Woodbridge Township Honors Dispatch Heroine and Tackles Routine Council Business
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent Woodbridge Township Council meeting, Mayor John McCormac presented a newly established mayor’s public safety award to public safety telecommunications specialist Darlene Bonia. Her adept handling of a critical 911 call on October 30, 2025, was highlighted as a key moment. Additionally, the council navigated various procedural matters, including the adoption of several ordinances and resolutions, with a notable focus on community support initiatives and public safety.
The meeting commenced with a significant accolade for Darlene Bonia, whose exemplary actions during a domestic violence incident were lauded by Mayor John McCormac and Police Director Joe Miski. This engagement led to a confession. Miski underscored the often-overlooked contributions of dispatchers, emphasizing their importance within the first responder community. Council members, including Brian Small, expressed admiration for Bonia’s work, recognizing the essential nature of dispatchers in ensuring officer safety and effective emergency response.
Following this recognition, formal proceedings began with the approval of minutes from previous meetings and the introduction of several ordinances. Among the ordinances discussed were new parking restrictions on Ridgedale Avenue, Park Place, and Matteline Drive, alongside updates to electric vehicle parking regulations. The council also advanced an ordinance related to property acquisition from the Department of Transportation and established salary ranges for township employees. Each of these motions passed unanimously.
In the community sphere, the council extended holiday greetings and acknowledged local achievements, such as the Woodbridge Broncos cheerleaders securing third place in a national competition. The Vice President highlighted the upcoming championship basketball game between Aano Middle School and Ford’s Middle School, urging community support. Additionally, several members expressed condolences to the police department following the passing of Officer Michael Danny Stani, a dedicated public servant. Community support was also encouraged for the Islen family, whose home was recently lost in a fire.
Mayor McCormac addressed a data breach affecting the service provider for emergency calls, which temporarily disrupted regular notifications. Despite this challenge, alternative communication methods, including televised updates and social media, were utilized to keep residents informed. The mayor noted the substantial police department turnout at a church service honoring a fallen colleague, highlighting community solidarity in times of tragedy.
As the meeting transitioned to further agenda items, members discussed a resolution concerning improvements on Route 440. The legal department commended the Council President’s adept handling of issues throughout the year, particularly amid increased public scrutiny and engagement. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters, followed by the approval of a proposed settlement agreement.
John E. McCormac
City Council Officials:
Cory Spillar, Sharon McAuliffe, Howie Bauer, Virbhadra N. Patel, Debbie Meehan, Lizbeth DeJesus, Gregg M. Ficarra, Brian Small, John M. Mitch (Municipal Clerk)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
12/16/2025
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Recording Published:
12/17/2025
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Duration:
34 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Noteworthy
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Woodbridge
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