Hlubik chosen as mayor

Kelly elected deputy mayor

By:Vanessa S. Holt
   CHESTERFIELD — According to township tradition, Michael Hlubik was chosen by the Township Committee to serve as mayor in the third year of his committee term and sworn in on Jan. 2.
   Last year’s mayor, Lawrence Durr, also took an oath of office at the reorganization meeting for the three-year committee term he won in November 2002. Brian Kelly was elected deputy mayor by the committee. Township Committee members here generally serve as a committee member in the first year of a term, as deputy mayor in the second, and as mayor in the third.
   "As we look back on our accomplishments it gives me a great deal of pride to live in this community," said Mayor Hlubik at the brief morning reorganization meeting. He praised township employees, including Township Clerk Bonnie Haines, as well as the professional staff, his fellow committee members and citizen volunteers.
   "They are the guardians of our comfort and safety," he said of the community’s many volunteers. "They serve us every day and are hardly noticed. I hope a lot more community members take an interest."
   He also encouraged residents to stay informed about local issues, noting the upcoming vote on a school bond in March.
   "Last year we talked about it being a difficult year, with the sewers," said Mr. Durr. "I think it went much smoother than I anticipated and I’m proud of that and the people we have working for us. I’m proud of how it has worked out without cost overruns and waste. It’s a tribute to our professionals and to our staff."
   He also praised the township Police Department at the meeting, which was attended by Sgt. Kyle Wilson.
   "They are well-respected in the community and in other communities," Mr. Durr said.
   The committee passed a resolution appointing a new patrolman, Ryan Mattek, to the police force. Professional staff members reappointed included solicitor John Gillespie, engineer Nancy Jamanow and prosecutor Mark Tarantino.
   Committee members also approved a resolution reappointing Bonnie Goldman as Municipal Court judge.
   The Township Committee meets at 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month in the municipal building.