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February 2024

THE BRIDGEWATER

BULLETIN From the Mayor:

CONTENTS From the Mayor First Saturday Food Donations February Township Calendar Bridgewater Welcomes Cellares 2024 Dog Licenses Black History Month Guest Article: Children’s Dental Hygiene by Iris Pan BPD Celebrates Promotions, Retirements February Senior Bus Schedule Department Updates Clerk’s Corner Township Directory

Stay informed, stay engaged.

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This past week I had the immense pleasure of visiting the next generation of leaders right here in Bridgewater: Ms. Koko’s 2nd grade class at Van Holton Elementary School. Recently Ms. Koko and her class learned about elections and government. They finished their unit by answering the question, “What would you do if you were the Mayor of Bridgewater?” During our time together, I had the privilege of sharing with the students the responsibilities and duties that come with being the Mayor of our beloved town. I spoke about the challenges and joys of serving our community and emphasized the impact that local leadership can have on the lives of each resident. What truly stood out during this visit was the remarkable level of engagement displayed by Ms. Koko’s second-grade class. These young minds asked incredibly perceptive questions, demonstrating their keen understanding of the role a mayor plays in shaping the community. We discussed everything from community development, environmental concerns, playground equipment, litter, and how to choose which road to pave next. Their questions reflected a genuine interest in the well-being of Bridgewater, and I was honored to answer them. As we exchanged thoughts and ideas, I found myself inspired by the energy and enthusiasm eminating from these young learners. It was a delightful experience witnessing the classroom come alive with the excitement of learning about the inner workings of our town.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Ms. Koko and her class for welcoming me and for the thoughtful questions that made our time truly meaningful. It was a reminder of the potential that lies within our community’s youngest members.

In closing, I want to express my appreciation for the ongoing support and engagement of the residents of Bridgewater. It is with great pride that I serve as your Mayor, and moments like these reinforce the strength and unity of our community. Thank you for your continued commitment to making Bridgewater a wonderful place to live, work and thrive.

Mayor Matthew C. Moench

February 2024

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Somerset County Accepting Food Donations at First Saturday and E-Waste Drop-Off Events in 2024 Residents can now drop off canned and non-perishable items at the free FirstSaturday and E-Waste Drop-off events in order to benefit the Food Bank Network of Somerset County.

This past week Mayor Matthew Moench and Councilmen Kurdyla, Norgalis, Pedroso, and Kirsh attended the ribbon cutting for biotech company Cellares’ new Flagship cell therapy manufactuerer here in Bridgewater.

Mayor Moench welcomed Cellares to Bridgewater, saying, “this new facility positions Cellares and Bridgewater at the forefront of the cell therapy manufacturing industry, contributing to our area’s reputation for technological innovation. We are proud to be partners with the Cellares team.”

Fabian Gerlinghaus, the CEO and cofounder of Cellares, thanked the Township of Bridgewater, saying, “We are thankful to the Township, who have been supportive and helpful every step of the way. We are looking forward to a long and productive partnership.

To learn more about Cellares, visit https://www.cellares.com/

The new facility spans 118,000 square feet and expects to manufacture between 40,000 and 100,000 cell therapy patient doses per year, utilizing the Cell Shuttle: a revolutionary device that stands as a fully automated, easily replicable, and highly scalable cell therapy manufacturing apparatus.

First Saturday Drop-Off Event: 8 AM - 2 PM 40 Polhemus Lane, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 E-Waste Drop-Off Event: 8 AM - 2 PM 410 Roycefield Road Hillsborough, NJ 08844

Township Meetings for February 2024 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Thursday

Wednesday

Friday

Saturday

Council Meeting 7:30PM

Planning Board 7PM

Zoning Board 7PM

Building Closed for President’s Day

Planning Board 7PM

26 Zoning Board 7PM

Council Meeting 7:30PM

February 2024

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

February marks Black History Month, and at the first Council Meeting of the month Mayor Matthew Moench, along with the Governing Body, presented a proclamation to Pastor David D. Hobbs of Macedonia Baptist Church. Macadeonia Baptist Church was founded in 1922 by Amos Hobbs, and has been a pillar of the historic Hobbstown Community in Bridgewater. Two years ago the church celebrated its centennial anniversary. The proclamation celebrated the pivotal role played by African Americans throuhout history in advancing civil rights, social justice, science, literature, arts, and other various fields. It notes the specific service of Hobbstown to the African American community of Bridgewater, serving as a thriving community and contributing rich chapters to Bridgewater Township’s history.

February 2024

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Guest Article: Bradley Gardens, Adamsville, and Hamilton Elementary Schools Welcome Bright Smiles By: Iris Pan

Amid the daily routines of preparing for school and winding down each night, the importance of maintaining children’s oral hygiene is often overlooked. However, cavities are the most common chronic disease in childhood. Dental problems, if left untreated, can lead to issues such as cavities, gum disease, and even more severe conditions, adversely affecting children’s daily lives and hindering their ability to learn and grow.

Dr. Lapena from Branchburg Pediatric Dentistry explains, “The rule of thumb is to see a dentist at age 1 or 6 months after getting the first tooth, whichever comes first, to establish a dental home. This helps to build a relationship between the dentist and patient and to create a lifetime of optimal oral health.” Through finding a “dental home” children will establish a lifelong relationship with dentists that will serve them well into adulthood. Branchburg Pediatric Dentistry has outlined some important oral hygiene practices:

It has become essential to shed light on instilling proper dental habits from a young age. As Bridgewater strives to build a healthier community, focusing on the oral hygiene of our youngest members is a crucial step towards brighter smiles and brighter futures. In honor of National Children’s Dental Health month in February, Bradley Gardens, Adamsville, and Hamilton elementary schools have joined forces with Branchburg Pediatric Dentistry to deliver oral hygiene education to first grade students. At Bradley Gardens, guided by head nurse Kimberly Colavito, Branchburg Pediatric Dentistry will present to three first grade classes, totaling approximately 50 students. Collaborations between local schools and organizations, exemplified by the one between Bridgewater-Raritan elementary schools and Branchburg Pediatric Dentistry, are crucial towards promoting positive oral hygiene.

Children, like adults, should visit a dentist twice a year. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Flossing should be done once a day, especially before bed. Grown-ups should help with brushing and flossing until their child is able to tie their shoelaces. It is important to avoid sugary foods and drinks as part of a healthy diet. Children should take daily vitamins with fluoride. Children can protect their teeth by wearing a mouthguard when playing sports.

By incorporating positive habits into a child's daily routine, we empower them to take charge of their own oral health and become proactive in caring for their future health. The paramount importance of children’s oral hygiene lies in its direct connection to a child’s overall health. Beyond the physical aspects, the psychological impact of oral health on a child's self-image is substantial. A healthy, confident smile is a tremendous asset in a child's social development, enhancing one’s ability to interact with peers, make friends, and participate in social activities.

February 2024

The significance of children's oral hygiene extends far beyond a dazzling smile. By prioritizing pediatric oral health education now, we provide a healthier, brighter future for our children.

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Bridgewater Police Department celebrates Promotions, Retirements In a ceremony this week, the Bridgewater Police Department celebrated the promotion of two outstanding officers and bid farewell to two accomplished lieutenants who retired.

Senior Center A Cornerstone of Care and Community Connection

Sergeant Todd Mele, a seasoned officer with a proven track record of excellence, received a promotion to the rank of Lieutenant. Joining the ranks of leadership, Office Kevin Florczak has been promoted to the rank of Sergeant, given his commendable service and exemplary performance. In addition to the promotions, the Bridgewater Police Department took the time to honor the retirement of two lieutenants who have dedicated their careers to the service of others. Lieutenant Brian Blath and Lieutenant Kevin Lamey were both celebrated in walk-out ceremonies, paying tribute to their years of commitment and sacrifice. Lieutenant Brian Blath leaves behind a legacy of leadership and professionalism. Throughout his career, he has been a source of inspiration and camaraderie for his colleagues. Likewise, Lieutenant Kevin Lamey’s contributions to the department have been significant, and his dedication to upholding the values of law enforcement have left an indelible mark. As both men step into retirement, the Township of Bridgewater and the Bridgewater Police Department acknowledge their over twenty-five years of service to our community, and extend our best wishes for their next chapters.

Did you know that the Bridgewater Senior Center has a free bus service? Call 908-725-8020 to reserve a spot on the bus on the designated days provided. Reservations must be made at least 3 days prior to event date. Call 908-725-8020 ASAP for CANCELLATIONS. The bus is wheel chair accessible. If individuals require a caretaker, the caretaker must accompany the individual for the duration of the event.

February 2024

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Registration for most of our Spring and Summer programs will open on Monday, February 5th! Be sure to check our website, brd.leagueapps.com, for our most updated registration information. Our Bridgewater United Soccer Club (BUSC) is having a special tryout on February 10th for boys born in 2010 to fill one or two spots on our 2010 travel soccer team. Interested players can register at Body. Speaking of travel soccer, the BUSC tryouts for the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 seasons are just around the corner! Be sure to check your emails for the schedule and registration link. Interested in Rugby? Our High School boys Rugby program will be having an informational meeting on February 26th at 6 p.m. in the Municipal Complex. Potential players in grades 9 – 12 and/or their parents are welcome to attend.

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

Smoke alarms save lives. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. Fire spreads fast—working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly. Learn more here. 6

February 2024

2024 Tax Collection Due Dates: February 1 May 1 August 1 November 1

2024 Sewer Tax Due Dates: March 1 September 1

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Questions? Call the Human Services Office at 908-725-6300 ex. 5205.

February 2024

Bridgewater Township Bulletin

Here to serve you: Bridgewater Municipal Complex 100 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 908-725-6300 OCR@bridgewaternj.gov Township Administrator Michael Pappas twpadmin@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5000 Deputy Township Administrator Wells Winegar wwinegar@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5003 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

Tax Assessor Anthony DiRado taxassessor@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5125

Recreation Superintendent Rachel Barrett recreation@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5300

Tax Collector Darrow Murdock taxcollector@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.6300 x5145

Senior Services Coordinator Jennifer Osterberg seniors@bridgewaternj.gov 908.725.8020

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

Clerk’s Corner

Pursuant to Chapter 78 of the Bridgewater Township Code, all Dog Licenses are to be renewed annually during the month of January. New dogs that have reached the licensing age of seven (7) months or possess a set of permanent teeth must be licensed. This year, we have made it easy for you. As of January 2nd, you can obtain your dog license online by logging onto https://pets.munidex.info/bridgewater-nj-1806. Other Registration/Renewal options: 1. Visit the Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, Monday thru Friday from 9am to 5pm 2. Use the Township Drop Box ATT: Dog Licensing 3. Use regular mail - 100 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 ATT: Dog Licensing For options 2 and 3, please enclose a check or money order (NO CASH) payable to “Bridgewater Township” and a Self-Addressed STAMPED envelope for the license and tag to be mailed back to you. Additional postage is required when mailing more than one license. LICENSE RENEWAL REQUIREMENT: Rabies vaccination must be good through November, 2024 COST: $15.00 Altered or $18.00 if NOT Altered. LATE FEES: $3.00 after February 1st and $10.00 after June 1st per license. If you no longer have the previously licensed pet, please notify our office Recycle your old dog tags with us; proceeds will go to the Somerset Regional Animal Shelter

February 2024

Mayor Matthew C. Moench

mayor@bridgewaternj.gov Council President Timothy Ring

tring@bridgewaternj.gov Council Vice President Howard Norgalis

hnorgalis@bridgewaternj.gov Councilman Michael Kirsh

mkirsh@bridgewaternj.gov Councilman Allen Kurdyla

akurdyla@bridgewaternj.gov Councilman Filipe Pedroso

fpedroso@bridgewaternj.gov

@BridgewaterTwp

@BridgewaterNewJersey