Elmwood Park's Borough Council made significant strides in community governance during its reorganization meeting on January 2, 2025, with a series of appointments aimed at enhancing local boards and committees.

Mayor Robert Colletti announced the appointment of Salvatore Alaino to the Board of Adjustment for a four-year term, ending December 31, 2028. This appointment was unanimously approved by the council, reflecting a commitment to maintaining effective oversight of local zoning and land use decisions.

In addition to Alaino, the council confirmed several appointments to the Recreation Advisory Board. Carol Green and Aziz Corneiro were appointed to fulfill unexpired terms ending December 31, 2026, while George Shama was appointed for a full three-year term, concluding December 31, 2027. These appointments are expected to bolster community engagement in recreational activities and programs.

The council also addressed the growing cannabis sector by appointing Francesco Fasolo, Pamela Choisy, Joseph Pride, and Jeanette Randazzle to the borough's Cannabis Board, each for a one-year term ending December 31, 2025. These appointments are crucial as the borough navigates the regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis, ensuring local interests are represented.

Furthermore, Stacy Mola was appointed to the Library Board for a five-year term, ending December 31, 2029, highlighting the borough's dedication to enhancing library services and community resources.

The meeting concluded with additional mayoral appointments to the Planning Board, including Andrew Tesolano and Jeffrey Freitag Jr. for four-year terms, and Carl Roberts as the mayor's delegate. These appointments are vital for guiding future development and planning initiatives in Elmwood Park.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect a proactive approach to governance, aiming to strengthen community services and ensure effective management of local resources. The council's unanimous support for these appointments underscores a collaborative effort to enhance the quality of life for Elmwood Park residents.