On Friday, January 6th, the Madison Council chambers were full of energy and applause as the annual reorganization meeting took place. The key business of the meeting was to swear into office Council member Rachel Ehrlich for her second term and Tom Haralampoudis for his first term. Mikie Sherill was unable to attend due to the shenanigans in Congress so State Assemblyman John McKeon stepped in to do the honors for Rachel Ehrlich and State Sen. Richard Codey, the former governor, administered the oath of office for new Council member Tom Haralampoudis.

In an emotional moment, Mayor Bob Conley and every Council member took the microphone to honor the service, both on the Council and throughout the community, of former Council member Maureen Byrne, who decided not to run for a third term.

While they were unable to attend, both Governor Phil Murphy and Representative Mikie Sherrill sent video messages congratulating Ehrlich and Haralampoudis and thanking Byrne for her service. Sherrill also sent a flag dedicated to Byrne that was flown over the Capitol in her honor.

Other important Council business included a unanimous vote to elect John Hoover as its council president for 2023.

The reorganization meeting including many other highlights, including a poignant song by Friends of the Drew Forest, Mayor’s Hero Legacy awards, Distinguished Service awards, appointments to Boards and Commissions and much more. The meeting included the Mayor’s Message to the Citizens of Madison which focused on hope for the year ahead and gratitude for the many volunteers that make Madison so special.

The Madison Eagle has full coverage of the meeting.