2025 ISSUE 2 YOUR MIDDLESEX Ma g a z i n e
CONTENTS 02 AROUND THE COUNTY News and updates from County elected officials 04 THE BASICS OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT Learn how Middlesex County government operates and the key services it provides 06 FROM ROADS TO REPLENISH – AND BEYOND See how Middlesex County government works together to make this the best place to live, work, and play 08 CELEBRATE County officials showcase their programs and services during this free annual event 10 DRIVING THE PUSH FOR SAFER ROADS Read about Middlesex County’s proactive approach to improving road safety 12 4-H: BEYOND ANIMALS AND AGRICULTURE Discover how the Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program is inspiring the leaders of tomorrow
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Shanti Narra, Deputy Director Chair, Public Safety & Health Committee Claribel A. Azcona-Barber Chair, Community Services Committee Charles Kenny Chair, Transportation Committee Ronald G. Rios, Director Chair, Administration, Ex-Officio Chair of All Committees
Leslie Koppel Chair, Finance Committee
Chanelle Scott McCullum Chair, Economic Development Committee
Charles E. Tomaro Chair, Infrastructure Committee
THE COVER
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS
SCAN TO VIEW MAGAZINE OR CONNECT WITH US ONLINE, OR CALL 732-745-3000
Nancy J. Pinkin County Clerk
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Mildred S. Scott Sheriff
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE The Your Middlesex Magazine is a 16-page publication produced three times a year and mailed to every household in Middlesex County, NJ. The magazine shares the latest news and events from around Middlesex County. It also features information on programs, initiatives, and capital projects spearheaded by County offices for the benefit of residents and the business community – to ensure Middlesex County is the best place to live, work, and play. This magazine is produced on behalf of the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners.
Claribel Cortes Surrogate
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Around the County
Register and explore all voting options at middlesexcountynj.gov/vote
AROUND THE
TAMARACK WEST GOLF COURSE REOPENS Extensive restoration and improvements offer residents a world-class golf course with brand-new fairways, USGA-spec bent grass greens, improved drainage, updated tee boxes and bunkers, new golf carts, and upgraded cart paths with added curbing near tee boxes and greens. Visit middlesexcountygolf.com for more info.
2025 STATE OF THE COUNTY ADDRESS In his April 8 remarks, County Commissioner Director Rios unveiled the 2025 budget, highlighting the County’s strong fiscal standing. The speech also emphasized the County’s commitment to expanding access to services, fostering innovation, and investing in its residents. GRAND OPENING: JACK & SHERYL MORRIS CANCER CENTER Five years after Middlesex County committed $25 million to create opportunities with New Jersey’s first freestanding cancer hospital, that vision became reality on May 13 with the ribbon cutting of this state-of-the-art facility.
COUNTY
safety and honor workers who lost their lives due to workplace hazards.
FAYETTE STREET POCKET PARK OPENS On May 27, County and
(L-R) County Commissioner Kenny, Assemblywoman Lopez, County Commissioner Director Rios, Perth Amboy Mayor Caba, and County Commissioner Tomaro at the opening of the Fayette Street Pocket Park
families in Perth Amboy on June 7. Launched in spring 2024 by Sheriff Mildred S. Scott, the initiative continues County-wide. For upcoming Car Seat Safety Clinics, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/ carseat . KICKING OFF 250TH On May 17, the County launched its celebration of the 250th anniversary of America at History Day at East Jersey Old Town Village in Piscataway. Events commemorating this milestone will continue through 2026 and beyond. Learn more at middlesexcountynj.gov/250. ANNIVERSARY OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE
Perth Amboy officials celebrated the opening of the new Fayette Street
MIDDLESEX COLLEGE CELEBRATES THE CLASS OF 2025 The Board of County Commissioners extends heartfelt congratulations to the 1,583 students in the Class of 2025! To learn about Middlesex College’s more than 80 degree and certificate programs, please visit middlesexcollege.edu . COMMEMORATING WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY On April 28, the Board of County Commissioners, together with local dignitaries, OSHA representatives, and leaders from organized labor, gathered at the construction site of the Health & Life Science Exchange (HELIX) in New Brunswick to highlight the importance of workplace
Pocket Park. The space features a grand gazebo, picnic areas, outdoor chess tables, and more — enhancing public recreation in the heart of the city. LIVE THEATER, MUSIC, DANCE, AND MORE! Home to George Street Playhouse, Crossroads Theatre, American Repertory Ballet, and The Mason Gross School of the Arts, the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center has something for everyone. Visit MiddlesexCountyCulture.com for details.
LATEST ROAD SAFETY ENHANCEMENTS UNVEILED Middlesex County and Woodbridge Township celebrated the completion of critical safety improvements at the intersection of Oak Tree Road, Plymouth Drive, and Magnolia Road on June 5. Part of the County’s Vision Zero Action Plan, the upgrades include a modernized traffic signal, ADA-compliant curb ramps and sidewalks, and other enhancements to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Read more about Vision Zero on page 10.
County Commissioner Director Rios delivers the 2025 State of the County address
PLAN A NIGHT OUT!
COUNTY OFFICIALS JOIN SHERIFF’S OFFICE AT CAR SEAT SAFETY CLINIC As part of the County’s traffic safety efforts, certified child passenger safety technicians offered free car seat inspections, hands-on education, and resources to
FUN FACT Nearly every major north-south rail and highway on the East Coast passes through Middlesex County.
FUN FACT Deinosuchus, prehistoric crocodiles up to 40 feet long, once roamed
Sayreville and Old Bridge during the Cretaceous Period.
STAY NJ TAX RELIEF DEADLINE Residents 65+ can get 50% off their property taxes with StayNJ. Eligible residents must apply by October 31, 2025 . Details at middlesexcountynj.gov/taxrelief
County Commissioner Koppel reads to schoolchildren during Read Across America
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A commitment to service
DEPARMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPEMENT A robust economy is critical to ensuring residents and businesses thrive in Middlesex County, now and in the future. Under Committee Chair County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum, this department supports an array of offices — all dedicated to innovation, economic growth, and improving residents’ quality of life — including the Arts Institute of Middlesex County, Business Engagement, Workforce and Career Development, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County, Education, and the Superintendent of Schools, as well as several County agencies. The annual Business Summit is a premier conference that brings together entrepreneurs and innovators from all over New Jersey.
Serving the Community MIDDLESEX COUNTY GOVERNMENT PROVIDES THE SERVICES FAMILIES RELY ON
As Thomas Jefferson famously said, “The care of human life and happiness…is the first and only object of good government.” The Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners shares that goal, as its seven members strive to ensure the County remains a place where residents and businesses can thrive for generations to come. Elected to staggered three-year terms by the residents of the County’s 25 municipalities, each January Board members select one County Commissioner to serve as the Board’s Director and one to serve as Deputy Director. All County Commissioners serve as
chairpersons and members of committees that oversee the County administration and departments. Additionally, residents elect three Constitutional Officers to County government: the County Clerk, County Sheriff, and County Surrogate. Each of their offices provides critical services to the public. Together with the County workforce led by County Administrator John Pulomena, the Board and Constitutional Officers work hard to provide the vital programs and services that residents rely on
DEPARMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES Through the Department of Community Services, chaired by County Commissioner Claribel A. Azcona-Barber, Middlesex County offers vital programs and services that help meet residents’ basic human needs and improve their overall quality of life. Offices include the Adjuster, Aging & Disabled Services, County Clerk, Human Services, the George J. Otlowski Sr. Center for Mental Health Care, REPLENISH, and the County Surrogate, as well as the Board of Elections and Board of Social Services. A focus on behavioral health and mental health is making an impact. Free tools such as Credible Mind, PYX Youth mobile app, Trualta, the County’s Services Locator, and more make it easy for residents to find help.
— making this the best place to live, work, and play. Learn more about Middlesex County government — and the programs and services it offers — at middlesexcountynj.gov/countyofficials .
DEPARMENT OF FINANCE Prudent fiscal management helps ensure the County can continue to provide critical programs and services. Under Committee Chair Leslie Koppel, Finance handles all financial affairs related to the County and its daily activities and has secured an AAA-bond rating from the world’s foremost credit rating agencies for 24 consecutive years. Its offices include Budgets, Financial Administration, General Ledger, Purchasing and Insurance, Tax Board, Independent Auditor, and Treasurer. “Sound fiscal management is about more than a balanced budget; it’s a commitment we make to our residents and the County’s long-term economic stability.” County Commissioner Leslie Koppel
VIEW THE OFFICES OF EACH DEPARTMENT
DEPARMENT OF ADMINISTRATION Chaired by County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios, County Administration provides crucial, centralized support to all County departments, including the six that directly serve the public. Administration includes six offices: Communications, County Counsel, Human Resources, Information Technology, Marketing, and Public and Government Affairs. A marquee initiative led by the Administration is continued investments at Middlesex College, creating a multi-faceted destination for arts, culture, sports, entertainment, and community events.
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CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICES
DEPARMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT Chaired by County Commissioner Charles Tomaro, Infrastructure Management oversees and maintains all County-run buildings and properties, including 19 active park and recreation facilities (over 3,000 acres), conservation areas and preserves, and three County golf courses. Offices include Facilities Management, Parks and Recreation, County golf courses, and the Middlesex County Utilities Authority. The recent renovations and opening of the West Course at Tamarack Golf Course are attracting more residents to the sport and enhancing the player experience, book your tee time soon!
OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK Elected to a five-year term per the New Jersey Constitution, Clerk Nancy Pinkin leads an office that is responsible for: • Filing and recording all documents affecting real estate ownership and transfer • Processing U.S. Passport applications • Swearing-in and certifying notaries public • Filing Trade Name Certificates • Issuing Veteran and Gold Star Parent Identification Cards • Playing a key role in the conduct and supervision of primary, general, school board, and special elections.
DEPARMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND HEALTH Ensuring the safety and health of all residents is a County priority achieved through protection, services, response, and education. Chaired by Deputy Director Shanti Narra, the department includes several offices: Adult Correction & Youth Services, Emergency Management & Preparedness, Health Services, the Fire Marshal, the Medical Examiner, Prosecutor’s Office, and the Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Fire Academy and the Division of Consumer Affairs and Weights & Measures. Access to health care is critical; residents of Middlesex County who are under-insured or uninsured are offered critical health services at the new Middlesex County Public Health Clinic in East Brunswick, including vaccinations, cancer screenings, HIV counseling, and children’s health programs.
“I’m proud of our officers and the high standards we have set and continue to maintain as a County Sheriff’s Office.” Sheriff Mildred Scott
OFFICE OF THE COUNTY SHERIFF Led by Sheriff Mildred Scott, this office is committed to protecting life and property, providing security for the County courthouses, and protecting all personnel assigned to these facilities. Its transportation division transports inmates to and from the courthouse as well as to and from other law enforcement departments and correctional facilities throughout the state. In 2024, it received its fourth reaccreditation award from the NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP), a feat achieved by less than 8% of New Jersey’s 560 law enforcement agencies. The Sheriff’s Car Seat Safety program is a free program to ensure that residents with young children are safely and properly secured in their vehicles to prevent injuries.
“A safe community and access to quality healthcare are critical for anyone’s quality of life. We work hard to ensure our residents have both.” County Commissioner Deputy Director Shanti Narra
OFFICE OF THE COUNTY SURROGATE Under the leadership of Surrogate Claribel Cortes, this office facilitates a variety of legal functions for County residents, including matters related to the probate of wills, estate administration, adoptions, guardianships for minors and incapacitated adults, and investment of minors’ funds. Read more on page 13.
DEPARMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Dedicated to enhancing quality of life and long-term economic success through safe, reliable transportation and a resilient, sustainable environment, the Transportation Department is chaired by County Commissioner Charles Kenny and spearheads initiatives like Vision Zero. It oversees the offices of Engineering, Planning, and Public Works, as well as the Network Operations Center and Middlesex County Ride. Read more about Vision Zero on page 10 .
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Celebrate Middlesex County!
“ Celebrate is a special day that highlights the services Middlesex County provides and gives residents an opportunity to engage with the dedicated people who make it all possible.” County Commissioner Claribel A. Azcona-Barber , Chair of the County’s Community Services Committee
June 14 was the County’s day to Celebrate all of the amazing aspects of Middlesex County! Excitement filled the air at Roosevelt Park, Edison as residents explored the incredible services and resources available to them—from parks and public safety to the arts, history, and education. This day of free family fun, entertainment, and activities, local food vendors, touch-a-truck, a fishing derby, and so much more is exactly what makes this community shine!
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Every number is a life. Drive distraction free.
Middlesex County’s Vision Zero Action Plan takes a multi-pronged approach to improving road safety by:
LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY AND DATA. Understanding traffic patterns and driver behavior is critical to helping prevent serious traffic accidents. In addition to insights gleaned from its annual Transportation Symposium, Middlesex County is using data from its Southern Middlesex County Freight Movement Study, completed in 2023, to help improve safety on local roads throughout the southern portion of the County. In the future, Middlesex County will also use data collected by DataCity, its autonomous and smart mobility initiative. Information will be processed in the County’s Network Operations Center, opening this year. Additionally, the County’s Vision Zero Action Plan is supplemented by targeted initiatives like the Route 1 Safer Travel Initiative. Led by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office in partnership with the NJDOT, this multijurisdictional task force includes multiple municipal law enforcement agencies and leverages data t o help mitigate and prevent traffic collisions and fatalities on the critical Route 1 thoroughfare. IMPROVING INFRASTRUCTURE. The County is investing in key infrastructure projects designed to improve the overall safety of its roadways, such as: • Redesigning intersections and reconfiguring corners and roadways • Replacing outdated traffic light systems with new, modernized traffic light systems at critical intersections • Installing new traffic lights and signals where needed • Repaving roads and painting lines to reduce roadway hazards • Modifying sidewalks and curbs to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
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Deadly traffic crashes are on the rise in New Jersey, despite fatalities decreasing nationwide. Even one death is too many, so Middlesex County is addressing this issue head-on through its Vision Zero initiative, which seeks to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries while promoting equitable mobility for all road users.
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County Commissioner Kenny, Chair of the County Transportation Committee, addresses the audience at the County’s 2025 Transportation Symposium
EDUCATING THE PUBLIC. Distracted driving is the top cause of fatal and serious injury crashes, so in May, the County launched a public service announcement (PSA) campaign to educate drivers. The PSA campaign asks drivers to take the pledge to drive safely by only focusing on driving while operating a motor vehicle. Additionally, for several years Middlesex County has held a Safe Driving PSA Contest, inviting teams of high school students from across the County to create PSAs that speak directly to their peers. The contest is designed to teach as many young people as possible about the dangers of distracted driving. Learn more about how Middlesex County is improving road safety at middlesexcountynj.gov/transportation.
Vision Zero was the focus of the County’s second annual Transportation Symposium in March. The event brought together municipal officials, transportation stakeholders, members of law enforcement, and utility providers to network, share ideas, and discuss key transportation initiatives shaping the County’s future. Keynote speaker and Middlesex County native Jessie Singer, a journalist and expert in safe systems who wrote the book There Are No Accidents: The Deadly Rise of Injury and Disaster — Who Profits and Who Pays the Price, applauded the County’s Vision Zero efforts. “Vision Zero is more than a slogan or a lofty goal. It’s a data- driven approach to saving lives and reducing serious injuries that relies on redesigning our streets and our transportation policies so that people’s mistakes and bad decisions on the road are not death sentences,” said Singer. “I am pleased to see Middlesex County leading their efforts with those bold, hopeful ideals.”
The County received a Complete Streets Excellence Award from the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) for its Vision Zero Action Plan, which identifies crash locations, maps high-injury corridors, documents existing programs, and outlines a comprehensive strategy focused on crash prevention through engineering, education, encouragement, enforcement, continual evaluation, and partnerships. “Middlesex County is proud to lead the way in creating safer roads through our Vision Zero Action Plan — the first county-led initiative of its kind in New Jersey.” County Commissioner Charles Kenny, Chair of the Transportation Committee
FROM 60 TO ZERO LIVES LOST
TAKE THE PLEDGE
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4-H MORE THAN ANIMALS AND AGRICULTURE
From Our Offices
GET TO KNOW Helping families navigate life changes Led by Surrogate Claribel Cortes since March 2021, the Middlesex County Office of the Surrogate provides vital support to residents in a variety of legal matters, such as: ADOPTIONS. The Surrogate’s Office oversees all adoption cases and records in Middlesex County, including reviewing and filing all documentation to ensure compliance with court regulations and the timely scheduling of court hearings. GUARDIANSHIPS. The Surrogate’s Office handles applications for guardianship, a legal request an individual can make on behalf of another individual who cannot make their own decisions, such as a minor or an adult with impaired capacity. PROBATE. When a person passes away, the Surrogate’s Office helps the family with a legal process called probate to help them settle their loved one’s estate. Whether the deceased person has a will or not, their estate must go through the Surrogate’s Court to ensure that all requirements are met.
Middlesex County Office of the Surrogate
RECORDS. The Surrogate’s Office manages requests such as estate searches, certified and exemplified copies, certificates, and more within its Records Department. “The Office of the Surrogate helps individuals and families with important life changes every day, making every effort to ensure the process goes as smoothly and efficiently as possible,” said Cortes. For more information or assistance regarding these matters or anything else handled by the Office of the Surrogate, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov/surrogate or call 732-745-3055.
With over 20 clubs, special interest programs, educational initiatives, public speaking programs, and more to choose from, today’s 4-H offers opportunities far beyond the traditional focus on animals and agriculture. The Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program helps children and teens thrive by providing the tools they need to grow into confident leaders. Operated within the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County, this volunteer-led program is supported by the Board of County Commissioners and fosters leadership, citizenship, and a strong sense of community. “The Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program provides our children and teens with hands-on learning, leadership skills, and community service experience,” said County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum, chair of the Economic Development Committee. “4-H helps shape future leaders while making a meaningful impact on our community. The Board of County Commissioners is proud to support this invaluable program.” A PLACE FOR EVERY YOUNG MIND Open to Middlesex County youth from kindergarten through one year out of high school, the Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program offers traditional clubs and activities involving animals and agriculture, as well as art, chess, robotics, and more! Annual membership costs just $25 for insurance, with some clubs requiring a small additional fee. County’s 4-H Youth Development Program empowers children and teens though leadership, learning, and community service.
4-H also offers a summer camp that is open to ALL youth — even those not enrolled in 4-H. Activities include archery, outdoor cooking, arts and crafts, science projects, leadership training, and more. BRINGING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER From “Cookies with Santa” to a mental health fair for teens, 4-H clubs organize events that are open to the entire community. Many of these events also support meaningful causes. Among them, the 4-H Haunted House and Hayride that helps fund 4-H’s Project Gift, an initiative that for over 25 years has provided gifts, food, and clothing to families in need during the holiday season. For more information about the Middlesex County 4-H Youth Development Program, visit middlesexcountynj.gov, and search “4-H.”
2025 Middlesex County Employee of the Year: Gregg“o” Christopher!
During the annual Celebrate Middlesex County event on June 14, the County announced Gregg“o” Christopher as the 2025 Employee of the Year for his invaluable contributions to the Office of Parks and Recreation. Christopher has been with the County for 34 years and serves as a general supervisor, in charge of Roosevelt Park, Merrill Park, Middlesex Greenway, and the Middlesex County Tree Crew. From preserving and beautifying the parks for public enjoyment to creating unforgettable experiences for residents’ special occasions, he is dedicated to ensuring the County’s parks remain a treasured space for the community. Expressing his thanks for this recognition, Christopher highlighted the vital role his team plays in maintaining the parks, saying he shares the award with all of them. “It feels outstanding; it’s an amazing feeling. I have the credit for it, but it’s a full team effort,” said Christopher. “From the girls in the office to the guys who work with me every day… I can name 20-30 people who deserve this award.”
LET YOUR KIDS THRIVE WITH MIDDLESEX COUNTY 4-H!
Help the kids in your life discover new interests, build leadership skills, and make lifelong friends.
Training and support are provided to help ensure this is a rewarding experience for all!
ADULT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Call 732-398-5261 or email 4H.information@co.middlesex.nj.us for info
Gregg “o” Christopher, general supervisor in the County Office of Parks and Recreation
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Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners County Administration Building 75 Bayard Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Bellmawr, NJ Permit No. 1239
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Junior Rangers helps kids explore, play, and learn to protect our County parks with fun, hands-on activities and challenges.
Request your fre activity bok her!
DiscoverMiddlesex.com/JuniorRangers
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