July 2023

July 2023 issues of Hazlet Citizen Weekly. For the current edition, follow this link.
The digital newsletter is produced by the Hazlet Township Public Information Office and published every Friday on the township website, HazletTwp.org. 

Hazlet Citizen Weekly - July 28 2023

Hazlet Township News & Announcements

July 28 - August 4, 2023

Hazlet Opens Cooling Center in Heat Wave, Lighting Efficiency Upgrade, Summer Band Concert Schedule

Heat Wave Grips Hazlet

Hazlet is under an Excessive Heat Warning Friday and Heat Advisory through Saturday. The heat index is predicted to reach over 100 both days. The extreme heat and humidity is impacting everyone! Please take precautions. Do not leave children or animals in a car for even a minute. Thunderstorms are also possible. To report a power outage, call 888-544-4877 or text OUT to 544487. 

  • Hazlet Township has a cooling center for those needing relief. Anyone is invited to come cool off at the air-conditioned James J. Cullen Center at 1776 Union Avenue, Hazlet. Cooling Center hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday. A township representative will be on site. 
  • The nearby Hazlet Swim Club sells daily passes at the gate. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., weather permitting.
  • Due to the heat, Hazlet Summer camp is canceled for Friday, July 28. Camp continues on Monday, July 31. 
  • The Hazlet Pops outdoor concert scheduled for Thursday, July 27 was canceled due to the heat. Come to Veterans Park 7 p.m. Thursday, August 3 for a special extended concert featuring all the "Give our Regards to Broadway" music we missed plus the regularly scheduled "Back to the Classics" tunes the band has prepared. Bring your chairs. 
Cooling Center - Newsletter

Hazlet Senior Center

Illustration of August's newsletter with sun and palm treesThe James J. Cullen Center is closing for activities at 2 p.m. Friday, July 28. Bingo is canceled. 

The August newsletter is now posted. Highlights include: 

  • Fabulous Feud Ice Cream Party at 1 p.m.  August 25. 
    $10 per person includes entry to game show, ice cream bar. 
  • Luau Party starting at noon on Saturday, August 12
    $20 per person. Luncheon and a show. 

Pre-register at MyActiveCenter.com or sign up at the center, 1776 Union Ave.

Hazlet Library

The library is a cool place in the hot summer!
Stop in to browse the stacks, see a movie at 2 pm, or flip through periodicals. View a calendar of events at  MonmouthCountyLib.org.

The Lizard Guys and their creepy, crawly friends are coming August 8. Their show is suitable for ages 4 and up with parent/caregiver. Registration opens August 1. 
Summer Reading Challenge ends on August 15, so log your books. Read to the Dogs is August 21. View all the info on the Hazlet Township Library page.

View of the skylight with ceiling lights at Town Hall.Lighting Efficiency

LED Lighting be installed at 1766 Union Avenue through the JCP&L-Wildan Direct Install Program, utilizing Ameritech as the affiliated installer for a total cost of $43,485.11. The project will be financed up to 60 months at 0% interest. 

Ameritech, a JCP&L affiliate, conducted an Energy Efficiency Assessment of 1766 Union Avenue and provided a work order including replacement of lighting fixtures with LED lighting and motion sensors for a total cost of $75,948.01. 

The township is taking advantage of a JCP&L incentive that provides $30,662.90 for equipment replacement. The Township Committee authorized the agreement at the July 18 meeting.

Photo: View of the skylight and lighting in Town Hall's foyer.

Public Meetings

  • The Hazlet Township Committee August 1 Workshop meeting has been canceled.
  • The Land Use Board meeting scheduled for Thursday, August 3 has been canceled.

Agendas are posted prior to the meetings in the Agenda Center.

News Flash - Summer Concerts - 450

NJ American Water Announcements

  • Hydrant Flushing - NJ American Water crews are conducting routine flushing of the water distribution system in order to test and maintain fire hydrants. You may notice reduced pressure or discolored water. If your water is discolored, run the cold water taps only, at the lowest level of the house for about 3 to 5 minutes until the water runs clear. If discolored water occurs refrain from doing laundry during that time. 
  • Lead Service Line Replacement Program - NJAW is conducting a full audit of service lines to identify and remove utility and customer-owned lead service lines. This video gives an overview. Read more from New Jersey American Water. 
180 Domestic Violence
Hazlet Citizen Weekly - July 21 2023

Hazlet Township News & Announcements

July 21, 2023

Celebration of Excellent Police Work, Pickleball Courts Open, Tax Bill Update

Police Group Photo

Police Awards, Promotions and Citations

On July 18, Hazlet Police celebrated accomplishments and promotions at the Township Committee meeting. Uniformed officers, family and well-wishers packed the meeting room at Town Hall.  The ceremony included the promotion of Robert Dickens to the rank of Lieutenant and Patrick Wood to the rank of Sergeant; the welcoming of three new recruits and a mayoral proclamation honoring recently retired Officer Thomas Enright.

Please take a moment to read the full stories of exceptional and lifesaving work with all the photos of the officers on the Departmental Awards 7/18/2023 page on HazletPD.org and on Facebook/HazletPolice.

Newly Redesigned Township Website

The township website, HazletTwp.org, has a brand new look for the township's 175th Anniversary!

The mobile responsive website launched by the Public Information Office on Friday, July 21 features scenes of Hazlet Township. There are also shortcut buttons to popular sections to help you get the information you need quickly. It has been developed to be highly compliant to accessibility standards.

Hazlet is a leafy community with well-kept neighborhoods, scenic parks and a large natural area known as Natco Park. The website design reflects Hazlet's attractiveness. The website's header includes a logo that includes a tree and wavy lines to represent land and water as well as its traditional township seal, both noting the township's founding in 1848. The dominant color is "Hazlet green" with blue and lighter green accents. 

Hazlet Township New Website

Hazlet Police Roll Out Home Security Review Service

Hazlet Police Chief Ted Wittke appeared before the press July 14  to announce an important new initiative called "Operation Safe Neighborhoods," which he developed in response to the recent trend of brazen break-ins and related auto thefts. Read press coverage.

Hazlet residents can now request a home security assessment from the police. One of the department's 17 trained officers will come to a residence and give the homeowner feedback on potential vulnerabilities. Join the sign-up list at HazletPD.org. 

In a show of support for Hazlet Police and their proactive strategy, the press event was attended (from left) Monmouth County Police Chiefs Association President Michael Kelly, Hazlet Police Deputy Chief Robert Mulligan, Monmouth County Chief of Detectives John G. McCabe, Jr., Hazlet Mayor Michael Sachs, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago, Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden and Hazlet Township Administrator Rob Bengivenga.

Police Chief Ted Wittke speaks at microphone with officials behind him

Public Meetings

  • The Hazlet Township Committee meets for a 7 p.m. Workshop on Tuesday, July 25. 

Agendas are posted prior to the meetings in the Agenda Center.

Pickleball Courts Are Open For Play

The Township Committee is proud to announce the opening of Hazlet’s brand new Hazlet Pickleball and Tennis Courts in Veterans Park.

The new complex is comprised of two tennis courts and six Pickleball Courts. It replaces four Tennis Courts. Improvements to the courts include resurfacing of the existing court surface. The green, blue and light blue color coating system chosen for the court surface is 100% acrylic and International Tennis Federation (ITF) Certified. Due to the popularity, rules will be posted on site and on the township website about how they are to be shared.

Elected officials and Township Administrator at new Pickleball Courts

Property Tax Bill UpdateTax Bills

The Hazlet Tax Office has received the certified 2023 tax rate. Bills are currently being processed for delivery and scheduled to be sent out at the end of July. 

You can view your Final 2023/Preliminary 2024 tax bill online.

The quarter grace period has been extended to August 29. Payments not received by that date will incur interest dating back to August 1, 2023. 

Epic Fun Day

Know any kids that want to slide down a big inflatable, waterslide? We think you might! 😉 Come to the Hazlet Swim Club on Saturday, July 22 between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. and look for our patriotic tower of fun. 🌊

Waterslide

Invitation to Vendors

Sign up now to reserve a space at Hazlet Day 2023 on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Veterans Park, Hazlet. This is a great opportunity to meet the Hazlet community and talk about your business in a casual and friendly atmosphere. Spaces are 10 x 10. Bring your own table or tent. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please see the Hazlet Day page on the Hazlet Township website for details and application.

Illustration about Hazlet Day, Sept. 9 2023

Wild Camp Day

Brian Wild of the Wild Side Zoo in Hazlet delighted campers with reptiles, bunnies, turtles and snakes on Friday. Campers have a great time, even despite these rainy days! 

Wild Side Zoo

Youth Sports Leagues

  • The Hazlet Youth Athletic League invites players to register for Fall Baseball & Softball online at www.hyalhawks.com. In person drop off of checks is scheduled for July 26 and August 3 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Clubhouse on Hazlet Avenue. 
  • The Hazlet United Soccer Association is holding online soccer registration starting July 21 through Sept. 30 at www.hazletsoccer.org. 
Hazlet Citizen Weekly - July 14 2023

Hazlet Township News & Announcements

July 14, 2023

Police Announce Home Security Program; Pickleball & Tennis Courts Completed

HAZLET POLICE  OFFER HOME SECURITY REVIEW

Hazlet Police Chief Ted Wittke is launching "Operation Safe Neighborhoods” in response to the growing number of brazen break-ins and related auto thefts in the township. Recently, the department trained 15 Hazlet police officers to conduct security assessments utilizing crime prevention principles and experience. To date, they have visited an estimated 350 homes in Hazlet as part of their pilot program. Starting at noon on July 14, any Hazlet homeowner can go to the Hazlet Police Department website, HazletPD.org, to request a free home security assessment from Hazlet Police. 
Read the press release.

Hazlet Township Home Security Assessment

TENNIS & PICKLEBALL

The new pickleball and tennis courts at the Municipal Complex completed and ready for play!  They are located at Green Acres Drive at the Hazlet Swim & Tennis Club. These photos were taken  on July 11, at the final stage. There are 2 tennis courts and six pickleball courts. Play ball! 

Pickleball And Tennis

PUBLIC MEETINGS

  • The Hazlet Township Committee meets for a 7 p.m. Workshop on Tuesday, July 18. Hazlet Police will announce awards and promotions.
  • The Land Use Board meets for a 7 p.m. meeting on Thursday, July 20.

Agendas are posted prior to the meetings in the Agenda Center.

Property Tax Bill UpdateTAX BILLS

A message from Courtney Hogan
Hazlet Tax Collector: 
We are still waiting for our certified 2023 tax rate. Once bills have been mailed, the standard 10-day grace period for the August quarter will be extended an additional 25 days. 


Senior Nutrition Program (1)SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM

The nonprofit organization Interfaith Neighbors of Monmouth County begins a senior nutrition program at the James J. Cullen Center Monday, July 17. Interfaith Neighbors will provide a plated lunch at noon every weekday. The meal is available to any Monmouth County senior aged 60 or older. View prices, menu and more info..

CHEESE WHIZZES

On July 13, 42 residents took part in a Mozzarella Making class with the Chef Joseph Zazzarino of Angry Tomatoes PIzzeria in Keansburg. It was followed by a lunch of artisanal pizzas, cake and coffee. Everyone got to take home 1 lb. of homemade mozzarella. Join in the fun at the Hazlet Senior Center. Ricotta might be next!

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UPS STORE OPENS IN  HAZLET

Hazlet Mayor Michael Sachs joined the Redd family and the Hazlet Business Owners Association at the new UPS Store (#7670) ribbon cutting on Monday, July 10 and thanked them for choosing Hazlet. The family-run franchise owned by Herman and Carole Redd, open 7 days, offers traditional UPS retail services and a Notary service. At 3036 Highway 35 in the Hazlet Town Center. Link to Facebook Page.

Camp Magic

UPS STORE OPENS IN  HAZLET

Hazlet Mayor Michael Sachs joined the Redd family and the Hazlet Business Owners Association at the new UPS Store (#7670) ribbon cutting on Monday, July 10 and thanked them for choosing Hazlet. The family-run franchise owned by Herman and Carole Redd, open 7 days, offers traditional UPS retail services and a Notary service. At 3036 Highway 35 in the Hazlet Town Center. Link to Facebook Page.

UPS Store Grand Opening

JERSEY SHORE WORK CAMP

This week, 234 Jersey Shore Work Camp volunteers from around the country are here performing clean up and paint jobs at 32 local homes, including six homes in Hazlet. The Christian youth mission is organized by Bill and Gail Bechtoldt, parishioners at St. Johns' United Methodist Church in Hazlet. 

Norene Sandifer, recently widowed, was so grateful for the helping hands at her home on Brown Avenue. She looked out at the crew painting the trim and deck. "To me its a godsend, a relief to have their help for something I needed that my husband used to take care of," she said. 

For more about the Jersey Shore Work Camp, visit the Facebook Page, which includes photos and videos of the volunteers' week. 

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Hazlet Citizen Weekly - July 7 2023

Hazlet Township News & Announcements

July 7, 2023

Fireworks Celebration Light Up Hazlet, Meals on Wheels Service Announced, Construction Update

2023 FIREWORKS

Wow! Dazzling color lit up the sky over Veterans Park on July 2, delighting viewers at Veterans Park and Hazlet Swim Club, in neighborhood yards and shopping center parking lots. What a great show after a day of worrisome weather forecasts threatened the date. Thank you to Hazlet Recreation for another memorable Independence Day Celebration! 

2023 Fireworks Celebration

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MEALS ON WHEELS

A new program to improve nutrition for older residents is starting in Hazlet. 

The nonprofit organization Interfaith Neighbors of Monmouth County will launch the Meals on Wheels program at the James J. Cullen Center starting Monday, July 17. Interfaith Neighbors will provide a plated lunch every weekday for any Monmouth County senior aged 60 or older at 11:30 a.m. noon at the James J. Cullen Center kitchen, at 1776 Union Ave. The meals are nutritionally balanced and planned by a dietician. Sharing a meal also eases the void created when a person lives alone, another goal of the program. 

Homebound seniors can order meals through the program and they will be delivered to their home. Daily Lunch is a  $3.00 donation. Please order 24 hours in advance. Specials are $4.00, and should be ordered a week in advance. Menu is subject to change.

CONSTRUCTION WORK

Paving of the improved parking lots at the new James J. Cullen Center Parking lot and Municipal Complex is now complete and it looks great! Here is an update on our other construction projects from the township engineers. See photos below.

  • Pickleball and Tennis Courts
    ShoreTop Construction has completed the paving of the courts and first application of the color coating. The courts are located in Veterans Park.
  • 8th Street Park
    ShoreTop Construction has completed the subbase layer of the porous pavement walkway at the park. Irrigation and playground equipment installation is scheduled to begin shortly. More info.
  • Road Work: Section K1 Improvements
    S. Brothers Inc is currently working on the drainage improvements and installation of new concrete curb along Willowbrook and Mason Drives. 

Construction Work, July 7, 2023

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CLEAN COMMUNITIES

Thanks to the Raritan High School Marching Band and supporters for drumming up a small army to pick up litter the morning after our Fireworks celebration. The band earned a $500 Mini Grant to put towards the band's big trip in June, 2024. The RHS Marching Band, under the direction of Ray Lahaye, has the great honor of representing the United States in Normandy, France for the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day landings and they are fundraising to help pay for the trip. 

Litter Pickup 07022023

TIRE DROP-OFF

In an effort to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, Monmouth County will accept used tires July 10-15 at their highway facility at 231 Route 539 in Upper Freehold Township. The hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn more about the county Monmouth County Mosquito Control Division.

Hazlet Pops Summer 2023HAZLET POPS

Orchestra leaders and music instructors Ray Lahaye of the Raritan High School Marching Band and Tiffani Slattery of the Keyport School District will lead the acclaimed Hazlet Pops community band in its third year. 

All are invited to enjoy four evenings of symphony music in as the sun goes down. Bring chairs or blankets to sit upon. All concerts will be held 7 p.m. in Hazlet's Veterans Park, 1776 Union Avenue.  

  • July 13: Patriotic American Theme
  • July 20: Cinema Spectacular
  • July 27: Give Our Regards to Broadway
  • August 3: Back to the Classics

WATCH FOR BIKES

Hazlet Police are reminding motorists to be mindful of two-wheelers. 

Bicyclist deaths are highest during the summer months between June and September. Follow these tips can help avoid crashes with cyclists:

🚵‍♀️Yield to bicyclists as you would motorists and do not underestimate their speed. This will help avoid turning in front of a bicyclist traveling on the road or sidewalk, often at an intersection or driveway.

🚴In parking lots, at stop signs, when packing up, or when parking, search your surroundings for other vehicles, including bicycles.

🚵‍♂️Drivers turning right on red should look to the right and behind to avoid hitting a bicyclist approaching from the right rear. Stop completely and look left-right-left and behind before turning right on red.

🚴‍♂️Obey the speed limit, reduce speed for road conditions and drive defensively to avoid a crash with a cyclist.

🚴Give cyclists room. Do not pass too closely. Pass bicyclists as you would any other vehicle—when it’s safe to move over into an adjacent lane.

WATER QUALITY REPORTS

New Jersey American Water’s most recent Water Quality Reports are available for all service areas on its website. Hazlet is in the "Shorelands" service region. 

JCP&L CRITICAL CARE

If you or someone in your household depends on electrically operated life-sustaining equipment, let JCP&L know by calling 1-800-662-3115. They can assist you with signing up for the JCP&L Critical Care program so that you will be notified if an extended outage is expected.