Newly Elected Officials Sworn in to Office

Newly sworn in elected officials

 The biennial meeting of the Common Council last night was the occasion for the swearing in of newly elected officials. Mayor Ben Florsheim presided over the ceremony for the first time, and he kept it short and to the point. 

Debra Guss, Emily Jackson, Jon Pulino, and Charles Wiltsie were sworn in as Board of Education members. Pulino is beginning his second term, all others are new to the Board.

Shanay Fulton, Sebastian Giuliano, and Nick Fazzino were sworn in as full Commissioners on the Planning and Zoning Commission. Fazzino is a long-serving commissioner who was re-elected, Fulton is vacating her seat as an alternate to become a full commissioner, and Giuliano is beginning his first term on the Commission. Hillary Thompkins was sworn in as an alternate commissioner.

Mayor Florsheim opened the ceremonies with what he said was the best advice he received two years ago upon his election, "First, you never know what will come. Second, no matter what [it is] we will navigate it if we work together."

The benediction was by Father Russell Kennedy of St. Francis of Assisi Church, who gave an equally short speech, below in its entirety.

As you know, we live in a time of discourtesy, a time of not respecting other people's opinions and for these new people I pray for their safety. I pray they will not be physically or verbally assaulted, and that they will have the strength to follow their convictions and do their jobs as they have. I thank you for coming and I ask for God's blessing on you and your families. Amen. 

More photos below the jump.

Shanay Fulton, sworn in as P&Z commissioner

Sebastian Giuliano, sworn in as P&Z commissioner

Debra Guss, sworn in as Board of Ed member

Jon Pulino, sworn in as Board of Ed member