Politics & Government

Mayor Huber, Committeeman Fernandez Eager to Serve Springfield in 2014

Richard Huber was sworn in as Springfield's mayor while David Barnett will serve as deputy mayor.

Springfield Township welcomed its new mayor, Richard Huber, at its organization meeting Wednesday afternoon.

The standing-room-only-crowd, including Sen. Tom Kean, Assemblyman Jon Bramnick and Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz, applauded as the longtime resident, who served as deputy mayor in 2013, was unanimously selected following a nomination by fellow Democrat Committeeman David Barnett. 

Huber said he and his wife, Ginny, chose to move to the Township 40 years ago to start their family because of Springfield's "beautiful charm, excellent schools and wonderful people." The new mayor thanked residents for their faith in him and assured all that he intends to act in the best interest of Springfield to continue to ensure that it remains a "wonderful place" to live.

Newly-elected Jerry Fernandez was also sworn in, flanked by his wife and three young sons. The Republican, who previously sat on the committee but lost his bid for re-election in 2012, said he knows from having won and lost what an honor it is to serve. 

He said while the committee might be comprised of Republicans and Democrats, its members are residents first, who "care greatly about the town we call home." Fernandez thanked his friends and family for their support and said he looks forward to hearing the concerns of fellow residents. On Sunday, he will hold office hours from 1 to 3 p.m. at Town Hall. 

Barnett was nominated and chosen to serve as deputy mayor. Members of the working committees for 2014, viewable here, were also appointed and those in attendance were sworn in. 

Pastor of St. James the Apostle, Rev. John Gabriel, delivered the invocation at the beginning of the meeting, while Rabbi Mendy Blesofsky of the Jewish Learning Center led the closing benediction. 

For more on the meeting, view the attached video. The committee will hold a workshop meeting on Monday, Jan. 13. The regular meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 14. 


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