Borough Happenings

Email Update

January 16, 2026

From Board of Health

It’s Not Too Late to Get Protected This Season

Respiratory viruses continue to circulate in our region, and it’s not too late to get vaccinated against flu, COVID 19, pneumonia, and RSV. Staying up to date on recommended immunizations helps lower the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death, especially for older adults and those with chronic conditions.

Flu vaccine: Reduces the risk of flu related outpatient visits and hospitalizations, according to CDC vaccine effectiveness assessments.
COVID-19 vaccine: Provides additional protection against emergency department and urgent care visits and hospitalizations.
RSV vaccine: Offers meaningful protection against severe RSV disease and hospitalization, supported by a large systematic review of U.S. licensed RSV vaccines.
Pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccines: Recommended by the CDC help prevent severe respiratory illness and death, particularly in older adults and high risk groups.

Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools we have to keep our community healthy. If you haven’t received your seasonal vaccines yet, now is an excellent time to do so.

Borough Offices Closed

Monday, January 19, 2026

Borough Hall will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 19, 2026. There will be regularly scheduled garbage collection.

Remembering Frank Jackson

1931-2026

Frank Jackson was truly one of a kind — a gentle presence, a proud patriot, and a voice that became part of the heart of Franklin Lakes.

It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to such an honorable man, but it is also with immense gratitude that we celebrate a life so beautifully lived. Knowing Frank was an honor, and his legacy will forever remain woven into the traditions and spirit of our community. Full article.

Dina Robinson, Community Director

Christmas Tree Recycling Collection

Curbside collection of Christmas trees is taking place throughout the Borough. Please be patient as Gaeta works its way through the town. Do not place Christmas trees in the street please do not place trees in the roadway. Remove all ornaments and do not place tress in plastic bags. Trees in plastic bags will not be picked up. If your tree is not picked up by Friday, January 16, please send an email to garbage@franklinlakes.org or call Gaeta at 973-278-6625.

From Franklin Lakes Board of Education

Bright Horizons Preschool Information Session

Thursday, January 29, 4:00 PM

Join our Information Session for 26-27 on T Thursday, January 29, 4:00 PM. This is a mixed-age 3 & 4 year old preschool program! We will accept new applications and deposits beginning on 1/29/26 and we open applications to the wider FLOW area in February. We are often on a waiting list by mid-February or sooner. Must be 3 by 8/1/26 and fully potty trained.

Pulis Avenue Playground Closure

The Pulis Avenue Playground is CLOSED as we prepare for the installation of the Borough of Franklin Lakes’ brand-new All-Inclusive Playground this Spring! We can’t wait to share this exciting new space with you. Thank you for your patience and understanding while construction is underway. Ariel Franklin Lakes Fly Through.

From Legislative District 40

Winter Coat Drive

Now to January 30

Share the warmth - help our neighbors in need by donating new or gently used winter gear. We are also accepting Coats, Scarves, Hats, Gloves and Mittens. Collecting through the end of January.

Closest Drop Off Location: Assemblyman DePhillips Office, 841 Franklin Ave, Unit 4, Franklin Lakes, NJ.

Help Wanted at the Borough Hall

Administrative Assistant to the Mayor and Borough Administrator - Full-Time

The Borough of Franklin Lakes, Bergen County, New Jersey is seeking a qualified individual to fill the position of Full-Time Administrative Assistant to the Mayor and Borough Administrator. The Administrative Assistant to the Mayor and Borough Administrator performs a variety of administrative and project-related tasks to support the Mayor’s and Borough Administrator’s Offices, departments and employees. The Administrative Assistant to the Mayor and Borough Administrator is the primary point of contact for the Mayor and Borough Administrator.

Qualifications: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree preferred. Prior experience in a municipal or governmental office strongly preferred. Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general office technology. Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and work independently. Knowledge of municipal operations a plus. Full-time position. Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Comprehensive benefits package. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to Gregory Hart, ghart@franklinlakes.org, on or before January 21. The Borough of Franklin Lakes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Additional details available at www.franklinlakes.org/jobs.

Planning Board & Zoning Board Secretary - Part-Time

The Borough of Franklin Lakes is seeking a part-time Planning Board & Zoning Board Secretary. 20 hours per week. Responsible for coordinating, supporting and attending bi-monthly Planning Board meetings and monthly Zoning Board Meeting, including preparing agendas and distributing meeting packets to members in advance. Ensures all materials and logistics - such as recorders and nameplates - are set up on meeting days. Oversees public hearing scheduling and documentation, including confirming receipt of legal notices, publication proofs, and service acknowledgments with the Board Attorney. Additional duties include reviewing and approving vouchers submitted by the Borough Engineer and Attorney, drafting and submitting legal notices of Borough decisions to local newspapers, and preparing official meeting minutes. Maintains compliance with the Open Public Records Act by providing requested records. Assists the Borough Engineer in application reviews and manages the collection and deposit of fees and escrow funds. The Planning Board & Zoning Board Clerk works closely with the Zoning Officer. Minimum of 2 years’ experience required. Borough is Equal Opportunity Employer. Additional details available at www.franklinlakes.org/jobs.

Tax Collector and Payroll Administrator - Full-Time

The Borough of Franklin Lakes, Bergen County, New Jersey is seeking a qualified individual to fill the position of Full-Time Municipal Tax Collector and Payroll Administrator. Under the direction of the governing body and municipal administration, the Tax Collector/ Payroll Administrator is responsible for the billing, collection, recording, and enforcement of property taxes and other municipal revenues in accordance with N.J.S.A. 54:5-1 et seq. and other applicable statutes, as well as administering payroll for all Borough employees.

Qualifications: Must possess a valid New Jersey Certified Tax Collector (CTC) certificate. Prior experience as a Municipal Tax Collector or Deputy Tax Collector preferred. Thorough knowledge of New Jersey property tax laws and procedures. Strong organizational, communication, and computer skills. Experience with Edmunds municipal tax collection software and Action Data Services payroll software preferred. Full-time position with salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Comprehensive benefits package. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and proof of certification to Gregory Hart, ghart@franklinlakes.org, on or before January 30. The Borough of Franklin Lakes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Additional details available at www.franklinlakes.org/jobs.

Zoning Officer - Full-Time

The Borough of Franklin Lakes is seeking a full-time Zoning Officer to review building code permit applications for zoning compliance with municipal zoning ordinances. Examine site plans, permit applications, and Planning Board and Board of Adjustment submissions. Prepare clear, comprehensive reports outlining findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Investigate zoning and property maintenance code violations and take appropriate enforcement actions, including issuing notices. Provide accurate written and verbal zoning guidance to applicants, municipal officials, and the public. Prepare monthly activity reports for the Borough Council. The Zoning Officer works closely with the Planning Board Secretary and Construction Official. Requirements: Must have a college degree, minimum of 3 years’ experience, Zoning Official Certificate from Rutgers Center of Government Services, and proficiency in SDL. Borough is Equal Opportunity Employer. Additional details available at www.franklinlakes.org/jobs.

Mayor and Council Regular Meeting

View the Mayor and Council Agenda for the 7:30PM Regular Meeting in the Council Chambers at Borough Hall on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

Upcoming Meetings at Borough Hall

Tuesday, January 20 at 7:30 PM, Mayor & Council Regular Meeting, Council Chambers

From Community Director

Super Sunday 5K

Sunday, February 8, 2026

Franklin Lakes Community Center

1 Vichiconti Way

Join us for the first annual Franklin Lakes Living Healthy “Super Sunday” 5K & 2K Pup Strut on Super Bowl Sunday, February 8th at 10:00 AM! Kick off the day with a fun and energetic run or walk before the big game — whether you're racing the 5K or enjoying a relaxed 2K with your pup, it’s the perfect way to make room for all that football Sunday food. All are welcome to run, walk, volunteer, or cheer on friends and family. Enjoy music from Phantom DJ, post-race food courtesy of 101 Pub. The first 250 registered runners will receive a commemorative T-shirt and medal, so be sure to sign up early. Don’t miss this exciting community event — let’s start Super Bowl Sunday strong!

Email Dina Robinson at drobinson@franklinlakes.org to volunteer or for information on how to sponsor! Sponsor Flyer.

Beyond the Baby Blues Mom-to-Mom Support Group

Mindfulness for Mamas

Beyond the Baby Blues Mom-to-Mom Support Group (Daytime)

When: Every Tuesday, 10–11 AM EST

Format: Virtual

Who it’s for: Postpartum mothers

Beyond the Baby Blues Mom-to-Mom Support Group is a safe and caring space where postpartum mothers can connect, share, and feel supported in their motherhood journey. Whether you are feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or just not feeling like yourself, you are not alone. The group is facilitated by fellow mothers who have been there and are here to listen and connect.

Join via Zoom: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/340961076

Beyond the Baby Blues Mom-to-Mom Support Group (Evening)

When: 2nd and 4th Mondays, 6–7 PM EST

Format: Virtual

Who it’s for: Postpartum mothers

This evening support group offers a compassionate space for postpartum mothers to connect and feel supported. The group is facilitated by Yaranil Ferrer, LCSW, Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional, and fellow mother. Participants are welcome to share experiences, listen, and build connection in a nonjudgmental environment.

Join via Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/woe-nrak-ors

Mindfulness for Mamas

When: 2nd and 4th Thursdays, 8:30–9:15 PM EST

Format: Virtual

Who it’s for: Pregnant and postpartum mothers

Mindfulness for Mamas is a virtual support group focused on reducing stress, anxiety, overwhelm, and emotional overload through mindfulness-based tools such as breathing, meditation, journaling, and EFT tapping. The group creates a safe space for relaxation and emotional release. It is facilitated by Urvi Shah, a mother and certified mindfulness teacher, breathwork facilitator, and ICF-certified coach.

From Recycling Coordinator

Recycle Right

NJDEP Air, Energy and Materials Sustainability

Winter: Stay Warm and Save Money

Set Your Thermostat

You can save up to 10% a year on heating bills with a simple adjustment. Set your thermostat between 68°F and 70°F during the day. Before leaving the house or going to bed, lower the temperature. Programmable thermostats make this even easier by warming your home before you wake up—so you can stay cozy while saving energy.

Protect Against Drafts

Keep cold air out by installing window treatments such as tight-fitting, insulating drapes or shades. Applying clear plastic film to the inside of window frames can create a similar insulating effect. During the day, keep shades open to let in warm sunlight, and close them at night to block drafts.

Schedule a Curbside Collection for Bulk Waste, and Metal/Appliance Recycling

Details on curbside collections that need to be scheduled, visit Metal/Appliance and Bulk Waste. Residents must schedule a collection by completing a request form for bulk waste and metal and large appliance pick-up no later than10:00 AM the day before the scheduled date of collection.

Schedule a Collection	Metal/Appliance	Bulk Waste Collection
February	6	5, 19

Donate Bulk Waste Items

Before you place any bulk waste items out for curbside collection, consider donating any furniture or household items. A list of local organizations is available at www.franklinlakes.org/donations.

Upcoming Community Events

Franklin Lakes Education Foundation - A Night in Morocco, March 27th - 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Westmount Country Club. Tickets can be purchased online.
Lorrimer Sanctuary - see a listing of upcoming events for toddlers, children and adults at Lorrimer Sanctuary at www.franklinlakes.org/communityevents.
Franklin Lakes Library - For a full list of programs and services visit, franklinlakeslibrary.org.
Franklin Lakes Chamber of Commerce - Monthly Networking Meetings, 7:00 AM, second Friday of the month at the OEM Building.

Stay Connected with Ramapo Indian Hills Board of Education

Ramapo Indian Hills Highlights & Happenings - Monthly Newsletter

Help Keep Franklin Lakes Safe!

www.franklinlakes.org/policeactivityblotter

The Latest Buzz

"The Latest Buzz" will give updated status reports on those issues that seem to generate the most buzz throughout town, that may be under-reported in other news outlets. We will keep this information fresh and up-to-date, with the "Last Updated" date noted at the end of each article.