BERKELEY, NJ — The Township Council’s first meeting post-election was full of well-wishes for Berkeley’s next mayor and state senator, as officials look forward to a bright future under new leadership.
Senator-elect Carmen Amato took a moment to thank everyone who voted him into office and promised that he would continue fighting for Berkeley residents in 2024.
“For the past 30 years, I’ve been serving in some capacity,” Amato said, noting that he moved from the Berkeley Township Board of Education, to the Central Regional Board of Education, to the Township Council and 12 years ago became mayor.
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“It’s been the honor of a lifetime and I look forward to continuing public service,” Amato said. “Because that’s what it’s all about, public service.”
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He also thanked the voters for electing Council President John Bacchione as Berkeley’s next mayor.
“It’s just a reaffirmation that we are moving Berkeley Township in the right direction. We have been doing right by the township, and the voters agree with us in an overwhelming fashion,” Amato said.
Bacchione also voiced his gratitude to the voters, thanking them for putting their trust in himself, Councilman Thomas Grosse, Councilman Keith Buscio and the new Councilman Doug Bowens.
“We are humbled to your support, and we appreciate it,” Bacchione said.
Bacchione said that he enjoys getting to serve the people of Berkeley. “We are a pretty strong, well-organized municipality,” thanks to all of the residents, he said.
Several of those residents, as well as fellow councilmembers, congratulated the victors and said they were hopeful for the future.
Amato is “the best mayor in the whole world,” Councilwoman Sophia Gingrich said. Bacchione is also a “fantastic guy,” she said, and “we couldn’t have elected a better person.”
Amato said he would lean on the council in his new role and that he was sure they would keep reaching out to him to discuss issues in New Jersey.
“I appreciate everyone’s support,” Amato said. “And I look forward to the next step. The next challenge.”
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