Bridgewater Bulletin September 2025

September 2025

THE BRIDGEWATER

BULLETIN

From Mayor Moench:

CONTENTS From the Mayor

1

September Township Calendar

2

September 11th Ceremony

2

Family Fun Day with the JCC

2

Water Rescue

3

Animal Shelter 5K

3

Senior Day in Bridgewater

4

The 4-H Fair Comes to Town

5

Department Updates

Stay informed, stay engaged.

6-7

Clerk’s Corner

8

Township Directory

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As we turn the page to September, I want to take a moment to wish all of our students, families, teachers, and staff a successful start to the new school year. This is always an exciting season of new beginnings, and I know Bridgewater’s schools will once again reflect the hard work and spirit of our community.

This month’s Bulletin shines a spotlight on some of the extraordinary things happening across Bridgewater.

At our August Council meeting, we recognized Detective Tyran Barnett, Detective Michael Macchia, and Mr. Michael Fratesi for their courageous water rescue during July’s severe flooding—an inspiring example of service and selflessness.

We also celebrated National Senior Citizen Day with a “Through the Decades” event at the Senior Center, honoring the wisdom and contributions of our older residents, while offering a special thank-you to Ron and Janet Almquist for more than 20 years of Tai Chi instruction and volunteer service.

And at the Somerset County 4-H Fair, Bridgewater was proud to be represented both through our historical alliance and by the young men and women of 4-H, whose energy and dedication keep this tradition strong.

Finally, I encourage you to look ahead to events like our annual September 11th Remembrance Ceremony, Family Fun Day with the JCC, our Fall Bulky Trash Days, and the Paws and Soles 5K in October, which supports the Somerset Regional Animal Shelter. Opportunities like this remind us how important the past, the present, and the future are to the vitality of our daily life here in Bridgewater.

Thank you for being such an engaged and vibrant community. I wish you all a safe and happy start to the school year, and I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events this fall.

Mayor Matthew C. Moench

September 2025

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Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Township Calendar

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September 2025

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Mayor Honors Three Heroes for Water Rescue At the August 21st Township Council meeting, Mayor Matthew Moench presented the Mayor’s Award for Exceptional Public Service to three individuals whose actions exemplified bravery, selflessness, and dedication to our community.

The honorees—Detective Tyran Barnett and Detective Michael Macchia of the Bridgewater Police Department, along with Mr. Michael Fratesi of North East Construction—were recognized for their extraordinary response during the severe flooding on the night of July 14th.

That evening, as heavy rain quickly overwhelmed roadways across Bridgewater, a vehicle became trapped in rising floodwaters with three individuals inside. Despite the hazardous conditions, Detectives Barnett and Macchia, together with Mr. Fratesi, acted decisively. Risking their own safety, they entered the flood zone and worked together to carry out a dangerous water rescue. Their efforts ultimately saved lives, preventing what could have been a tragic outcome.

In presenting the awards, Mayor Moench commended the honorees for their courage and quick thinking. “These men placed themselves in harm’s way to protect others. Their bravery reflects the highest ideals of public service, and we are proud to recognize them for their heroic actions,” the Mayor said.

The ceremony was attended by family members of each honoree, who joined in celebrating their loved ones’ welldeserved recognition. Photos of the ceremony, as well as a video the Township produced highlighting the mens’ heroic actions, are available on the Township social media channels.

Bridgewater extends its gratitude to Detective Barnett, Detective Macchia, and Mr. Fratesi for embodying the very best of courage, professionalism, and community spirit.

Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter (FOSRAS), a local nonprofit, is proud to host the Paws and Soles: Saving Lives with Strides 5K Run/Walk and Kiddie Dash on Saturday, October 5th at Duke Island Park.

Proceeds from the event will directly support animals at the Somerset Regional Animal Shelter (SRAS) who require extraordinary and costly medical care. Thanks to community support, last year’s race raised $24,000—funds that helped place nearly 1,000 animals into loving forever-homes. These donations also made it possible for SRAS to rehome 11 dogs abandoned in Branchburg and to welcome dogs displaced by the destruction of the Hope for Paws shelter earlier this year.

The USATF-sanctioned 5K Run/Walk begins at 9:15 a.m., following a flat and scenic trail through Duke Island Park. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome on the course. For younger participants, this year’s event brings back the popular Kiddie Dashes —one for ages 4 and under and another for ages 5–7. Each child will receive a race t-shirt and a finisher’s prize.

The day will be filled with fun for the whole family, including food trucks, vendors, face painting, and more. Presenting sponsors ROBEL North America and Red Bank Veterinary Hospital – Hillsborough are helping make the event possible.

Pre-registration closes October 4th, but on-site registration will also be available.

Register today: runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Bridgewater/FOSRAS For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, contact heartandsole5knj@gmail.com

➡️ 📧

September 2025

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Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Last Friday, the Bridgewater Senior Center came alive with music, dancing, and memories as members gathered to celebrate National Senior Citizen Day. The annual event, themed “Through the Decades: We’ve Seen It All!”, honored the lives, legacies, and wisdom of our older residents.

The celebration featured lively performances, singing, storytelling, and a chance for members to reminisce about the past while dressed in their favorite decade attire. Attendees played a spirited trivia game, shared photos from their younger years, and recorded words of wisdom to be included in Bridgewater’s 100-year time capsule, which will be sealed on July 4th, 2026.

Special recognition was given to Ron and Janet Almquist, a married couple who have volunteered for more than 20 years teaching Tai Chi at the Senior Center. As they now step back to focus on their health, the Township offered heartfelt thanks for their invaluable contributions to the adult community and wished them a happy “retirement” from their volunteer service.

The event was made possible by the dedication of Senior Citizen Program Coordinator Jennifer Osterberg, Senior Center staff member Judy Cosentino, and a hardworking team of volunteers who decorated, prepared food, and ensured the day’s success. Councilman Michael Kirsh also joined the celebration, offering remarks and his continued support for Bridgewater’s seniors.

National Senior Citizen Day, established by presidential proclamation in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan, serves as a reminder to honor the contributions of older adults to society. Bridgewater’s celebration captured that spirit perfectly, uniting generations in gratitude, joy, and community pride.

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September 2025

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, the Bridgewater Historical Alliance brought history to life at this year’s Somerset County 4-H Fair.

The Alliance’s booth, sponsored by Bridgewater Township, featured several member organizations: the Friends of Bridgewater History (FoBH), Washington Campground Association (WCGA), Heritage Trail Association, and the Camp Middlebrook Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Township officials and volunteers—including Mayor Matthew Moench, Michael Pappas, Jane Gandolfe, and Christine Rose—greeted visitors and shared information about upcoming initiatives.

Hundreds of fairgoers stopped by to learn more about local history and the exciting events planned for America’s Semiquincentennial. Be sure to mark your calendars for July 4th, 2026, when the WCGA will host its annual public reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Middlebrook Campground, followed by the closing of Bridgewater’s Legacy 2026 time capsule at the Municipal Complex.

Additional programs and activities will take place leading up to the celebration. To stay up to date, visit the websites of the participating organizations.

Mayor Matthew Moench was honored to cut the ribbon at the 2025 4-H Fair at North Branch Park, marking the official opening of this beloved annual tradition. The fair has long been an integral part of Bridgewater’s community identity, and its continued success stands as a testament to the enthusiasm, dedication, and hard work of the many 4-H members who make it possible.

During his visit, Mayor Moench toured the exhibits with the NJ 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors, who warmly welcomed him and offered a gracious reception. He enjoyed seeing the wide variety of exhibits, animals, and activities that drew families and visitors from across the county.

Bridgewater thanks all of the men, women, and young people who contributed their time and effort to ensure another successful year for the Somerset County 4-H Fair.

September 2025

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Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Summer has flown by and it is almost time for all of our Fall programs to begin! You can find information and registration for Tennis, Basketball, Volleyball, and more on the “Current Programs” page of our website, brd.leagueapps.com/camps.

FREE NON-CONTACT RUGBY CLINIC Bridgewater Recreation is offering a chance for boys in grades 9 – 12 to try rugby for free! There will be a free non-contact rugby clinic for boys in grades 9 - 12 run by some of the coaches from our 2025 New Jersey State Champion team coaches on September 13th. This non-contact clinic will focus on the fundamentals of the game. Rugby is a game where all players on the field have the opportunity to run, kick, pass, and score. Interested? Please go to brd.leagueapps.com/camps for more details and registration.

Tax Reduction Programs: Property Tax Relief Veterans Property Tax Deduction Claim Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption Claim Senior Citizen Property Tax Deduction Exemption Claim Property Tax Rebate Programs

Have you signed up to receive Senior updates via email?

Sign up here: bridgewaternj.gov/subscribe-tobridgewater-newsletters

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September 2025

2025 Tax Collection Due Dates: February 1 May 1 August 1 November 1

2025 Sewer Due Dates: March 1 September 1

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

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

September 2025

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Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Here to serve you: Bridgewater Municipal Complex 100 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 908-725-6300 extension 5888 OCR@bridgewaternj.gov Mayor Matthew C. Moench

mayor@bridgewaternj.gov Township Administrator Michael Pappas twpadmin@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5000 Deputy Township Administrator Scott Stephens sstephens@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5001 Township Clerk Grace Njuguna gnjuguna@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5025

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 Howard Norgalis

hnorgalis@bridgewaternj.gov Council Vice President Filipe Pedroso

fpedroso@bridgewaternj.gov Councilman Tim Ring

tring@bridgewaternj.gov

Tax Assessor Anthony DiRado taxassessor@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5125

Recreation Superintendent Rachel Barrett recreation@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5300

Councilman Michael Kirsh

Tax Collector Blanca Lyons taxcollector@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5143

Senior Services Coordinator Jennifer Osterberg seniors@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.8020

Councilman Allen Kurdyla

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

Court Administrator Jenni Peterson jpeterson@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5404

Construction Official John Tillotson bwtcode@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5565

Police Chief John Mitzak jmitzak@bridgewaterpd.com 908.725.6300 x4034

mkirsh@bridgewaternj.gov akurdyla@bridgewaternj.gov

@BridgewaterTwp

Bridgewater’s Township Council generally meets every first and third Thursday evening at 7:30 PM in the Council Meeting Room at 100 Commons Way, Bridgewater NJ. The Clerk’s office maintains records of the agendas, minutes, resolutions, and ordinances from the meeting.

You can also find the livestreams of Council Meetings, along with the agendas, on the Bridgewater Township YouTube channel.

youtube.com/@BridgewaterNewJersey 8

September 2025

@BridgewaterNewJersey