Maplewood Township Newsletter: 3-25-26

PROCLAMATIONS

What is a proclamation exactly? And how does it impact a small town like Maplewood? While a proclamation doesn't carry legal authority, it can make a big impact in a community like Maplewood. When elected officials take the time to align our town with individuals, causes & groups via proclamations, it can help strengthen & shape a community's culture, values & identity - and help raise public awareness. Recently, our town issued proclamations for Women's History, Disability Awareness & Transgender Day of Visibility. Read through our proclamations at www.maplewoodnj.gov.

Maplewood Named 2025 Healthy Town 

For the 3rd consecutive year, Maplewood has earned the Mayors Wellness Campaign's (MWC) NJ Healthy Town designation in recognition of our commitment to community wellness! From the MWC press release:

"Their Crisis Intervention Social Worker program pairs trained officers with mental health professionals to respond effectively to incidents involving individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. Continuing this focus on and support, the township established an All-Access Committee to review programs and policies for accessibility and reinstated its Youth Advisory Committee to ensure the voices and needs of young residents are heard. 

'Over the years, the MWC has enabled us to showcase our impactful community programs that focus on serving all residents and continually redefine what it means to be a healthy community. This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of our Administration, Health Department, Engineering, Community Services and Recreation, Finance, Community Development, Code Enforcement and Building Department, Clerk’s Office, Court System, Police and First Responders, Public Works, and Library and all the tireless efforts of our volunteer committees and boards. Together, they work to ensure that the health and safety of our community remain central to every decision we make — a commitment clearly reflected in our application,' said Mayor Victor DeLuca."

NEW BOARD ALERT!

Be a part of a new Rent Leveling Board, recently created to discuss housing reforms to promote justice, equity & affordability. The Board is responsible for reviewing rent increase inquiries, overseeing compliance with the Township’s rent control ordinance, evaluating landlord hardship applications, and helping ensure fair, transparent housing practices for both tenants & property owners. Volunteers should be Maplewood residents interested in housing policy, community service, and balanced decision‑making - and can apply online here today.

OPEN GYM

Calling all CHS students looking for Open Gym hoops, free food, drinks and community fun. Maplewood & South Orange Police Department's popular Thursday Open Gym program is a fun, once-a-month opportunity for local teenagers to engage with our community in a positive and meaningful way. Every time we build stronger relationships with our younger community members, while providing them with a fun, safe and welcoming environment, we bridge the gap a little more. Upcoming dates include APRIL 9, MAY 14 & JUNE 4. Teens can meet in the CHS Main Gym at 4 p.m.