Summit Welcomes New Council President, Other Members At Organization Meeting

SUMMIT, NJ — The Summit Common Council got a new look Tuesday night when Mayor Claire Toth assumed her role as President and three new councilmembers were sworn in at the city's Organization Meeting.

Democrats Dan Crisafulli, Jaclyn Lasaracina, and Chantal Landman were all voted in during the November 2025 General Election.

Toth takes over for current president Mike McTernan, who was recognized on Tuesday, along with departing councilmembers Delia Hamlet and Kevin Smallwood, for their time, leadership, and dedication to the City of Summit.

Mayor Elizabeth Fagan also gave her "State of the City" address and discussed highlights from 2025 and how the municipality plans to build on them moving forward.

The addition of multiple new firefighters, the sale of the old firehouse, and the move into a new facility were accompanied by hundreds of residents being able to tour the new building. Summit also completed its Third-Round affordable housing agreement and submitted a plan for the Fourth-Round stage.

Fagan also highlighted the progress made on the implementation of the Tatlock Field lights and other outdoor initiatives. These, she said, create more opportunities for young people "to get outside...get off screens" and "bond with friends through activities that build character, confidence, teamwork, and community."

Along with passing an ordinance surrounding the safety of electronic bikes and scooters, the City also implemented new flashing beacon safety lights at Morris Avenue and Butler Parkway.

Financially, the City maintained its AAA credit rating and increased overall taxes by less than two percent.

Through a combination of grants and capital funds, Summit is looking forward in 2026 to a slate of projects to enhance the walkability and safety of its streets.

These undertakings include revitalizing Ashland Road and sidewalks, adding sidewalks and traffic calming methods to Canoe Brook Partkway, and building on plans to improve different aspects of Broad Street, Springfield Avenue, and Glenside Avenue.

"2025 was a year of real progress," added Fagan, "And in 2026, we will keep building on that momentum, with the same Summit approach: thoughtful, practical, and always focused on protecting the quality of life we all treasure."

The next Common Council meeting will be on Jan. 20 when Police Chief Ryan Peters will also deliver a detailed crime report for the City in 2025.

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