Carlin, Kozub, Cantwell and Howell sworn in for another term
By Stephen Finn
The Sun
Burlington Township Council held its annual reorganization meeting on Jan. 2 at the township municipal building. November’s elections saw victories across the board for the incumbent candidates for mayor and council.
Incumbent Mayor Brian Carlin was sworn in for a new term by Superior Court Judge Ronald E. Bookbinder, along with incumbent Councilman George Kozub. Incumbent members of council Joyce Howell and Michael Cantwell were subsequently sworn in by Assemblywoman Carol A. Murphy.
Councilman Robert Jung was elected to serve as the new president of council, and Councilwoman Patricia Siboczy was elected as president pro tem.
Following the swearing in ceremonies, Carlin led a special presentation for Councilman Carl Schoenborn, recognizing his 30th year on council.
“Tonight we are going to recognize somebody who has served 30 years as a member of the Burlington Township Council,” said Carlin. “He has seen this community grow and rise. He has taken a particular interest and he’s raised his family here. Carl, you are one of the most decent and kind-hearted men I have ever met. I want to congratulate you on your 30 years and wish you well.”
Schoenborn recalled being hesitant at first when he was approached in 1988 by then-Mayor Joe Foy to serve on the council.
“It was the furthest thing from my mind at the time,” said Schoenborn. “It’s been 30 years since then. I’ve seen the town go from 8,500 people to nearly 25,000 now.”
Kozub is a veteran of the township council and is back for a new term. He sees the re-election of the incumbent council members as a sign residents have confidence in their administrators and approve of the job they have done.
“I’m humbled. I’m enjoying coming back on the council again for my 26th year, it feels like I’m doing the right thing for the people of Burlington Township,” said Kozub.
Looking ahead, Kozub hopes the council can provide another year without an increase in taxes and would like to resolve the issue of the defunct Burlington Center Mall property.
Jung was elected the new council president, replacing Cantwell, who is resuming his role as a regular member of council.
“It’s very nice to have the confidence of the other council members. I just hope that we can continue to do the work that the previous administrative officers started,” said Jung.
In the future, Jung would like to continue to see smart development for the township and to provide the best possible services for the people at the best possible price.
One of the final items on the meeting’s agenda was the Mayor’s Address during which Carlin expressed his appreciation for his fellow council members and the residents of Burlington Township who voted to re-elect him and gave a summary of the council’s accomplishments of 2018.
“As I am now doing for the ninth time, I thank the the people of Burlington Township for the honor of serving as the mayor of this great community. I am humbled by their confidence and appreciate their support. In an ever-changing landscape, I remain committed to continuing to make Burlington Township a great place to live,” said Carlin.
Going into 2019, Carlin said the administration will continue to strive to provide quality services to residents within the constraints of a 2 percent tax cap.
“We want to continue to justify and strengthen the trust that our residents place in us by providing fiscally responsible government,” said Carlin.
