Kathy Mitchell and Gina Berry were sworn-in as Fanwood Council members today during the Borough’s annual reorganization meeting of the Mayor and Council on Monday, January 2, 2023.

Councilwoman Mitchell sworn in

Mitchell, sworn-in to her eighth consecutive term by Borough Attorney Russell Huegel, was accompanied by her niece Cynthia Sleeper and Cynthia’s children Kayla and Ian. Councilwoman Mitchell has long been the Council’s advocate for senior projects and said one of her pet projects for this term will be to bring better transportation to Fanwood’s older community.

Councilwoman Berry sworn in

Berry, a first-time Councilwoman, was sworn-in by Mayor Colleen Mahr as her husband Jamal held the bible and her children, Justin, Jenai and Jared looked on. Berry, a long-time volunteer and community advocate, promised to continue reaching out to residents to nurture diversity and inclusion for all citizens of Fanwood.

Both Councilwomen were elected in November. Their certificates of election were presented by Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi.

Outgoing Councilwoman Francine Glaser

Berry replaces Francine Glaser who did not run for re-election. Glaser made emotional remarks citing her decision to concentrate on her career as the reason for not seeking a second term. Mayor Mahr thanked her for her service and gifted her with a fleece jacket and a wall-hanging of the Fanwood seal.

Also sworn in was the Borough prosecutor, Daniel Antonelli, whose daughter Isabella held the bible, and officers of the Fanwood Rescue Squad.

It was a family affair for Councilwoman Berry whose cousin, Nelta Paul, sang the Star Spangled Banner. Her sister, Dr. Rochelle Archelus, said the Invocation and her brother, Wesny Archelus, gave the Benediction.

A local Girl Scout troop formed a color guard, presenting the American flag for the Pledge of Allegiance and the national anthem.

Mayor Mahr’s remarks reviewed major achievements of the governing body during 2022 noting that the town’s population has grown significantly in the past two decades with median home values now at $500,000. She thanked the volunteers who occupy the town’s boards and commissions, rescue squad and fire department and thanked the Council for its service for $1 a year.