NORTH BRANCH SALE Q&A
With the sale of the North Branch Service Center now moving into its next phase, business operations at the site will conclude in mid-December 2025; the retail shop and Product Programs operations will remain open through early spring 2026. This Q&A provides updated information on the sale process, GSHNJ’s continued presence in the western region, and how we are engaging the community to help shape what comes next.
What is happening?
Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey received an unsolicited offer from a developer to purchase the property and building the council owns and occupies at 1171 Rt 28, North Branch, NJ.
On June 10, 2024, the GSHNJ Board of Directors met to review a recommendation from the Property Committee regarding this offer. After careful consideration of the building’s condition, annual upkeep costs, and how the decision aligned with the council’s long-term strategy to strengthen services and access for members and volunteers, ensure sustainability, and position resources where they can have the greatest impact for the communities we serve, the Board voted to approve the sale of the North Branch Service Center.
Over the past year, the developer has been in a due-diligence phase that included land surveys, inspections, and working with the Branchburg Township Board of Adjustment on plans to redevelop the property. During this time, the North Branch Service Center has remained open as an operations hub for GSHNJ, with the retail shop continuing to serve members and the community.
Why is this happening?
The decision to sell the North Branch Service Center was rooted in aligning GSHNJ’s resources with its mission and ensuring the council’s long-term sustainability. While the property holds historical and sentimental value, its high maintenance costs, decreasing usage, and declining membership in the region made it less practical for the council’s future direction.
Over the past decade, there has been more than a 25% decline in the population of school-aged children across the western counties of GSHNJ’s service area, contributing to lower membership in the region. This has also led to decreased retail sales at North Branch and reduced participation in activities and nearby summer camp programs.
In recent weeks, the building has experienced a series of unexpected infrastructure issues, underscoring that selling the property—rather than investing in costly repairs—is a sound and strategic decision. This transition provides an opportunity to realign resources and optimize how we deliver programming and services across the communities we serve, ensuring GSHNJ continues to meet the needs of current and future members in the most fiscally responsible way.
When will the North Branch Service Center close?
Business operations at the North Branch Service Center will cease by mid-December; retail shopping, pick-up lockers, and Product Programs operations will continue until the sale is finalized.
GSHNJ anticipates that the sale and transition of the North Branch Service Center will be completed in early spring 2026 following the Branchburg Township’s approval of the developer’s plans.
As this next phase begins, the council will continue to communicate updates and timelines, so everyone remains fully informed.
What was the offer made for the North Branch property and building?
The offer for the property was significantly higher than the appraised market value of the building. The final price will not be shared until the sale has officially been completed.
What does GSHNJ plan to do with the funds from the sale?
The proceeds from the sale will be strategically reinvested within the western region, ensuring that mission and service delivery is modern, accessible, and relevant to the needs of our membership.
Our goal is to use these resources to create spaces that foster a welcoming and adaptable environment, enabling us to continue building individuals of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place.
How will this impact Girl Scout programming in the region?
There will be no changes to the number or quality of programs and opportunities in the western region. Business will continue as usual, and we have not cut or eliminated any offerings in the area. Members and volunteers can expect the same level of programs and resources they have come to value.
Looking ahead, the creation of a new facility in the western region has the potential to expand services and offer even more opportunities for members and their families. Our commitment remains to provide meaningful, engaging experiences that encourage participants to lead with courage, confidence, and character.
Does this mean GSHNJ is leaving the western region of the state?
No. GSHNJ will maintain a strong presence in the Warren County, Hunterdon County, and Somerset County areas, even though the vision for service delivery in the region are still being determined. GSHNJ is co-creating the future of Girl Scouting in the region by working closely with Girl Scouts, volunteers, and partners in this community.
Our end goal is to serve members more effectively and foster a welcoming and adaptable presence that supports the community’s growth and the Girl Scout Mission in the region.
What does this mean for volunteers and partners in the western region?
Volunteers and partners in the western region can expect continued support and collaboration from GSHNJ staff. We remain committed to maintaining strong relationships and ensuring access to the resources needed to deliver meaningful Girl Scout experiences.
Will employees be laid off because of this sale?
No.
What steps are being taken to keep the community informed?
GSHNJ is committed to keeping our community informed and engaged throughout this transition. Earlier this fall, council staff attended a Service Unit Team meeting to discuss the North Branch sale and answer questions from volunteers and local leaders.
Our first step is to launch a series of Community Conversations—North Branch and Beyond—to bring members: Girl Scouts, adult volunteers, and families, together to share perspectives and needs.
Our next step is to establish a Girl Scout-led community planning team of Girl Scouts, adult volunteers, staff, and community stakeholders who will play an integral part in crafting the vision for Girl Scouting in the region and making it a reality.
Community Conversation Schedule:
• Tuesday, November 19 at 7:00 PM – North County Branch Library, Clinton
• Wednesday, December 3 at 7:00 PM – Hunterdon County Complex, Flemington
• Tuesday, December 9 at 7:00 PM – North Branch Service Center
• Wednesday, December 17 at 7:00 PM – Phillipsburg Public Library
Our goal is to maintain clear and consistent communication so that everyone feels informed, supported, and included as we work together to build a strong future for Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey.
