Middletown Preschoolers & Seniors Celebrate Halloween

Middletown Township is having a spooktacular Halloween! To celebrate, Middletown Preschool held its annual costume parade and the Middletown Senior Center hosted a festive party for members to eat, dance, and compete in a costume contest! 

Click HERE to view photos from Middletown Preschool's costume parade. Click HERE to view photos from the Middletown Senior Center's Halloween party.

Show Your Support for Veterans at Veterans Village Grand Opening and Annual Parade on Sunday, 11/2

We invite you to join us in honoring our veterans this Sunday, November 2^nd! The patriotic day will begin with the grand opening of Veterans Village, our 100% affordable housing complex for veterans, at 11:00 AM. This event, open to all, will include a flag raising, monument unveiling, tours, and more!

Our 68^th Annual Veterans Day Parade will begin at Bayview Elementary School at 1:00 PM, travel down Leonardville Road through historic Campbell’s Junction, and end at the Mater Dei Park parking lot. There will be a post parade party there until 3:00 PM!

If your home or business is on the route, we encourage you to show your support by decorating it with a patriotic theme, whether that is with red, white, and blue balloons or a U.S. flag. Campbell's Junction is the best viewing spot, so we recommend gathering there. 

Whether you're a veteran or community supporter, your presence will make the day even more special. We hope to see you on Sunday!

Visit middletownnj.org/parade to view a map of the route.

Early Voting Continues through Sunday, 11/2

Where to Drop Off Your Mail-In Ballot

By now you should have received your November General Election mail-in ballot. If you choose to vote by mail, please feel free to drop it off at one of Middletown's two ballot box locations: Croydon Hall Municipal Complex (900 Leonardville Road) or the Middletown Township Public Library (55 New Monmouth Road).

Click HERE for instructions on how to vote by mail. Click HERE for more information about Middletown's election services.

Middletown Parks & Recreation Hosts 7^th Annual Mayor's Challenge to Support the Middletown WTC Memorial Gardens Fund

On Saturday, Middletown Parks & Recreation held the 7^th annual Mayor's Challenge at Poricy Park! All proceeds from this year's event will be donated to the Middletown World Trade Center (WTC) Memorial Gardens Fund. A special 25^th anniversary improvement project is taking place and this event will help fund it. 

The Middletown WTC Memorial Gardens are located next to the Middletown Arts Center (36 Church Street) and pay tribute to the 37 residents who lost their lives on 9/11, as well as the first responders and individuals who have lost their lives as a result of that fateful day. 

The entire Township Committee was proud to be in attendance and support the over 100 individuals who signed up for the 5K run, 5K walk, and 1 Mile Fun Run. Thank you to Alliance Orthopedics for the run prep stretching and cool down, as well as the businesses and organizations that sponsored the event, our volunteers, and everyone who showed up for this important cause!

Click HERE to view photos from the event.

Local Business Owners: Invest Directly in Community Improvements to Benefit North Middletown-Port Monmouth Neighborhood Through Tax Credit Program 

On Thursday, Middletown hosted a breakfast at Town Hall to spotlight the Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit (NRTC) Program, a no-cost way for businesses to invest directly in community improvements while earning a 100% state tax credit. The Township partnered with the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) to apply for the grant program that is administered through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. This program will specifically benefit the North Middletown-Port Monmouth neighborhood. 

Mayor Tony Perry welcomed local business owners, community partners, and Township officials – thanking those who helped make the initiative possible. He highlighted how this program is a great way for businesses to invest directly into our community and have your company’s name stamped on a meaningful project that highlights your philanthropic efforts.

Randi Moore of the AHA shared the organization’s vision to “elevate homes, youth, and community” through projects such as helping homeowners afford home elevation and repairs as well as expanding youth programming through the YMCA’s Bayshore Family Success Center in Leonardo and the Ideal Beach Community Association. The initiative will also create internships and job-training opportunities for local youth. Township Administrator Tony Mercantante also shared information about the need to replace the Tony Keller Community Center and the importance of having a facility in the area that caters to our youth and families.

Local business owners in the real estate, banking, and food industries, and members of the Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce, attended to learn how to participate. Jason Rowe of Strategic Communities, LLC explained how the program allows companies to choose which projects they want to support while using it as an alternative way to pay state taxes. Any New Jersey business with a state tax obligation of at least $25,000 in the current year is eligible to participate through the Corporation Business Tax, Insurance Premium Tax, or State Gross Income Tax (for LLCs, S-Corps, and partnerships).

For more information, visit the NRTC Program website and AHA Neighborhood Revitalization website.

Bow Wow Bed & Bath Celebrates 27^th Anniversary with Bow Wow Day

Last Sunday, Committeewoman Kimberly Kratz had a paw-some time at Bow Wow Day! Hosted by local business Bow Wow Bed & Bath (146 Magnolia Lane), this free event included an adoption market, pet-friendly games and activities, a dog costume contest, and more. In addition to celebrating Halloween, this event was also held in honor of the pet grooming and daycare's 27^th anniversary.

Visit bowwowbedandbath.com for more information about Bow Wow Bed & Bath and its mobile dog gym, Bow Wow Fit Club.

Battle Ball Pickleball Hosts Fun and Fit Networking Event

On Sunday, October 19^th, Mayor Tony Perry was pumped to attend Battle Ball Pickleball's event at Life Time (230 Half Mile Road, Red Bank). At this pickleball social, local businesses and entrepreneurs were able to network with each other by competing on the courts and eating some delicious food! 

Click HERE to follow Battle Ball Pickleball on Facebook and HERE to follow Battle Ball Pickleball on Instagram to stay in the loop about future events!

Check Out the Fall 2025 Edition of Middletown Matters!

Our bi-annual newsletter, Middletown Matters, will be arriving in residents' mailboxes soon! In the meantime, feel free to read the digital version at middletownnj.org/matters.

Mayor Perry Launches Special Edition of Locally Sourced Podcast to Share Stories about Revolutionary War Heroes

In the first episode of our Middletown America 250 series Patriot Profiles  — a special edition of Mayor Tony Perry’s Locally Sourced podcast — we uncover the powerful story of Joseph Murray, a Revolutionary War hero whose courage and conviction helped shape the spirit of Middletown during that era. From his life as a humble stonemason along Kings Highway to his military service in the Monmouth County militia, Murray’s journey is one of bravery and sacrifice.

You can listen to the podcast on middletownnj.org/locallysourced, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Podbean, and Spotify.

Volunteers Clean Gravestones at Throckmorton-Lippit-Taylor Burying Ground: Additional Cemetery Cleaning Class TOMORROW, 11/1

Last Saturday, Middletown America 250 Cemetery Subcommittee Chairperson and Middletown Landmarks Commissioner, Roseann Eteson, led a gravestone cleaning class at the Throckmorton-Lippit-Taylor Burying Ground (Penelope Lane). Volunteers were all Middletown residents – Jaime DeRisi, Frank Godlewdski (not pictured), and Keryn Thompson.  

There will be another gravestone cleaning class held at the same cemetery on Saturday, November 1^st at 10:30 AM. We would greatly appreciate help with cleaning the stones that were sprayed last weekend, as well as tending to additional ones.

MonmouthNJ 250 Committee's Parade to Take Place in  Middletown on Sunday, 6/28 Beginning at 12:30 PM

Township Committee Tests Out New Tindall Park Courts by Competing in Exciting Pickleball Game

Pickleball is taking off and Middletown is ready to play! With eight brand new dedicated pickleball courts and 12 refurbished tennis courts at Tindall Park, we’re serving up more ways to stay active and connected. 

Click HERE to watch as the Township Committee gives the game a try and see how we’re keeping our "parks in play" for everyone!

October is Fire Prevention Month: Sign Up for a Free Home Smoke Alarm Installation with the MTFD and American Red Cross

The Middletown Township Fire Department (MTFD) and Middletown Township Fire Prevention Office are partnering with the American Red Cross to install smoke alarms for free throughout Middletown. In light of October being Fire Prevention Month, we encourage all residents to check if their smoke alarms are working.

If you are interested in this free service, please schedule an appointment at middletownnj.org/smokealarm.

Click HERE to watch a Public Service Announcement for more information.

Celebrate Veterans Day at MTPL's Community Leader Storytime with Veteran Bob Siemer on Saturday, 11/8 at 10 AM

Support Veterans Village by Enjoying a Meal at Mule Barn Tavern on Tuesday, 11/11

On Tuesday, November 11^th, celebrate Veterans Day by enjoying a meal at Mule Barn Tavern (36 Kearney Road, Highlands). From 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, the restaurant will generously donate 100% of its sales to Veterans Village, Middletown Township’s new affordable housing project for veterans. 

Located in Campbell’s Junction, Veterans Village will provide 12 affordable units for those who have honorably served our country. The Township will be hosting a grand opening celebration on Sunday, November 2^nd at 11:00 AM, prior to the 68^th Annual Veterans Day Parade. 

In addition to donating its sales, Mule Barn Tavern will also raffle off four gift baskets featuring gift cards, merchandise, and items from local businesses. Raffle tickets are $5 (cash only), with all proceeds benefiting Veterans Village. 

Local businesses interested in contributing raffle items may email christina.mulebarntavern@gmail.com. 

View the menu at mulebarntavern.com and show your support for our veterans – and a local business – this Veterans Day!

Give Back through Township's Holiday Helpers Program

Looking to spread some holiday cheer? Middletown Township is pleased to announce the return of our Holiday Helpers program! Support a Middletown family in need this season by either "adopting a family" or donating a gift. We kindly ask our community to give back if they are able.

To participate, please email holidayhelp@middletownnj.org or drop off gift donations at the location and times found on middletownnj.org/holidayhelpers.

Thank you for your generosity!

Sign Up for Free Narcan/Naloxone Administration Training Happening on Thursday, 11/6 at 5 PM

Visit middletownnj.org/narcantraining to register.

Middletown Township Health Department and Middletown Alliance to Provide Free Quit Kits to Community on Thursday, 11/20 at Town Hall 

Thursday, November 20^th is the Great American Smokeout, an annual event sponsored by the American Cancer Society. People are challenged to stop smoking for at least 24 hours, with the hope that their decision not to smoke will last longer.

If you're having trouble quitting smoking or vaping, the Middletown Township Health Department and Middletown Alliance encourage you to visit tobaccofreenj.com/gaso for helpful resources. The departments will also be handing out free quit kits in the lobby at Town Hall (1 Kings Highway) on Thursday, November 20^th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Sign Up for Middletown Parks & Recreation's After-School Science Club: Program Begins Monday, 11/3

Join Middletown Parks & Recreation at Poricy Park (345 Oak Hill Road) for the award-winning After-School Science Club! Over the course of several weeks, there will be themed activities, experiments, and hikes in an adventure-packed hour every Monday (except for Monday, December 1^st). 

This fall’s theme is the Science of Reactions — sign up via RecDesk today for some hands-on learning fun! 

Visit mtownrec.recdesk.com for more information and to register.

Register for Middletown Parks & Recreation's Fall Skateboarding Classes: First Class is on Tuesday, 11/11

Does your child want to learn how to skateboard or expand their existing skillset? Regardless of their experience, Middletown Parks & Recreation's fall classes will teach them the fundamentals of skateboarding in a safe, courteous manner and at a skill level appropriate to everyone. Beginners and intermediates will be broken into two classes.

Visit mtownrec.recdesk.com to register.

Participate in the MTPL's Strategic Planning Survey by Sunday, 11/30

The Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL) is planning for the future — and your voice matters!

The MTPL is working on its next Strategic Plan, which will help guide the library’s goals and priorities for the coming years. Your input ensures the library reflects the needs, ideas, and dreams of our community.

Click HERE to complete the short survey.

Fall 2025 Leaf Collection to Begin Monday, 12/1

Visit middletownnj.org/collection for more information.

Visit middletownnj.org/breastcancer to view a list of breast cancer screening locations throughout New Jersey.

Last Day to Pay Quarterly Taxes Without Interest is Monday, 11/10 by 3:45 PM

Click HERE for more information about how to pay taxes.

MTPD to Host Free Car Seat Safety Checkpoint on Wednesday, 11/12 from 2-6 PM

Residents are invited to a FREE Car Seat Safety Checkpoint hosted by the Middletown Township Police Department (MTPD) at Station 11 Old Village Fire Company (1340 NJ-35) to ensure your child is in the right car seat and that it is installed correctly. The checkpoint will be open from 2-6 PM.

Car seat safety checkpoints are held every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Please contact Officer Michael Reuter at 732-615-2046 if you have any questions or concerns.

MTPD Promotes E-Bike Safety in PSA

Across the country, and right here in Middletown, we’re seeing a surge in injuries involving electric bikes and scooters, especially among young riders.

Deputy Chief Paul Bailey of the Middletown Township Police Department (MTPD) shares some crucial information in this Public Service Announcement (PSA) about the different types of micromobility devices and the regulations that riders should follow when using them. Please tune in and stay safe!

Click HERE to watch the PSA on YouTube.

NJAW Lead Service Line Replacement Program Door-to-Door Canvassing Continues

CDM Smith, on behalf of New Jersey American Water (NJAW), started a door-to-door canvassing effort related to the Lead Service Line Replacement Program (LSLRP) in Middletown on Monday, February 3^rd. The team will be working in the Leonardo Elementary School District and Navesink Elementary School District in Area 2 this upcoming week.

All CDM Smith inspectors will wear co-branded (NJAW and CDM Smith) high visibility logo vests and will have NJAW-issued Contractor ID badges. Inspectors will introduce themselves and the program to property owners and will then ask to enter the home to inspect the water service where it enters into the home (typically in a basement or crawl space). 

The inspector will take exterior photos of the property and interior photographs of the service material and record the pipe material identified. Inspections generally take 15 minutes or less. At no time will residents be asked for money. Any customer that prefers to not have an internal inspection completed will be directed to alternatives to the inspections including self-reporting. 

The Middletown Township Police Department is aware of the canvassing. If you have any questions about LSLRP, please email njawlead@cdmsmith.com and LeadFreeNJ@amwater.com.

Shop at the MAC's Holiday Antique, Vintage & Collectibles Marketplace TOMORROW (Saturday, 11/1)

The Middletown Arts Center (MAC, 36 Church Street) will be hosting a special Holiday Antique, Vintage & Collectibles Marketplace on Saturday, November 1^st from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM! 

The event will feature over four dozen vendors offering a huge selection of unique and one-of-a-kind antiques including vinyl records, costume jewelry, vintage clothing, collectibles, postcards, toys, dolls, and so much more. Admission is $5.

Enjoy a Potpourri of Broadway, Popular & Patriotic Songs at the MTPL on Saturday, 11/8 at 2 PM

Enjoy a family-friendly performance by local musician Nancy Scharff at the Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL, 55 New Monmouth Road)! The concert will feature a lively mix of Broadway hits, popular favorites, and patriotic tunes, sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Click HERE for more information and to reserve your seat.

Purchase Tickets for A Soldier’s Play at the MAC

Dunbar Repertory Company will be presenting the 1982 Pulitzer Prize-winning play, A Soldier's Play, at the Middletown Arts Center (MAC) the weekends of 11/8-9 and 11/15-16. A Soldier's Play is a gripping and powerful story about race, justice, and identity within a segregated U.S. Army base in 1944. Performances will take place on the Saturdays at 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM and the Sundays at 4:00 PM.

Click HERE for more information and to buy tickets.

Free Paper Shredding Event at Middletown High School North on Saturday, 11/15 from 9 AM - 1 PM

Middletown Township is partnering with the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners to host a free paper shredding event. Residents may shred up to 100 pounds, which is equivalent to four office paper boxes or four large-sized trash bags. All papers will be shredded on location in the mobile trucks and the event will end either once the mobile trucks are full or at its scheduled end time. Large binder clips must be removed from documents; staples and paper clips can remain.

• On Sunday, November 2^nd from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Leonardville Road will be closed between Main Street and Cherry Tree Farm Road for the Veterans Village grand opening. Please follow the set detour. From 1:00-3:00 PM that same day, there will be road closures of Leonardville Road (Campbell's Junction) and Cherry Tree Farm Road near Mater Dei Park for the Veterans Day Parade. Please avoid the area.
• In June, Monmouth County began the construction of the replacement of Bridge S-14 on County Route 50 (Swimming River Road). The road will remain open throughout construction and two 11-foot-wide travel ways in each direction will be maintained. Construction is anticipated to take two years. Please follow all posted signs and stay alert while driving in the area, as temporary changes to traffic patterns may occur. Click HERE to read the County's press release for more information.
• Church Street in Belford (near Saint Mary's School) between Leonardville Road and Drift Road is currently closed to replace Bridge MT-10. It will most likely be closed 24/7 to vehicular traffic for the remainder of 2025. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the course of the project, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
• As of Monday, January 13^th, Broadway is closed between Main Street (Port Monmouth) and Church Street (Belford) due to construction of the final phase of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Port Monmouth Flood Control Project. Broadway will be closed for approximately two years. Detours were posted. Port Monmouth Road between Main Street (Port Monmouth) and Church Street (Belford) reopened on Monday, January 13^th, providing an alternate detour route for the Broadway closure.

Register for Middletown's Emergency Alerts & Updates 

Need Assistance? Utilize the Monmouth ACTS Navigation System

Monmouth County proudly offers the Monmouth ACTS Navigation System – an easy way for residents to find and access appropriate services in Monmouth County to meet their needs. Created as part of Monmouth County’s Department of Human Services, the Navigation System serves as one point of entry for residents to be connected to any human service provider in the County without needing to make multiple calls.

Call the Warm Line at 732-683-8959 to reach countless service providers and visit monmouthacts.org for more information.

Middletown Township Building & Inspection Department Launches New SDL Online Permit Portal

Visit sdlportal.com to access the portal and create an account.

Need assistance? Click HERE for step-by-step instructions on how to create an account.

Connect with the Township to Help Correct Concerns

Middletown Township is now utilizing the “See-Click-Fix” platform so residents can easily contact the Township to report any concerns. The Township is branding this reporting tool as Connect & Correct since you can submit your request via the website and track its progress through completion.

Visit middletownnj.org and click on the Connect & Correct button. This link will direct you to a page of categories you can choose from to report your concern. Simply choose the relevant category from the list such as lost pet, pothole, sidewalks, playgrounds, etc. and add a brief description of the issue. You will be able to enter an address or pinpoint the location of the issue on the map. You will also have the option to attach a photo if you would like, and then you can click to submit the report.

You will then be able to track the status of the issue through updates on the platform or via email notifications.

Exciting news — the Connect & Correct app is now officially available on the Apple App Store and Google Play! The goal of the app is to make it even easier to report your concerns on-the-go as well as streamline communications regarding any concerns you may have.

Click HERE to access hi-res photos from this

e-newsletter. 

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