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Press Release

Mayor Derek Armstead Announces City of Linden Community Solar Initiative

New Rooftop Solar Project at Linden Logistics Center Brings Savings to Residents

Linden, New Jersey, October 28, 2025 – Mayor Derek Armstead today announced the launch of a new community solar initiative that will deliver savings and clean energy benefits directly to Linden residents. This initiative offers Linden residents, which includes both homeowners and renters, a simple way to reduce their electricity costs by keeping 35 percent of the value of the solar credits applied to their bill, without the need to install solar panels on their roof or property.

“This solar project is right here in Linden, and represents the opportunity for our families to save real money while supporting clean energy and breathing new life into what was previously a contaminated site. I hope every eligible household signs up!” said Mayor Derek Armstead.

Residents who enroll will receive solar credits applied to their monthly PSE&G bill based on their share of the energy generated by the project. These credits lower electricity costs, creating real, recurring savings. Linden households are encouraged to enroll now to reserve their spot, as availability is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Participants will be connected to a rooftop solar project located at the Linden Logistics Center — a remediated former Superfund site that has been revitalized into one of the largest warehousing and distribution centers in the Northeast. In addition to supporting jobs and economic growth, the project will now generate clean, renewable energy that directly benefits Linden residents. The 5 megawatt solar project in development by Active Solar Development LLC, is expected to begin operations in December 2025, with savings expected to appear on residents’ bills two to three months later.

“At PowerMarket, we specialize in community-based energy initiatives, and this project in Linden is a perfect example,” said Brad Tito, Director of Community Energy at PowerMarket. “We’re proud to connect residents directly to a rooftop solar project in their own city and help ensure that the benefits stay right here in Linden.”

For questions about the city’s involvement, please contact the Mayor’s Office at (908) 474-8493 or click here to email. For questions about the enrollment process, please call (929) 298-3874 or click here to email. To learn more about the campaign and to sign up, click here.

Rain Storm in Linden Causes Flood & Damages

The City of Linden was hit by an epic rain storm yesterday, causing major flooding and damage to homes and vehicles in residential areas. At least 5.08 inches of rain fell in Linden within several hours, according to reports from North Jersey Weather Observers.

Although no injuries or casualties were reported, residential property damage to homes and cars was the number one post storm complaint. In some cases, the Linden Fire Department was forced to deploy an inflatable rescue craft to aid in resident retrieval due to rising waters and impassable streets. “Yesterday’s flooding was primarily the result of the intense rains being greater than the 100-Year Storm.” said Nicholas Pantina, Linden’s City Engineer. “Increased impervious surfaces in residential neighborhoods, resulting from redevelopment in these areas, create additional stormwater runoff, which contributes to increased street flooding before entering storm-sewer systems.”

Unlike redevelopment in residential and green areas, major redevelopment projects in non-residential areas, such as apartment complexes, commercial, and industrial developments under PILOT programs, require developers to build onsite infrastructure to manage increased stormwater stress based on findings from project-specific Stormwater Management Reports prior to approval. This process ensures that major redevelopment projects do not cause strain to existing stormwater infrastructure.

Linden’s first responders, Police, Fire, and EMS, were commended by residents and officials for their quick, selfless response. Councilman Alfred Rodriguez (9th Ward) joined Mayor Armstead surveying storm damage. “We owe so much to our first responders for their tireless work keeping residents safe,” said Councilman Eloy Delgado (6th Ward). “Seeing neighbors help neighbors on hard-hit streets like Clinton, 13th, 12th, Emma and others was inspiring. This community spirit is why I love Linden.”

Linden residents who need guidance related to the storm aftermath should contact the Mayor’s office at (908) 474-8493.

City of Linden Fire Department on rafts - July 14 2025 Flood.

Saint Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish’s 100th Anniversary celebration

St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish Celebrates Centennial Anniversary in Linden.

Linden, NJ, May 1, 2025 The Parish of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus marked a significant milestone on Sunday, April 27th, celebrating its 100th anniversary with a jubilant Mass held at the church. The centennial celebration continued with a special reception at The Grand in Totowa.

Mayor Derek Armstead proudly recognized this enduring congregation for its century of service to the Linden community. “For the past 100 years, the St. Theresa community has been an integral and deeply valued part of our City,” Mayor Armstead noted. “Their contributions, both spiritual and communal, have enriched the lives of countless residents.”

In honor of this momentous anniversary, official resolutions were presented to the Pastor of St. Theresa, Reverend Ireneusz Pierzchala. These recognitions came from the City of Linden, presented by Council President Michele Yamakaitis; the County of Union, delivered by County Commissioner Joseph Bodek; and the State Senate, conveyed by Union County Surrogate Christopher Hudak.

Founded in 1925, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish has served as a cornerstone of the Linden community, initially established to meet the spiritual and educational needs of the Polish immigrant population. Over the past century, the parish has grown into a diverse and vibrant faith community, holding a special place in the hearts of generations of Linden residents.

The City of Linden extends its heartfelt congratulations to St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish on this remarkable achievement and wishes them another 100 years of faith, service, and community spirit. Sto Lat!

Click here to view and/or download the press release for the event. Click here to view and/or download the photo from the event.

Mayor Armstead Appoints Youngest Member to Zoning Board in New Jersey History – Press Release

Linden, NJ. (Wednesday, February 22, 2023) – Mayor Derek Armstead appointed the youngest person ever in New Jersey’s history to its Zoning Board. In Linden, board appointments are made by the Mayor and approved by City Council. At last night’s City Council meeting, Linden’s City Council unanimously approved and welcomed Ms. Hagr Elweshahy to its ranks. 

Ms. Elweshahy’s appointment is Mayor Armstead’s latest example of empowering qualified youth to engage in important and critical leadership positions. “I take special note of exceptional people and will continue to do everything in my power to enable their inclusion in building Linden’s bright future” said Mayor Armstead. 

A lifelong Linden resident and current senior in Linden High School, Ms. Elweshahy is currently slated to graduate as the school’s 2023 valedictorian, and is the Commander of Linden’s ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps). She is also Linden High School’s Student Council President, former National Honor Society Officer and has developed and overseen a myriad of Linden High School programs, functions and fundraisers. “I am humbled and honored that Mayor Armstead recommended me for this appointment. I love my town, and I’m so excited to have the opportunity to help Linden residents and businesses in this way. The Mayor has put a lot of faith in me, and I will not let him down.”

The Linden Zoning Board of Adjustment hears and decides on appeals regarding determinations made by the Zoning Official in the enforcement of the zoning code. “Of all boards and commissions, the Zoning Board is one of the most important ones as it pertains to the development of any municipality” said Mayor Armstead. When asked about appointing an eighteen-year old to the Zoning Board, the Mayor responded that “Ms. Elweshahy has proven herself time and time again, rising to any occasion and overcoming any challenge. I have no doubt that her contributions to the Zoning Board will be significant.”

The Crafting Corner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Linden, NJ, March 16, 2021] Mayor Derek Armstead, The City of Linden, and Department of Parks & Recreation presents ‘The Crafting Corner’ starting April 2021. ‘The Crafting Corner’ is a series of fun and functional craft projects you can make at your own home. Materials for these crafts are available in a kit that supplies almost everything you need to complete a project. You will need your own scissors, Q-tips and toothpicks. These are free programs and will be aired on Linden local channels 36 and 42.

Pre-Registration is required in order to provide class supplies to participants in advance. To register, call 908-474-8627 or register online here.

Classes Offered

Pony Bead Bracelets – Made with colorful pony beads in a variety of colors. Make all 3: single, double and triple row bracelets. For ages 5-12 on Wednesday, April 7th, 2021 at 6:00pm – Kit Curbside Pickup on Monday and Tuesday, April 5th and 6th from 9:00am – 6:30pm.

Worded Bracelets – Worded bracelets using beads and letters to inspire you and those who read it. Words like Love, Peace, Fabulous, Happy and more. For ages 50+ on Wednesday, April 14th, 2021 at 10:00am – Kit Curbside Pickup/Delivery on Monday, April 12th from 9:00am – 4:00pm.

Chunky Beaded Necklace – Make a Chunky Beaded Necklace with an assortment of large beads made of wood, acrylics, glass, metal and more without any tools (Earrings included and premade). For ages 13 – Adult on Wednesday, April 21st, 2021 at 7:00pm – Kit Curbside Pickup on Monday and Tuesday, April 19th and 20th from 9:00am – 6:30pm.

Beaded Necklace and Bracelet – Make a Faux Pearl, Fancy Acrylic or Gemstone beaded necklace with matching bracelet and (Pre-Made) earrings. No Jewelry tools needed. For ages 50+ on Wednesday, April 28th, 2021 at 10:00am – Kit Curbside Pickup/Delivery on Monday, April 26th from 9:00am – 4:00pm.  

Adult and Youth Craft kits can be picked up curbside on your programs scheduled pickup date at the John T. Gregorio Center, 330 Helen Street, Linden. Drop-offs also available for Senior Citizen Crafts only.

NJ Poison Control Press Release

The NJ Poison Control Center remains committed to protecting and improving the health of New Jersey’s residents by reducing the impact of poison and drug exposures. In addition, the Poison Center has been part of the State’s COVID-19 response since late January when Governor Murphy announced opening the Coronavirus Hotline for the public, 1-800-962-1253. Click here to read the Poison Control Center’s latest press release.

Local Company Partners with City to Improve Safety Around Schools

A Linden company is working with Police to get drivers to slow down around a number of local schools. The Phillips 66 Bayway Refinery donated $45,000 to the Police Department in October of last year. The money was used to purchase a total of ten radar speed signs that display the speed of approaching vehicles to warn drivers when they are speeding. For more information, read the press release.

Picture (left to right) are Supervisor of Traffic Maintenance Tyrone Givens, Police Chief Dave Hart, Traffic Bureau Commander Lt. Chris Guenther, Phillips 66 Community Relations Coordinator Mary Phillips, Accident Review Committee Chairwoman Councilwoman Lisa Ormon, Phillips 66 Manager of Public Affairs Nancy Sadlon, 4th Ward Councilman Alfred Mohammed, Mayor Derek Armstead, and Director of Community Services Nick Pantina.

Aries Linden Biosolids Gasification Facility Reaches Financial Close

FRANKLIN, TN and LINDEN, NJ – (October 30, 2019) – Aries Clean Energy has successfully completed the $65 million financial close for the Aries Linden Biosolids Gasification Facility in New Jersey, and construction has commenced. The financing included $50 million of “Green” tax-exempt bonds issued through the Union County Improvement Authority. This facility will divert 130,000 tons of biosolids from local landfills annually, and it will provide the lowest cost option for biosolids disposal in the NY/NJ Metropolitan area.

“The Linden facility will be the most advanced biosolids processing facility in the world utilizing our patented fluidized bed technology. By using our environmentally friendly, renewable system, we will convert biosolids into completely renewable, beneficial products. We are looking forward to investing in the local community and serving the region with sustainable biosolids solutions that will contribute to a cleaner, greener, healthier planet. – Greg Bafalis, CEO of Aries Clean Energy

For more information, please see the press release.

Aries Clean Energy’s New Jersey Biosolids Gasification Facility To Set New Standards In Wastewater Industry

LINDEN, NJ and FRANKLIN, TN – (October 17, 2019) – Aries Clean Energy was joined by local officials and dignitaries to break ground on New Jersey’s first biosolids-only gasification facility on Tuesday. The Aries Linden Biosolids Gasification Facility will bring environmental and sustainable benefits to the area by processing 430 tons of biosolids daily into clean renewable energy.

“This Aries system eliminates the need for environmentally harmful landfilling or incineration of biosolids, while producing beneficial renewable energy and biochar.  We believe this truly is a beneficial and disruptive technology that will revolutionize the wastewater treatment industry and establish itself as the best available control technology for biosolids disposal and serve as a model for others” – Greg Bafalis, CEO Aries Clean Energy

For more information, please see the press release.

Aries Clean Energy Completes Environmental Permitting for World’s First Large-Scale Biosolids Gasification Facility

LINDEN, NJ and FRANKLIN, TN – (July 15, 2019) –Aries Clean Energy has received all approvals required to construct New Jersey’s first biosolids-only gasification facility. The plant will bring environmental and sustainable benefits to the area by processing 400 tons of biosolids daily into clean renewable energy.

“Aries patented gasification system eliminates the need for environmentally harmful landfilling or incineration of biosolids, while producing beneficial renewable energy and biochar.  We believe this truly is a beneficial and disruptive technology that will revolutionize the wastewater treatment industry and establish itself as the best available control technology for biosolids disposal” – Gregory Bafalis, CEO Aries Clean Energy

For more information, please see the press release.