Gov. Elect Sherrill Swears In Dougherty As Mayor Of Morristown

MORRISTOWN, NJ — New year, same mayor in Morristown once again, only this time, Tim Dougherty was sworn into the position by the first Democrat Governor slated to take office.

On New Year’s Day, Mikie Sherrill came to Morristown to usher Dougherty into his fifth consecutive term as mayor.

The event took place during the town’s annual reorganization meeting at Thomas Jefferson School.

“As many of you can imagine, to be here today in what was the heart of my congressional district, now as we kick off the 250th Anniversary of our nation… It is incredibly special,” Sherrill said. “As we think about what the future can hold for our kids, I know we faced some tough times, but I can’t feel anything but hope today, as we think about what we could create here.”

“I can’t thank the Governor Elect, Mikie Sherrill, for being here today,” Dougherty said. “It’s such an honor for our community.”

Dougherty took the Oath of Office in front of his family, as he had done four times previously.

The mayor said that Morristown is not “standing still,” but instead “stepping forward.” Some of the mayor’s intentions in his fifth term include rejuvenation of North Park Place, the former lumber yard, the Speedwell Corridor, among other projects.

Additionally, the mayor intends to continue its work on Lot 10 regarding Morristown’s parking garage, work with Morristown Medical Center on its proposed expansion, and collaborate with NJ transportation officials to improve traffic flow.

“These projects are about more than just buildings, they’re about access, they’re about opportunity,” he said. “They’re about making sure the next generation in Morristown is stronger, smarter, and more connected than the one we were given.”

Dougherty also thanked the leaders of surrounding towns, many of whom were in attendance, for their collaboration and for proving that “our residents do not live in red towns or blue towns,” but prove to be “communities that work together for the betterment of its citizens.”

Joining Dougherty in returning to the dais were Nathan Umbriac, Toshiba Foster, and David Silva, who were sworn in by Superior Court Judge Vij Pawar, the former Morristown attorney.

Voted unanimously to become Morristown’s Council President was Steve Pylypchuk, followed by Vice President Chris Russo. Both of their terms expire in 2017.

“Your trust is not something I take lightly; it is something I carry with me in every decision, every meeting, and every plan for this town,” Dougherty said. “Thank you for your patience, your
strength, and your constant reminder of why this work matters. The future of Marstown is not something we wait for. It's something we built together.”