In a recent meeting of the Emerson Borough Council, Chief Michael Mazzio, who dedicated over 29 years of service to the community, was honored for his exemplary leadership in law enforcement. As recognition of his significant contribution, Mayor Danielle DiPaola declared October 4th as “Chief Michael Mazzio Day” in the borough.
Chief Mazzio officially retired on September 30th, 2023, and in his tenure, ascended through various roles from patrol officer to chief of police. He has been the recipient of numerous awards and played a pivotal role in regional police associations. Expressing his gratitude during the meeting, Mazzio highlighted the importance of community support for the department’s success and progression.
Following the tribute to Mazzio, the council announced promotions within the Emerson Police Department. Mark Savino was sworn in as the new Chief of Police, succeeding Mazzio. In his acceptance speech, Savino acknowledged the past leadership and emphasized the importance of leading the department into its next phase. Rocco Duardo was sworn in as the new police captain, and Christopher Mosacova and Brendan Rivel were inaugurated as police sergeants. Notably, Brendan Rivel was set to receive the John R. Rinaldi Unit Citation Award for his commendable action in a crisis situation in December 2021.
The council’s agenda also covered various proclamations, including designations for fire prevention month, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Blind Americans Equality Day on October 15th. In terms of administrative matters, a resolution was introduced to authorize a one-year contract for a special law enforcement officer in collaboration with the Emerson Board of Education, after the expiration of the previous contract.
As the meeting progressed, “ordinance 1678-23” was introduced, which seeks to set salary ranges and employment terms for some employees of Emerson Borough for 2023. This ordinance received unanimous approval during its first reading.
The council also highlighted upcoming community events, including a concert on October 11th featuring local artists Chris Opperman and Alisa Brown. Other announcements consisted of registration reminders for the upcoming general election on November 7th and the organization of a flu clinic by the Board of Health on October 12th.
During the public comments segment, resident James Mason inquired about town poultry regulations. The council responded that the current ordinance remained, but residents could apply for a variance if their properties did not meet the specified criteria, allowing them to keep chickens.
Concluding the meeting, the council went into a closed executive session, reconvening briefly in open session before adjourning at 9:17 p.m.
