HOWELL – Three newcomers to municipal government were sworn in as members of the Township Council when Howell’s governing body held its 2019 reorganization meeting on Jan. 1 at the municipal building.
In November, voters elected Republicans Thomas Russo and Pamela Richmond, and Democrat John Bonevich to four-year terms on the council.
On Jan. 1, Russo, Richmond and Bonevich joined Democratic Mayor Theresa Berger and Republican Councilwoman Evelyn O’Donnell on the governing body. Republicans hold a 3-2 majority.
Bonevich said he was impressed with all those who made it out to the reorganization meeting on New Year’s Day and he thanked his family members and friends for their support.
“I know times are crazy. In the nation things are up and down and the state seems to be torn apart, and walking around going door to door we seem torn apart. I just ask that you all look at me as a citizen who cares and just wants to make a difference,” Bonevich told those assembled in the meeting room. “Thank you for your trust.”
He congratulated Richmond and Russo on their victory in the election.
Richmond thanked and recognized dignitaries who were in attendance, including Howell Police Chief Andrew Kudrick, Monmouth County Clerk Christine Hanlon, former mayor Joe Dibella and former deputy mayor Robert Nicastro.
She said it has been a privilege to do what she has been doing.
“Walking the town, shaking hands, meeting people, it is totally a new venture for me. I take pride and I am truly and deeply humbled by this opportunity the people in Howell have granted me,” Richmond said.
She said nobody has worked harder than Russo and she congratulated Bonevich on his election to the council. She said she looks forward to working with him, O’Donnell and Berger.
“I want to take a moment and thank my dear friend and outgoing councilman and former mayor Bob Walsh. Bob’s contributions to this township are too great to list here today, but suffice it to say he has left a lasting and favorable impact on this town.
“Bobby recruited me to run for office and without him I would not be standing here today. He is a great man and he served Howell well over many years in office. I ask the entire township to think of Councilman Walsh as he deals with his health challenges and pray for a speedy recovery,” Richmond said.
The new councilwoman said she never thought she would be involved in politics, let alone get elected.
“As many of you heard me say, I am not a politician. I am a working mom who cares about our community and I have decided it is time to try and help make a difference,” Richmond said.
She added she believes in small and efficient government that spends money “as if it was our own.”
“I want to ensure we hold the line on taxes and I am in favor of protected open space and the rural character of our community. I oppose high-density housing of any kind and I believe we must give our police, rescue and EMS services the resources that will keep us safe,” Richmond said.
Russo, who was born and raised in Howell, thanked his wife, parents, family members and friends for their support. He also thanked all the residents who showed their support for him. The new councilman recognized outgoing council members Walsh, Nicastro and Pauline Smith.
“Mayor Berger recognized the outgoing council members and in doing so I think she mentioned the years of service each person served. I think it was something like 50 years combined between Deputy Mayor Robert Nicastro, former mayor Bob Walsh and Councilwoman Pauline Smith; 50 years, a half-century,” he said.
Russo spoke about growing up in Howell, walking around town and through the woods, and never worrying about his safety.
“The town truly is a gem. When I look back it is hard not to credit the outgoing council members,” he said, adding that he is grateful to have the opportunity to serve his hometown.
“I promise I will give this job everything I have. I will be accessible, I work in town, a mile down the road (from the municipal building). I am always here and I will always give 100 percent and act in the best interests of this town. I can guarantee that, take it to the bank,” Russo said.
Russo nominated O’Donnell to serve as deputy mayor and Richmond seconded the motion. The council members voted unanimously to elect O’Donnell to serve in that position for 2019.