Watchung, NJ
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WatchungNJ averageUS Census ACS
Typical home value $1,096,121 +4.3% yr/yr · +35.6% 5-yr
Home-value trend 2000–2026 (Zillow ZHVI)
Development activity
Housing units permitted — US Census Building Permits Survey
2025232 housing units ($34.0M)
🗳️ Election results (9 races)
Local election returns — winner marked ✓.
School Board Watchung 2025-11-04
BOE Latisha Marcellus ✓ 1,380 · BOE Sahil Trikha ✓ 1,108 · Write-In ✓ 313
School Board Watchung 2024-11-05
Jessica Maddox ✓ 1,561 · Adam Kraft ✓ 1,554 · Dorie Harvey ✓ 1,513 · Wayne Oborne 1,340 · Thomas Nadbielny 1,335 · Write-In 124
School Board Watchung 2023-11-07
Danielle Amedeo ✓ 796 · Jennifer “Jen” Agugliaro ✓ 780 · Fatima Santos ✓ 749 · Cagla Banu Uslay 691 · Smita Saraswat 683 · Gail Tafaro O’Donnell 611
School Board (Unexpired 1Yr) 2022-11-08
Non - Gail B. Tafaro O'Donnell ✓ 1,320 · Non - Peter J. Morales ✓ 959 · Non - Rehan Murad 542 · Write-In 253
School Board 2022-11-08
Non - Phyllis Juette ✓ 1,361 · Non - Manuel Gonzalez ✓ 1,195 · Non - Mohamad Freij ✓ 1,116 · Non - Jennifer Scharf 1,005 · Non - Kevin A. McDonald 992 · Non - Joseph Barbella 947
Mayor 2022-11-08
REP - Ronald Jubin ✓ 1,492 · DEM - Pietro ''Pete'' Martino 1,216 · Write-In 9
School Board District Public Question 2021-12-14
No ✓ 449 · Yes 398
School Board 2021-11-02
Non - Richard Buccarelli ✓ 1,341 · Non - Anthony W. Ingrassia ✓ 1,238 · Non - Dorie Harvey ✓ 989 · Non - John J. Guzman 826 · Write-In 41
City Council 2021-11-02
REP - Curt S. Dahl ✓ 1,421 · REP - Christine B. Ead ✓ 1,402 · DEM - Daryl Eisenberg Knegten 1,160 · DEM - John Malchow 1,126 · Write-In 6
Upcoming
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Thu Aug 20, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Watchung Council to consider $600K building improvements, bamboo and kratom rules
The Watchung Mayor & Council is holding its regular meeting with a public hearing on the Phase I Watershed Inventory Report. The council will consider six ordinances, including a $600,000 appropriation for borough building furniture and improvements, and new regulations on bamboo planting, kratom sales, OPRA service charges, and short-term rentals. The agenda also includes routine consent items such as tax lien redemptions, appointments, and a bid award for a nature trail project.
- ORD 26/11: $600,000 appropriation from Capital Improvement Fund for building furniture and improvements
- ORD 26/12: Amending fishing regulations at Best Lake for NJ trout stocking program
- ORD 26/13: Establishing regulations on bamboo planting
- ORD 26/14: Establishing regulations on kratom sales
- R13: Awarding bid contract for Camp Endeavor Nature and Fitness Trail — Phase One
ordinancesbudgetpublic-hearingenvironmentpublic-safetyzoningrecreation
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 4
Curt S. Dahl, Council President
Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member
James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member
Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member
Colleen R. Lange, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
August 20, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATIONS
Honoring Gary Greves 55 Years of Service
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Administration & Finance
Police
Public Works / Buildings and Grounds
Public Affairs:
Environmental
Recreation
Historical
Board of Health
Green Team
Mayor's Wellness Campaign
Fire
Laws/Ordinances
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
August 20, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Page 2 of 4
REPORTS OF BOROUGH OFFICERS
Engineer
Police Chief
Fire Chief
Fire Official
Rescue Squad
Emergency Management
Attorney
Finance
Cler …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Thu Sep 17, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Borough Hall, Watchung
Thu Oct 8, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Borough Hall, Watchung
Thu Oct 22, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Borough Hall, Watchung
Thu Dec 3, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Borough Hall, Watchung
Thu Dec 17, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Borough Hall, Watchung
Recent meetings
Thu Jul 16, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to approve budget, tax levy, and several ordinances.
The Watchung Municipal Council will consider authorizing budget insertions, tax levy certifications, and a shared services agreement for a school resource officer. The body will also review ordinances regarding building improvements, fishing regulations, bamboo planting, and short-term rentals.
- Authorizing $600,000 for building improvements
- Authorizing Watchung Hills Regional High School tax levy certification
- Authorizing renewal of shared services agreement for School Resource Officer
- Ordinance establishing regulations on planting bamboo
- Ordinance establishing regulations on the sale of Kratom
budgettaxordinanceshousinginfrastructurepublic-safetyenvironment
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 4
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Colleen R. Lange, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
July 16, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATION
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Administration & Finance
Police
Public Works / Buildings and Grounds
Public Affairs:
Environmental
Recreation
Historical
Board of Health
Green Team
Mayor's Wellness Campaign
Fire
Laws/Ordinances
REPORTS OF BOROUGH OFFICERS
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
July 16, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Page 2 of 4
Engineer
Police Chief
Fire Chief
Fire Official
Rescue Squad
Emergency Management
Attorney
Finance
Clerk
Administrator
Planning Board
Municipal Alliance
Library Advisory …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE
5 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paul Fischer yea · Sonia Abi-Habib yea · Robert Gibbs yea
CONSENT
5 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paul Fischer yea · Sonia Abi-Habib yea · Robert Gibbs yea
ADJOURNMENT
5 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paul Fischer yea · Sonia Abi-Habib yea · Robert Gibbs yea
Thu Jun 18, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to apply for NJDOT Municipal Aid for road projects
The Watchung Municipal Council will vote on a series of routine consent items, including tax lien redemptions and a fee waiver for Founder's Day. Non-consent items include authorizing a holdover agreement with Crown Atlantic Company, a revocable license for a property, and submitting an application for state transportation aid. The meeting also features a proclamation for the borough's 100th anniversary and a special award presentation.
- Authorizing submission of NJDOT FY27 Municipal Aid Program application (R14)
- Holdover agreement with Crown Atlantic Company, LLC (R9)
- Revocable license for 144 Stanie Glen Road (R10)
- Appointment of Vincent J. DeNave as Borough Engineer (R11)
- Amending contract expansion for Remington & Vernick Engineers (R8)
transportationpublic-workscontractsappointmentscentennialawards
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 3
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Colleen R. Lange, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
June 18, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATION
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Borough of Watchung and the 250th Anniversary of
the United States of America
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Mayor's Achievement Award Presentation to Emma Speeney — Mayors Monarch Initiative
PUBLIC PORTION / AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
Each speaker is limited to one 5-minute comment.
DISCUSSION
NEW BUSINESS
CENTENNIAL MINUTE
REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE
Acknowledging Receipt of the Following Reports:
Animal Control Solutions May 2026
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
June 18, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Page 2 of 3
Corresponde …
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Thu Jun 4, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to vote on amending parking restrictions on Carrar Drive
The Watchung Municipal Council is meeting on June 4, 2026, to consider several routine items including an ordinance to amend parking restrictions along a portion of Carrar Drive, appointments, and annual license renewals. A public hearing will be held on the ordinance as unfinished business.
- ORD 26/10: Ordinance amending parking restrictions along a portion of Carrar Drive
- R1: Authorize appointment of Deputy Clerk Gloria Rivera
- R8: Authorizing 2026-2027 liquor license renewal
- R3: Authorizing award of Online Tax Sale Hosting Service to Realauction.com, LLC
- R9: Authorizing fees waived for Watchung Farmers Market
parkingordinanceappointmentsliquor-licensepublic-hearing
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 3
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Colleen R. Lange, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
June 4, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATION
National Safety Month
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Mayor's Achievement Award Presentation
• Pranavi Sivakumar - New Jersey All-State Choir Member
• Valley View Baseball & Softball Teams
SPECIAL RESOLUTION
R1: Authorize Appointment of Deputy Clerk — Gloria Rivera
ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Administration & Finance
Police
Public Works / Buildings and Grounds
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
June 4, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Page 2 of 3
Public Affairs:
Environmental
Recreation
Historical
Board of Health
Green …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Thu May 21, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Watchung Council to consider developer agreement with Levin Properties
At this meeting, the Watchung Council will vote on a lease-purchase ordinance for a front loader (ORD 26/09) and a parking restriction amendment on Carrar Drive (ORD 26/10). They will also consider a developer's agreement with Levin Properties (R5) and other routine items including a refund and permits.
- ORD 26/09: ordinance authorizing lease-purchase financing for a front loader
- ORD 26/10: ordinance amending parking restrictions along a portion of Carrar Drive
- R5: authorizing developer's agreement with Levin Properties, L.P.
- R8: authorizing permanent loan (donation) agreement for the DuPont Meteorite Collection with Planetary Studies Foundation
- Proclamation for the National Wildlife Federation's Mayors' Monarch Butterfly Pledge
public-safetyparkingdevelopmentdonationproclamationconsent-agendafinanceenvironment
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 3
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Colleen R. Lange, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
May 21, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATION
2026 National Wildlife Federation's Mayors' Monarch Butterfly Pledge
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Donation Recognition
- Somerset Hills Branch of the American Association of University Women
- Wilfred Loh & Marion Cowan
Mayor's Achievement Award for Ridge Racers
PUBLIC PORTION / AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
Each speaker is limited to one 5-minute comment.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ORD 26/09: ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE LEASE PURCHASE FINANCING AND
ACQUISITION OF A FRONT LOADER FOR AND BY THE BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG, IN
THE COUNTY OF SOMERSET, STATE OF NEW JERSEY
NEW BUSINESS
REPORTS & CORRES …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Thu May 7, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Public hearing on 2026 budget and affordable housing zone amendments
The Watchung Municipal Council will hold a public hearing on the 2026 municipal budget and consider several ordinances amending affordable housing overlay zones along Route 22 and Somerset Street/Watchung Avenue, as well as fence regulations. Resolutions include adopting the budget, authorizing a liquor license transfer, and urging state leaders to address health premium increases.
- Public Hearing on 2026 Municipal Budget (R10)
- ORD 26/02-26/05: Amendments to affordable housing overlay zones (Route 22, Somerset Street/Watchung Avenue)
- ORD 26/06: Update to fence and wall regulations in Chapter 28
- R11: Person-to-person transfer of pocket liquor license 1821-33-006-006
- ORD 26/09: Lease-purchase financing for a backhoe
budgetaffordable-housingzoningpublic-hearingordinancesresolutionsfinancehousing
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 4
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Colleen R. Lange, Deputy Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
May 7, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATIONS
National Day of Prayer
Guru Vandana - Teacher Appreciation
SPECIAL RESOLUTION
R1: Authorize Appointment of Borough Clerk — Colleen R. Lange
ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Administration & Finance
Police
Public Works / Buildings and Grounds
Public Affairs:
Environmental
Recreation
Historical
Board of Health
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
May 7, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Page 2 of 4
Green Team
Mayor's Wellness Campaign
Fire
Laws/Ordinances
REPORTS OF BOROUGH OFFICERS
Engineer
Police …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE
4 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paolo Marano yea · Robert Gibbs yea
CONSENT
4 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paolo Marano yea · Robert Gibbs yea
ADJOURNMENT
4 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paolo Marano yea · Robert Gibbs yea
Thu Apr 16, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council considers ordinance to exceed state budget cap and establish cap bank
The council will hold public hearings on two ordinances: one to exceed the state cost-of-living budget cap and establish a cap bank, and another setting minimum and maximum salaries. They will also vote on consent items including a shared services grant application and opposing state affordable housing legislation, and a non-consent item to reappoint the borough administrator.
- Public hearing on ORD 26/07 to exceed the municipal budget cost-of-living allowance and establish a cap bank.
- Public hearing on ORD 26/08 establishing minimum and maximum salary ordinance.
- R1: Authorizing participation in the LEAP Implementation Grant application with North Plainfield to support shared services.
- R3: Opposing pending Senate Bill S1836 concerning conversion of religious and nonprofit property to inclusionary affordable housing.
- R5: Re-appointing and authorizing an employment contract with James Damato as Borough Administrator.
budgetsalariesaffordable-housingshared-servicesappointmentspublic-hearings
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 3
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Edith G. Gil, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
April 16, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATIONS
New Jersey Local Government Week 2026
Days of Remembrance
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Budget Presentation by Watchung Hills Regional High School
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Administration & Finance
Police
Public Works / Buildings and Grounds
Public Affairs:
Environmental
Recreation
Historical
Board of Health
Green Team
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
April 16, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Page 2 of 3
Fire
Laws/Ordinances
REPORTS OF BOROUGH OFFICERS
Engineer
Police Chief
Fire Chief
Fire Official
Rescue Squad
Emergency Manag …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Mon Mar 30, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to introduce 2026 municipal budget, consider salary ordinance and cap bank
The Watchung Municipal Council will hold a regular meeting on March 30, 2026. Among the agenda items are the introduction of the 2026 municipal budget and a temporary budget amendment. The council will also consider ordinances to exceed the cost-of-living allowance for the budget and to set municipal salary ranges. Additionally, there will be a proclamation and presentations.
- Introduction of the 2026 Municipal Budget (R2)
- Temporary Budget Amendment (R3)
- Ordinance 26/07: to exceed municipal budget COLA and establish a cap bank
- Ordinance 26/08: establishing minimum and maximum salary ordinance
- Authorizing payment of accumulated benefits for Borough Clerk Edith Gil (R4)
budgetsalariescap-bankordinancespublic-meetingmunicipal-councilwatchung
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 2
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Edith G. Gil, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
March 30, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATION
Autism Acceptance Month
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Mayor's Achievement Award Presentation
• Brandon Singletary — American Ninja Warrior
• Sanjaya Kumar Nagabhushan — Mayor's Wellness Walks
PUBLIC PORTION / AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
Each speaker is limited to one 5-minute comment.
NEW BUSINESS
REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE
#8: Warren Township Notice of Public Hearing & Adoption of Ordinance #26-14 re: Affordable
Housing Zoning Changes
#9: Notice of Resignation from Electrical Subcode effective May 29, 2026
#10: Letter Requesting Approval to Display Ovarian Cancer Awareness Signs in Sep …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Thu Mar 19, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to introduce ordinances for affordable housing overlay zones on Route 22 and Somerset Street
The Watchung Mayor and Council will consider on first reading five ordinances amending the borough's land development code to meet its 4th round affordable housing obligations, including creating a new Route 22 Affordable Housing Overlay Zone District-2 and updating development fee regulations. Other business includes setting 2026 sewer rates, authorizing fireworks for centennial events, and acknowledging the Borough Clerk's resignation effective March 31, 2026. A public hearing and final adoption of the ordinances will occur at a later meeting.
- ORD 26/02: Revise Route 22 Affordable Housing Overlay Zone District
- ORD 26/03: Revise Somerset Street / Watchung Avenue Affordable Housing Overlay Zone District
- ORD 26/04: Establish new Route 22 Affordable Housing Overlay Zone District – 2
- ORD 26/05: Update affordable housing and development fee ordinances per new regulations
- R5: Establish annual sewer rates for 2026
housingzoningaffordable-housingordinancesdevelopment-feessewer-ratesfireworksborough-clerk
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 3
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Edith G. Gil, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
March 19, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
Police Department Awards & Recognition
The department established an Awards Recognition Program designed to recognize officers for
performance above and beyond their normal duty responsibility.
PUBLIC PORTION / AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
Each speaker is limited to one 5-minute comment.
NEW BUSINESS
REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE
Acknowledging Receipt of the following Borough Reports:
Animal Control Solutions February 2026
Board of Adjustment Minutes February 12, 2026
Environmental Commission Mins February 2, 2026
Green Team Advisory Board Mins January 28, 2026
February 12, 202 …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
CONSENT
5 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paul Fischer yea · Paolo Marano yea · Sonia Abi-Habib yea
Thu Mar 5, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to vote on affordable housing zoning ordinances
The Watchung Municipal Council will consider four ordinances amending land development rules to establish and revise affordable housing overlay zones. The body will also vote on appointments, consent items, and the adoption of the Amended Housing Element & Fair Share Plan.
- ORD 26/02: Amending Route 22 affordable housing overlay zone
- ORD 26/03: Amending S-W Somerset Street/Watchung Avenue affordable housing overlay zone
- ORD 26/04: Establishing new Route 22 affordable housing overlay zone
- R5: Endorsing the Amended Housing Element & Fair Share Plan
- R4: Authorizing tax lien redemption for 18 Schmidt Circle
zoninghousingaffordable-housingordinancesbudgetplanning
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 4
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Edith G. Gil, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
March 5, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATION
Autoimmune Awareness Month
SPECIAL RESOLUTION
R1: Authorizing the Appointment of Thomas J. Caswell, Jr. as Patrol Officer to the Watchung
Police Department
ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Administration & Finance
Police
Public Works / Buildings and Grounds
Public Affairs:
Environmental
Recreation
Historical
Board of Health
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
March 5, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Page 2 of 4
Green Team
Fire
Laws/Ordinances
REPORTS OF BOROUGH OFFICERS
Engineer
Police Chief
Fire Official …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Thu Feb 19, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to vote on three affordable housing overlay zone amendments
The Watchung Municipal Council holds a public hearing on a Watershed Inventory Report and considers three ordinances on first reading that revise affordable housing overlay zones along Route 22 and Somerset Street/Watchung Avenue to meet the borough's 4th round fair share obligations. Other actions include reappointing the police chief, settling a tax appeal, and awarding a payroll services contract.
- ORD 26/02 amends the Route 22 Affordable Housing Overlay Zone District
- ORD 26/03 amends the Somerset Street/Watchung Avenue Affordable Housing Overlay Zone District
- ORD 26/04 establishes a new Route 22 Affordable Housing Overlay Zone District – 2
- R9: Re-appointment of Scott Anderle as Chief of Police
- R10: Resolution to settle tax appeal Lunar, Eduardo & Renata vs. Watchung Borough
affordable-housingzoningpolicetax-appealordinancespublic-hearing
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 3
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Edith G. Gil, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
February 19, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PUBLIC PORTION / AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
Each speaker is limited to one 5-minute comment.
DISCUSSION
Watershed Inventory Report Phase I - Public Hearing
REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE
Acknowledging Receipt of the Following Reports:
Animal Control Solutions January 2026
Board of Adjustment Minutes January 8, 2026
Board of Adjustment ES Minutes January 8, 2026
Construction Department Monthly Report January 2026
Environmental Commission Minutes November 17, 2025
Library Advisory Committee Minutes January 14, 2026
Municipal Council Executive Session
Minutes
February 2, 2026
PARSA Minutes January 8 …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Mon Feb 2, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to vote on Complete Streets policy, library change order, Crown Atlantic holdover
The Watchung Municipal Council meets Feb. 2 with a ceremonial proclamation and routine committee reports, but also action items: adopting a Complete Streets policy, authorizing a change order for library renovations, approving a holdover agreement with Crown Atlantic Company, and redeeming a tax lien on 1559 Route 22. An executive session is scheduled for a personnel matter.
- R1: Adopting a Complete Streets Policy
- R3: Change order for West End KB, LLC – additions/alteraions to Watchung Public Library
- R4: Holdover agreement with Crown Atlantic Company, LLC
- R2: Tax lien redemption for 1559 Route 22, Block 5702 Lot 5.01
- R5: Executive session to discuss a personnel matter
councilagendacomplete-streetslibraryholdover-agreementtax-lienpersonnel
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 3
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Edith G. Gil, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
February 2, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATION
Honoring the Winter Olympic Games and the Spirit of Harmony
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Administration & Finance
Police
Public Works / Buildings and Grounds
Public Affairs:
Environmental
Recreation
Historical
Board of Health
Green Team
Fire
Laws/Ordinances
REPORTS OF BOROUGH OFFICERS
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
February 2, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Page 2 of 3
Engineer
Police Chief
Fire Chief
Fire Official
Rescue Squad
Emergency Management
Attorney
Finance
Clerk
Administrator
Youth Services
Plan …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Thu Jan 22, 2026 · 19:30
Municipal Council
Council to approve contract expansion for NJDEP Watershed Improvement Plan
The Watchung Municipal Council will consider an amendment to the borough code that changes council meeting adjournment rules. Routine consent items include a raffle license, a bingo license, a recycling agreement with Somerset County, a tax‑lien redemption for 89 East Drive, and a field permit for B‑Active LLC. Non‑consent items include a contract expansion for RVE under the NJDEP Watershed Improvement Plan, a settlement claim with the NJ Environmental Risk Management Fund, and the re‑appointment of Sherif Zaiton as police captain. The meeting will conclude with an adjournment and notice of the next meeting on February 2, 2026.
- ORD 26/01: Amend appendix A, part I of the borough code on council adjournment time
- Authorize Raffle License #694 to PTO Watchung Inc.
- Authorize Bingo License #BL-7 to PTO Watchung Inc.
- Authorize contract expansion for RVE for NJDEP Watershed Improvement Plan Project
- Authorize settlement of claim with NJ Environmental Risk Management Fund
councilordinancelicensingenvironmentpolicecontracts
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 2
Curt S. Dahl, Council President Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Christine B. Ead, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member Joseph V. Sordillo, Esq., Borough Attorney
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Edith G. Gil, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ
07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
January 22, 2026
7:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the provisions of
N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was given by way of the Annual
Meeting Notice to the Courier News and TAPinto, posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s
website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN,
SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
ROLL CALL
PROCLAMATION
Muslim Heritage Month
PUBLIC PORTION / AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
Each speaker is limited to one 5-minute comment.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ORD 26/01: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING APPENDIX A, PART I, OF THE BOROUGH CODE
TO AMEND THE RULES OF THE COUNCIL WITH REGARD TO ADJOURNMENT TIME OF
COUNCIL MEETINGS.
NEW BUSINESS
REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE
Animal Control Solutions December 2025
Annual Review 2025
Board of Adjustment Minutes November 13, 2025
Historical Committee Minutes September 17, 2025
Library Advisory Committee Minutes January 8, 2025
March 12, 2025
November 19, 2025
Mayor & …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
REPORTS & CORRESPONDENCE
5 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paul Fischer yea · Sonia Abi-Habib yea · Robert Gibbs yea
Tue Jan 6, 2026 · 18:30
Municipal Council
Council to adopt 2026 temporary budget and award professional contracts
This is the first meeting of 2026, featuring organizational items: oath of office for new council members, nomination for council president, and committee appointments. The council will vote on a temporary budget for 2026, award professional services contracts for legal, engineering, and other services, and consider an ordinance to amend meeting adjournment time. Consent items include designation of official newspapers and adoption of the cash management plan.
- Adoption of 2026 Temporary Budget (R5)
- Awarding professional services contracts for Borough Attorney (R9), Tax Appeal Attorney (R10), Prosecutor (R11), Labor Counsel (R12), Bond Counsel (R13), Auditor (R14), Consulting Engineer (R15), IT Support (R16), Affordable Housing Planner (R17), Risk Management (R19)
- Snow removal contract awarded to Messercola Excavating Co. (R18)
- Ordinance amending council rules on adjournment time (ORD 26/01)
- Appointments: Fire and Assistant Fire Chief (R1), Deputy Borough Clerk (R2), volunteers to boards/committees (R8)
budgetcontractsappointmentsordinancepublic-safetyorganizational
Borough Hall, Watchung
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Page 1 of 3
Christine B. Ead, Council Member Ronald Jubin, Ph.D. Mayor
Curt S. Dahl, Council Member
Paul Fischer, Council Member James J. Damato, Business Administrator
Paolo Marano, Council Member
Sonia Abi-Habib, Council Member Edith G. Gil, Borough Clerk
Robert Gibbs, Council Member
15 Mountain Blvd
Watchung, NJ 07069
Mayor & Council Meeting
AGENDA
January 6, 2026
6:30 PM
MAYOR’S STATEMENT
This meeting is being held in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Under the
provisions of N.J.S.A.10:4-6 et seq., notice of the time and place of this meeting was
given by way of the Annual Meeting Notice to the Courier News and Echoes Sentinel,
posted at Borough Hall and on the Borough’s website.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG and MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR OUR SERVICE MEN AND
WOMEN, SERVING HOME AND ABROAD
INVOCATION
Reverend Ryan Irmer, Wilson Memorial Church
ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE
Paul Fischer - Council Member
Paolo Marano - Council Member
ROLL CALL
NOMINATION FOR COUNCIL PRESIDENT
APPOINTMENT OF STANDING COMMITTEES
SPECIAL RESOLUTIONS
R1: Authorizing the Appointment of the Fire and Assistant Fire Chief
R2: Authorizing the Appointment of Colleen Lange as Deputy Borough Clerk
ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS OF OFFICE
Colleen R. Lange, Deputy Clerk
BOROUGH OF WATCHUNG
Mayor & Council Meeting Agenda
January 6, 2026 - 6:30 PM
Page 2 of 3
Albert DeSandolo II, Fire Chief
Richard Sloyan, Assistant Fire Chief
Myles Pr …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
NOMINATION FOR COUNCIL PRESIDENT
5 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paul Fischer yea · Paolo Marano yea · Robert Gibbs yea
CONSENT
5 yea
Christine Ead yea · Curt S. Dahl yea · Paul Fischer yea · Paolo Marano yea · Robert Gibbs yea
💰 Federal awards (top 7 by amount)
Largest recent federal contract/grant awards to recipients in this city (2023–present), via USAspending.gov.
| $1.9M | ZEROMARK, INC. Department of Defense · SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH, DIRECT TO PHASE II TOPIC A254-P026 |
| $129,680 | MAYERS INDUSTRIES CORP Department of Defense · RETUBE & REFINISH BEARING OIL COOLER SET |
| $74,200 | ZEROMARK, INC. Department of Defense · COUNTER-SMALL UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS KINETIC KILL CAPABILITY FOR SA |
| $33,000 | TRIVUE INC Department of the Interior · 70304995 DO009 EDUCATIONAL LANDSAT VIDEO |
| $33,000 | TRIVUE INC Consumer Financial Protection Bureau · EMERGING COMPLEXITIES AND FRICTIONLESS FINANCIAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES |
| $12,353 | MODERN LIMB AND BRACE COMPANY Department of Veterans Affairs · EXPRESS REPORT FY24 PROSTHETICS VISN NOV2023 ORDERING OFFICER EXPENDIT |
| $12,353 | MODERN LIMB AND BRACE COMPANY Department of Veterans Affairs · LIMBS |
Source: USAspending.gov (U.S. Treasury) — federal awards only, not city budgets.
🌐 County-level context (Somerset County)
County-level context — from BLS, IRS, FEMA, HUD, Census. These figures cover the whole county this city sits in, not just the city itself.
Traffic fatalities1 (2023)
Business establishments9,831 (188,127 employees · 2023)
Fair Market Rent (2BR)$2,176/mo (2025)
Adults with low literacy12.7% (low numeracy 19% · 2017)
Sources: BLS LAUS, IRS SOI, FEMA, NHTSA FARS, Census CBP, HUD, NCES PIAAC
City profile
Everything below is drawn from this city’s own public record and primary-source government data. AI-written summaries are a finding aid, not a citable quote.
287
Recorded votes
232
Permitted housing units
Outcomes — economic mobility
source: Opportunity Atlas (Harvard) · research useFor kids who grew up here in low-income households, their adult household-income rank (0–1). The average hides a gap by race:
Research-only layer, shown here for context — not included in the CC BY 4.0 bulk download.
Where it’s happening
geocoded land-use decisions🗺 Interactive map
Every rezoning, development approval, and permit — explore the geocoded records in the research explorer.
Meeting archives
- 2025 (22 meetings)