Swearing in of Westfield’s New Mayor and Town Council

Submitted by Maria Boyes

On New Year’s Day, over 500 residents and dignitaries came together for the Swearing in Ceremony of Westfield’s first female mayor, Shelley Brindle, and four new council members, Linda Habgood, Mike Dardia, David Contract, and Dawn Mackey.
Despite frigid temperatures, guests enjoyed a traditional Flag Ceremony by the Boy Scouts, the Pledge of Allegiance led by the Girl Scouts, and the singing of the National Anthem sung by Westfield High School Graduate Sydney Stewart.
Former Union County Freeholder, Mary Ruotolo, served as Master of Ceremonies, and the invocation was led by Reverend Dr. Mark Boyea of the First Congregational Church of Westfield. United States Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Joseph Greenaway, Jr. officiated the proceedings.
During her speech, Mayor Brindle spoke of instilling a culture that inspires residents to get involved. In doing so, an Open Application Process was put into place inviting all residents to apply. Within weeks, the Town received 446 applications to fill 34 vacancies on existing Boards and Commissions. But Brindle promises there will be additional committees created for citizens to stay engaged.
“New volunteer opportunities will be announced in the weeks to come and there will be something for everyone; technology, events, promotions, master planning and more,” said Brindle, inviting everyone to “stay tuned.”
In closing the Mayor thanked the outgoing mayor and town council members as well as the sitting council, and her family. Additionally, she asked the newly sworn council members, Linda Habgood, Mike Dardia, David Contract, and Dawn Mackey, to join her on the platform.
“I would not be up here today if it wasn’t for the collective effort of this group,” said Brindle. After thanking everyone for coming, she said there was one more thing to do. With that, the five of them turned around and clicked a selfie with the crowd.