Township of Branchburg

Somerville HS Winter Guard - KRISPY KREME Fundraiser
DO-NUT forget to support SHS WINTER GUARD bound for Winter Guard International in Dayton, OH during April 2024. Send your orders by January 22 to [email protected]. Payment must be received with order via check, cash or Venmo@SHSWGuard. Please include your name, phone number, delivery address and team member name (if sponsoring directly).

Specialty: $20 per dozen (one flavor per dozen) Chocolate Iced, Lemon Filled, Raspberry Filled, Kreme Filled.
Original: $18 per dozen.
Signature Coffee: Classic or Decaf $10.

THE BRANCHBURG MUNICIPAL DUMPSTER WILL BE CLOSED TODAY, JANUARY 19, DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER.

Somerset County Volunteers To Offer Free Tax-Aide Program Starting February 1
Somerset County’s Volunteer Services and AARP have teamed up again to offer the Tax-Aide program to help residents prepare their taxes for 2023. The free, no-fuss, tax-counseling service is available to all county residents but is specifically aimed at helping older adults, residents with disabilities, and lower-income residents who need help preparing federal and New Jersey income tax returns. Qualified tax counselors will review and prepare tax documents and then file the documents electronically so taxpayers can receive a more rapid refund, if eligible.

Volunteers also can assist with preparing Property Tax Reimbursement (PTR) forms for homeowners ages 65 years or older who meet the eligibility requirements.

Tax-Aide counselors receive rigorous annual training and are tested and certified by the Internal Revenue Service to ensure they are up to date on current tax laws for both the federal and state government tax forms. In addition, the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office conducts background checks on all tax preparation volunteers.

Appointment Guidelines
Residents must schedule an appointment to receive tax assistance. Appointments are available through April 15. Residents must bring the following items to their appointment:

* 2023 W-2 forms
* Bank, broker, and social security statements from the 2023 tax year
* Total medical expenses and all other deductible expenses from 2023
* Copy of 2022 tax returns
* Property tax statements from the township to include taxes paid in 2023

Property Tax Reimbursement (PTR) forms for homeowners ages 65 years or older who meet eligibility requirements must bring the following items:
* The blue booklet received in the mail and the previous year’s tax return
* Documentation for property taxes paid and other deductible expenses

To make an appointment, call the Somerset County Office of Volunteer Services at 908-541-5710 beginning on Feb.1. Appointments will be made until the end of the tax season or until all appointments are filled.

About the Somerset County Volunteer Services
Volunteer Services recruit people of all ages to volunteer for various county departments and/or non-profit programs. Volunteer Services oversees the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), the Handyman Project, the Tax Filing Assistance Program, SHIP Medicare Counseling, the Tutoring Program, Fall Clean-Up Program. You can find more information on volunteer services here:

Volunteer Services | Somerset County Somerset County helps coordinate volunteers to help their neighbors and friends who need a hand up.

The Municipal Offices and Annex Building will be closed on Monday, January 15th in observance of the holiday.

As crews continue working around the clock with the help of additional contractors, JCP&L will share restoration estimates as they are available on our map: http://spr.ly/NJOutageMap . You can also call JCP&L at 888-544-4877 or text STAT to 544487 for updates on your specific outage when available.

Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) reminds customers that they need to be aware of individual outages to their homes that may require an electrician and inspection before service can be restored. The attached photo provides information that helps explain what equipment customers may need an electrician to address before restoration can be completed.

BRIDGE CLOSURE FOR REPAIRS - Woodfern Road over S. Branch Raritan - Bridge B0512, Hillsborough/Township of Branchburg

Somerset County Bridge B0512, Woodfern Road over the South Branch of the Raritan River was damaged from last night’s storm (portal bracing and end post) and must remain closed until the truss members are repaired. A detour and concrete barrier will be set in place once there is access to both sides. This repair will be a several month closure at a minimum.

Another update will be provided once the current flooding subsides and there is a full hand-on inspection and repair plan in order.

JCP&L reminds customers to immediately report any downed wires to the company, or their local police department. Customers should never go near a downed power line, even if they think it is no longer carrying electricity. Extra caution should be used in areas where downed lines are tangled in trees or other debris. To report downed wires or power outages, call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), or click the “Report Outage” link at www.firstenergycorp.com

Branchburg: A major rain storm is expected later today into tomorrow. Major flooding is expected in all the usual places. High winds are also forecasted. Be prepared for possible power outages. DO NOT APPROACH DOWNED WIRES!.....DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH HIGH WATERS!......Please don't take chances that will put yourself or our emergency service volunteers in danger!

Monitoring Weather and Prepared to Respond

Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) meteorologists are closely monitoring the developing weather conditions. JCP&L is prepared to activate its storm response and Incident Command System plans.

In the event outages occur due to severe weather, customers without power are encouraged to report their outage by calling 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), clicking the “Report Outage” link on www.firstenergycorp.com, or by texting out to 544487.

Customers should immediately report downed wires to 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) or call their local police department. JCP&L reminds customers to stay away from downed wires, even if they believe they are no longer carrying electricity. Extra caution should be used in areas where downed lines are tangled with trees or other debris. Motorists are cautioned to treat intersections with inoperable traffic signals as four-way stops.

JCP&L customers can subscribe to email and text message alert notifications to receive weather updates in advance of major storms and updates on scheduled or extended power outages. Visit www.firstenergycorp.com/connect to enroll.

Follow JCP&L on Twitter , on Facebook at JCP&L or online at www.jcp-l.com

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MAKE YOUR DOG LEGAL - DOG LICENSES RENEW IN JANUARY

Renewals are due by January 31st. A $5 late fee will be assessed after this date. Every dog licensed must have a valid rabies vaccine through 11/01/2024.. State Law requires that all dogs seven months of age or older are to be licensed in the municipality in which they reside. The yearly license fee for a neutered/spayed dog is $16.00; an additional $3.00 fee is imposed for non-neutered/non-spayed dogs.

Residents now have the option to renew pet licenses online.
Visit the Township’s online services at: https://www.branchburg.nj.us/
and create a portal account at: https://www.branchburg.nj.us/about/sdl_portal.php

FREE Rabies Clinic – Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM located at the Annex Garage (34 Kenbury Road). Please leash all dogs and confine cats in a carrier. Please note, animal license payments will NOT be taken at this clinic. Contact the Health Department with any questions: (908) 526-1300 ext: 183.

Somerset County Park Commission to Offer Free Christmas Tree Recycling - Help save the environment by recycling a Christmas tree at the Somerset County Park Commission’s free, annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program from Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023, to Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024. Residents can drop off their trees at Colonial Park Gardens or North Branch Park. Free mulch will be available at the drop-off sites on a first-come, first-serve basis.

This program is a free, eco-friendly, and cost-effective way for residents to dispose of their Christmas trees. Mulch and woodchips collected from the recycled trees will be used throughout the park system to help nurture and protect plant life.

Drop-off Locations - The following drop-off locations are open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

Colonial Park Gardens, located at 156 Mettlers Road, Parking Lot F, in Somerset (Franklin Township).
North Branch Park, located at 355 Milltown Road, at the lighted baseball field, in Bridgewater.

Christmas Tree Recycling Guidelines

Only natural trees will be accepted.
Only one tree per family will be accepted.
Trees must be free of ornaments, wires, netting, and tinsel.
Recycling wreaths and garlands will NOT be accepted.
Group deliveries and trees from dealers will NOT be accepted.

For more information about the Christmas tree recycling program, contact the Somerset County Park Commission Horticulture Department at 908-722-1200, ext. 5721. Individuals with hearing and speech impairment can call the Relay Service at 711 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday (except holidays).

Information on Somerset County Park Commission activities can be found at www.somersetcountyparks.org.

Somerset County Park Commission
The Somerset County Park Commission stewards nearly 15,000 acres of county-owned open space, which is visited by two-million park users each year. Five golf courses have three driving ranges, a pitch and putt course and a recreational putting course. Other attractions include a riding stable, an environmental education center, two tennis facilities, an outdoor pool, paddle boating, a rock and rare plant garden, a perennial garden, an award-winning rose garden, an arboretum, and a fragrance and sensory garden. Six county parks also offer amenities, such as athletic fields, picnic facilities, bike paths, fishing, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, and hiking.

To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Email Subscriptions | Somerset County The Somerset County Board of County Commissioners and the county’s departments and divisions have taken full advantage of online technology to help citizens stay connected to all facets of county government programs and services. The Board of County Commissioners provides a free e-mail alerts serv...

Somerset County Recycling Collections May Be Delayed Jan. 1-5

Due to the holiday, some recycling collections scheduled for this week (Jan. 1-5) may be delayed in Somerset County. Residents should leave their recyclables at the curb, and the remaining items will be collected as soon as possible. The Somerset County Recycling Division thanks residents for their patience and understanding.

To view the 2024 recycling schedule, visit: https://bit.ly/2024RecycleSched

To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Email Subscriptions | Somerset County The Somerset County Board of County Commissioners and the county’s departments and divisions have taken full advantage of online technology to help citizens stay connected to all facets of county government programs and services. The Board of County Commissioners provides a free e-mail alerts serv...

New Year’s Day Holiday schedule - Municipal Offices will be open on Friday, December 29 from 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM, and closed on Monday, January 1st for New Year’s Day. The Municipal Dumpster will be closed on Friday, December 29.

Municipal Offices Christmas Holiday Schedule - the Municipal Offices will be open on Friday, December 22nd from 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM, and closed on Monday, December 25th. The Municipal Dumpster will be closed Friday, December 22.

Every year, the Communications Committee runs an annual photo contest to celebrate the beauty of our town. Any local amateur photographer can submit a photo. This year, the Committee received 14 beautiful entries, featuring everything from Balloon Fest to the train bridge to athletes playing at White Oak Park. The Committee narrowed it down to five favorites, which was a difficult decision. Those five photographs were put on display at the Country Fair, and the public got a chance to vote for the ultimate winner. Several hundred people voted and in the end, Maria McNaught's photo of Neshanic Mill won by two votes over the runner-up. Many voters commented on the beauty and grace of her photograph.

CANCELLED TONIGHT - MONDAY, DECEMBER 18
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT AT WHITE OAK PARK

Due to the excessive amount of rain and flooding predicted, and for the safety of everyone involved, Carols by Candlelight will be cancelled for tonight, Monday, December 18th. We wish everyone a happy and safe holiday.

Help Neighbors in Need During the Holidays. The Somerset Patriots baseball team will match monetary donations received by December 20th. Go to: https://www.co.somerset.nj.us/government/public-health-safety/emergency-management/resident-resources

Support the Somerville Winter Guard this holiday season with our Raise Right Gift Card Fundraiser!

It’s easy as 1,2,3!

1. Click the link below to be directed to our enrollment page and create your account.

2. Shop for your desired gift cards and select your preferred shipping method.
a. E-Card go directly to you or your recipients email!
b. Physical card can be shipped directly to your home – Buyer pays shipping!
c. Physical card can also be shipped to the organization – Free to the buyer! Local pick-up or drop-off options will need to be discussed.

3. Wait to receive your cards and relax after a stress-free holiday shopping experience!

Your support will go directly to helping the Somerville High School Winter Guard with operational cost associated with their 2024 season!

Link: https://www.raiseright.com/enroll?enrollCode=A54JNE72JX84

Public Involvement Plan Meeting #1 on the Solberg-Hunterdon Airport Master Planning Process will be held on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 7:00-9:00 PM at the Readington Middle School, 48 Readington Road, Whitehouse Station, NJ. The Airport Master Planning Process is the first step in an effort to upgrade Solberg Airport from a "Priority General Service Airport" to an "Advanced Service" Airport. Residents who want to learn more and express concerns should plan to attend. Residents can also go to www.airport-hunterdon.com for ongoing information.

airport-hunterdon.com – Independent Solberg Master Plan 2024 Information Solberg Public Information Meeting #1 Almost 28 years ago, in 1976, the private owners of Solberg-Hunterdon Airport called a Public Involvement Meeting to reveal their plans to expand the airport in a way that would have forever changed the rural character of Readington Township New Jersey. A 20+yea...

Somerville High School's Winter Performances

BRANCHBURG P.T.O. HOLIDAY HAPPINESS IS COLLECTING GIFTS FROM NOV. 27 - DEC. 15, 2023

The PTO Holiday Happiness program provides "NEW' unwrapped gifts for the less fortunate families in our local community. The success of this program completely depends upon the generosity of the people of Branchburg. Due to your past years of kindness, Holiday Happiness has been assisting the community for over 40 years.

As this amazing program has grown over the years, so has the number of families. This PTO program benefits the "Children" of our community from Pre-K through 8th grade. The donated items being collected will need to be NEW, UNWRAPPED GIFTS for
both boys and girls. The children's ages range from 4 to 14. Again, this year we have a great interest in small denomination gift card donations (i.e. $25, $20 & $10 to Movies, i-tunes, Amazon, Claire's.)

Also, this year we have a wish list on Amazon. The link for gift ideas is https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/OI70CNYQVHSF?ref_=wl_share These items can be purchased and shipped directly to the sorting location. This list will be updated based on the needs of the children as well as when items are fulfilled.

You can contact [email protected] for questions. Donated gifts are being collected at all Branchburg Schools and the Branchburg Municipal Building from Nov 27 - Dec 15. There will be a large collection box outside each of the school's main entrances and in the lobby of the Municipal Building. Please DO NOT leave gift cards at the drop-off boxes. Email [email protected] to schedule a drop off or pick up location. We need your help to continue this program and thank you in advance for your continued support

Check out my list on Amazon

The Municipal Offices and the Municipal Dumpster will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 23 & 24 in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday! Enjoy your time with family and friends!

You're invited to a Fundraising Shopping Event to support Somerville High School Winter Guard!