FANWOOD — The borough council wrapped up its 2024 session on Monday evening by welcoming a local Girl Scout troop that not only led the meeting in the pledge of allegiance but also stayed for the entire 40-minute meeting to get an up-close view of how local government operates.
The procedures and processes of municipal government were explained to members of Girl Scout Cadette Troop 40969 as the council worked its way through the agenda. Further, each council member explained his or her roles on various standing committees — such as finance, public safety, recreation and public works — and what those committees do.
In other business, the council approved a shared-services agreement with Garwood to share the services of borough Public Works Director Clint Dicksen. Paula Ferreira was appointed as borough tax collector, payroll supervisor and qualified purchasing agent. Cheyenne Mastrotti was named to the historic preservation commission.
Briefly addressing the spate of drone activity over parts of New Jersey in recent weeks, Councilwoman Patricia Walsh said Fanwood officials “are working closely” with the borough and state police departments and the governor’s office. “We are asking questions and we are advocating to get answers,” she said.
Ms. Walsh also saluted Lieutenant Dan Kranz, who last week graduated from the FBI’s National Academy in Quantico, Va., which offers 11 weeks of advanced communication, leadership and fitness training.
The governing body’s annual reorganization meeting — with reelected council members Erin McElroy- Barker and Patricia Walsh being sworn in to new, three-year terms — will be held on Monday, January 6.
