2026 State of the Township
2026 State of the Township Address
Good evening, Council President, members of the Township Council, current and
former elected officials, our municipal employees, friends, family, and my fellow
Mount Olive residents.
As I wrap up my second year as Mayor, I want to extend my sincere gratitude for
the trust you continue to place in me to lead this vibrant, growing community. It
has truly been an extraordinary journey—filled with challenges, opportunities, and
meaningful accomplishments—and I am honored to stand before you tonight to
present the 2026 State of the Township.
I’d also like to congratulate Council President Alex Roman on his 3rd term
reappointment, and Councilman Chuck Aaron on his first appointment as Council
Vice President. Also, congratulations to John Mania, John Ferrante and Chuck
Aaron on their re-election to council as well as our newly elected Councilman,
Ralph Ruggerio.
Thank you to our Business Administrator, Andrew Tatarenko who keeps
everything on track and works tirelessly to help turn my ideas and vision into
reality. Finally, I want to thank each member of our Council for their hard work,
collaboration, and continued support. Together, we are making Mount Olive
stronger every year.
I look forward to another year of productive collaboration. Tonight’s report
highlights not only the progress we’ve made together, but also the commitment and
hard work of every municipal department whose efforts continue to elevate the
quality of life for all Mount Olive residents.
As I review each department’s accomplishments, I encourage you to pay attention
to the numbers and the sheer volume of work being done. This is what keeps
Mount Olive running efficiently and preserves the high quality of life we’ve all
come to expect
Administration & Township Operations
This past year, our Administration continued to focus on one simple goal: making
sure Mount Olive runs efficiently, responsibly, and with an eye toward the future.
We navigated major leadership transitions as several long-serving department
heads retired, including the Township Planner/Zoning Official, Tax Assessor,
Police Chief, and our Certified Municipal Financial Officer. Because of our strong
financial footing and reputation as a well-run township, we successfully attracted
highly qualified professionals to step into these key roles and keep us moving
forward.
We strengthened our workforce by updating personnel policies, improving
benefits, and modernizing employment practices—ensuring we remain competitive
while being fiscally responsible. On the legislative side, we updated ordinances to
reflect today’s needs, including public safety improvements, tree and
environmental protections, banning short-term rentals, becoming a Film-Ready
municipality, advancing mixed-use redevelopment to meet our housing obligations,
and launching new incentives to recruit and retain Fire and EMS volunteers.
Our capital investments were substantial and impactful. We completed full PFAS
mitigation at Pinecrest, added a new cricket pitch in partnership with the Board of
Education, advanced restoration of the historic Seward House, broke ground on the
new Health and Wellness Center, and continued roadway and safety
upgrades—including securing a commitment for a new traffic light at Route 46 and
Connelly Avenue.
Shared services remain a success story, generating more than $700,000 in revenue,
while over $1.7 million in grants and settlement funds were secured to support
infrastructure, public safety, and preservation projects.
Community engagement also expanded—through job fairs, business visits,
sponsorships that reduced taxpayer costs, and improved digital
communication—strengthening quality of life across the township.
Finance Department
Our Finance Department continues to deliver stability, transparency, and results.
We expect to maintain a fund balance exceeding $14 million – continuing the
positive performance of a key financial metric. Such financial stability is crucial
for sustaining our community's resources and continuing to meet public needs
effectively.
For the seventeenth consecutive year, our annual audit was completed with zero
recommendations, a remarkable achievement that reflects disciplined financial
management. This consistency also applied to our audits for the Length of Service
Award Program (LOSAP) and Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) - each concluding
without recommendations. We also earned over $1.2 million in interest income,
maintained our AA+ credit rating, submitted all financial reports ahead of
schedule, and scored 99% on the state’s best-practices review.
We continue modernizing our financial systems—merging water and sewer utilities
and moving toward a single, more convenient billing process for residents in 2026
by combining the billing into one statement that will save money and make the
payment process more convenient for our residents.
Our Tax Assessor resolved all appeals with minimal refunds, saving the township
significant legal and refund costs.
Our commitment to efficiency is also reflected in the fact that we have zero
outstanding State Tax Appeals, a stark contrast to many neighboring Morris
County municipalities burdened with over 100 appeals.
The Tax Collection team collected more than $127 million at a 99+% collection
rate. To support seniors, the Tax Collection team hosted a session with the NJ
Division of Taxation for approximately 200 participants, addressing questions on
the new PAS-1 tax relief program. Additionally, 19 applications for 100%
Disabled Veteran exemptions were processed in 2025. The department continues
exploring paperless billing and autopay options.
Township Clerk
The Clerk’s Office improved efficiency by streamlining workflows and reducing
paper usage. Elections ran smoothly across all 22 districts, as one of Morris
County’s early voting locations, 7,139 voters visited the Municipal Building during
the General Election to cast their votes. In addition, over 1,100 notarial acts were
completed, issued over 100 taxi and limousine certificates of compliance,
processed 72 Pay-to-Play packets, issued 44 raffle licenses and 29 peddler/solicitor
permits, and renewed 24 liquor licenses. The office also issued the Township’s first
Film Permit.
For 2026, the Clerk’s Office has a goal to complete the implementation of the new
OPRA system through Gov Pilot, which will further streamline and improve the
efficiency of processing records requests.
Police Department
The Police Department experienced leadership transitions while continuing to
deliver outstanding service. Chief Michael T. Spitzer retired after more than 31
years of dedicated service to the community. Captain Mike Cordileone was
promoted to Chief, and Detective Lieutenant Dave Turner was promoted to
Captain. The department completed a comprehensive hiring process and selected
four new candidates who are currently attending the police academy. In addition,
the department earned its fourth reaccreditation—marking 12 straight years of
accredited excellence.
The Traffic Unit conducted a full review of all pedestrian crosswalks in the
township and provided recommendations for improvements, secured more than
$73,000 in state traffic safety grants, and reviewed over 700 crash reports. The
Community Services Unit attended more than 30 community outreach events,
processed 456 firearms applications, implemented the “April is Autism Month –
Blue Envelope Program,” and taught more than 210 LEAD classes to the local
school district.
The Patrol Division completed more than 6,500 motor vehicle stops and responded
to several notable incidents. These included an international welfare case in which
a suicidal female in Finland was located to ensure her safety; a vehicle pursuit on
Route 46; a trespassing arrest in which a female trespasser was apprehended inside
Fratelli Berretta; and a drug trafficking investigation at the Day’s Inn, resulting in
the seizure of $24,000 in cash linked to cross-country drug trafficking.
The Communications and Records Division also achieved major milestones in
2025. The Communications Center answered more than 9,000 emergency 911 calls
and completed critical radio system upgrades to ensure redundancy and operational
continuity. These improvements included the installation of automatic generators at
two radio sites, the addition of microwave connectivity at two radio sites,
expansion of communication channels for large-scale incidents, the creation of
dedicated channels for the Department of Public Works and Health Department,
and enhanced interoperability with the Mount Olive School District to enable
direct communication during emergencies. The Central Records Unit updated its
Records Management Software and achieved New Jersey DORES certification for
maintaining reports and documents in digital format, migrated all personnel
records to electronic storage, and completed the transition to AXON for body-worn
cameras, fleet vehicles, and interview rooms, improving video quality and
information-sharing capabilities.
The Investigations Division processed more than 165 criminal cases during the
year. Significant cases included a weapons and threats investigation in which a
Hackettstown resident was charged with unlawful possession of a handgun and
terroristic threats; an internet fraud case in which a Chicago, IL resident was
charged with second-degree theft related to a $78,700 internet scam, with the
stolen funds successfully recovered and returned to the victim; and a burglary and
theft investigation in which the suspect was charged with stealing $12,400 from the
Flanders Shell gas station.
Public Works
Public Works delivered tangible results across the township— With a dedicated
staff they have resurfaced 22 roads, repaired potholes, removed hazardous trees
including 60 dead ash trees, continued with in-house garbage, recycling, brush and
leaf pick up, snow plowing and salting of streets to keep our residents travel safe.
The Water and Sewer Division made significant progress in advancing the
township’s water infrastructure. A key initiative included the initial planning for a
PFAS filtration system within the Tinc Water System, which will further safeguard
drinking water quality. Improvements to the Sandshore Water System also began
with the replacement of water lines on Glenside Avenue and Kennedy Drive, along
with planned well house and pump station upgrades in 2026, reinforcing the
department’s commitment to reliable and safe water service.
The Fleet Division remained focused on efficiency and asset management
throughout the year, overseeing the maintenance of all township-owned vehicles
and generating nearly $50,000 through surplus vehicle auctions, reflecting strong
stewardship of taxpayer assets.
The Parks, Buildings, and Grounds Division continued to maintain township
facilities and parklands while supporting numerous recreational events. Their work
ensured that public spaces remained safe, clean, and welcoming for residents and
visitors alike throughout the year.
Recreation
Recreation embraced the theme “Connected,” hosting 16 highly successful
community events—including our largest parade ever—and expanding programs
for all ages.
Pirates Cove Splashpad welcomed over 50,000 visitors, while camps and programs
in sports, arts, music, and technology flourished. Looking ahead, 2026’s theme
“Serve!” will celebrate service, community pride, and America’s 250th anniversary
with expanded banners and events that unite residents and businesses.
By fostering engagement, collaboration, and inclusivity, our recreation department
remains committed to enriching the lives of all who call this township home — and
all who visit it.
Health Department
The Health Department strengthened partnerships, expanded senior transportation
with new accessible vehicles, and played a leadership role in countywide public
health planning. They recently received notification that we would be in receipt of
a third vehicle and $50,000.00 to ensure that we are better serving the mobility and
social needs of our seniors.
In collaboration with the Mount Olive Police Department’s Connect and Protect
Program, the Health Department has enhanced the Township’s ability to link
residents with much-needed social and mental health services.
The Health Department’s efforts and leadership were recently acknowledged at the
state level. The Department was honored by the New Jersey Public Health
Association (NJPHA) for achieving Pathways Acknowledgement from the Public
Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). This prestigious recognition highlights their
excellence in public health practice, accountability, and service to the community.
Our Health Officer, Derrick Webb, was recently honored as the 2025 Health
Officer of the Year by the New Jersey Local Boards of Health Association
(NJLBHA).
Lastly, I am thrilled to announce the most significant milestone for our Health
Department with the groundbreaking of a new centralized Health Center which
marks the most significant advancement in public health services in
years—ensuring coordinated public health services for generations to come.
IT Department
IT enhanced cybersecurity training, modernized townshipwide technology systems,
and introduced data-driven tools to improve road maintenance and infrastructure
planning—boosting efficiency while protecting township data.
The IT Department also focused on strengthening collaboration and coordination
across all township departments, including the Police Department. A major
initiative in 2025 was the transition to a new, centralized technology platform that
can be used by every department. This shared system makes it easier for
departments to work together, exchange information, and communicate with the
public in a consistent way.
In 2025, the Administration began exploring modern, data-driven tools to better
manage and maintain our road infrastructure. The IT Department assisted in
implementing a new program, Vialytics, which automatically captures road and
asset conditions as vehicles travel throughout the Township. This allows the
Department of Public Works to receive clear, consistent, and up-to-date
information without adding extra workload for staff. By using reliable data to
identify priorities and plan ahead, the Township can improve roadway safety,
extend the life of its infrastructure, and make more informed, cost-effective
decisions with taxpayer dollars.
Planning
In 2025, the Planning department conducted substantial strides with development
matters, including approving the expansion of Village Green that will add 186 units
with 37 existing units to be designated for our obligations for low-moderate
income households. A new ‘overlay zone’ entitled the C-1 Affordable Housing
Overlay District, was approved which aims to bring in an 80 residential unit active
adult community (aged 55 and older) for the Village Green Shopping center which
is proposed to be constructed atop the vacant former Home Goods once again with
our housing obligations in mind. The Planning Board had also recommended to the
Township Council that there are two areas designated as a non-condemnation area
in need of redevelopment, including 3100 Continental Drive and 5 Pondview Lane.
Regarding the metrics for affordable housing, at the end of 2024 the number of
affordable units provided to the Township by the DCA was a prospective need of
459 affordable units, which could have added an additional 2,295 total residential
units. In 2025 the Administration was able to enter into a mediation agreement to
settle in the amount of 317 affordable units saving the development of over 700
total residential units. The Planning board then adopted the 2025 Housing Element
and Fair Share Plan prepared by the Township Engineer and Planner. This plan
addresses the amendments necessary to the Master Plan to enable the
implementation of the Township’s Mount Laurel Doctrine affordable housing
compliance plan that provides a layout and the requirements that need to be met for
our fourth-round obligation. Through this plan and the development of 100%
affordable sites on Township owned and private property, the Township further
reduced the total residential units by 1,025 total units. In total, through the
Township’s efforts, approximately 1,400 residential units have been removed from
development.
Meanwhile, the Planning Department continues to facilitate community growth,
having issued over 300 zoning permits, while also managing compliance through
enforcement of zoning ordinances, which led to 63 violation notices. Most of these
violations have been resolved amicably, illustrating the Township’s commitment to
maintaining property standards and enhancing the overall quality of life for its
residents.
Construction Department
Over the past year, Mount Olive Township’s Construction Department has
achieved notable progress in promoting building safety and supporting responsible
development throughout the community. The issuance of 2,857 construction
permits enabled a wide range of projects that contribute to local growth, while
more than 3,380 inspections were completed to ensure all work met applicable
codes and safety regulations, protecting both residents and business owners.
The department’s dedication to high-quality service is reflected in its proactive
collaboration with contractors and other stakeholders. By emphasizing clear
communication and offering consistent guidance during the permitting and
inspection processes. During this period, construction-related revenues exceeded
$1 million, highlighting the level of development activity in Mount Olive
Township and the department’s integral role in supporting a strong local economy.
Looking ahead, the Construction Department remains committed to maintaining
these high standards. Through ongoing improvements in service delivery and a
continued emphasis on public safety, the department will support the Township’s
sustained growth and development, helping to ensure a safe, vibrant, and
sustainable community for residents and businesses alike.
Fire Prevention
The Mount Olive Township Fire Marshal’s Office plays a crucial role in ensuring
the safety and compliance of both commercial and residential structures within the
municipality by enforcing the New Jersey State Fire Codes. In 2025, the office
undertook a large number of inspections, completing 2,811 Non-life and Life
Hazard Use business inspections along with 1,150 residential inspections for home
sales. This diligent work not only fostered a safer community but also generated
over $309,000 in revenue, underscoring the office’s significant contributions to
public safety.
In addition to inspections, the Fire Marshal’s Office was highly active in
emergency response efforts throughout the year, responding to more than 360
emergencies. This included conducting 62 fire investigations and providing
assistance on 242 calls to aid residents in distress. The office also played a critical
role in supporting other agencies during incidents.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Fire Marshal’s Office plans to continue its
collaborative efforts by offering fire safety services to neighboring communities,
Hackettstown and Allamuchy Township, through shared service agreements. The
commitment to public safety and inter-municipal cooperation positions the Fire
Marshal’s Office as a vital entity in safeguarding the welfare of the community.
Library
What an amazing year it’s been for the library! Through expanding their programs
for both children and adults, the circulation soared past 160,000 items! The digital
offerings have doubled, with thousands of new eBooks and eAudiobooks, plus
expanded streaming services and genealogical databases. Their partnership with
the MAIN consortium has also grown, allowing patrons to borrow materials from
more than 60 libraries across six counties. Nearly 300 individuals took part in the
Color Our World Summer Program, which was a huge hit, and we’re excited to
wrap up the year with our third festive Holiday Reading Raffle.
We are also incredibly grateful for the Friends of the Mount Olive Public Library,
who generously contributed $13,775 in 2025. Their support helped bring our
children’s and adult summer reading programs to life, provided museum passes for
the community, and made our holiday programs extra special. These funds came
from their hard work through book sales, membership dues, reseller and
marketplace efforts, and generous donations.
In Conclusion
As we move into 2026, there is still important work ahead. We will continue
improving the safety of our highways and local roads, move forward with
constructing a permanent food pantry to support families in need, and responsibly
meet our affordable housing obligations. We remain committed to keeping budgets
tight without sacrificing essential services, holding town hall meetings to uphold
transparency, and continuing our visits with local businesses to keep our business
community strong.
The work continues—and so does our commitment to the residents of Mount
Olive.
It is important to recognize that our achievements provide the foundation and
momentum for even greater progress ahead. The strength of Mount Olive comes
from the partnership between the council, our municipal employees, and the
residents we proudly serve. Together, we will meet future challenges, pursue new
opportunities, and continue to ensure that Mount Olive remains a vibrant
community in which to live, work, and thrive. Thank you for your continued trust
and support. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together.
Wishing you health, happiness, and prosperity in the New Year.
With Gratitude and Appreciation,
Joe Nicastro
Mayor, Mount Olive Township
Good evening, Council President, members of the Township Council, current and
former elected officials, our municipal employees, friends, family, and my fellow
Mount Olive residents.
As I wrap up my second year as Mayor, I want to extend my sincere gratitude for
the trust you continue to place in me to lead this vibrant, growing community. It
has truly been an extraordinary journey—filled with challenges, opportunities, and
meaningful accomplishments—and I am honored to stand before you tonight to
present the 2026 State of the Township.
I’d also like to congratulate Council President Alex Roman on his 3rd term
reappointment, and Councilman Chuck Aaron on his first appointment as Council
Vice President. Also, congratulations to John Mania, John Ferrante and Chuck
Aaron on their re-election to council as well as our newly elected Councilman,
Ralph Ruggerio.
Thank you to our Business Administrator, Andrew Tatarenko who keeps
everything on track and works tirelessly to help turn my ideas and vision into
reality. Finally, I want to thank each member of our Council for their hard work,
collaboration, and continued support. Together, we are making Mount Olive
stronger every year.
I look forward to another year of productive collaboration. Tonight’s report
highlights not only the progress we’ve made together, but also the commitment and
hard work of every municipal department whose efforts continue to elevate the
quality of life for all Mount Olive residents.
As I review each department’s accomplishments, I encourage you to pay attention
to the numbers and the sheer volume of work being done. This is what keeps
Mount Olive running efficiently and preserves the high quality of life we’ve all
come to expect
Administration & Township Operations
This past year, our Administration continued to focus on one simple goal: making
sure Mount Olive runs efficiently, responsibly, and with an eye toward the future.
We navigated major leadership transitions as several long-serving department
heads retired, including the Township Planner/Zoning Official, Tax Assessor,
Police Chief, and our Certified Municipal Financial Officer. Because of our strong
financial footing and reputation as a well-run township, we successfully attracted
highly qualified professionals to step into these key roles and keep us moving
forward.
We strengthened our workforce by updating personnel policies, improving
benefits, and modernizing employment practices—ensuring we remain competitive
while being fiscally responsible. On the legislative side, we updated ordinances to
reflect today’s needs, including public safety improvements, tree and
environmental protections, banning short-term rentals, becoming a Film-Ready
municipality, advancing mixed-use redevelopment to meet our housing obligations,
and launching new incentives to recruit and retain Fire and EMS volunteers.
Our capital investments were substantial and impactful. We completed full PFAS
mitigation at Pinecrest, added a new cricket pitch in partnership with the Board of
Education, advanced restoration of the historic Seward House, broke ground on the
new Health and Wellness Center, and continued roadway and safety
upgrades—including securing a commitment for a new traffic light at Route 46 and
Connelly Avenue.
Shared services remain a success story, generating more than $700,000 in revenue,
while over $1.7 million in grants and settlement funds were secured to support
infrastructure, public safety, and preservation projects.
Community engagement also expanded—through job fairs, business visits,
sponsorships that reduced taxpayer costs, and improved digital
communication—strengthening quality of life across the township.
Finance Department
Our Finance Department continues to deliver stability, transparency, and results.
We expect to maintain a fund balance exceeding $14 million – continuing the
positive performance of a key financial metric. Such financial stability is crucial
for sustaining our community's resources and continuing to meet public needs
effectively.
For the seventeenth consecutive year, our annual audit was completed with zero
recommendations, a remarkable achievement that reflects disciplined financial
management. This consistency also applied to our audits for the Length of Service
Award Program (LOSAP) and Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) - each concluding
without recommendations. We also earned over $1.2 million in interest income,
maintained our AA+ credit rating, submitted all financial reports ahead of
schedule, and scored 99% on the state’s best-practices review.
We continue modernizing our financial systems—merging water and sewer utilities
and moving toward a single, more convenient billing process for residents in 2026
by combining the billing into one statement that will save money and make the
payment process more convenient for our residents.
Our Tax Assessor resolved all appeals with minimal refunds, saving the township
significant legal and refund costs.
Our commitment to efficiency is also reflected in the fact that we have zero
outstanding State Tax Appeals, a stark contrast to many neighboring Morris
County municipalities burdened with over 100 appeals.
The Tax Collection team collected more than $127 million at a 99+% collection
rate. To support seniors, the Tax Collection team hosted a session with the NJ
Division of Taxation for approximately 200 participants, addressing questions on
the new PAS-1 tax relief program. Additionally, 19 applications for 100%
Disabled Veteran exemptions were processed in 2025. The department continues
exploring paperless billing and autopay options.
Township Clerk
The Clerk’s Office improved efficiency by streamlining workflows and reducing
paper usage. Elections ran smoothly across all 22 districts, as one of Morris
County’s early voting locations, 7,139 voters visited the Municipal Building during
the General Election to cast their votes. In addition, over 1,100 notarial acts were
completed, issued over 100 taxi and limousine certificates of compliance,
processed 72 Pay-to-Play packets, issued 44 raffle licenses and 29 peddler/solicitor
permits, and renewed 24 liquor licenses. The office also issued the Township’s first
Film Permit.
For 2026, the Clerk’s Office has a goal to complete the implementation of the new
OPRA system through Gov Pilot, which will further streamline and improve the
efficiency of processing records requests.
Police Department
The Police Department experienced leadership transitions while continuing to
deliver outstanding service. Chief Michael T. Spitzer retired after more than 31
years of dedicated service to the community. Captain Mike Cordileone was
promoted to Chief, and Detective Lieutenant Dave Turner was promoted to
Captain. The department completed a comprehensive hiring process and selected
four new candidates who are currently attending the police academy. In addition,
the department earned its fourth reaccreditation—marking 12 straight years of
accredited excellence.
The Traffic Unit conducted a full review of all pedestrian crosswalks in the
township and provided recommendations for improvements, secured more than
$73,000 in state traffic safety grants, and reviewed over 700 crash reports. The
Community Services Unit attended more than 30 community outreach events,
processed 456 firearms applications, implemented the “April is Autism Month –
Blue Envelope Program,” and taught more than 210 LEAD classes to the local
school district.
The Patrol Division completed more than 6,500 motor vehicle stops and responded
to several notable incidents. These included an international welfare case in which
a suicidal female in Finland was located to ensure her safety; a vehicle pursuit on
Route 46; a trespassing arrest in which a female trespasser was apprehended inside
Fratelli Berretta; and a drug trafficking investigation at the Day’s Inn, resulting in
the seizure of $24,000 in cash linked to cross-country drug trafficking.
The Communications and Records Division also achieved major milestones in
2025. The Communications Center answered more than 9,000 emergency 911 calls
and completed critical radio system upgrades to ensure redundancy and operational
continuity. These improvements included the installation of automatic generators at
two radio sites, the addition of microwave connectivity at two radio sites,
expansion of communication channels for large-scale incidents, the creation of
dedicated channels for the Department of Public Works and Health Department,
and enhanced interoperability with the Mount Olive School District to enable
direct communication during emergencies. The Central Records Unit updated its
Records Management Software and achieved New Jersey DORES certification for
maintaining reports and documents in digital format, migrated all personnel
records to electronic storage, and completed the transition to AXON for body-worn
cameras, fleet vehicles, and interview rooms, improving video quality and
information-sharing capabilities.
The Investigations Division processed more than 165 criminal cases during the
year. Significant cases included a weapons and threats investigation in which a
Hackettstown resident was charged with unlawful possession of a handgun and
terroristic threats; an internet fraud case in which a Chicago, IL resident was
charged with second-degree theft related to a $78,700 internet scam, with the
stolen funds successfully recovered and returned to the victim; and a burglary and
theft investigation in which the suspect was charged with stealing $12,400 from the
Flanders Shell gas station.
Public Works
Public Works delivered tangible results across the township— With a dedicated
staff they have resurfaced 22 roads, repaired potholes, removed hazardous trees
including 60 dead ash trees, continued with in-house garbage, recycling, brush and
leaf pick up, snow plowing and salting of streets to keep our residents travel safe.
The Water and Sewer Division made significant progress in advancing the
township’s water infrastructure. A key initiative included the initial planning for a
PFAS filtration system within the Tinc Water System, which will further safeguard
drinking water quality. Improvements to the Sandshore Water System also began
with the replacement of water lines on Glenside Avenue and Kennedy Drive, along
with planned well house and pump station upgrades in 2026, reinforcing the
department’s commitment to reliable and safe water service.
The Fleet Division remained focused on efficiency and asset management
throughout the year, overseeing the maintenance of all township-owned vehicles
and generating nearly $50,000 through surplus vehicle auctions, reflecting strong
stewardship of taxpayer assets.
The Parks, Buildings, and Grounds Division continued to maintain township
facilities and parklands while supporting numerous recreational events. Their work
ensured that public spaces remained safe, clean, and welcoming for residents and
visitors alike throughout the year.
Recreation
Recreation embraced the theme “Connected,” hosting 16 highly successful
community events—including our largest parade ever—and expanding programs
for all ages.
Pirates Cove Splashpad welcomed over 50,000 visitors, while camps and programs
in sports, arts, music, and technology flourished. Looking ahead, 2026’s theme
“Serve!” will celebrate service, community pride, and America’s 250th anniversary
with expanded banners and events that unite residents and businesses.
By fostering engagement, collaboration, and inclusivity, our recreation department
remains committed to enriching the lives of all who call this township home — and
all who visit it.
Health Department
The Health Department strengthened partnerships, expanded senior transportation
with new accessible vehicles, and played a leadership role in countywide public
health planning. They recently received notification that we would be in receipt of
a third vehicle and $50,000.00 to ensure that we are better serving the mobility and
social needs of our seniors.
In collaboration with the Mount Olive Police Department’s Connect and Protect
Program, the Health Department has enhanced the Township’s ability to link
residents with much-needed social and mental health services.
The Health Department’s efforts and leadership were recently acknowledged at the
state level. The Department was honored by the New Jersey Public Health
Association (NJPHA) for achieving Pathways Acknowledgement from the Public
Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). This prestigious recognition highlights their
excellence in public health practice, accountability, and service to the community.
Our Health Officer, Derrick Webb, was recently honored as the 2025 Health
Officer of the Year by the New Jersey Local Boards of Health Association
(NJLBHA).
Lastly, I am thrilled to announce the most significant milestone for our Health
Department with the groundbreaking of a new centralized Health Center which
marks the most significant advancement in public health services in
years—ensuring coordinated public health services for generations to come.
IT Department
IT enhanced cybersecurity training, modernized townshipwide technology systems,
and introduced data-driven tools to improve road maintenance and infrastructure
planning—boosting efficiency while protecting township data.
The IT Department also focused on strengthening collaboration and coordination
across all township departments, including the Police Department. A major
initiative in 2025 was the transition to a new, centralized technology platform that
can be used by every department. This shared system makes it easier for
departments to work together, exchange information, and communicate with the
public in a consistent way.
In 2025, the Administration began exploring modern, data-driven tools to better
manage and maintain our road infrastructure. The IT Department assisted in
implementing a new program, Vialytics, which automatically captures road and
asset conditions as vehicles travel throughout the Township. This allows the
Department of Public Works to receive clear, consistent, and up-to-date
information without adding extra workload for staff. By using reliable data to
identify priorities and plan ahead, the Township can improve roadway safety,
extend the life of its infrastructure, and make more informed, cost-effective
decisions with taxpayer dollars.
Planning
In 2025, the Planning department conducted substantial strides with development
matters, including approving the expansion of Village Green that will add 186 units
with 37 existing units to be designated for our obligations for low-moderate
income households. A new ‘overlay zone’ entitled the C-1 Affordable Housing
Overlay District, was approved which aims to bring in an 80 residential unit active
adult community (aged 55 and older) for the Village Green Shopping center which
is proposed to be constructed atop the vacant former Home Goods once again with
our housing obligations in mind. The Planning Board had also recommended to the
Township Council that there are two areas designated as a non-condemnation area
in need of redevelopment, including 3100 Continental Drive and 5 Pondview Lane.
Regarding the metrics for affordable housing, at the end of 2024 the number of
affordable units provided to the Township by the DCA was a prospective need of
459 affordable units, which could have added an additional 2,295 total residential
units. In 2025 the Administration was able to enter into a mediation agreement to
settle in the amount of 317 affordable units saving the development of over 700
total residential units. The Planning board then adopted the 2025 Housing Element
and Fair Share Plan prepared by the Township Engineer and Planner. This plan
addresses the amendments necessary to the Master Plan to enable the
implementation of the Township’s Mount Laurel Doctrine affordable housing
compliance plan that provides a layout and the requirements that need to be met for
our fourth-round obligation. Through this plan and the development of 100%
affordable sites on Township owned and private property, the Township further
reduced the total residential units by 1,025 total units. In total, through the
Township’s efforts, approximately 1,400 residential units have been removed from
development.
Meanwhile, the Planning Department continues to facilitate community growth,
having issued over 300 zoning permits, while also managing compliance through
enforcement of zoning ordinances, which led to 63 violation notices. Most of these
violations have been resolved amicably, illustrating the Township’s commitment to
maintaining property standards and enhancing the overall quality of life for its
residents.
Construction Department
Over the past year, Mount Olive Township’s Construction Department has
achieved notable progress in promoting building safety and supporting responsible
development throughout the community. The issuance of 2,857 construction
permits enabled a wide range of projects that contribute to local growth, while
more than 3,380 inspections were completed to ensure all work met applicable
codes and safety regulations, protecting both residents and business owners.
The department’s dedication to high-quality service is reflected in its proactive
collaboration with contractors and other stakeholders. By emphasizing clear
communication and offering consistent guidance during the permitting and
inspection processes. During this period, construction-related revenues exceeded
$1 million, highlighting the level of development activity in Mount Olive
Township and the department’s integral role in supporting a strong local economy.
Looking ahead, the Construction Department remains committed to maintaining
these high standards. Through ongoing improvements in service delivery and a
continued emphasis on public safety, the department will support the Township’s
sustained growth and development, helping to ensure a safe, vibrant, and
sustainable community for residents and businesses alike.
Fire Prevention
The Mount Olive Township Fire Marshal’s Office plays a crucial role in ensuring
the safety and compliance of both commercial and residential structures within the
municipality by enforcing the New Jersey State Fire Codes. In 2025, the office
undertook a large number of inspections, completing 2,811 Non-life and Life
Hazard Use business inspections along with 1,150 residential inspections for home
sales. This diligent work not only fostered a safer community but also generated
over $309,000 in revenue, underscoring the office’s significant contributions to
public safety.
In addition to inspections, the Fire Marshal’s Office was highly active in
emergency response efforts throughout the year, responding to more than 360
emergencies. This included conducting 62 fire investigations and providing
assistance on 242 calls to aid residents in distress. The office also played a critical
role in supporting other agencies during incidents.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Fire Marshal’s Office plans to continue its
collaborative efforts by offering fire safety services to neighboring communities,
Hackettstown and Allamuchy Township, through shared service agreements. The
commitment to public safety and inter-municipal cooperation positions the Fire
Marshal’s Office as a vital entity in safeguarding the welfare of the community.
Library
What an amazing year it’s been for the library! Through expanding their programs
for both children and adults, the circulation soared past 160,000 items! The digital
offerings have doubled, with thousands of new eBooks and eAudiobooks, plus
expanded streaming services and genealogical databases. Their partnership with
the MAIN consortium has also grown, allowing patrons to borrow materials from
more than 60 libraries across six counties. Nearly 300 individuals took part in the
Color Our World Summer Program, which was a huge hit, and we’re excited to
wrap up the year with our third festive Holiday Reading Raffle.
We are also incredibly grateful for the Friends of the Mount Olive Public Library,
who generously contributed $13,775 in 2025. Their support helped bring our
children’s and adult summer reading programs to life, provided museum passes for
the community, and made our holiday programs extra special. These funds came
from their hard work through book sales, membership dues, reseller and
marketplace efforts, and generous donations.
In Conclusion
As we move into 2026, there is still important work ahead. We will continue
improving the safety of our highways and local roads, move forward with
constructing a permanent food pantry to support families in need, and responsibly
meet our affordable housing obligations. We remain committed to keeping budgets
tight without sacrificing essential services, holding town hall meetings to uphold
transparency, and continuing our visits with local businesses to keep our business
community strong.
The work continues—and so does our commitment to the residents of Mount
Olive.
It is important to recognize that our achievements provide the foundation and
momentum for even greater progress ahead. The strength of Mount Olive comes
from the partnership between the council, our municipal employees, and the
residents we proudly serve. Together, we will meet future challenges, pursue new
opportunities, and continue to ensure that Mount Olive remains a vibrant
community in which to live, work, and thrive. Thank you for your continued trust
and support. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together.
Wishing you health, happiness, and prosperity in the New Year.
With Gratitude and Appreciation,
Joe Nicastro
Mayor, Mount Olive Township