CLARK — During Tuesday night’s meeting of the Clark Township Council, the regular order of business was suspended to recognize Recreation Director Ralph Bernardo for his recent Municipal Alliance Award, which he won out of the 21 towns in Union County.

Mr. Bernardo has been the Clark Recreation Director for 20 years. He has been running the Municipal Alliance for 14 years, which is a collaboration of local governments and community groups that work together to address shared community issues. It has helped towns combine resources to create more effective solutions. Mayor Angel Albanese stated he “has been a driving force behind countless community initiatives.”

Those initiatives include the Clark Pool recreation activities, managing the Clark Teen Center, running the annual summer camp, and organizing and managing town events.

“I love what I do every day, and every day going to work is not like going to work for me,” said Mr. Bernardo. “I put my heart and soul into the job every day, I give the residents the best I can, I have an indescribable passion for every event, program or activity that I lead.”

He also thanked the many volunteers who helped him run recreational programs, as well as the residents for their participation in community events. Mr. Bernardo also thanked the Business Administrator, Jim Ulrich, for keeping him in check when he overbudgets.

“It’s not being reckless with money, it’s just me wanting the best and most for the residents of this town,” he added.

Councilmembers also extended congratulations to Mr. Bernardo on his award, including Councilwoman Jessie Hoff, who called him Clark’s “local national treasure.”

Councilman Steven Hund also extended congratulations, stating it’s a “well-deserved award as we know he gives plenty to the town.”