Mayor Joann Gattinelli talks community safety, sustainability and holiday celebrations
OEM Exercise at ManorCare
On Nov. 14, I was happy to learn of our Washington Township emergency management personnel participating in yet another exercise for an extremely dangerous scenario. An exercise like this is important because it allows all emergency agencies to discuss and prepare for a specific emergency scenario. Our Office of Emergency Management Coordinator Ernie D’Orazio attended to demonstrate the township’s role from the municipal OEM and public works perspective. The Washington Township first responders, including the Washington Township Police Department, Washington Township Ambulance and Rescue Association and the Washington Township Fire District, did a phenomenal job demonstrating how they would respond in a dangerous scenario and how they would work with ManorCare to ensure their staff and residents were kept as safe as possible. Thank you to ManorCare for holding this exercise to ensure your residents and our Washington Township residents are safe in the event of an emergency, and thank you to our emergency response agencies for always displaying the utmost professionalism and knowledge in handling tough situations.
Washington Township is a sustainable community
I am pleased to announce Washington Township is officially recognized as a Certified Sustainable Community by Sustainable Jersey. We can count ourselves among the more than 200 New Jersey municipalities who have achieved this status. Washington Township’s Business Administrator Jason Gonter, Councilman Sean Longfellow, Vicky Binetti and Leon Lakritz were able to accept this award on behalf of Washington Township at the League of Municipalities Conference on Nov. 14 at the Sustainable Jersey luncheon. A huge thanks goes to our Environmental Commission and Green Team that has put so much time and energy into the Sustainable Township initiative. I am proud Washington Township has taken these steps to “Go Green” and take care of our community.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
With the holiday season approaching, I am excited for the fun community events coming up. On Friday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., we will hold the Washington Township Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington Lake Park. This free, family-friendly event is a great way to get in the holiday spirit with the whole community. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be there for the kids, along with hot chocolate and cookies in a heated tent. In addition, Christmas carols will be sung by the Washington Township High School Choir. Stay tuned for Breakfast with Santa and other holiday events coming up. I wish all the residents in Washington Township a happy holiday season!
Joann Gattinelli is the mayor of Washington Township. She can be reached at mayorgattinelli@twp.washington.nj.us.
