BOROUGH OF RAMSEY

lives have been sacrificed for the right to vote and I am happy to live in a country where we have that
right. I am confident that we will come up with decisions that are in the best interest of Ramsey.
Councilman Vozeh thanked everyone for being here and expressed his appreciation to the voters, friends,
mother, and his wife and children. It comes with a responsibility which we do not take lightly. Former
President Ronald Regan once said the nine most terrifying words in the English language were, “I am
from the government and I am here to help”. In Ramsey, we need to work hard to make sure that quote
does not ring true locally. We need to insure professional relationships and respect for all citizens.
We need to have an open door coupled with an open mind and consider all the ramifications before we
make a decision. We are public servants but we also have a need to function through a process and a
systematic approach. Our role needs planning and process. While we need to strive to resolve issues as
quickly as possible, we need to review the ramifications to all citizens. It doesn’t mean that no one is
listening or no one cares, it is better to not shoot from the hip. I will be chairing the Finance and
Administration and we will be looking at the health benefits options. This is a major issue. If a health
benefit plan can be found that reduces costs and provide greater employee benefits, we are all for it.
I believe we need an independent review of our options. It is a duty to make tough decisions. We need
to be cognizant of the delicate balance between cost savings and level of service. Debate is healthy and
we must remember not to polarize the town. I would like to thank my father who passed away a little
more than a year ago, but it was his shining example and dedication to community service that guided me
and put me here before you. Thank you for your trust.
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Council President Botta thanked his colleagues and indicated that he hopes to be able to live up to the
standards which are required for the new year. He looks forward to working with the newly elected
councilmembers. The business of government isn’t always pretty, but we do the best we can and we want
to push the agenda forward. He wished everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year.
Councilman Bisaillon joined the Mayor to present a plaque to Jack Roche who is retiring as president of
the Board of Public Wroks. Mayor stated that there have been a number of challenges over the past 10
years and expressed his appreciation to Jack for his dedication and service to the Board.
Mayor announced that Bill Buckley, Chairman of the Board of Adjustment, is also retiring after 33 years
of service to the Board. Mr. Buckley was unable to attend today.
Council President Botta announced that outgoing Councilmembers Mario Ratto and Julie O’Brien were
not here today but we do have plaques for them and thanked them for their service to the Borough.
Mayor Muti opened the nominations for Class III member of the Planning Boarding. Councilman
Nalbandian nominated Andrew Siemsen, seconded by Bisaillon. Nominations closed. Carried.
Mayor instructed the clerk to cast one ballot for the unanimous election of Andrew Siemsen as the
Class III member of the Planning Board.
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