New Leadership Takes Helm in Passaic County as Sandy Lazara and Orlando Cruz Appointed Director and Deputy Director

Overview: At the recent Passaic County Board of Commissioners meeting, the focus was on leadership transitions and the swearing-in of newly elected officials. Sandy Lazara was appointed as the County Commissioner Director, with Orlando Cruz taking the role of Deputy Director for 2026. The appointments were confirmed through unanimous votes, reflecting strong consensus among the commissioners. Following the votes, Lazara and Cruz took their oaths of office, pledging to uphold the Constitution and serve the community with dedication.

Hawthorne Borough Council Faces Budget Challenges Amid State Mandates and Local Development

Overview: The Hawthorne Borough Council’s recent meeting focused on addressing budgetary constraints influenced by state mandates, ongoing development projects, and new municipal appointments. The council highlighted the need for strategic financial planning to accommodate rising costs, such as health insurance premiums, while maintaining community services and infrastructure improvements.

Bloomingdale Borough Council Highlights Promotions and Projects in the New Year

Overview: The recent Bloomingdale Borough Council meeting marked the swearing-in of new council members and celebrated significant promotions within the police department. The council also discussed major projects, including a new playground at Boat Pond funded by a substantial grant, and looked forward to additional community improvements in 2026.

Hawthorne School Board Welcomes New Members and Elects Leadership in Reorganization Meeting

Overview: The Hawthorne School Board held a reorganization meeting to swear in new members and elect leadership for the upcoming term. Newly elected members Lisa Spone, Alex Clavijo, and Marco Totaro were officially sworn in, with Totaro subsequently elected as board president and Erica Mulkey-Koltzan as vice president. The meeting also covered the adoption of a code of ethics and various professional appointments for the board’s functioning.

Clifton School Board Welcomes Youngest Member Amid Leadership Elections

Overview: The Clifton School Board meeting held on January 6, 2026, was marked by the swearing-in of new board members, including the youngest elected official, Elias Ragsdale, and the election of Judith A. Bassford as the board president. The board grappled with electing a vice president.