New Howell Deputy Mayor Is Councilwoman Pamela Richmond

HOWELL, NJ — Councilwoman Pamela Richmond was elected deputy mayor of Howell during the council reorganization meeting on Tuesday.

"I promise, just like I took the oath, to serve the public to the best that I can. And I'm looking forward to work with all the new appointed people who applied, all the professionals," Richmond said, adding: "Even councilman Bonevich and you mayor."

Last year was marked by a series of tense council meetings, with members sparring amongst themselves and occasionally with the public attending the meetings as well.

Councilman Bonoviched urged everyone to attempt to better work together this year and councilwoman Richmond replied by saying: "You guys couldn't even nominate me for or vote for my deputy mayor. If that doesn't show divisiveness..."

Mayor Theresa Berger and councilman Bonevich (both Democrats) voted against Richmon's appointment and republican councilwomen Suzanne Brennan, Evelyn O'Donnell and Richmond voted in favor.

Former councilman Thomas Russo was selected as deputy mayor last year. He resigned in November, citing changing "personal circumstances" as a reason for leaving.

Republican Suzanne Brennan was sworn in as councilwoman to replace the seat left open by Russo. The newly appointed councilwoman ran last year against incumbent Theresa Berger.

Howell Township is served by a council-manager form of government, in which voters elect the mayor directly, as opposed to the role of deputy mayor which is appointed by council.

The reorganization meeting was held virtually, due to the recent uptick in COVID-19 positive cases. The next meeting in January will likely be online as well.

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