Additionally,“Charge Up Your Town,” a 2023 initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption, has led to the installation of seven EV charging stations, with the capacity to power up to twelve vehicles simultaneously. PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS Mount Olive’s success is built on collaboration. One example is the partnerships between the township and local nonprofit sports associations which help to develop and maintain Turkey Brook Park. Tatarenko conveys, “The Township will bond for the improvements and the sport associations will pay back the cost over a period of time. This arrangement has led to the park being developed much quicker and without tax payer funds.” Furthering the model of shared investment and collaboration, Mount Olive also actively leverages grants through federal, state and county partners to fund critical infrastructure, environmental, and cultural projects. “The Township was recently awarded a $600K Stormwater Infrastructure Improvement Grant from the Federal Government to improve stormwater management around the Budd Lake Watershed.This will improve the water quality of Budd Lake and start to revitalize the recreational opportunities available,” he expands. Additionally, $750,000 in grant money from county and state historical trusts has been secured, and will be used to renovate key historical sites, most notably the Seward House, a well-known and valued landmark in the community. Transportation infrastructure is also supported through external partnerships. Each year, Mount Olive receives approximately $250,000 from the New Jersey Department of Transportation to rehabilitate and maintain its road systems. Alliances with local entities that support the township’s vision for growth are also important. Tatarenko highlights, “Mount Olive maintains a positive relationship with the Morris County Economic Development Corporation and supports 187 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05 MOUNT OLIVE, NJ
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