Message from Mayor Josh Losardo | July 20, 2023
Despite the lazy days of summer, there is plenty of news coming out of town hall that I am eager to share with you. Following our Council meeting on Tuesday, July 11, many initiatives are set in motion for what will be a busy few months ahead.
- A Ballot Question about Brookside Park:
On the ballot in November, there are no local elections for Township Council. But there is still a ballot question for Scotch Plains voters, asking if Brookside Park should be improved.
Through the diligent work of the Recreation Commission, and a careful review by the Township Council, there is a plan to create pickleball courts, improve the walking trail with new foot bridges and greatly improve the existing sports field with turf and drainage to address the high demand in town.
Some residents have asked for a referendum on the plan, seeking an ultimate decision from voters on the November ballot. Please take a moment to learn about the plan by clicking here. I hope you participate in this important vote, as we continue to identify ways in which to improve all of the recreational amenities in Scotch Plains.
- Enhancing Street Safety: Traffic safety in Scotch Plains is always a paramount concern, especially as so many of our children walk to school during peak traffic periods. In response, the police department has sought authorization to install new stop signs on various streets, based on traffic patterns. We continue to look at all intersections, focusing on safety for both pedestrians and motorists.
- Better Emergency Services: The Township Council introduced the Plainfield Avenue Redevelopment Plan, which now goes to the Planning Board for review. The Planning Board will decide if relocating police, fire and rescue services to Plainfield Avenue is consistent with the town’s Master Plan.
The Planning Board’s review is set to take place on July 24 at town hall. Thereafter, there will be a presentation at the August 8 Council meeting, and a potential vote on its adoption. This plan has been discussed in detail over the past five years and I am pleased Scotch Plains is moving toward a state-of-the-art emergency response facility that is more strategically located for town-wide response.
- A Focus on Community Policing: Police Chief Jeff Briel provided an update to the community about ways in which the police department continues to engage our community, especially our youth. He (along with the entire Township Council) is urging residents to attend the annual National Night Out event, this year set for August 1 on the Village Green. Stop by to meet our dedicated emergency services personnel and enjoy some free treats that will be provided.
- Car Show and East 2nd Street Block Party: It was announced that the Township is planning a car show and block party to celebrate our East 2nd Street businesses and promote all of the great products and services they offer. The party will occur on Saturday, September 9 from 1-5 p.m., with a rain date on September 10. Remember: shop local and support all of the tremendous merchants who support us throughout the year.
- Cannabis Recreational Dispensary to Open on Route 22: After a careful review, and in strict accordance with state law, A21 Wellness Dispensary received a local license from the governing body and anticipates opening the first adult-use cannabis dispensary on Route 22 later this summer. Please note that Scotch Plains is only permitting such a use on the highway, not in our downtown or other commercial corridors. We look forward to reaping the tax rewards from this business, as a percentage of the sales will go directly into the town’s coffers to help further enhance our community.
Please contact our Town Manager, Al Mirabella, at
And, more importantly at the moment, I hope you get some time to relax and enjoy the summer.
