Assistant Finance Officer and Human Resource Officer Colette Bachich was recognized with a proclamation
At last week’s council meeting, Mayor Joann Gattinelli recognized Washington Township’s first Employee of the Month, Colette Bachich.
A resident of Washington Township for 15 years, Bachich balances two jobs as the assistant finance officer and human resource officer, a position that was implemented this year.
According to Gattinelli, the new Employee of the Month program seeks to “encourage employees to put their best foot forward and take pride in their work.” Those recognized with the honor are employees who embody dedication and ambition in their service to Washington Township.
“The program further recognizes those who go above and beyond during their time serving the residents and work to the best of their abilities in Washington Township,” Gattinelli said.
Her peers selected Bachich for the honor, as she has demonstrated her ability to “help anyone” and takes pride in her work.
“This employee works efficiently in balancing both roles, and while at work is positive and encouraging to other employees,” Gattinelli said.
Bachich, who was in attendance with her four children and husband, received a proclamation for her recognition, as well as her name on a plaque to be displayed in the municipal office.
Also at the Oct. 25 meeting, council passed an ordinance that would amend the Open Space Trust Fund chapter of the township code, fixing the tax rate to $0.01 per $100 of the assessed annual tax levy, to ensure matching funds would continue from the state when the township purchases Green Acres open space. Chairman of the Open Space Committee Leon Lakritz, who was in attendance, said the ordinance would allow the township to continue to recover approximately 50 percent of the expenses on open space purchases.
“Since 2001, by being a part of this open space agreement with the state, we have recouped approximately $5 million,” Lakritz said.
Council also passed a resolution as a result of a suggestion from resident David Wilson to have proposed resolutions available on the township website, www.townshipnj.com, prior to meetings. However, council reminded residents the resolutions are subject to change, and resolutions may be added or removed from the agenda at any time.
According to Deputy Clerk Christine Ciallella, draft resolutions and ordinances are also available on the bulletin board located in the clerk’s office of the Municipal Building.
In other news:
• Following executive session, council voted unanimously to reject all proposals for the economic development consultant position and authorized the reissue of an RFP for the position as soon as possible.
• The next council meeting will be held on Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. in the Municipal Building. Council voted to cancel the meeting scheduled for Nov. 21.
