Mayor Lisa Crate, re-elected as the first female mayor, delivered an opening speech highlighting her commitment to enhancing the town’s public services, including parks and public safety, as well as launching a dialysis transportation service for seniors. She emphasized the importance of partnerships with nonprofit organizations and churches to meet housing, food, and clothing needs, and encouraged everyone to contribute positively to the community daily.

The council recognized outgoing council president Heather deJong for her service, with Councilman Perry Albanese praising her leadership and presenting her with a plaque. Subsequently, Vincent Minichino was nominated by Albanese and unanimously elected as council president. Perry Albanese cited Minichino’s extensive experience as a key factor in his support. Following the election, Mayor Crate administered the oath of office to Minichino, who then nominated Derek Ambrosino for vice president. Ambrosino’s nomination was also unanimously approved, and he was sworn in.

In her speech, Mayor Crate announced appointments to several key committees, including the Architectural Review Committee, Environmental Commission, and Historic Preservation Committee. The council then proceeded to address the consent agenda, which covered essential administrative resolutions such as setting council meeting dates, designating bank depositories, and approving a temporary budget for 2024. The council took the opportunity to authorize fair and open professional service contracts for various municipal roles, including the Township attorney and auditor.

Councilman Stephen Fineman expressed his gratitude for his family’s support as he discussed financial resolutions, and Councilwoman Heather deJong provided insights into the township’s debt reduction plan while addressing the resolution authorizing the payment of the Township’s 2024 Debt Service.

The council approved professional service contracts covering legal, engineering, architectural, and financial advisement services. Appointments were made to various boards and committees to ensure the ongoing management and development of municipal services.

During public comments, concerns were voiced about the environmental pollution related to the Garden State Parkway and its effects on residents. While some showed trust in the newly elected council to address these issues, others sought clarity on the employee assistance program’s costs and coverage. The council clarified that the program includes coverage for employees and their families, with a total cost of $34,000, and that there are over 400 full-time and part-time employees included in the service.

In response to the public comments, Mayor Crate expressed her gratitude for the support received and congratulated the new council members. Councilman Fineman, Councilwoman Marianna Pontoriero, Councilwoman Melissa Travers, and Council Vice President Derek Ambrosino all made statements acknowledging the support of their families, the honor of serving the community, and the significance of the mayor’s leadership.