Douglas Newman Says Farewell at Final Board of Trustees Meeting

In the , Village President Douglas Newman cited progress made, and was lauded for the same, during Monday’s board of trustees meeting.

In addition to regular business, noted in stories to come, Newman spoke to the “six key pillars,” or areas of South Orange governance that he and the Pure Progress slate intended to address after winning election in 2007.  He listed numerous examples of achievement in the following areas, despite, as he noted, a “historic recession:”

Governing with respect and transparency;

Fiscal management and property taxes;

Supporting public safety;

Downtown revitalization and redevelopment;

Supporting recreation, cultural affairs, open space and historic preservation; and

Supporting excellence in education.

Newman noted that “a governing body’s work is never done,” and explained that he ran for village president in 2007 because he “cares deeply for this community.”

He foresees challenges ahead, specifically the role municipal government will play in future years, as fiscal challenges mount. 

Newman lauded the “hard work, dedication and professionalism” of village employees and volunteers, citing the community’s commitment to volunteerism. He praised his colleagues on the board of trustees, noting that in listing achievement of the past four years, he spoke as “we,” not “I.” “It truly is a team effort,” he said.

Newman noted in closing that, “There is always more to do.”

In reply and speaking for the trustees, former running mate Deborah Davis Ford agreed, but credited Newman for doing “the heavy lifting.” She presented Newman with a proclamation and a statuette.

“In 2007,” she recalled, “we had the audacity, the courage, to say, ‘We’ll get the job done.’” Despite changing and challenging economic conditions, she said, “he has been a fearless leader.”

Essex County Freeholder Carol Clark noted that Newman was “a political neophyte” when he was elected, and cited his “tremendous acumen.”  “He’s a quick study,” she said.

County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo’s spokeman lauded Newman, on behalf of DiVincenzo, for his “tremendous work ethic.”

Likewise Congressman Bill Pascrell cited Newman’s “extensive involvement in the community.”

 Maplewood’s former mayor Jerry Ryan also spoke to Newman’s abilities, praising the “tone he set,” and “how easy it was to collaborate.” Shared services with Maplewood, noted Ryan, was a hallmark of Newman’s term.

Ryan also noted that Newman will have a new and unfamiliar experience soon. “It’s called free time,” he said. “Enjoy it.”