New Year Brings Few Changes to Jefferson Council

Richard Yocum, Robert Birmingham and Jay Dunham were officially sworn in as council members at Wednesday's reorganization meeting.

"Congratulations to Bob and Jay and Rick on your election this year," Councilwoman Debi Merz said. "I know that you will continue representing the town the very best you possibly can, as you always have in the past."

Additionally, Yocum, who has served on the council for 20 years, was re-appointed as council president, a position he has held for "16 or 17 years," he said. Councilman Michael Sanchelli was appointed as council vice president, replacing Merz in the role.

"To my fellow council members, I thank you once again for your confidence [in appointing me]," Yocum said. "Thank you very much, I appreciate it."

Also at the meeting, Mayor Russell Felter made his 2013 appointments which were highlighted by Kathleen Valva's selection to the Morris County Open Space Committee, a one-year term. The council also made its 2013 appointments, which included Irv Ackerson and Edwin Mangold to four-year terms on the board of adjustment and William Kramer as a two-year alternate on the same board.

Merz and Yocum were named as liaisons to the board of education and Interagency Committee during the council president's appointments.