Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ
It's hard to deny that we live in a world where health issues seem to be increasingly common. From allergies that baffle doctors to chronic pain that never seems to go away, it's no secret that many individuals struggle to maintain good health. Respiratory issues, reproductive complications, and other conditions add to the mix, making it clear that we're all susceptible to some kind of malady.
Unfortunately, many modern doctors still believe that throwing pills at the problem or scheduling surgery is the best way to provide long-term relief. While certain serious conditions can warrant such extreme treatments, a large percentage of Americans are looking for something far less harmful and much more holistic. They're looking high and low for a reliable, well-studied solution that doesn't require time off work or sketchy pain medications.
At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, one of the most effective and exciting treatments we've seen work for such patients is acupuncture in Freehold, NJ - a modern take on an ancient treatment that has been used for thousands of years.
- Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ
- Covering the Basics of Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ
- Is Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ Actually Legit?
- What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ?
- The Surprising Benefits of Supplementing Physical Therapy with Acupuncture
- Combining Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief and Wellness
- What Conditions Can Be Treated with Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care?
- The Premier Choice for Professional Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ
If you're new to holistic healing, acupuncture may seem intimidating. You might be wondering how needles pressed into your skin could possibly make you feel better. Wouldn't someone pushing a needle into your back be painful? As it turns out, acupuncture is far from painful and is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after treatments for chronic pain and for regulating issues relating to:
- Digestion
- Hormones
- Breathing
- Muscles
- Nerves & Brain
- Sex & Libido
- Body Circulation
- Organs & Heart
In fact, acupuncture has been studied and practiced for over 2,500 years and, more recently, has been researched and supported by many scientific studies. While acupuncture may not be a "miracle" treatment for every type of pain or condition, it has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of issues, from depression and allergies to morning sickness and cramps.
Covering the Basics of Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ
Acupuncture is a therapy in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that aims to balance the body's energy, called qi, which flows through pathways called meridians. This balance is crucial for overall wellness, as disruptions to qi can lead to health concerns. According to TCM, inserting small stainless-steel needles into specific points called acupoints along the meridians can help rebalance the flow of qi and restore overall health.
These acupoints are believed to release certain chemicals when stimulated, which can trigger an immune response and promote physiological homeostasis. Recent research suggests that this therapy may help alleviate symptoms of various health ailments.
In fact, the National Institute of Health conducted a survey on complementary health approaches, revealing that acupuncture usage in the United States has increased by 50 percent between 2002 and 2012. As of 2012, 6.4 percent of American adults have reported using acupuncture as a form of treatment.
Is Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ Actually Legit?
One of the most common questions from new patients interested in acupuncture typically revolves around whether it really works or whether it's all "new age" malarky. We get it - for most folks, the thought of inserting stainless-steel needles into one's back, arms, or neck sounds loony. However, with the ever-increasing popularity of acupuncture in New Jersey and other locations, numerous studies centering on acupuncture's effectiveness have taken place.
Extensive research has been conducted on the effectiveness of acupuncture for various conditions. A February 2022 analysis published in the BMJ, which evaluated over 2,000 scientific reviews of acupuncture therapies, revealed that acupuncture's efficacy is strongest for:
- Neck Pain
- Back Pain
- Post-Stroke Aphasia
- Muscle Pain
- Lactation Issues
- Lower Back Pain
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Vascular Dementia
- More
Additionally, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), acupuncture is most effective for pain relief in cases of chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and tension headaches. Additionally, a review of 11 clinical trials found that acupuncture may also alleviate symptoms associated with cancer treatment, as noted by the NIH.
What Happens During an Acupuncture Session at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness?
When meeting with your acupuncturist for the first time, they will discuss your condition with you before conducting a physical examination to identify areas of your body that might respond to acupuncture. The needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin, sterile, and disposable, with your acupuncturist inserting them at different depths ranging from a fraction of an inch to several inches.
Acupuncture needles are less painful than medical needles used for vaccines or blood draws. This is because acupuncture needles are thinner and solid, not hollow. During the treatment, you may experience some muscle sensations like dull aches or tingling.
Your practitioner will ask you to report any deep heaviness or numbness, which are positive signs that the treatment is working. Depending on the condition you're treating and the supplemental treatments you're undergoing, like physical therapy, acupuncture needles will remain in place for several minutes or up to 30 minutes.
Once your first acupuncture treatment is finished, it's normal to feel extra relaxed and calm. For that reason, some patients like to arrange for a ride home after their first or second session. With that said, you shouldn't experience much pain at all, and it's quite possible for you to return to work after acupuncture.
How Many Treatments Until Acupuncture Works?
This is another common question that we get at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness. The simple answer is, "It depends." While we understand that that's not a satisfying answer for some, it's important to understand that every patient is different. Everyone has different bodies and, by proxy, different bodily conditions and issues that need to be addressed.
During your initial consultation at our office, your licensed acupuncturist will go over your needs and goals as it relates to acupuncture therapy. Once your therapist has a good sense of the scope of your needs, they can give you a loose idea of how many sessions you'll need.
Generally speaking, most patients have appointments once a week. Others may require more or less frequent sessions. It's important to note that the full benefits of acupuncture may not be immediately evident after the first or even the second session. It's common for normal patients to undergo up to five treatments to realize the full benefits of acupuncture.
What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ?
There's no question that acupuncture is more popular than ever as a non-invasive, non-addictive way to reclaim balance and well-being. But what types of conditions can this traditional therapy help alleviate in the modern world? Advances in acupuncture techniques and applications have resulted in some very promising benefits.
Relief from Chronic Pain
Did you know that regular acupuncture treatments can help reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis? In May 2017, a meta-analysis was published, which studied approximately 18,000 patients with chronic pain, such as low back, neck, and shoulder pain, knee OA, and headache or migraine. The analysis found that the benefits of acupuncture therapy in reducing pain lasted for more than 12 months.
That's wonderful news for athletes and other people who push their bodies daily to accomplish goals or bring home money for rent and bills. In fact, many medical experts consider acupuncture as a viable option for managing chronic pain in conjunction with traditional methods like physical therapy and chiropractic care. The idea behind this approach is that acupuncture may trigger the body's natural healing response to alleviate pain.
When a licensed acupuncturist in New Jersey inserts an acupuncture needle, it penetrates your fascia, a connective tissue that wraps around your organs and muscles. Like a slight tickle on your arm, your body realizes that something is happening and responds by delivering lymph fluid, blood, and other important nutrients to speed up healing in affected areas like your knees, back, neck, joints, and more.
Migraine Headache Relief
If you're like other people who suffer from migraines, you know that once one of them hits, it can be next to impossible to function properly throughout the day. Fortunately, acupuncture in Freehold, NJ may be a viable solution if you have to endure migraines often.
A study conducted in 2009 by the Center for Complementary Medicine at the University of Munich analyzed 11 studies involving 2,137 patients who received acupuncture treatment for chronic tension-type headaches. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could be an effective non-pharmacological solution for frequent headaches.
The study compared the effects of acupuncture sessions with sham acupuncture and no treatment at all. Both groups that received acupuncture treatment, whether needles were placed randomly or strategically, reported a reduction in headache symptoms, while the control group reported no change. The group that received real acupuncture treatment also reported a decrease in the number of headache days and intensity of pain in a follow-up survey.
Improved Sleep
For individuals who struggle with insomnia and other sleep disturbances, acupuncture is a promising therapy. Although sedatives are commonly prescribed for insomnia, long-term use can lead to negative side effects such as dependence and excessive drowsiness.
A study conducted on 72 participants and published in Sleep Medicine in 2017 found that individuals who received acupuncture three times a week for four weeks experienced significant improvements in sleep quality and anxiety compared to those who received sham acupuncture.
Similarly, a review of 30 randomized, controlled trials found that acupuncture was more effective in improving sleep quality and daytime functioning than sham acupuncture.
Better Recovery from Surgery
While many patients choose acupuncture as a way to avoid surgery altogether, those who need surgery also use it for improved recovery. Because, at the end of the day, recovering from surgery is no easy feat. Patients may experience various symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, pain around the incision, restlessness, sleep troubles, constipation, and sore throat.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, healthcare providers may use acupuncture as a way to alleviate some of these symptoms and help with healing. A study published in Integrative Cancer Therapies in January 2017 involving 172 participants found that patients who received acupuncture after surgery reported significant improvements in sleep, anxiety, pain, fatigue, nausea, and drowsiness.
The Surprising Benefits of Supplementing Physical Therapy with Acupuncture
Did you know that supplementing physical therapy with acupuncture and vice versa can have profoundly beneficial effects for patients in New Jersey and across the country? If you're like most, chances are you didn't.
The truth is that acupuncture and physical therapy have both been proven effective in reducing pain and inflammation. While many people view them as separate methods, combining the two modalities can produce a synergistic effect that enhances pain relief and delivers long-lasting benefits to patients.
Physical therapists work with patients of all ages and abilities, from children to elderly adults, to help them overcome physical limitations and improve their quality of life. At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, our physical therapists help treat a wide range of conditions, from neck pain and spinal cord injuries to back pain and arthritis.
To effectively reduce pain and treat tissue injury, a combination of acupuncture and physical therapy can be very helpful. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation and release muscle tightness and trigger points, allowing the patient to better receive manual therapy or exercise-based physical therapy techniques. In doing so, acupuncture can actually create a window of time that allows your body to respond better to other treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, such as physical therapy and chiropractic care.
There are many benefits of combining physical therapy with acupuncture in Freehold, NJ, including the following:
- Increased Range of Motion
- More Effective Long-Term Pain Relief
- Enhanced Tissue Repair & Healing
- Better Response to Physical Therapy Due to Pain Reduction
- Less of a Need for Pain Medications
- Boosted Mood & Energy
- Better Quality of Life Overall
You may be wondering, "Are there any studies showing these benefits?" As it turns out, there are many. One such study, published on the NIH's website, was conducted on patients suffering from frozen shoulder.
Patients who received acupuncture experienced a significant reduction in pain, while those who underwent physical therapy saw an improvement in range of motion. However, the best outcome was observed in patients who received a combination of both treatments, with reduced pain, increased their range of motion, and improved quality of life. This study highlights the potential benefits of using acupuncture and physical therapy as complementary treatments for frozen shoulder.
It makes sense, then, that people from all walks of life are combining acupuncture with chiropractic treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, including:
- Professional Athletes
- Football Players
- Soccer Players
- Baseball Players
- Construction Workers
- Landscapers
- Accountants and People Working Office Jobs
- Public Officials
- Police Officers
- More
Combining Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief and Wellness
At New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, our doctors, practitioners, occupational therapists, and physical therapist specialize in a range of therapies and treatments. Much like physical therapy and acupuncture, combining chiropractic care with acupuncture therapy gives patients a new way to reclaim their mobility, reduce chronic pain, and maintain a healthy quality of life.
Chiropractic care and acupuncture in Freehold, NJ are natural healing practices that don't rely on drugs to improve the body's health. They focus on correcting imbalances in the body's structural and supportive systems, promoting natural healing, and ultimately leading to better health. These practices have a proven track record of helping patients improve their quality of life and overcome physical difficulties.
What are the Benefits of Using Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care?
Integrating chiropractic and acupuncture as a dual-modality treatment offers the most efficient solution for removing blockages from the body, promoting balance, and accelerating healing. Rather than using these treatments sequentially, a combined approach allows for maximum benefits at one time.
Chiropractic targets subluxations in the nervous system through manual adjustments, facilitating the central nervous system to promote healing, while acupuncture removes blockages that may hinder the body's internal balance. Together, these treatments work synergistically to optimize energy flow and restore harmony in the body.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care?
When our physical well-being becomes imbalanced, and our innate healing mechanisms are compromised, illnesses can manifest. The integration of acupuncture and chiropractic practices can effectively address a wide range of health conditions that they individually target, such as:
- Sports Injuries
- Headaches
- Sciatica
- Lower Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Insomnia
- Chronic Conditions Like Diabetes
- More
Curious if combining chiropractic care or physical therapy with acupuncture is right for your body? The best way to find out is to make an appointment at our sports rehab clinic in New Jersey. Once our team of medical professionals has a chance to evaluate your conditions, we can explore the best options to provide the most relief in the shortest amount of time possible.
The Premier Choice for Professional Acupuncture in Freehold, NJ
New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness consists of a team of athletic trainers, chiropractors, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other professionals. We're very proud and passionate about caring for our patients, many of whom are suffering from debilitating conditions like back and neck pain, plantar fasciitis, sports-related injuries, and more. If you're trying to get on the road to pain relief and recovery, acupuncture may be the non-surgical solution you need to reclaim your life. Contact our office today to learn whether this exciting treatment is right for you.
732-526-2497
Latest News in Freehold, NJ
Freehold Township School District Referendum: How, When To Vote
Freehold, NJ Patchhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/freehold/freehold-township-school-district-referendum-how-when-vote
FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ — It’s almost time for Freehold Township residents to hit the polls and vote on the Freehold Township School District’s proposed $135.5M bond referendum for long-lasting building improvements at pre-K through eighth-grade schools.In March, community members will be able to vote on the proposed referendum, which would help fund various projects ranging f...
FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ — It’s almost time for Freehold Township residents to hit the polls and vote on the Freehold Township School District’s proposed $135.5M bond referendum for long-lasting building improvements at pre-K through eighth-grade schools.
In March, community members will be able to vote on the proposed referendum, which would help fund various projects ranging from new fire alarm systems to enhancing security and upgrading heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
Almost all the proposed projects are eligible for state aid that comes with a voter-approved referendum, officials said.
The Board of Education previously hosted two information forums on the referendum (in-person and virtual), where residents could ask questions about the proposal and hear from professional consultants and district representatives.
On March 11, residents will be able to cast their ballot on the referendum and decide whether or not it gets approval.
Find out what's happening in Freeholdfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Here’s what you need to know about the voting process:
How To VoteTo vote on the proposed bond referendum, residents can cast their ballot by mail or vote in person on March 11.
For those who wish to vote by mail, you must send your completed application in time to be received by March 4 at the Monmouth County Clerk of Elections Office in Freehold, officials said.
Any Freehold Township residents who want to vote by mail but don’t make the March 4 deadline can hand-deliver their applications, according to officials.
The Monmouth County Clerk of Elections (located at 300 Halls Mill Road, Freehold) will accept walk-in applications until 3 p.m. on March 10, one day before the election. Residents can hand in their application, then receive, fill out and deposit their ballot, officials said.
Applications can be mailed or hand-delivered, but officials said they are not accepted online.
Vote By Mail
Vote In Person
“We’d like to thank our community members for taking the time to learn about the bond referendum,” Superintendent Neal Dickstein said. “One vote can make a difference, so participation from every Freehold Township resident truly matters.”
To learn more about the proposed bond referendum, projects and more, you can visit the bond referendum website.
For questions directly related to the referendum, you can email vote@freeholdtwp.k12.nj.us
Previous Coverage
Name That Plow: Freehold 5th Grader Wins County Contest
Freehold, NJ Patchhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/freehold/freehold-student-submits-winning-name-monmouth-county-snowplow
Monmouth County students were invited to help name the county's newest piece of snow removal equipment, and this Freehold student won:Sara Winick, Patch Staff|Updated Wed, Jan 15, 2025 at 12:13 pm ETFREEHOLD, NJ — This winter, you can keep an eye out for “Born to Plow,” the winning name of M...
Monmouth County students were invited to help name the county's newest piece of snow removal equipment, and this Freehold student won:
Sara Winick, Patch Staff
|Updated Wed, Jan 15, 2025 at 12:13 pm ET
FREEHOLD, NJ — This winter, you can keep an eye out for “Born to Plow,” the winning name of Monmouth County’s second-annual Snowplow Naming Contest.
The name was submitted by both Jackson Mattioli of Laura Donovan Elementary School in Freehold Township and Jackson Felegy of Middletown Village Elementary School in Middletown.
The name is a creative nod to Bruce Springsteen’s hit song “Born to Run,” and a fitting name for the plow given Springsteen’s own origins in Monmouth County.
The contest was open to all fifth-grade students throughout the county, with submissions accepted throughout the month of November.
In addition to a snowplow name, contestants were also asked to submit a letter explaining their name for the snowplow and how to stay safe during a snowstorm
Find out what's happening in Freeholdfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“On behalf of my fellow Commissioners, I would like to congratulate Jackson Mattioli and Jackson Felegy on their winning submissions to our second annual Snowplow Naming Contest,” Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone said.
After Mattioli and Felegy won the contest, Director Arnone made a surprise visit to each of their elementary schools to honor the students for their submissions.
Since two contestants won the contest, the county has unveiled two ‘Born to Plow’ snowplows, each marked with either “Laura Donovan Elementary School” or “Middletown Village Elementary School.”
Both Mattioli and Felegy also received certificates of recognition on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners.
“We received over 230 letters for the 2024 contest and I want to thank all of the students, teachers and school districts throughout Monmouth County for their participation,” Arnone said. “If we have snow this year, make sure to keep an eye out on the roads for ‘Born to Plow!’”
Related
Freehold Family YMCA Offers Free Health Program for Veterans
Marlboro-Coltsneck, NJ Patchhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/marlboro-coltsneck/freehold-family-ymca-offers-free-health-program-veterans
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Health & FitnessNew Initiative Focuses on Physical Wellness, Mental Resilience, Community Connections YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, Community ContributorThe YMCA of Greater Monmouth County is prou...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
New Initiative Focuses on Physical Wellness, Mental Resilience, Community Connections
YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, Community Contributor
The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County is proud to announce the launch of a free health and wellness program designed to strengthen the overall well-being of veterans and their partners.
“We are honored to give back to those who’ve served our country by offering a program that promotes physical health, mental resilience, and social connections,” said Y President and Chief Executive Officer Laurie Goganzer.
Veterans Wellness is a new initiative targeted to launch on April 7 and will run for 12 weeks. It will include a free YMCA family membership with guided fitness sessions, group exercise classes, access to cardio equipment, plus nutritional guidance, and mental health and stress management resources. All weekly sessions will be led by certified instructors and health professionals.
“Veterans often face unique health challenges, including physical injuries, stress, and mental health concerns,” said Christopher Nasta, who is coordinating the program launch at the Freehold Family YMCA and at Y branches in Red Bank, and Old Bridge, where he serves as executive director. “This initiative is designed to empower veterans and their loved ones with the tools and support they need to lead healthier, more active lives.”
Participants will also have a chance to connect with fellow veterans and their loved ones, building relationships with others who share similar experiences, Nasta added.
Find out what's happening in Marlboro-Coltsneckfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The evidence-based program was designed 10 years ago by the River Crossing YMCA in Doylestown, PA, and is now expanding to Ys in New Jersey and in Pennsylvania.
The program is open to all honorably discharged veterans, active military and their partners, regardless of age or fitness level. Those who successfully complete the program will receive an additional free, six-month YMCA membership to continue their wellness journey.
To sign up or learn more, visit the Y website.
About YMCA of Greater Monmouth CountyFor 150 years, YMCA of Greater Monmouth County has empowered youth, improved health, and fostered connections that unite and uplift the community. Serving 42,000 people annually, we’ve provided over $5 million in financial assistance in the last five years. With locations in eight communities and programs integrated into more than 100 schools across Monmouth and Ocean counties, we are dedicated to strengthening communities. Named a New Jersey Top Workplace for four consecutive years by NJ Advance Media, we’re based in Shrewsbury, NJ. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.
Live Music, Chili Cook-Off, Polar Plunge: This Weekend In Monmouth County
Freehold, NJ Patchhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/freehold/5-things-happening-monmouth-county-weekend-0
MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — As we reach the midpoint of February, there’s plenty of fun events and activities planned throughout Monmouth County.Whether you’re looking for live music, a cook-off, or some fun games, there’s plenty of things to do this weekend.Here’s five events happening around Monmouth County:Sundown SessionsFor those looking for a relaxing evening of drinks and live music, you can check out Sundown Sessions at Bell Works on Saturday.From 5-8 p.m., DJ Robbi...
MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — As we reach the midpoint of February, there’s plenty of fun events and activities planned throughout Monmouth County.
Whether you’re looking for live music, a cook-off, or some fun games, there’s plenty of things to do this weekend.
Here’s five events happening around Monmouth County:
Sundown SessionsFor those looking for a relaxing evening of drinks and live music, you can check out Sundown Sessions at Bell Works on Saturday.
From 5-8 p.m., DJ Robbie Woodside will be performing at Bar Bella, with the bar set to open at 4 p.m.
Find out what's happening in Freeholdfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
To learn more, you can visit the Bell Works website.
Bell Works is located at 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel.
Eddie Testa BandOn Saturday, the Eddie Testa Band will return to the Stone Pony for the 51st Anniversary Celebration. The big band will feature the Asbury Juke Horns and the Testettes (Sheri Davis, Lori Davis and Katie Stempkowski).
To learn more or purchase tickets, you can visit the Stone Pony website.
The Stone Pony is located at 913 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park.
Polar PlungeFrom 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, there will be a Polar Plunge by the Wave Resort in Pier Village to raise funds for Camp Sunshine. For those who don’t want to take the full plunge, there will also be an option for you to just dip your toes in the water.
To learn more about the event and registration, you can visit the Pier Village website.
The Wave Resort is located at 110 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch.
Chili Cook-OffFor those looking to see some culinary creativity this weekend, look no further than the Middletown Arts Center’s Chili Cook-Off on Sunday.
From 12-2 p.m., 15 amateurs and five restaurants will battle it out as the judges determine 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, plus the title of Best Restaurant Chili.
To learn more or purchase tickets, you can visit the Middletown Arts Center website.
The Middletown Arts Center is located at 36 Church Street, Middletown.
Parlor Games For Wintry WeatherAs the cold weather continues, you can visit Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel from 12-2:30 p.m. on Sunday to play two 1890s board games — Halma and Basilinda.
The farm will also have old-time favorites like Backgammon, Checkers and Reversi.
To learn more, you can visit the Monmouth County Parks System website.
Historic Longstreet Farm is located at 44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel.
Learn About $135.5M Bond Referendum Proposed For Freehold Township Schools
Freehold, NJ Patchhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/freehold/learn-135-5m-bond-referendum-proposed-freehold-twp-schools
There will be two meetings where residents can learn more about the referendum, which would fund building improvements at pre-k-8 schools.Sara Winick, Patch Staff|Updated Thu, Jan 23, 2025 at 3:48 pm ETEditor's Note: This article has been edited to reflect the updated location of the in-person community referendum information forum. FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ — The Freehold Township Board...
There will be two meetings where residents can learn more about the referendum, which would fund building improvements at pre-k-8 schools.
Sara Winick, Patch Staff
|Updated Thu, Jan 23, 2025 at 3:48 pm ET
Editor's Note: This article has been edited to reflect the updated location of the in-person community referendum information forum.
FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ — The Freehold Township Board of Education is set to host two events where community members can learn more about a proposed $135.5M bond referendum that would fund long-lasting building improvements at the district's pre-K-8 schools.
The first of the two events will be an in-person community referendum information forum that will be held on Thursday, Jan. 30 at Marshall W. Errickson Elementary School (271 Elton-Adelphia Road, Freehold).
The forum will run from 6-8 p.m., and residents are welcome to attend and ask questions about the referendum.
The second of the two events will be a virtual community referendum information forum held on Thursday, Feb. 20 on Zoom.
Find out what's happening in Freeholdfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Just as with the in-person meeting, the virtual forum will run from 6-8 p.m. and welcomes residents to submit questions about the referendum that will be answered in real time.
A video recording of the forum will be available on the district website following the meeting’s conclusion. To register, you can click here.
During the meetings, community members will hear from professional consultants (such as the district’s architect, financial advisor and bond counsel) who guided the referendum proposal, as well as district representatives who can explain firsthand the benefits of bond funding.
The proposed projects aim to increase safety and security, and boost health and efficiency at every school across the district, officials said.
Read: See Proposed Projects For Building Improvements
On March 11, community members will be asked to cast their vote on the referendum.
“We encourage our community members to join us for one or both of these information sessions so they can hear directly from our professional consultants about the projects,” Superintendent Neal Dickstein said. “We want to be sure everyone is prepared to make an informed vote on March 11.”
The proposed projects would receive up to 40% of the eligible costs in state aid, which is estimated at $45 million. This type of funding is only available through a voter-approved bond referendum, officials said, which would offset the local taxpayers’ share of the total costs.
If voters approve the referendum, officials said the owner of a home assessed at the township average of $611,704 would see an estimated tax impact of about $37 per month.
The increase to school debt tax would not appear on tax bills until July 2026.
Without voter approval, officials said these critical repairs would still need to be made, but without the help of state aid.
“Safety is the district’s top priority, next to education,” Dickstein said. “The bond referendum would allow us to make necessary updates to increase school security and update our facilities with the assistance of state aid, rather than relying entirely on local taxes.”
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
Disclaimer:
