In a key moment of the meeting, the council certified the election results from November 2024, paving the way for the swearing-in ceremony of Joseph Finistrella and Douglas G. Piper. This formal rite of passage was conducted by Bill Spia, who administered the Oath of Office to both newly elected council members. The ceremony underscored the commitment of the council members to uphold the Constitution and perform their duties with impartiality.

The election of the council president followed, with Savino Scorese being nominated and unanimously elected to the position. This decision was met with applause, signaling strong support from all council members present. The newly elected council president, alongside the rest of the council, affirmed their dedication to fostering a positive environment in Kenilworth.

Adding to the atmosphere of the meeting was the presence of Senator Joe Cryan, who offered his congratulations to the council president on his election. Cryan’s remarks highlighted the importance of collaboration and community engagement, stating, “we all the same cost the people who work we work for,” and inviting community members to reach out for assistance. His involvement underscored a shared vision for progress and innovation within the borough.

Following the formalities, the council quickly moved through several appointments and resolutions. The firm Samero and Farney LLC was appointed as the borough attorney with unanimous support. Additionally, the mayor appointed several members to the planning board, including Michael Scary, Larry Clemente, Nick Pantina, Joseph Cello, and Robert Galdi. These appointments were part of a broader resolution to qualify professional services for the year 2025, again receiving unanimous approval.

During the public comment segment, residents expressed optimism for the future, highlighting the significance of the mayor’s role in fostering unity within the community. One resident remarked, “there’s always things that can get better,” emphasizing the potential for improvement and collaboration in the town. This sentiment was echoed by council members, who conveyed gratitude for the dedication of their peers and expressed a commitment to serving the residents of Kenilworth.

In the spirit of collaboration, council members acknowledged the contributions of County Chair Carlos Santos, praising his work ethic and involvement in the community. The positive atmosphere was further accentuated by members’ expressions of excitement about the collaborative environment and their commitment to being accessible to residents.

Moreover, the achievements of the Department of Public Works (DPW) and the police department were acknowledged, with council members emphasizing the importance of their roles in maintaining the town’s operations.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and unanimously agreed upon by the council members.