Raritan Borough to Establish Financial Oversight Procedures for Basilone Parade Committee

Raritan Borough officials have announced that, for the first time since 1981, formal financial reporting and oversight procedures will be established for the John Basilone Parade Committee.

Following a recent review by the Borough's auditing firm, Supplee, Clooney & Company, and discussions with Borough Administrator Eric Colvin, Councilman Atul Agrawal, and CFO Paige Elster, the Borough is taking steps to bring the longstanding committee into compliance with municipal budget law.

According to officials, the auditors confirmed that the Borough does not have a record of financial reporting for the committee dating back over four decades. The review also clarified that municipalities are prohibited from making lump-sum donations to private organizations without itemized accounting, with exceptions limited to certain public service and senior groups.

As a result, the Borough will no longer issue advance payments to the committee. Instead, vendors for the parade must be paid directly from the committee’s reported $17,000 balance. Additional funding from the Borough will only be issued upon receipt of invoices, proof of payment, and documentation of how the funds benefit the general taxpayer base.

Expenses such as food or entertainment for selected individuals will not be eligible for reimbursement, while costs related to bands, insurance, decorations, and public accommodations will be considered appropriate uses of public funds. Any unspent municipal funding must be returned to the Borough.

Officials also confirmed the removal of the parade committee’s former treasurer, and that the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office is currently reviewing the matter. Borough Council is scheduled to vote on a resolution at its upcoming August 19, 2025 meeting to formalize the new financial procedures, developed in coordination with the Borough Administrator and Borough Attorney.

The John Basilone Parade, a beloved Raritan tradition honoring the WWII Medal of Honor recipient, has been organized by community volunteers for decades. Borough officials state that the goal of the new procedures is to ensure transparency and proper stewardship of public funds while continuing to support the legacy of the event.

Sidebar: About the John Basilone Memorial Parade

Who Was John Basilone?
Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone was a U.S. Marine Corps hero from Raritan, New Jersey. He received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II and later returned to combat, where he was killed in action on Iwo Jima in 1945. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.

Parade Origins & Tradition
Raritan’s annual parade honoring Basilone began in the early 1980s and has grown into one of Central New Jersey’s most recognizable local heritage events. Community volunteers organize the march each year to celebrate Basilone’s legacy of service and sacrifice.

What People See Each Year
The parade typically features U.S. Marine Corps and other military units, veterans’ organizations, first responders, school bands, scout troops, community groups, classic vehicles, and local dignitaries. Many spectators also visit the Basilone statue in downtown Raritan as part of the day’s observance.

Economic & Community Impact
The event draws visitors from across Somerset County and beyond, boosting foot traffic for local businesses and reinforcing Raritan’s identity as the hometown of a national war hero. The parade weekend often overlaps with local fundraisers, family gatherings, and downtown promotions.

Why Financial Oversight Matters Now
Because the parade blends volunteer fundraising, donated services, and municipal support, clear financial procedures help protect public dollars, ensure vendors are paid properly, and maintain community trust. The new policies under consideration aim to preserve the parade’s grassroots spirit while adding transparency and accountability.

Key Upcoming Date
August 19, 2025 – Raritan Borough Council meeting: expected vote on resolution establishing formal financial accounting and reporting procedures for the John Basilone Parade Committee.

Have historic photos, memories, or documents from past Basilone parades? Raritan Neighbors would love to share community history. Send submissions to the newsroom and tell us the year, the people shown, and any background details. - Send them to raritanneighborsnj@gmail.com - 

This information was provided directly to Raritan Neighbors NJ by Councilman Adam Armahizer. 

As a community news outlet, I am presenting this story with objectivity and without bias to keep residents informed of civic developments.  Stories and opinions are always welcome from anyone.

Donnella

Raritan Neighbors NJ - Patchlabs Editor

raritanneighborsnj@gmail.com

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