Mayor and Council Reorganization Meeting January 5 2010

Mayor and Council Meeting 01-05-10 Highlights of the meeting were the appearances of Governor Elect Chris Christie, State Senator Bob Gordon, the State of the Borough message by Mayor Tedesco and the Department and Committee assignments. Standing room only was available as family, friends, Borough Department personnel and members of the Police and Fire Department and the media attended the Reorganization meeting.

The Governor elect was there to swear in the two new Republican candidates, Mike Rohdieck and Alan Brundage. He had done the same a year previously when Cathy Bentz and Maureen O'Brien were sworn in. Christie was swamped by well wishers and chatted amiably with the press. After the swearing in ceremony, he left immediately to continue his rounds.

Senator Bob Gordon was there to welcome the two new Council members and commend them. He sat next to me and across the railing from Governor elect Chris Christie. Although they had chatted before the meeting, Christie concentrated on the meeting and there was no chitchat. I never got a chance to introduce myself! Senator Gordon also left to continue his rounds. Assemblywoman Connie Wagner was unable to attend, but sent her congratulations.

Mayor Tedesco gave his State of the Borough message and stressed party unity, the budget and its effect on the DPW leaf pickup, the pool reopening, a new Senior Center and stressed that we live in a wonderful town called Paramus.

Members of the Library Board were present along with Librarian Len LoPinto. As is their custom, they humorously designated books in honor of each member of the Council and the Mayor. These books will be available at the Paramus Library to be read by the public.

The appointments and reappointments caused a bit of a problem, but most of the people were reappointed. Certain Official Committees to be appointed by the Mayor were tabled until the next meeting on January 26th. They were: Parade & Block Party, TV Advisory, Mayor's Substance Abuse , Towing, Cultural Arts and Historic.

The appointments of the Council Committees and Liaison Committees will be listed in separate articles.