New Mayor, Commissioners Sworn In At Cranford Reorganization Meeting

CRANFORD, NJ — Cranford Township Committee held its annual reorganization meeting on Thursday, Jan. 5, which included the swearing-in ceremonies of newly elected officials.

After defeating their Republican opponents in the general election in November, former mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty and running mate Terrence Curran were sworn in as Township Commissioners. In addition, Brian Andrews was unanimously elected by other committee members to become the new mayor of Cranford.

After her swearing-in, Prunty gave a special thanks to the residents who "voiced their opinion in the best way possible — by voting."

"I am truly, once again, privileged, overwhelmed and honored to serve the residents of Cranford," she said.

New mayor Andrews spoke about four areas of focus he has for 2023.

First, he said he aims to improve the quality of life for Cranford residents. He stressed addressing pedestrian safety issues and mentioned the recent unveiling of a new signal and crosswalk at Springfield Ave. and Penn Road in December.

His second focus is investing in Cranford's infrastructure. He said the town has under-invested in its roads and flood mitigation. He spoke about plans to rebuild the dike in town, as well as invest in more home elevations.

"Families in this town have been waiting far too long to get their homes elevated, and the Deputy Mayor stepped into that last year and it has made a difference in some lives," Andrews said.

His third focus is to improve the local government in order to create more transparency with the public and improve communication.

Lastly, he aims to focus on living Cranford's values.

"We want Cranford to remain a community that is inviting and welcoming to all types of families, all types of residents."

Andrews also mentioned being environmental stewards and praised Commissioner Curran for his goal to plant 1,000 trees in the town to replace those that have been taken down over the last decade.

Jason Gareis was also unanimously re-elected as the Vice Chair, also known as the Deputy Mayor. This is his second year in that position.

Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle congratulated all the new members in a Facebook post, which can be viewed below:

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