Roxbury Town Council Appoints New Acting Township Manager and Discusses DHS Processing Center Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting of the Roxbury Town Council, members appointed Steve Senise as the acting township manager and addressed community concerns over a potential Department of Homeland Security (DHS) processing center. The council underscored their commitment to protecting the interests of Roxbury residents while also highlighting various community achievements and ongoing initiatives.
The appointment of Steve Senise as the acting township manager was a focal point of the meeting. Council members praised Senise for his creativity, leadership, and longstanding familiarity with the community, sentiments encapsulated in remarks like “you deserve to be here.” The mayor welcomed him to the dais, acknowledging his six years of service to the township. Council members expressed eagerness to collaborate with Senise, particularly during upcoming budget discussions.
Another issue addressed during the meeting was the township’s response to the potential establishment of a DHS processing center. The council conveyed a “cautiously optimistic” stance regarding reports that DHS might not proceed with the center and could consider selling the property in question. They emphasized their commitment to safeguarding Roxbury residents, stating firmly, “Roxbury Township will not alter its course of action based on speculations, rumors, or media reports alone.” The council reinforced their position by highlighting ongoing litigation against DHS, maintaining that their stance would remain unchanged until formal confirmation was received.
Community events and accomplishments were also celebrated. A certificate of appreciation was awarded to Mike Mangano, chairman of the 2026 Memorial Day Parade Committee, with the mayor expressing gratitude for his efforts, stating, “that parade would not be the same without you.” The council also noted the successful visit of a mobile motor vehicle center, which enabled seniors to obtain real IDs, an initiative praised for its accessibility and planned as an annual event. Moreover, an upcoming 5K run and walk event organized by PPA 311 to support families affected by leukemia was highlighted, with the council encouraging public participation and donations.
The council commended the recent achievements of local high school sports teams, particularly the girls’ softball team winning the state sectionals and the division track teams repeating as champions. They expressed intentions to formally recognize these accomplishments in a future meeting. Additionally, the council expressed appreciation for the Board of Education’s invitation to the graduation of the Roxbury High School class of 2026, reflecting on personal connections to the students and extending best wishes for their future endeavors.
A point of local concern was the ongoing issue of a smell emanating from Pleasant Village States, with the council working alongside local legislature to resolve the matter. The council also discussed activities related to Lake Musconetcong, noting ongoing harvesting efforts and additional treatments planned to address an outbreak of water chestnuts.
Business matters were discussed, including noise concerns related to an outside production company. Although no formal complaints had been received, the council assured that the production company would be contacted to address any potential issues. In a separate discussion, clarification was sought regarding two resolutions related to liquor licenses, with confirmation that while both pertained to the same building, they involved different licensing situations.
Financial health was reviewed through an audit report, characterized as a “very good clean audit,” commending the township’s strong fiscal management despite a decrease in fund balance due to previous budget year surplus usage. The tax collection rate improved to 99.03%, noted as a significant increase from the prior year’s 98.8%. Recommendations were made to address older ordinances and pursue grant collections actively.
Jacqueline Albrecht
City Council Officials:
Jim Rilee, Mark Crowley, Fred Hall, Shawn Potillo (Deputy Mayor), Bob DeFillippo, Tom Carey
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
06/23/2026
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Recording Published:
06/24/2026
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Duration:
33 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Morris County
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Towns:
Roxbury
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