Swearing In Ceremony for Mayor and Council 2026

Updated about 12 hours ago

Chapters

Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:30)
The Oak Side Seniors led the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Oak Side Seniors were invited to come up and lead the Pledge of Allegiance. The audience joined in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
National Anthem (00:02:51)
Zoe Pearl Ipe performed the National Anthem.

Zoe Pearl Ipe, from Bloomfield High School, performed the National Anthem. The audience listened and applauded her performance.
Blessing by Reverend Susan Doward (00:05:54)
Reverend Susan Doward gave a blessing for the new leadership.

Reverend Susan Doward from Brookdale Reform Church gave a blessing for the newly sworn-in leaders of Bloomfield. She spoke about the significance of the swearing-in ceremony and offered prayers for guidance and wisdom.
Welcome and Introduction by Councilwoman Sarah Cruz (00:09:03)
Councilwoman Sarah Cruz welcomed attendees and introduced the event.

Councilwoman Sarah Cruz introduced herself and welcomed everyone to the meeting. She expressed excitement about the swearing-in of five women to the council, marking a historic occasion.
Introduction of Lieutenant Governor Elect Dr. Dale Caldwell (00:10:42)
Dr. Dale Caldwell was introduced as the Lieutenant Governor Elect.

Councilwoman Sarah Cruz introduced Dr. Dale Caldwell, the newly elected Lieutenant Governor, highlighting his contributions to New Jersey and expressing enthusiasm for working with him.
Remarks by Dr. Dale Caldwell (00:11:09)
Dr. Dale Caldwell spoke about the importance of public service.

Dr. Dale Caldwell gave brief remarks emphasizing the importance of public service and the responsibilities of those in public office. He encouraged understanding and respect for public servants.
Introduction of Dignitaries and Officials (00:11:27)
Dignitaries and officials present were introduced by Sarah Cruz.

Councilwoman Sarah Cruz introduced various dignitaries and elected officials present at the meeting, including reverends, assembly members, county officials, and former mayors.
Certification of Election (00:15:09)
Certification of election results by Louise Pollo.

Louise Pollo presented the certification of election results, confirming the election of Jill Fishman as Bloomfield Council at large, signed by County Clerk Christopher Durkin.
Swearing-In Ceremony (00:17:39)
Swearing-in of elected council members and mayor.

The newly elected council members and mayor were sworn in, including Jill Fishman, Tracy Toler Phillips, Monica Charis Tobais, Rosalie Gonzalez, and Mayor Jenny Mondell. Each took their oath of office with family and officials present.
Remarks by Mayor Jenny Mondell (00:31:03)
Mayor Jenny Mondell gave remarks on the past year's achievements.

Mayor Jenny Mondell gave a speech reflecting on the achievements of the past year, including a new master plan, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement efforts. She emphasized the importance of community-focused leadership.
Closing Blessing by Reverend Dr. Steven Webb (00:39:00)
Reverend Dr. Steven Webb offered a closing blessing for the township.

Reverend Dr. Steven Webb from New Life Christian Church gave a closing blessing, praying for wisdom, unity, and guidance for the newly sworn-in officials and the community of Bloomfield.
Recess and Conclusion (00:42:22)
The meeting concluded with a recess before the council conference meeting.

The ceremony concluded with an announcement of a short recess, followed by a township council conference meeting, which attendees were welcome to join.