Middletown Minutes

Two Middletown Township Fire Company #1 Volunteers Commemorate 50 Years of Service to the MTFD

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Stanley A. Midose proudly showcases his Key to the Township alongside the MTFD chiefs and Township Committee.

At the Township Committee Meeting on Monday, December 1st, the Township Committee recognized volunteer firefighters Stanley A. Midose and D. Michael Riordan for reaching an extraordinary milestone — 50 years of service with the Middletown Township Fire Department (MTFD)! As a token of appreciation for their commitment to Middletown Township Fire Company #1 and our community, the Township Committee presented each of them with a Key to the Township.

Stanley is a third generation Middletown firefighter and has held several prominent positions, including company captain and chief of the entire department. He was also instrumental in developing the state’s first firefighter 1 training manual, was a founding member and first captain of our fire department’s Special Service Unit, and has been decorated twice for lifesaving. 

Michael has been the corresponding secretary for 17 years and has also served as the financial secretary. A dedicated first responder, he was also recognized last year for 50 years of service to our Emergency Medical Services Department.

Thank you to these courageous men for selflessly volunteering their time to protect our residents!

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Michael Riordan proudly showcases his Key to the Township alongside the MTFD chiefs and Township Committee.

Township Committee Recognizes Mule Barn Tavern for Generous Donation to Veterans Village

Dan and Mayor Perry

At Monday's meeting, Mayor Tony Perry presented Mule Barn Tavern (36 Kearney Road on Sandy Hook) owner Dan Ferrise with the Exceptional Community Support Award to thank him for his restaurant's generosity. On Veterans Day, Mule Barn Tavern dedicated 100% of the proceeds made that day to Veterans Village, Middletown Township's new affordable housing complex for those who have honorably served our nation. Veterans Village, located in Belford, officially celebrated its grand opening on Sunday, November 2nd.

In addition to raising almost $12,000, Mule Barn Tavern also donated stools from their restaurant for the complex. The Township will use the money to build an outdoor gathering space in the back of the building, including grills, a fire pit, and outdoor seating.

During the presentation, Dan surprised Mayor Perry with a book of letters that patrons wrote for the future Veterans Village residents. This keepsake will be featured at the complex so our veterans can always be reminded of how grateful we are.

Thank you to Mule Barn Tavern for embodying the enduring spirit of patriotism and community by giving back to our heroes!

Click HERE to watch the meeting on the Township's YouTube channel or catch it on our TV channel (Verizon FiOS Channel 26/Comcast Cable Channel 20) every day at 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 8:30 PM through Sunday, December 14th.

Check Out Latest Episode of Minute with the Mayor

Minute with the Mayor: Episode 27

In this episode of Minute with the Mayor, Mayor Tony Perry discusses the presentations at the recent Township Committee Meeting and encourages people to nominate a Middletown veteran for the 2025 Veteran of the Year Award.

Mayor Perry also talks about the different ways Middletown is celebrating the holidays, promotes the Middletown America 250 Merch Store, and reminds community members that they can give back through our Holiday Helpers Program.

Click HERE  to watch the episode on YouTube.

Middletown Achieves Sustainable Jersey Silver Certification and Earns Highest Amount of Points in Township's History

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Photo courtesy of Sustainable Jersey

Middletown Township has met the rigorous requirements to achieve Sustainable Jersey certification at the silver-level. Certified towns were announced at the Sustainable Jersey Annual Luncheon on Tuesday, November 18th in Atlantic City during the New Jersey State League of Municipalities Conference.

“Middletown first earned its Silver-level certification in 2019, and I’m proud that we’ve been re-certified twice since then," said Mayor Tony Perry. "Achieving this recognition for a third time reflects our long-term commitment to protecting natural resources, planning responsibly, and investing in a stronger future for every generation. I’m grateful to our employees, volunteers, and partners whose dedication helps make Middletown a model of sustainability in New Jersey.”

Click HERE to read our press release for more information.

Middletown Hosts Annual Holiday Tree Lighting

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The Township Committee and Santa pose for a group photo in front of our merry and bright tree!

On Sunday evening, Santa brought some Christmas cheer to our annual Holiday Tree Lighting at the Middletown Arts Center! After arriving in style with Old Village Fire Company, he helped the Township Committee light the tree. 

Community members enjoyed crafts, holiday cartoons, a beautiful light display, an inflatable gingerbread house, food trucks, and a festive train ride. Families were also able to take photos with special guests Santa, Elsa, and the Grinch. We had a festive and fun time getting into the holiday spirit and ho-ho-hope you did too!

Click HERE to view photos from the event.

Community Comes Together for Annual Middletown North vs. South Thanksgiving Football Game

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Mayor Tony Perry and members of the Middletown Township Public School District's Administration and Board of Education cheer on the teams together! (Photo courtesy of JerseyPics)

Mayor Tony Perry, Committeewoman Kimberly Kratz, and Committeeman Ryan Clarke were pumped to attend the annual High School North vs. South Thanksgiving Day football game. Congratulations to North on their victory!

Monmouth County Logo

Monmouth County Showcases Middletown Township’s Success in Shared Services Agreements


As part of its ongoing series highlighting successful shared services partnerships, the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners recently showcased the shared services agreements between Monmouth County and Middletown Township.

“Shared services strengthen our ability to protect and support Middletown without adding unnecessary costs for residents," said Mayor Tony Perry. "Middletown’s partnerships with Monmouth County on programs ranging from public health to emergency communications to the Community Rating System enable us to expand services while reducing administrative costs and avoiding duplication. One of our biggest successes has been the Community Rating System partnership, which helps lower flood-insurance premiums for residents through coordinated planning and compliance. These agreements ensure we deliver exceptional service in the most efficient, fiscally responsible way possible.”

Click HERE to read Monmouth County's press release.

Nominate a Middletown Veteran for the 2025 Veteran of the Year Award by Friday, 12/26

2025 VOTY

Visit middletownnj.org/voty for more information.

Seasonal Tip

Fall 2025 Leaf Collection Began on Monday, 12/1

Fall 2025 Leaf Collection Schedule

Visit middletownnj.org/collection for more information.

Storm Drains Information

DPW crews are out clearing drains across town, but with over 6,000 catch basins in our neighborhood streets, every bit of community help goes a long way.

Thank you for helping keep Middletown safe and prepared for fall and winter weather!

Celebrating America 250

Find Out the Answer to This Week's Township Trivia Thursday!

The answer is C) Lanterns.

The Middletown America 250 Committee and Middletown Township Historical Society are partnering to present Township Trivia Thursdays every other week. 

Test your trivia skills while learning more about our town and its rich history. This week's question can be found on middletownnj.org/trivia and the Township's YouTube channel.

The next trivia question will be featured via the Middletown America 250 Committee's Instagram story on Thursday, December 18th. The answer will be revealed in the Friday, December 19th issue of Middletown Minutes and on our Township Trivia page. 

Make sure you follow the Middletown America 250 Committee on Instagram!

Browse Our New Middletown America 250 Merch Store!

Middletown America 250 Merch Store
Sandy Hook Lighthouse Ornament

Join us in commemorating Middletown’s pivotal role in the Revolutionary era by purchasing a keepsake from the Middletown America 250 Merch Store!

Visit middletownnj.org/america250store to explore all items, including our limited-edition Sandy Hook Lighthouse ornament. Crafted by the same renowned company that produces the official White House ornaments, this piece offers a beautifully-made tribute to one of the nation’s oldest and most treasured landmarks. You can also browse other Middletown favorites that make thoughtful gifts and meaningful mementos this holiday season.

Each purchase will directly support upcoming events and initiatives that honor our community’s rich heritage as we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary next year.

Once you decide on your item(s), please click "Participate Now" on the online store to place your order! Credit and debit cards are the only accepted forms of payment. All payments must be made through the online store. Items are available for pickup at Town Hall (1 Kings Highway).

Visit middletownnj.org/250pickup to schedule your pickup.

Learn about Revolutionary War Patriot James Patterson in the latest Locally Sourced Middletown America 250 Series Podcast

Patriot Profiles

In the third episode of our Middletown America 250 series Patriot Profiles — a special edition of Mayor Tony Perry’s Locally Sourced podcast — we focus on the life of James Patterson and the hardships his family endured during his military service.

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

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

MonmouthNJ 250 Committee Parade

Give Back through Township's Holiday Helpers Program: Donations Will Be Accepted Until Friday, 12/12

Holiday Helpers

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!

Pay Off Late MTPL Fees with Food Bank Donations

Through Wednesday, 12/31

MTPL Food for Fines

Food for Fines has officially returned to the Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL) and will run through the end of December! During this time, patrons can pay off library late fees with donations of nonperishable food items. Each item donated will reduce late fees by $1.00. Patrons can donate up to a total of $10.00 per library card. Donations may be dropped off at the Circulation Desk.

Please note that donations cannot be applied toward lost or damaged items. Expired food also cannot be accepted. All collected items will be donated to local food banks.

MTPD to Host Free Car Seat Safety Checkpoint on Wednesday, 12/10 from 2-6 PM

MTPD Car Seat Safety Checkpoint

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 Corporal Michael Reuter at 732-615-2046 if you have any questions or concerns.

MTPD Promotes E-Bike Safety in PSA

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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.

Sign Up for a Free Home Smoke Alarm Installation with the MTFD and American Red Cross

Smoke Alarm Installation

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. 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.

Sign Up for Middletown Parks & Recreation's Adult Yoga Program: Classes Begin Tuesday, 12/9

Middletown Parks & Recreation Adult Yoga

Find your Zen this holiday season with adult yoga! Local business Hot & Soul Yoga is partnering with Middletown Parks & Recreation to offer four weeks of an exercise program that awakens and restores your body while targeting and toning muscles and elevating your heart rate. Classes take place throughout December and are open to experienced yoga students, beginners, and everyone in between! 

Please bring props, such as yoga straps, bolsters or pillows, eye pillows, and a yoga mat. Registration is taking place via RecDesk.

Visit mtownrec.recdesk.com for more information and to sign up.

Sign Up for Middletown Parks & Recreation's After-School Science Club: Program Begins Monday, 1/5

Middletown Parks & Recreation After-School Science Club

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 January 19th and February 16th). 

This winter's theme is The Power of Magnets — sign up via RecDesk for some hands-on learning fun! 

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

Register for Middletown Parks & Recreation's Winter Skateboarding Classes: First Class is on Tuesday, 1/13

Middletown Parks & Recreation Winter Skateboarding Lessons

Does your child want to learn how to skateboard or expand their existing skillset? Regardless of their experience, Middletown Parks & Recreation's winter 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 sign up.

New Year, New Hobby: Make an Artistic Resolution and Register Now for MAC's Winter Classes!

MAC 2026 Winter Classes

Registration for the Middletown Arts Center's (MAC) winter classes has officially opened! Pick up a hobby and sign up for a class in theater, dance, visual art, music, yoga, and more. Classes begin in January.

Click HERE to view the youth classes and click HERE to view the adult classes.

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

Middletown Canvassing Map

Click on the canvassing map to view it in a larger PDF format.

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 3rd. The team will be working in the River Plaza Elementary School District and Lincroft Elementary School District in Area 3 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.

Upcoming Events

Drop Off Your Stuffed Animal for a Storytime & Sleepover at the MTPL on Tuesday, 12/9 at 6:30 PM

MTPL Stuffed Animal Storytime & Sleepover

Bring your stuffed pal to the Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL, 55 New Monmouth Road) for a bedtime story and a cozy sleepover! Hear about their overnight adventures when you pick them up the next day.

Please bring a stuffed pal that’s comfortable spending the night. PJs are encouraged but not required.

Click HERE for more information and to register.

Celebrate Jane Austen's 250th Birthday at the MTPL on Saturday, 12/13 at 2 PM

MTPL Jane Austen's 250th Birthday Celebration

Come to the MTPL's Community Room to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with a film adaptation of one of her books. There will also be fun mini-trivia so patrons can win Austenian prizes!

Click HERE for more information and to register.

Attend Our Annual Chanukah Menorah Lighting at the MAC on Wednesday, 12/17 at 5:30 PM

MAC Menorah Lighting

Please join us at our annual Chanukah Menorah Lighting with the Chabad Jewish Center at the Middletown Arts Center (MAC, 36 Church Street)! There will be crafts, food, and more at this free event.

Reorganization Meeting Set for Sunday, 1/4 at 10 AM

Annual Reorganization Meeting
Traffic Safety & Detours
  • 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 13th, 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 13th, providing an alternate detour route for the Broadway closure.
Resources
NFIP
Rental Unit Owners Certificate of Insurance Registration
Vacant/Abandoned Property Policies in Middletown

Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather

Winterize Your Home

The Middletown Township Office of Emergency Management (OEM) encourages residents to winterize their home ahead of the winter season. Follow the tips above and visit weather.gov for additional information. Stay safe and warm!

Register for Middletown's Emergency Alerts & Updates 

Three ways to get emergency notifications, such as severe weather updates, from Middletown Township: Text your zip code to 888-777; Visit www.middletownnj.org/nixle to register for/customize notifications; Download the Everbridge Nixle mobile app on Apple Store or Google Play to receive/manage notifications and limit text messages. Less urgent messages will be delivered to your email address on file. If it isn’t on file, text your email address to 888-777 or download the mobile app.

Need Assistance? Utilize the Monmouth ACTS Navigation System

Monmouth ACTS

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

Information about SDL 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

Connect & Correct Logo

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.

MCSO Register Ready Logo

Know Someone with a Disability? Make Sure They Register with NJ Register Ready!


Middletown’s Office of Emergency Management encourages residents with disabilities to register with NJ Register Ready. This free program is designed to assist first responders and emergency planners in identifying community members who may need assistance evacuating in advance of an emergency. 

For more information about the program and the three ways you can register, visit middletownnj.org/oem. 

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1 Kings Highway, Middletown, NJ 07748

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