Above: Gottheimer swears in Mayor Howard Burrell today in Vernon.

Today, Wednesday, January 1, 2020, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) administered the oath of office to Vernon Mayor Howard Burrell, Councilmember Harry J. Shortway, Councilwoman Kelly Weller, Vernon Fire Department Chief Jason Alba, McAfee Fire Department Deputy Chief Thomas Murray, Highland Lakes Fire Chief Tom Ferry, and Deputy Chief Scott Semchesyn.

“I can think of no better way to kick off the new year than having Republicans and Democrats come together, especially in a time like this. I’m honored to administer the oath of office to such incredible leaders today, who have already done so much for the Vernon community,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “Vernon is in good hands with Mayor Burrell and his impressive experience with the Air Force, as well as previously serving as a County Freeholder, on the Council, and on the School Board. He’s also served our community on numerous commissions and boards, including the Fifth Congressional District Service Academy Nomination Selection Committee, North Jersey District Water Supply Commission, New Jersey Selective Service System Local Board, and the Centenary University Board of Trustees.”

“Councilwoman Kelly Weller brings eighteen years of business experience and countless hours of community service on the Board of the Recreation Committee to the Vernon Council. I know she will continue to shape the community for years to come,” Gottheimer continued. “Councilman Harry Shortway is no stranger to serving the Vernon community, where he was previously awarded Sussex County’s Mayor of the Year and is currently working on bringing more hiking trails closer to town and continuing to fight to clean up dangerous dirt piles harming our families.”

Gottheimer continued, “I would also like to thank and congratulate our first responders and four firefighters, Vernon Fire Chief Jason Alba, McAfee Fire Deputy Chief Thomas Murray, Highland Lakes Fire Chief Tom Ferry, and Deputy Chief Scott Semchesyn for being sworn in today. These are brave members of our community who keep our families safe and always have our backs. We must always have theirs.”

Below: Gottheimer swears in Councilwoman Kelly Weller.

Below: Gottheimer swears in Councilman Harry Shortway.

Below: Gottheimer swears in (left to right) Vernon Fire Dept. Chief Jason Alba, Highland Lakes Fire Chief Tom Ferry, Deputy Chief Scott Semchesyn, and McAfee Fire Dept. Deputy Chief Thomas Murray.

Below: Gottheimer swears in Mayor Howard Burrell today in Vernon.

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