Your Middlesex VOLUME 7 || ISSUE 3 || 2022
Board of County Commissioners
National Wills Month
In recognition of National Wills Month, the Middlesex County Surrogate, Claribel Cortes, hosted an information session at the Monroe Public Library for residents to learn more about wills and the services the Surrogate’s Office provides. In the next edition of Your Middlesex County, we will dive into the importance of wills and how you and your family can utilize the Surrogate’s Office to plan for the future.
What is a County Commissioner? It is a term used by all 21 of New Jersey’s counties to describe county legislators. The residents of Middlesex County’s 25 municipalities elect seven persons at-large to staggered three-year terms in the November general election to serve as members of the Board of County Commissioners. Every January, the Board selects one County Commissioner to serve as Director and another to serve as Deputy Director and all County Commissioners serve as chairpersons and members of various committees to oversee County departments.
director
Ronald G. Rios Chair, Administration, Ex-Officio Chair of All Committees ronald.rios@co.middlesex.nj.us 732-745-5792
deputy director
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Shanti Narra Chair, Public Safety & Health Committee
Claribel A. Azcona-Barber Chair, Community Services Committee claribel.azcona-barber@co.middlesex.nj.us 732-745-4527
The Office of Aging and Disabled Services GET TO KNOW HELP IS ONLY A PHONE CALL AWAY
shanti.narra@co.middlesex.nj.us 732-745-3852
Leslie Koppel Chair, Finance Committee
Chanelle Scott McCullum Chair, Business Innovation, Education, Opportunity Committee chanelle.mccullum@co.middlesex.nj.us 732-745-4317 Charles Kenny Chair, Transportation Committee charles.kenny@co.middlesex.nj.us 732-296-6941
The Middlesex County Office of Aging and Disabled Services provides a comprehensive network of services in support of County residents aged 60 and over, as well as disabled persons over the age of 18. Led by Executive Director Laila Caune, the Office of Aging and Disabled Services works with 27 community partners to provide a range of services, such as Medicare counseling, a senior farm market, Age in Place guides, and much more. Key programs include: The Senior Meal Program delivers meals to homebound County seniors aged 60 and older who lack a formal/informal caregiver and are unable to attend a congregate meal program. The Middlesex County Multi-Assistance Program (MCMAP) provides services to assist County residents with their personal needs so they can continue to live safely in the community. Services include home health care, social and medical adult care, prescription assistance, home delivered meals, medical equipment and supplies, home modifications, and care management.
The Personal Assistance Services Program (PASP) offers routine, non-medical personal care assistance to adults with permanent physical disabilities between the ages of 18 and 70 who are able to self- direct their services. The PASP offers participants choice, flexibility, control, and the opportunity to manage their own personal care assistance services. A full list of programs and services can be found at middlesexcountynj.gov/aginganddisabled or by calling the Office of Aging and Disability Services at 732-745-3295 and speaking with someone in Information and Assistance.
leslie.koppel@co.middlesex.nj.us 732-296-6968
Charles E. Tomaro Chair, Infrastructure Committee
charles.tomaro@co.middlesex.nj.us 732-745-4438
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Constitutional Officers Constitutional Officers draw their authority from the Constitution of the State of New Jersey, and their powers and duties are determined by state statute. Each Constitutional Officer is elected to oversee a specific administrative function of County government. The Sheriff serves three-year terms, while the County Clerk and the Surrogate serve five-year terms.
Nancy J. Pinkin County Clerk
middlesexcountynj.gov/countyclerk 732-745-3827
Claribel Cortes Surrogate
Mildred S. Scott Sheriff
middlesexcountynj.gov/surrogate 732-745-3055
middlesexcountynj.gov/sheriff 732-745-3271
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Last year, Hurricane Ida left thousands without power and scrambling to find gasoline for generators. Three years ago, the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly spread worldwide, leaving many confined to their homes. To ensure you and your loved ones have the necessary resources and plans in place in the event of an emergency, here are 6 must-have items you should have in your emergency kit: be prepared The 6 must-have items the Middlesex County Office of Emergency Management recommends
Let’s Walk!
watch vs warning
The Office of Aging and Disabled Services hosted its annual Senior Health and Fitness Walk at Roosevelt Park in September. In addition to a walk around the park and group exercises conducted by instructors, each year the event boasts health screenings, raffles, boxed lunches, and free t-shirts. Visit middlesexcountynj.gov/aginganddisabled to learn more about events hosted by this office, including next year’s walk and the annual Senior Art Contest.
WATCH: Be Ready!
Conditions are right for severe weather to form. Listen to weather updates and be prepared to act.
WARNING: Take Action!
Severe weather is close or already in your area. Get to a shelter even if you can’t see danger.
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FIRST-AID KIT Hospitals during and after a disaster can be hard to get to. Ensure you can provide immediate care to an injured family member by packing essentials disinfectant wipes. This also includes an additional supply of medication and a detailed listing of your current prescriptions. like bandages, ointment, and
PET SUPPLIES From medication to their favorite toy for comfort, make sure every member of your family is covered including your pets.
COPIES OF IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records should be saved electronically. Add these documents to a waterproof, portable container if you have hard copies
FLASHLIGHTS While we’ve gotten accustomed to utilizing our phone’s flashlight for convenience, it’s important to have a few flashlights and extra batteries. A solar charging device for your cell phone can come in handy when the power is out!
NON- PERISHABLE FOOD ITEMS Ensure your emergency kit has at least a three-day supply of non-perishable, nutrient-dense foods. Dried fruit, canned tuna fish, peanut butter, protein bars, and beef jerky are good options. Don’t forget to pack a manual can opener.
CASH A small amount of cash on hand will be useful in the event of power failures and if credit card readers/ systems go down.
Lessons Learned
In October, the Middlesex County and Union County Prosecutor’s Offices welcomed two members of the Coral Springs Police Department located in Florida to present key findings and lessons learned from a case study of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas School Shooting which took place in Parkland, Florida. Middlesex and Union County officials -- including law enforcement; educators and administrators; and emergency first responders – attended the presentation.
More tips can be found at Ready.gov
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LEADING THE CONVERSATION
Middlesex County hosted its sixth annual Business Summit on October 13 where a group of forward-thinking business leaders provided insights into leadership practices and resources that increase business retention, expansion, and economic opportunities for businesses of all sizes — from startups and family- owned businesses to larger organizations located in Middlesex County and beyond.
In addition to important discussions around key industry topics such as how technology is reshaping the business world; new ways businesses are appealing to customers; and how micro and small businesses can gain access to capital, this year’s Business Summit was designed to provide attendees with an opportunity to meet and network with their peers; share best practices; find new customers and investors; and discuss emerging market and workforce trends. U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. joined Middlesex County at this year’s Business Summit as special honored guests, spending time on stage for a discussion highlighting why Middlesex County is a pre-eminent destination for future-focused industries and discussing the impact of the CHIPS and Science Act. Additional featured speakers included Rashaad and Michelle Bajwa, co-founders of Integris. Key event insights, including key takeaways from our panels, can be found at middlesexcountynj.gov/businesssummit .
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How to stay healthy during flu season
Improvements announced for the New Brunswick Train Station
If you do get the flu, there are treatments that can help. While antiviral drugs can be prescribed by your doctor to help lessen your fever, if you’re
The flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that can impact your lungs, nose, and throat. Flu season is several months long, however, peak flu season is typically between December and March. According to the CDC, symptoms include: a cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue (tiredness). Some people may also have a fever or feel feverish. The most important thing you can do to help reduce the spread of the flu or make the illness less severe if you do get it is get your flu shot. The flu shot is updated every year to include protection against the most common viruses, so it’s important to get the vaccine every year. Everyone six months of age and older should get vaccinated.
In 2019, the MCIA entered a first-of-its-kind partnership with NJTRANSIT to serve as project manager for the development of the North Brunswick station. This project in New Brunswick will improve the station, including extending and replacing passenger platforms; rehabilitating escalators and elevators; installing energy-efficient lighting; and upgrading heating and air-conditioning systems.
Earlier in the fall, the Board of County Commissioners, along with Governor Murphy and leaders of the 17th Legislative District, announced a multi-million- dollar improvement project to be undertaken on the New Brunswick Train Station. The improvements to the station from design to construction will be project managed by the County through the Middlesex County Improvement Authority (MCIA), a familiar role for the County as it already manages the North Brunswick Train Station project a few miles south. “As a County that celebrates our rich past and understands that where we have been is as important as where we are going, the new development plans will marry the history of the New Brunswick station’s main building – built more than 120 years ago -- with modern amenities,” Commissioner Director Rios announced.
sick with the flu, it’s important to stay home and avoid public settings whenever possible. The CDC recommends that people who have the flu stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone, except to get medical care or other necessities. If you are very sick, in a high-risk group due to age, illness, or other factors, or are worried about your health, contact your doctor. Visit middlesexcountynj.gov/flu to get more information about the flu, including County resources to help you get vaccinated.
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It is import nt to get the u v ccine ever e r, s it is upd ted to incude new protection. V ccin ted ET Six months and oder are eigibe.
M sks c n protect ou nd others g inst COVID-19 nd the u.
Exercise, e t he th nd get pent of seep.
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................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. County officials discuss $250,000 in funding Middlesex County officials joined the Educational
Sick? STAY HOME!
W sh our h nds using so p nd w rm w ter. C rr h nd s nitizer when on the go. Your F ce DON’T TOUCH Avoid touching our ees, nose, nd mouth to protect oursef.
Services Commission of New Jersey (ESCNJ) in October to discuss how $250,000 in funding will benefit the Adult Community Services program. This program offers individuals 21 and over who have an intellectual or developmental disability an opportunity to strive for independence by helping participants develop their social, emotional, and life skills.
Aw s cover our mouth nd nose to void spre ding germs. C refu SNEEZE & COUH
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REPLENISH celebrates Hunger Action Month
A hole-in-one for golfers Middlesex County officials joined Indigo Sports, a Troon Company, at Tamarack Golf Course to view the extensive renovations to the East Course, which reopened to the public on September 26 after undergoing aesthetic and structural upgrades that began in November 2020. The upgrades, which include improved drainage, a new irrigation system, brand new tee boxes, bunker work, and finish work and grassing, provide an improved golf experience for players. Renovations were funded through the Middlesex County Open Space Trust Fund, which provides grants to recreation facilities
September was Hunger Action Month and Middlesex County’s food distribution organization, REPLENISH, hosted a series of events, activities, and food drives designed to raise awareness of food insecurity and collect non- perishable foods and supplies. The month-
Building on what MCFOODS originally
started in 1994, REPLENISH is a collaboration of many partnerships working together to end hunger. REPLENISH provides dairy, frozen, fresh,
and shelf-stable foods and necessities to a network of over 150 partner organizations, including food pantries, soup
Middlesex County. To find out how you can make a donation or volunteer, call REPLENISH at 732-745-5548 or email REPLENISH@co.middlesex. nj.us. Monetary donations are also always accepted in the form of a check payable to “Feeding Middlesex County.” Checks may be mailed to PO Box 781, Edison, NJ 08818 or donations can be made online via the REPLENISH website at feedingmiddlesexcounty.org .
At REPLENISH, we are committed to ensuring everyone in Middlesex County who needs food and basic supplies has access to them.” – Jennifer Apostol, REPLENISH Director
long campaign culminated with Rows for the Hungry at the Earth Center in
for the benefit of the community. The West Course is now closed to undergo similar upgrades, with renovations expected to be completed by Fall 2024.
North Brunswick in September where volunteers from the Royal Neighbors presented a $2,500 check to Rows for the Hungry which will fund tools, equipment, seeds, or anything else required to grow a plentiful crop.
kitchens, and social service organizations throughout Middlesex County. There are many ways to get involved and volunteer to help fight food insecurity in
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Growing our network Middlesex County’s Latino Telehealth Program, a community-based initiative geared toward education and increasing access to bilingual telemedicine options to underinsured and uninsured residents, has expanded to serve New Brunswick after successfully launching in Perth Amboy a year ago. In partnership with New Brunswick Tomorrow — a nonprofit that has driven social revitalization for the City of New Brunswick for more than 40 years — the Telehealth Program will now also be available at two new offsite hubs located at the New Brunswick
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... A New Era for the County’s Magnet Schools
On Wednesday, September 7, members of the Middlesex County Magnet Schools and the community gathered on the East Brunswick campus to raise its flags to signal the new era of the County school district. The new name and visual identity, announced in June, accurately represent the exceptional, specialized education the school system offers all Middlesex County students.
Free Public Library and the New Brunswick Housing Authority. More information can be found at middlesexcountynj.gov/telehealth .
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Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners County Administration Building 75 Bayard Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
If you need to update your name or address, please email your corrections to info@conceptprint.com or mail this page with corrections to: Concept Print, Kerry Monahan Gaughan, 40 Lydecker St, Nyack, NY 10960
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Brought to you by the Middlesex County Board of Commissioners Your Middlesex VOLUME 7 || ISSUE 3 || 2022 1 // Get to Know: The Office of Aging & Disabled Services 2 // Middlesex & Union County Prosecutor’s Offices attend case study 3 // 6 must-have items Emergency Management recommends 4 // 6th Annual Business Summit 6 // Improvements announced for the New Brunswick Train Station 7 // Flu Awareness 8 // REPLENISH celebrates Hunger Action Month 9 // Tamarack Golf Course reopening
2022 Business Summit
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County Departments
Administration 732–745–3040
Business Innovation, Education, and Opportunity 732–745–4379
Community Services 732–745–4230
Transportation 732–745– 3283
Finance 732–745–3173
Public Safety & Health 732–745–3100
Infrastructure Management 732–745–3995
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middlesexcountynj.gov
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