By: Richard L. Smith
After over a decade of dedicated service to the Township of Bloomfield, Mayor Michael Venezia resigned from his position on January 8 to take up his newly elected role as a New Jersey State Assemblyman for the 34th District.
Venezia, who made his resignation official at his last Council Meeting as Mayor, expressed his gratitude for the community's support and his excitement about continuing his public service at the state level.
He will be sworn into the State Assembly in Trenton on January 9.
Mayor Venezia, who was elected as Bloomfield's youngest mayor in 2014, was pivotal in spearheading various community initiatives that have significantly improved the township's quality of life and economic growth.
His administration's focus on maintaining stable property taxes and investing in municipal services, infrastructure, and sustainability initiatives has left a lasting positive impact on the community.
Moreover, his leadership played a crucial role in public safety improvements and effective management during the COVID-19 pandemic.
At his final Council Meeting, Venezia received heartfelt tributes from family members, Township staff, and community members, all acknowledging his contributions and impact on Bloomfield.
Councilman Nick Joanow, reflecting on the decade of collaboration with Venezia, expressed confidence in Venezia's continued representation of Bloomfield's interests at the state level and looked forward to working together in the future.
Following Venezia's resignation, the Bloomfield Democratic Committee will nominate three candidates to fill the remainder of his term.
The Township Council will consider these nominations at its next meeting on January 22, ensuring a smooth transition and continued leadership for the community.