of challenge and change, his steadfast leadership and forward-thinking approach elevated our impact and established the YMCA as a cornerstone of our community,” said Anjali McCormick, CEO of the Summit Area YMCA. “Personally, Paul gave me the opportunity to join his team, and I’m so grateful. He is also doing remarkable work at the New Jersey State YMCA, serving hundreds of thousands of people across 29 communities and associations, helping them be their best selves. New Jersey is lucky, and we are so grateful.”
Kieltyka praised the Chamber for its commitment to both business success and community betterment, encouraging attendees to get involved and support the organization. He highlighted the dedication of volunteers in Summit, New Providence, and Berkeley Heights as an inspiration for ongoing community service.
“There’s no better feeling than achieving results in the nonprofit world and seeing the impact of your work in the community,” Kieltyka said.
The evening concluded with recognition of chamber board members, volunteers, and the event committee, reflecting the collaborative spirit that continues to guide the Suburban Chamber’s work.
Bramnick closed the program with a reminder of the community’s shared responsibility.
“I thank all of you for being here tonight,” he said. “And I appreciate the integrity of this Chamber of Commerce.”
To learn more about the Suburban Chamber of Commerce visit their website here.
Then & Now: Mayor Al Morgan Reflects on New Providence’s Rich Past and Bright Future
By Bobbie Peer
Published June 7, 2025 at 12:12 PM
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — The June edition of “Chat with Mayor Al Morgan” was a walk down memory lane—complete with stories of coal chutes, corner stores, and classrooms that now house Borough offices. In this conversation, Mayor Morgan, a lifelong resident of New Providence, shared vivid recollections of the town’s transformation from a quiet borough filled with greenhouses and delis to a vibrant, family-oriented community buzzing with energy and tradition.
“When I was growing up here, the center of town looked very different,” Mayor Morgan said. “Where the electronic billboard is now used to be Behres Hardware, and diagonally across the street was Center Stationers—what we still call ‘the corner store.’” These local landmarks might have shifted locations, but their memories live on in the minds of longtime residents.
Morgan, born in 1954 and raised on Edgewood Avenue, offered a personal perspective on how New Providence has developed over the decades—both in infrastructure and in spirit. “This was a baby boomer town,” he said, recalling how many families settled here post-World War II when they couldn’t afford homes in nearby Summit or Millburn. “It’s amazing to see homes that were once small capes now valued at over a million dollars.”
The conversation also highlighted how the town has preserved its small-town charm while embracing growth. What once was forest and farmland—like the woods that became Lincoln Field—is now home to vibrant community spaces and family-friendly amenities. Today, students sporting Pioneer and Highlander jackets frequent spots like Jersey Joe’s and the Prestige Diner, places that have become central to everyday life.
Mayor Morgan credited much of New Providence’s continued success to the people behind the scenes. “We are fortunate to have good people working for the borough,” he said. “Many of our employees are from the community and have a vested interest in keeping it thriving.”
In addition to reflecting on the past, the Mayor offered updates on current projects and upcoming events. The Passaic Street Bridge, which has caused detour disruptions for local businesses, is progressing toward a fall reopening. The borough is awaiting delivery of concrete joists that require a six-week curing process.
Looking ahead, New Providence is ready to celebrate summer in style. The community calendar is packed, starting with Unity Day at the high school on June 7, hosted by the Diversity Committee and run largely by student volunteers. The annual Sharing Network 5K will return June 8, bringing thousands of participants through town in support of organ and tissue donation awareness.
On June 14, the borough will observe Flag Day with a solemn retirement ceremony hosted by the American Legion. Residents are encouraged to drop off worn flags in the designated mailbox outside Borough Hall—last year, over 2,500 flags were collected and retired during the moving tribute.
Of course, no summer in New Providence would be complete without the July 3 Fireworks Celebration, a longstanding tradition that draws families downtown for music, chalk art, and a festive atmosphere. “We’ve kept the fireworks on the 3rd not just for tradition’s sake—but also because we can put on a better show,” Morgan shared.
Wrapping up the discussion, Morgan responded to a popular community question about why New Providence and neighboring Berkeley Heights do not share a combined school district. While the idea was considered in the early 1990s, logistical and financial factors—particularly the cost of busing—made the proposal unfeasible. “It’s always a topic,” said Morgan, who served on the Board of Education during that time. “But right now, we’re focused on making the best use of the space and resources we have.”
Looking ahead, Mayor Morgan hopes to bring residents closer to the inner workings of borough operations by reintroducing public forums that include department heads from areas such as zoning, public works, and public safety. “People usually don’t think about these services until they need them,” he noted. “Having these conversations in advance helps everyone.”
Stay tuned for upcoming conversations with Mayor Al Morgan, where he’ll continue to offer valuable insight into the history, progress, and everyday workings of New Providence.
Hair Salon Body & Soul Celebrates 10 Years in New Providence with Community-Filled Celebration
By Bobbie Peer
Published May 23, 2025 at 8:25 AM
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — With glasses raised and smiles all around, Hair Salon Body & Soul celebrated its 10th anniversary in New Providence on Wednesday, marking a decade of beauty, community, and dedication to service.
Despite the rainy weather, spirits remained high under a large tent outside the salon, where family, friends, loyal clients, staff, members of the local business community and council members gathered to honor owner Maria Veloso and her team. Mayor Al Morgan joined the celebration, reflecting on the salon’s journey and his memories of their ribbon cutting 10 years ago.
“It popped up on my Facebook memories just a few weeks ago,” said Mayor Morgan. “I remember thinking right away that you were going to succeed—and you did. You jumped right into this community, even taking part in the first Scarecrow Contest with Christine [Morgan]. It was amazing to see.”
Veloso addressed the crowd with heartfelt gratitude, thanking those who supported the salon since its opening.
“When we first opened our doors a decade ago, we dreamed of creating more than just a salon,” said Veloso. “We wanted a space where people felt beautiful, welcomed, and part of a community. Thanks to all of you, that dream is a reality.”
She praised her team of stylists for their passion and commitment and acknowledged the clients whose trust has fueled the salon’s growth over the years.
“Every step has been worth it—every smile, every transformation, every conversation,” she said. “We’re proud of what we’ve built, and excited for what’s ahead.”
Guests enjoyed celebratory champagne and cake, along with crowd-pleasing favorites served up by the Pizza Vita truck and its signature brick oven pizza. The celebration was warm and lively despite the clouds overhead—a fitting tribute to a business that has brought light and beauty to the community for a decade.
“Maria, your determination paid off,” said Mayor Morgan. “I’m very proud of you. Here’s to the next 10 years.”
Hair Salon Body and Soul is located on 29 South Street in New Providence. To learn more, visit the website here or call 908.522.9080
Council Recognizes Local Business – Martial Arts for Life – for Their Community Involvement
By Marianne Ivers
Published May 2, 2025 at 7:00 AM
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ – Mayor Al Morgan and the Borough Council recognized Martial Arts for Life on their 20th anniversary for their contributions to the New Providence community. Morgan read a proclamation recognizing the business at the Tuesday, April 29 Borough Council meeting.
Martial Arts for Life is located at 1260 Springfield Avenue and it is a family-oriented Martial Arts school that has offered training for men, women, teens and children from ages 5 to over 65 years old since 2005. “Martial Arts for Life offers a diverse physical curriculum that includes martial arts such as jiu jitsu and Thai boxing. The school was founded by Richard and Michelle Brugger of Mountainside NJ. Richard is a Master Instructor who has been training in the Martial Arts since 1993 and teaching since 1995. Michelle is a 3rd degree Black Belt and has been training in the Martial Arts since 1996,” the proclamation read.
“Martial Arts for life promoted their first group of students to 1st Degree Black Belt in November of 2009 and has since promoted a total of 195 students to 1st degree Black Belt, 58 students to second degree Black Belt, and 8 students to 3rd degree Black Belt. The life skills and character education curriculum taught at Martial Arts for Life was featured in SUCCESS magazine and four articles on best practices for school owners,” Morgan read.
The proclamation also touted the Brugger’s community involvement, as they have been active in both the martial arts and local business community. Michelle was President of the New Providence Business & Professional Association for a decade and is also a member of the New Providence Downtown Improvement District. Furthermore, “Martial Arts for life has been dedicated to community involvement and charitable contributions, raising over $75,000 since 2012 for the New Providence-based NJ Sharing Network Foundation via their Martial Arts for Life 5K Team. The school has also raised over $10,000 since 2014 for local schools and parent/teacher organizations through their annual Skills for School Fundraiser, which donates 100% of the funds raised.”
New Providence Council Recognizes Girls Basketball Team and New Jersey Local Government Week
By Marianne Ivers
Published April 9, 2025 at 9:15 PM
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ – Mayor Al Morgan and the Borough Council celebrated the New
Providence High School Girls Basketball team for another successful season at the Tuesday,
April 8 meeting. The council also recognized the week of April 6-12 as New Jersey Local
Government Week. Morgan read proclamations for both recognitions.
The New Providence Girls Basketball won the NJSIAA Group 1 State Championship by holding
off a late charge by Glen Ridge at Rutgers University on March 15. The final score was 42-36 in
New Providence’s favor. This is the second state championship in three years for New
Providence, which beat Secaucus in the 2023 Group 2 final before being reclassified as a Group 1 school this year. The team also won its third Union County Tournament in four seasons over a Westfield team that would go on to win a North 2, Group 4 sectional championship. “The Pioneers reached the rarified air of 30 wins when they took home the state championship trophy. This is the best season for the New Providence girls’ basketball team winwise, and it matches 2023 when they won the conference, county and state championships,” Morgan read.
Morgan touted the team’s accomplishment, especially, as it shows the strength of a small
school district. He also congratulated Coach Cap Pazdera and thanked parents for their support of the team.
The week of April 6-12 is designated NJ Local Government Week, during which the borough
administration has organized special events. All events are listed on the borough’s website.
Morgan and council members encouraged residents to participate in them.
Morgan also read a proclamation recognizing local government: “Local government is the
government closest to most citizens, and the one with the most direct daily impact upon its
residents. Local government provides services and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents, making their municipality their home. Local government is administered for and by its citizens, and is dependent upon public commitment to and understanding of its many
responsibilities. Local government officials and employees share the responsibility to pass along the understanding of public services and their benefits. NJ Local Government Week offers an important opportunity for elected officials and local government staff to spread the word to all citizens of New Jersey that they can shape and influence this branch of government.”
New Providence Monthly Chat with Mayor Al Morgan: Budget, Capital Projects, and Community Events
Mayor Morgan highlights $26.6 million budget process, upcoming police and public works renovations, and previews Municipal Government Week and Easter Egg Hunt
By Bobbie Peer
Published April 5, 2025 at 5:06 PM
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — In the latest edition of TAPinto New Providence’s Monthly Chat with Mayor Al Morgan on April 4, 2025, Mayor Morgan sat down with Bobbie Peer to discuss a range of topics, including the borough’s $26.6 million budget, upcoming capital projects, and a variety of community events scheduled throughout April.
The conversation kicked off with an in-depth discussion about the 2025 municipal budget, which was introduced in March and is slated for approval at the end of April. Mayor Morgan emphasized that the budget process is an ongoing, year-long effort involving meticulous planning and frequent reviews.
“Once this budget is approved, we look at every line item, month by month,” Morgan explained. “Jim Testa and Bernadette [Cuccaro] go through everything—where we’re coming up short, where we’re saving money—because we can only transfer monies in November. It’s all very regulated.”
According to Morgan, approximately 80% of the budget is allocated to salaries and benefits, which continue to rise annually. This year, health insurance costs alone jumped by 12%, making it challenging to stay within the state-mandated 2% cap on municipal budgets. After several Finance Committee meetings, officials managed to reduce the proposed property tax increase from 2.9% to 1.9%, which equates to an average increase of $87 annually on a home valued at $790,000.
Morgan also clarified that the borough only controls about 20% of the overall tax bill, with the remainder going to the Board of Education (60%) and Union County (20%).
Mayor Morgan discussed two significant capital projects on the horizon: renovations to the New Providence Police Department and upgrades to the Public Works building.
The police station, originally part of the Lincoln School building renovated in 1982, no longer meets current standards or needs. Today, the department has 32 officers, compared to 18 or 20 at the time of the last renovation.
“By law, the police station has to be the last standing building in the borough,” Morgan said. “You can imagine what that means and how much more money that costs.” The estimated price tag for the project is approximately $10 million.
The Public Works building, dating back to the late 1940s with an addition from the 1970s, also requires modernization to accommodate the borough’s larger and more versatile vehicles. That project is expected to cost around $4.4 million. Both projects will likely be funded through 20-year bonds.
Morgan mentioned that these capital improvements are designed to last 30 to 40 years, ensuring long-term sustainability for the borough.
On a lighter note, Mayor Morgan previewed the upcoming Municipal Government Week, featuring daily events from Monday through Saturday. Activities will include Touch-a-Truck, Coffee with the Council, and an open house at the Historical Society’s Mason Room at the library.
“I went to the Mason Room one day and I think I got lost for four hours just reading all the history,” Morgan said. “If you want to know anything about New Providence’s history, that’s the place to go.”
Morgan also highlighted the 56th annual Easter Egg Hunt organized by the Lions Club, taking place at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 12 at Oakwood Park. The event will feature 2,500 hard-boiled eggs dyed by volunteers, a tradition that has delighted local families for decades.
“It’s the only town I know that does real hard-boiled eggs,” Morgan laughed. “It’s actually easier than stuffing plastic eggs, and it’s environmentally friendly.”
The event will include a silver egg and a gold egg, with special prizes awarded to the lucky finders. As always, the Easter Bunny is expected to make an appearance.
On a more serious note, Morgan addressed potential concerns about federal funding, noting that most of the borough’s revenue comes from local property taxes.
“I feel more sorry for people who work for the federal government, where they could face hardships,” Morgan said. “Most of our funding—over 90%—comes from local property taxes. We may lose something in a grant, but if that happens, we just don’t do the project.”
Morgan added that he is monitoring the situation and plans to discuss possible state-level ramifications with Congressman Tom Kean and Senator Jon Bramnick.
Morgan closed the conversation by wishing residents a happy Passover and Easter and expressing hope for good weather in the coming weeks.
“I always enjoy these monthly chats, Bobbie,” Morgan said. “It’s great to share what’s happening in New Providence and keep everyone informed.”
For more information on the budget presentation and details about Municipal Government Week, visit the borough’s official website here.