2016 – A Major Accomplishment Year

By Mayor Charles J. Daniel

What a year it was! The completion of the Main Street Stormwater Construction Project, Califon’s largest infrastructure improvement project in its approaching 100 year history, has been completed. The inconvenience of the project – traffic delays, business disruptions, construction noise – was temporary, but the improvements – an updated and efficient stormwater discharge system that can be expanded, as well as a new road surface to the downtown area – is permanent. I thank you for your patience and understanding during this project. Special thanks to Borough Clerk Laura Eidsvaag, Councilman Mike Medea, and Engineer Kelly Kimiecik. It’s taken over seven years to complete. Your perseverance is exemplary!

Many people, groups and committees have contributed to the 2016 Califon experience, and for them I am truly grateful. Just a few of the outstanding contributions, as well as events held, have been:

• Another incredibly successful Main Street, Street Fair, led by Jason Beard and the Recreation Committee. This event continues to expand in size and grow in attendance! I am looking forward to next year’s Fair!
• Even though the Memorial Day Celebration was hindered by the threat of rain, it was still held at the Califon Fire Company’s Hall. (Califon was one of the few municipalities in the region who did not cancel their celebration.) Special thanks to the Califon Fire Company for supporting a memorable celebration, as well as Ed Latus for planning and coordinating the events.
• The front office – Borough Clerk Laura Eidsvaag, Deputy Clerk Karen Mastro, Tax Collector Amy Monahan,  CFO Kevin Lifer, Tax Assessor Eloise Hagaman, and Planning Board Secretary Teri Lyons – for running the ‘day to day’ activities of the Borough. Sometimes a ‘thankless’ job that goes unduly noticed.
• Our public safety team – the Califon Fire Company, the Califon First Aid Squad, Chief Jeff Almer and the Washington  Township Police Department, and Beth Wolfmayer, our Emergency Management Coordinator – for providing a close watch over our borough. Excellent service!
• Our school crossing guards – Marlene Dudek and Clayton Huff – for keeping our children safe through all kinds of  weather. Especially, for caring.
• The Califon Borough Council – Kathy Diblasio, Meg Riccio, Gill Smith, Mike Medea, Tony Forrester and Leo  Janas – for your commitment and perseverance throughout the year. I am very fortunate to have a Council that respects each other and works cohesively together. Special thanks to both Kathy and Tony, who are leaving the Council, and a wholehearted welcome to Joe Riccio and Steven Stanaback, our newest Council members.

Yes, there are others, such as the participants and organizers of the River Clean Up Day, as well the Carolers and musicians of the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Because of the volunteerism, dedication and perseverance of the people and groups mentioned above, as well as those not mentioned because of my faulty memory, Califon is truly a wonderful place to live. My sincerest thanks to all of you.

Best wishes to you for a safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Last modified: December 22, 2016