The Middletown Town Council’s latest session was marked by important leadership transitions and acknowledgments of community service. The swearing-in of newly elected Committee Members Ryan M. Clarke and Kimberly Kratz set the stage for a year of continued commitment to local governance. Ryan M. Clarke was administered the oath of office by Mayor Anthony S. Perry, while Kimberly Kratz was sworn in by Monmouth County Surrogate Rosemarie D. Peters. The Council then adopted Resolution 24-1 for the appointment of Township Attorney Greg Big, and Mayor Anthony S. Perry was elected for the second consecutive year, with Ryan M. Clarke seconding the motion. Former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli administered the oath of office to Mayor Perry, who was accompanied by his family.

The meeting continued with the election of Deputy Mayor Rick W. Hibell, who has served alongside Mayor Perry for the past three years. Commissioner Director Tom Arnone administered the oath to Deputy Mayor Hibell. Mayor Perry’s address shed light on the town’s recent achievements and outlined the vision for the coming year. The Mayor also reflected on the meaningful naturalization ceremony he attended.

Deputy Mayor Kevin M. Settembrino echoed the sentiments of dedication and service, recognizing the town’s resilience and community spirit. He mentioned the successful negotiations that led to cost savings in snow plowing. Settembrino went on to commend the fire department for their extraordinary volunteer service, responding to an estimated 1,500 calls and contributing nearly 50,000 volunteer hours. Similarly, he praised the EMS for their approximately 7,000 volunteer hours and responses to around 2,500 calls. The Deputy Mayor’s speech highlighted the invaluable commitment of over 100,000 volunteer hours from the town’s emergency services in the past year.

The meeting also saw the appointment of fire department leaders, with Fire Chief William Kane Jr. and his team of officers being sworn in for terms expiring at the end of 2024. They pledged to uphold the Constitution and to perform their duties with dedication. The same oath was taken by EMS Chief Brian McKitrick and his team, including Marco Fernandez and Floyd Goldstein.

Acknowledgments extended to special guests and essential staff members who enable the efficient functioning of the township. Chief of Police Craig Weber and his deputies were among those commended for their impactful work in the community.

The Council approved a consent agenda and passed resolutions for the appointment of Township special counsel and consulting engineers. The meeting also featured the swearing-in of numerous volunteers to various boards and committees. During the public comment section, the issue of preserving open space was brought to the forefront by a resident concerned about the sale of a 1-acre lot bordering state-owned land. The Council closed the public portion on a note of communal well-being, with Mayor Perry and council members extending New Year’s greetings.