Joseph Signorello Jr. was officially appointed as the mayor of Roselle Park after the council amended and adopted resolution 381-25. The amendment to include Signorello Jr. was passed with five affirmative votes, despite opposition from one council member. Upon taking his oath, Signorello Jr. expressed his deep connection to the community, stating, “Rosa Park is my heart.” He emphasized the importance of listening to residents and addressing their concerns, committing to work for and with the community members.

The meeting also recognized Karen Carrie Lynch, an educator who received accolades as Union County Teacher of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year and Governor’s Teacher of the Year for 2024-2025. The council praised her dedication to her students and her ability to form meaningful connections. Lynch shared her surprise at the recognition and humorously suggested that teachers deserve raises, prompting appreciative responses from the council.

In addition to leadership appointments and honors, the council dealt with several procedural and legislative matters. Resolution 382-25, which pertained to appointing a council member at large, sparked discussion among council members. A motion to amend this resolution to include George Castalanis failed, with three votes against and two in favor. Subsequently, the council adopted the resolution as initially proposed after further deliberation.

Another legislative action involved ordinance 2838, amending salary ranges for non-union employees and officials. The ordinance was adopted following a public hearing and roll call vote, with one council member abstaining. Additionally, ordinance 2839, which repealed an earlier ordinance concerning public utility poles, was adopted unanimously after it was noted that the ordinance required reevaluation.

The meeting also addressed various resolutions, including the termination of employment for Ailia Creso and a property tax credit for a disabled veteran. These resolutions, along with others related to contracts and change orders, were approved as part of a consent agenda.

Community engagement was highlighted with reports on recent events, including the annual tree lighting and winter market. These events were described as a success, involving contributions from city departments and community members. The council also encouraged public participation in the Union County Safe Streets for All Plan and acknowledged ongoing utility work and improvements to the borough’s website, which now includes a service request form for residents.

Council members took the opportunity to extend holiday greetings and report on various topics. One councilman expressed condolences to the family of William Nut and shared updates on infrastructure improvements, such as the temporary halt of work on Persian Avenue due to inclement weather. Another council member expressed gratitude for a toy donation from the New Jersey State FOP to the American Legion Post 60 Veterans Group, inviting residents to participate in the toy drive.