Message from Deputy Mayor Ellen Zimmerman | July 26, 2024
I often think of the many quiet heroes who help ensure that our municipal government runs efficiently and effectively.
These are the individuals who serve on our boards, commissions and advisory groups, as well as in the fire department and rescue squad. They are counted upon month after month, year after year, to generously dedicate their time to Scotch Plains. Rarely do they receive the recognition they deserve.
I am proud to say that will change on Thursday, Aug. 1 as we complete our free summer concert series with special recognition for our municipal volunteers. All are encouraged to grab a blanket or lawn chair and join us at 7 p.m. on the Alan Augustine Village Green, as we listen to the sounds of the Garden State Jazz Orchestra, one of our favorite returning performers.
There will be free ice cream, as just a small token of appreciation for the countless hours of volunteerism that benefits Scotch Plains throughout each year. It is free to participate, but please register here today.
During the concert, we will be recognizing the hundreds of volunteers who serve. The list of organizations is long, but it is important to highlight the many volunteer opportunities that residents are involved with to support municipal government.
The list includes the Scotch Plains Fire Department, the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad, the Construction Board of Appeals, the Environmental Commission, the Recreation Commission, the Library Board of Trustees, the Planning Board, the Zoning Board of Adjustment, the Green Brook Flood Control Commission and the Office of Emergency Management.
There’s also the Plainfield Area Regional Sewer Authority, the Rahway Valley Sewer Authority, the Union County Transportation Advisory Committee, the ADA Advisory Board, the Complete Streets Committee, the Veterans Advisory Board and the Downtown Redevelopment Committee.
We are also honoring the Green Team, the Historical Documentation and Preservation Committee, the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign Committee, the Memorial Day Parade and Concert Committee, the Senior Citizen Advisory Committee, and many, many other groups and individuals who make Scotch Plains such a wonderful place to live.
By serving on these boards, our neighbors and friends are making a real, tangible difference in the lives of their neighbors and contributing to the overall well-being of Scotch Plains.
By sharing their perspectives and expertise, volunteers can ensure that the needs and concerns of residents are adequately represented in town hall. Volunteering also provides residents with a deeper understanding of local government operations, the challenges faced by the Mayor and Township Council, and the complexities of public policy – even at the local level.
Join us on August 1 as we recognize the many diverse individuals who have a shared commitment to public service in Scotch Plains. On behalf of the Mayor and my Council colleagues, I want to thank these many volunteers for their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, all of which make our town an even better place to live.
