Outgoing Mayor David Amlen Thanked for Service to Springfield

Mayor David Amlen presided at his final meeting as chair of the Springfield Township Committee on Tuesday evening. 

The outgoing mayor was presented with a plaque and thanked for service by his Democratic colleagues on the committee as well as members of the public.

Following an honored Township tradition, Amlen was also "mugged," Committeewoman Margaret Bandrowski explained, as he was presented with a huge mug bearing the Township logo and filled with candies. 

In thanking Amlen, Bandrowski said he worked "tirelessly and quietly without a lot of public appreciation." She added that he was always available and said she will miss his presence on the dais. 

Deputy Mayor Richard Huber, who was reelected in November, said Amlen taught him "a lot" and noted that Springfield celebrated significant achievements this year in the opening of the new athletic complex at Jonathan Dayton High School and the 'Senior Wing' at the Chisholm Center. 

Committeeman-elect Jerry Fernandez thanked Amlen for his service and said he looks forward to Amlen's continued community involvement as a private citizen.

Resident Bob Groder also thanked Amlen and wished him success in his future endeavors. 

Amlen said he has realized that government works best when approached from a "bottom up" rather than a "top down" mentality. The mayor and members of the committee wished the public a happy new year. 

The Township Committee will hold its reorganization meeting at 2 p.m. on New Year's Day. A workshop meeting will be held on Monday, Jan. 13 and the regular meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 14.