Westwood Officials Reflect on 2010, Look to the Year Ahead

Government officials, appointees and residents gathered Tuesday night for the borough's 117th reorganization meeting at the . They discussed the past year and looked ahead to what they hope will be a successful 2011.

Councilman Robert Miller and Councilwoman Ingrid Quinn were sworn in to three-year terms and each spoke about the times ahead.

Quinn thanked members of the community for their commitment to reopening a hospital on the former Pascack Valley Hospital site. "I believe together the doors will reopen to a full service hospital providing quailty care to our community once again," she said.

She also said she was grateful for all the work that has been done at . "I'm excited for the day we open the facility and it's enjoyed by all," she said.

Quinn said she knows that the economy has affected Westwood and that the governing body has to continue to be financially responsible so senior citizens can stay in the borough and young families can afford to move to Westwood.

Miller, who served as council president in 2010 and was selected once again in that capacity for this year, thanked his family, the governing body, borough staff and community members for all they've done for him and for Westwood.

He said he has high hopes for the future and wants to make progress with everyone in the community. "Let's make 2011 the year that everyone is part of the solution," he said.

During his "State of the Borough," Mayor John Birkner Jr. talked about accomplishments in 2010, including the ,  and successful cost saving measures, including a mere 1 percent increase in the municipal tax rate. He also highlighted the way the community came together in early 2010 after the tragic death of Marine Sgt. Christopher Hrbek.

"2011 holds much promise for the continued progress in our borough," Birkner said. He said he hopes to move the project of reconfiguring intersections along Broadway along.

He also said helping get a full hospital in the borough is a priority. He said he is counting on residents to come out and show their support at upcoming public hearings on the issue. "The fight is not over and we will not give up," he said.

Overall, Birkner said he is looking forward to a successful 2011. "I would say 2010 has been challenging, but the greater the challenge, the greater the reward," he said. "The many small steps forward we have made make progress and add to great achievements and great hope for the future."

In addition to talking about the borough, several service members were recognized for their commitment to Westwood. Mayor Birkner presented outgoing Fire Chief Marc Fedorchak with a plaque honoring his service. Charles Haffler was named as the Fire Department's volunteer of the year, Bonnie Costello was named volunteer of the year for the Ambulance Corps and Joseph Latino was named the Police Reserves volunteer of the year. All three were inducted into the Volunteer Emergency Services Hall of Fame.

Members of various organizations and board appointees were also sworn in to their positions.

APPOINTMENTS MADE DURING THE REORGANIZATION MEETING:

Appraisal Systems, Inc.