City pays tribute to ‘friend’ Torricelli

At its reorganization meeting Jan. 1, Lambertville recognized U.S. Senator Robert Torricelli for helping it obtain grants for various projects.

By: Linda Seida
   LAMBERTVILLE — Officials honored former Democratic U.S. Sen. Robert Torricelli during the New Year’s Day reorganization meeting, acknowledging the aid he provided in the aftermath of Hurricane Floyd.
   Saying Mr. Torricelli is "a special friend of the city of Lambertville," Mayor David Del Vecchio presented him with a plaque.
   September 1999, floodwaters from the hurricane closed Lambertville Public School. Mr. Torricelli was instrumental in cutting through red tape and helping Lambertville secure cleanup funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency following the hurricane.
   In addition to spearheading disaster relief in the hurricane’s wake, Mr. Torricelli also helped the city secure federal funds for a drainage project on Connaught Hill, according to Mayor Del Vecchio.
   "The senator was always there for us," he said.
   Last year, Mr. Torricelli helped the city secure a federal grant in the amount of almost $300,000, to be used to install a storm drainage system on Connaught Hill to help eliminate road flooding.
   "This is very, very touching," Mr. Torricelli said.
   About the city, he added, "I feel a part of it. I have so many friends here. I love this town. I always have."
   Mr. Torricelli, who resides in Delaware Township, bowed out of the U.S. Senate race against Douglas Forrester, a Republican, last year amid allegations of ethics violations. Frank Lautenberg stepped in for the Democrats and won the election.
   City officials also presented a plaque and their thanks to Edward "Bud" Carmody for his 22 years of service on the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Philip Mackey will replace Mr. Carmody, who is retiring.
   Also during the reorganization meeting, John McManus and Cynthia Ege took the oath of office for City Council. Mr. Manus is entering his seventh three-year term, and Mrs. Ege is entering her third three-year term. Mr. McManus was chosen as council president.
   Also sworn in was Municipal Court Judge Richard Cushing. Mr. Cushing, who will hold the position for three years, is replacing Jeffrey Martin, who retired.