Bridgewater Bulletin March 2026

March 2026

THE BRIDGEWATER

BULLETIN

From Mayor Moench:

CONTENTS From the Mayor

1

March Township Calendar

2

Citizen’s Police Academy

2

Tax Bill Reminder

2

Lunar New Year Celebrations

3

Local Leaders In Action

4

Patidar Opens

5

Lead Paint Letters to Residents

5

Department Updates

Stay informed, stay engaged.

6-7

Clerk’s Corner

8

Township Directory

8

As we move into March, I’m grateful for the many moments over the past several weeks that have brought our community together in celebration, service, and shared pride in Bridgewater.

We were honored to welcome the grand opening of Patidar, a wonderful addition to our local business community. New businesses bring new energy to our township, and it was exciting to see so many residents come out to support this opening. We wish the Patidar team every success as they begin this new chapter.

February also brought an inspiring afternoon at the Go Red Fashion Show at Bridgewater Commons. This annual event continues to raise awareness about heart health while showcasing the strength and spirit of our community. It was a memorable day filled with generosity, enthusiasm, and an important message about taking care of ourselves and those we love.

We also had the pleasure of celebrating Lunar New Year not once but twice! The celebrations were vibrant and joyful, offering residents an opportunity to experience traditions, culture, and fellowship as we welcomed the new year.

I would also like to recognize the dedicated members of our Township Council — Joan Geiger, Andrew Bucko, Ridwana Isla, Michael Kirsh, and Timothy Ring — who have been out and about throughout the community attending events, meeting residents, and representing Bridgewater with energy and care. Their commitment to staying connected with the people they serve is deeply appreciated.

Bridgewater is at its best when neighbors come together, support local businesses, celebrate traditions, and take pride in the place we call home. As we head into the early days of spring, I wish all of our residents continued health, happiness, and many opportunities to enjoy everything our community has to offer.

Mayor Matthew C. Moench

March 2026

1

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Township Calendar

2

March 2026

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Bridgewater Welcomes the Year of the Fire Horse with Two Vibrant Lunar New Year Celebrations Bridgewater Township proudly welcomed the Lunar New Year with two beautiful community celebrations, each honoring the rich traditions of our Chinese American neighbors and the spirit of renewal that marks the beginning of the lunar calendar.

This year ushers in the Year of the Fire Horse, a sign traditionally associated with energy, courage, determination, and forward momentum: qualities that resonate strongly within our own diverse and dynamic community.

A Festive Celebration at Bridgewater Commons The first celebration took place at Bridgewater Commons Mall, where residents gathered to ring in the new year with music, color, and centuries-old tradition. The unmistakable rhythm of ceremonial drums echoed through the mall as lion dancers moved with power and precision — a performance meant to bring good fortune and ward off misfortune in the year ahead.

Families paused to watch traditional dances, admire vibrant red and gold decorations symbolizing prosperity and happiness, and experience cultural displays that connect generations to history.

Mayor Matthew Moench issued an official proclamation recognizing Lunar New Year in Bridgewater, highlighting the important contributions of the Chinese American community to the Township’s civic, professional, and cultural life. The proclamation noted that Lunar New Year is a time for family, reflection, gratitude, and renewed purpose — themes that strengthen communities everywhere.

A Warm and Meaningful Gathering at the Senior Center The celebration continued at the Bridgewater Senior Center, where the Bridgewater Chinese American Association hosted a special Lunar New Year event for seniors and community members.

In a setting marked by fellowship and cultural pride, attendees enjoyed traditional performances, music, and reflections on the meaning of the Fire Horse year. In Chinese tradition, the Horse represents vitality, independence, and resilience, while the element of Fire symbolizes passion, transformation, and boldness. We all hope to embody these characteristics this year.

Red lanterns and festive décor transformed the Senior Center into a welcoming space filled with warmth and community spirit. For many, the event was both a cherished reminder of heritage and a meaningful opportunity to share traditions with neighbors.

A Community That Celebrates Together Together, these two events reflected something enduring about Bridgewater: we are a community that honors heritage, values tradition, and embraces opportunities to learn from one another.

We extend our sincere thanks to the Bridgewater Chinese American Association, Bridgewater Commons, performers, volunteers, and all who helped make these celebrations possible. May the Year of the Fire Horse bring strength, prosperity, and bold new beginnings to all who call Bridgewater home.

March 2026

3

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Heart Healthy: Heart Strong

Bridgewater Officials Attend Go Red Fashion Show at Bridgewater Commons Bridgewater Township was proud to take part in the recent Go Red Fashion Show & Family Health Festival at Bridgewater Commons, hosted in partnership with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in recognition of American Heart Month.

Mayor Matthew Moench attended the event alongside Council President Joan Geiger and Council Vice President Andrew Bucko to support the important effort to raise awareness about heart health and the importance of regular heart screenings.

Adding a special family touch to the afternoon, Mayor Moench’s two daughters participated as models in the fashion show. The event brought together community members, healthcare partners, and local leaders to encourage healthy living and remind residents to take proactive steps to care for their hearts. Participants were treated to music, exhibits, fashion, and health screenings.

The Township thanks all of the organizers, volunteers, and participants who made the event a success and helped shine a spotlight on heart health throughout our community.

Township Officials Attend Washington Camp Ground Association Meeting On February 21, 2026, Council President Joan Geiger, Councilman Michael Kirsh, and Board of Education Member Jeremy Li attended the Washington Camp Ground Association’s annual February meeting.

Founded in the 19th century, the Washington Camp Ground Association is a historic organization in Bridgewater dedicated to preserving the traditions and legacy of the Washington Camp Ground, a site with deep roots in the community and the American Revolutionary War era. The Association continues to play an important role in maintaining the grounds and hosting events that celebrate local history and patriotism.

During the meeting, Councilman Kirsh was elected to serve on the Association’s Board of Trustees. Township officials congratulated him on this appointment and look forward to continued collaboration with the Washington Camp Ground Association in preserving this important piece of Bridgewater’s heritage.

4

March 2026

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Patidar Supermarket Opens in Bridgewater Indian Market Brings Beauty and Diversity to Bridgewater Retail Landscape

Bridgewater Township recently welcomed a new business to the community with the grand opening of Patidar Supermarket on Route 28 near the Somerville Circle. The new store occupies the former Buy Buy Baby location and represents a significant addition to the Township’s growing and diverse retail landscape.

Patidar Supermarket is known throughout Central New Jersey for offering a wide selection of authentic Indian and South Asian groceries. The Bridgewater location features fresh produce, traditional spices and pantry staples, specialty foods, and other international grocery items, along with an open-style kitchen and additional services for customers. The new store brings these offerings to a newly renovated space of approximately 32,000 square feet.

With existing locations in North Brunswick, East Windsor, and Hillsborough, the Bridgewater store marks another step in the company’s continued growth in the region. Community members and local officials joined the owners and staff to celebrate the grand opening and welcome the business to town.

The Township is pleased to welcome Patidar Supermarket to Bridgewater and looks forward to the continued success of this new addition to the local business community.

Lead Paint Inspection Letters: What Residents Should Know Some Bridgewater property owners may have recently received a letter regarding New Jersey’s Lead-Safe Certification law. The Township has received calls from residents concerned that the notice may be a scam. The letter is legitimate and relates to a statewide requirement for certain rental properties.

Under New Jersey law, most rental units built before 1978 must undergo periodic inspections to identify potential lead-based paint hazards. The requirement is intended to protect tenants—especially children—from exposure to deteriorating lead paint in older homes.

Bridgewater used municipal records to identify properties that may be rentals and sent notification letters accordingly. The Township has partnered with LEW Environmental to provide inspection services and assist property owners with meeting the state requirement.

It is important to note that this requirement applies only to rental properties and there are several exemptions, including homes built after 1978 or properties that have already been certified lead-free.

If you received the letter but your property is not a rental, you can contact LEW Environmental so that Township records can be updated. Rental property owners who are subject to the requirement must schedule an inspection by March 20, 2026.

Residents with questions can contact LEW Environmental or visit the Township website for additional information.

March 2026

5

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Department Updates Spring is almost here (we promise)!

Be sure to check out all we have to offer this Spring and Summer on the Current Programs page of our website, https://brd.leagueapps.com/camps. If you see a program that interests you, please click on the program name to view all of the details.

Travel Soccer Tryout Registration is Open!

The Bridgewater United Soccer Club (BUSC) will be having tryouts for the Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 seasons during the first week of May. You can find more information about our club and about tryouts on the BUSC website, https://bridgewaterunited.leagueapps.com/.

All players must be registered in order to try out!

Recreation

Thanks for Sharing the Love A special thank you to everyone who joined us to cheer on the BRHS Girls Varsity Basketball team on February 14th, as they soundly defeated West Windsor-Plainsboro South, 44-23. The team greatly appreciated our support!

Tax Reduction Programs: Property Tax Relief

Taxes

Veterans Property Tax Deduction Claim Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption Claim Senior Citizen Property Tax Deduction Exemption Claim

2026 Tax Collection Due Dates: February 1 May 1 August 1 November 1

2026 Sewer Due Dates: March 1 September 1

Property Tax Rebate Programs

Citizen’s Police Academy

Police Scan this code to learn more about the Citizen’s Police Academy and sign up to participate!

6

March 2026

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Department Updates

Fire Safety Historical Alliance Friends of Bridgewater History Heritage Trail Association Somerset County Historical Society Washington Campground Association

Yard Waste Site Hours Normal Operating Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30 am to 3:45 pm, weather permitting Saturdays 8:00 am to 1:30 pm, weather permitting Closed Sunday

DPW March 2026

7

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Here to serve you: The Office of Constituent Relations Bridgewater Municipal Complex 100 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 908-725-6300 extension 5888 OCR@bridgewaternj.gov

Mayor and Council Mayor Matthew C. Moench

Department Head Directory Township Administrator Michael Pappas twpadmin@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5000

Police Chief John Mitzak jmitzak@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x4034 Township Clerk Grace Njuguna gnjuguna@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5025

mayor@bridgewaternj.gov Public Works and Sewer Utility Superintendent Richard Shimp publicworks@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x6000 Director of Health & Human Services Christine Madrid cmadrid@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5045

Council President Joan Geiger

jgeiger@bridgewaternj.gov Council Vice President Andrew Bucko

abucko@bridgewaternj.gov Councilwoman Ridwana Isla

risla@bridgewaternj.gov

Recreation Superintendent Rachel Barrett recreation@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5300

Tax Collector Blanca Lyons taxcollector@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5143

Senior Services Coordinator Jennifer Osterberg seniors@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.8020

mkirsh@bridgewaternj.gov

Director of Municipal Services Thomas Genova tgenova@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5515

Court Administrator Jenni Peterson jpeterson@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5404

tring@bridgewaternj.gov

Construction Official John Tillotson bwtcode@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5565

Deputy Administrator Rob Field rfield@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5001

Clerk’s Corner

Tax Assessor Anthony DiRado taxassessor@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5125

8

Dog & Cat Licenses State Law requires the owners of all dogs and cats seven (7) months of age OR with permanent teeth to apply for a license annually. While Licensing is conducted throughout the year, Dog Licenses are generally issued in the month of January and Cat Licenses are generally issued in the month of June.

Cost for Dogs: $15.00 Altered or $18.00 if NOT Altered.

Cost for Cats: $5.00, No late fees Note: Late Fees (for Dogs) are an additional $3.00 after February 1st and $10.00 after June 1st per license.

IF PAYING BY CASH, EXACT CHANGE IS REQUIRED RABIES VACCINATION MUST be good for the licensing period which means it must be good through November 1ST (Dogs) & May 1ST (Cats) of the licensing year.

Proof of current rabies vaccination must be provided if new to our system, near expiration, or expired. Proof of spaying/neutering is required unless previously provided.

Councilman Michael Kirsh Councilman Tim Ring

@BridgewaterTwp

@BridgewaterNewJersey

bridgewaternj.gov OPRA DOG LICENSES

VOTER REGISTRATION

If a dog/cat is already in our system, an application is not required.

March 2026

VOTE BY MAIL APPLICATION