Democrats Take Control Of Scotch Plains, New Mayor Sworn In

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — There are big changes in Scotch Plains for 2021 as Democrats take control of the council.

Democrat Joshua Losardo was sworn in as the new Mayor of Scotch Plains and Ellen Zimmerman as councilwoman. Both had defeated Republican incumbents Alexander Smith and Theodore Sperain the November election.

During Losardo's mayoral address for 2021 he noted that all council meetings will now be held virtually-only and at an earlier time of 5 p.m.

"As of [Tuesday] 901 cases of coronavirus were reported in Scotch Plains. The numbers climb daily and authorities believe this is because of small indoor gatherings when our guard is down. One of this council's priorities is to protect our residents and to that end, all residents are urged to be vigilant in this fight in this terrible virus."

Scotch Plains resident Joe Sarno wrote a letter questioning this change.

"I'm blown away that the response after 2020 from this Council is to start their public meetings while you are at the busiest time of your day! These meetings should be held at 7 p.m. or later to accommodate your busy schedule and give you a chance to be on top of the issues that mean the most to you," Sarno wrote.

Zimmerman noted that the time change was to make it easier for the public to be engaged and tune in.

"During COVID, people would be able to finish their workday and be available at 5 p.m for the meeting and then have the rest of the evening to be with their families," said Zimmerman.

Losardo noted that the time of the meeting can always be changed if it doesn't work out.

Losardo also announced some of his goals for the new year including keeping the redevelopment of the township's downtown a major goal.

"Continuing the township's efforts to redevelop remains crucial for our long-term success. We need to recognize new income streams to reduce our reliance on residents. The entire town should benefit with increased property values in our homes when our downtown is more sought-after and finances more secure than today," said Losardo.

He noted that the township is working with Advance Realty and PS&S as developers for a proposed redevelopment plan, which may take about 6 months to draft.

Losardo also added that the township's green team will be working to make Scotch Plains more sustainable going forward by preserving green space, creating walking paths and bike lanes, and more.

During the meeting, Councilwoman Suman Dahiya-Shah was also selected to fill the vacant council seat and was sworn into office.

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