NORTH BRANCH SALE Q&A
What is happening?
Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey (GSHNJ) has received an unsolicited offer from a developer to purchase the property and building we currently own and occupy at 1171 Rt 28, North Branch, NJ 08876.
On Monday, June 10, 2024, the GSHNJ Board of Directors met to review a recommendation from the Property Committee regarding this offer. After thorough consideration, including an assessment of the building’s current condition, the annual costs required for its upkeep, and how this decision aligns with our strategic plan to better serve high-growth potential markets, the Board voted to approve the sale of the North Branch Service Center.
Why is this news only being shared now?
The timing of this announcement is tied to the developer's due diligence process. After receiving the offer and following review and approval by the GSHNJ Board of Directors and Property Committee, the developer needed time to conduct necessary engineering and environmental surveys, property inspections, and other assessments to ensure the feasibility of their plans. This thorough process helps confirm the viability of the project and ensures all legal and procedural steps are followed.
Now that the developer is ready to present their plans to the Branchburg Township Board of Adjustment for approval in early 2025—when it will become public record—we are sharing this information with our Girl Scout community to keep you informed.
When is this happening?
The developer will be presenting their plans to the Branchburg Township Board of Adjustment in early 2025, at which point the project will become public knowledge and part of the public record. We want to ensure our Girl Scout community is informed about this transition before the meeting takes place.
The timing of the sale and transfer of the building and property depends on the approval of the developer’s proposal by the Board of Adjustment. While the timeline is subject to change, we currently anticipate GSHNJ operations at this location to cease in Fall 2025. Any updates or changes to this schedule will be communicated.
Why is this happening?
The decision to sell the North Branch Service Center is rooted in aligning GSHNJ’s resources with our mission, preparing for future growth and sustainability. While the property holds historical and sentimental value, its high maintenance costs, decreasing usage, and declining membership in the region make it less practical for our strategic direction.
Over the past decade, there has been a greater than 25% decline in the population of school-aged children across the western counties of GSHNJ’s service footprint. This has also resulted in a decline in our membership in the region. With declining membership, we have also experienced reductions in sales at the North Branch retail location and lower summer camp participation. This transition provides an opportunity to optimize how we deliver programming and services, ensuring we better meet the needs of current and future members in the most fiscally responsible way.
By reallocating resources, we can better serve the evolving needs of our Girl Scouts and volunteers while continuing to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place.
What was the offer made for the North Branch property and building?
The offer for the property is significantly higher than the appraised market value of the building. However, the final sale price depends on several factors, including the results of inspections and the approval of the developer’s plans. 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 in a new facility within the western region that is modern, accessible, and better equipped to meet the needs of our membership. This provides an opportunity to create a space with updated amenities and enhanced technology, ensuring we can continue to deliver impactful programs and services to our Girl Scouts and volunteers in the region.
Our goal is to use these resources to create spaces that foster a welcoming and adaptable environment, enabling us to continue building girls 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 Girl Scout programming and opportunities in the region. Business will continue as usual, and we have not cut or eliminated any offerings at our North Branch location. Girls 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 region has the potential to expand services and offer even more opportunities for Girl Scouts and their families. Our commitment remains to provide meaningful, engaging experiences for every Girl Scout, teaching them to lead with courage, confidence, and character.
Does this mean GSHNJ is leaving the western region of the state?
No, GSHNJ is not leaving the western region of the state. This decision provides an opportunity to strategically invest in a new location within the region that is modern, accessible, and better equipped to meet the council’s needs.
We want to assure our community that GSHNJ will maintain a strong presence in the Warren County/Hunterdon/Somerset area, even though the specifics of what and where are still being determined. No programs or events at North Branch have been cut.
By creating a facility with updated amenities and enhanced technology, we can better support the diverse programs and services we offer. This new location will enable us to serve our members and volunteers more effectively, fostering a welcoming and adaptable environment that supports the growth and future of Girl Scouts 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 impactful Girl Scout experiences.
As we plan for a new facility, we are exploring ways to enhance support for volunteers and deepen partnerships in the area. Our goal is to work closely with volunteers and partners during this transition to ensure we are meeting their needs while continuing to grow and strengthen the Girl Scout movement in the region.
What happens until then for membership and council staff?
Our priority is to make this transition as seamless as possible for both our membership and our staff while continuing to deliver the programs and services that Girl Scouts count on. The North Branch office and retail shop will remain open and fully operational until the sale and transfer are completed.
Will employees be laid off because of this sale?
No.
What steps are being taken to keep the community informed?
GSHNJ is committed to ensuring our community remains informed and engaged throughout this transition. We will provide regular updates during key meetings, such as Service Unit Team Meetings and the Annual Meeting, to share the latest details and milestones.
As part of our broader commitment to transparency and collaboration, we will host opportunities for interested community members to contribute input to the process of identifying and outfitting a new facility in the western region. This will be an opportunity for members to participate in the creation of a modern, accessible space with updated amenities and enhanced technology that better serves our mission.
Our goal is to maintain clear and consistent communication, so our members, staff, and volunteers feel informed and supported, while working together to build spaces that reflect the evolving needs of our Girl Scout community.
