During a recent government meeting, questions were raised regarding the funding and naming of a local pumpkin patch event, specifically concerning the banner that featured Mayor Barbera's name. One council member inquired about who financed the banner and why it was not simply labeled as the \"Parsippo Pumpkin Patch.\" The member expressed concern over the necessity of attaching the mayor's name to the event, suggesting it could be perceived as politically motivated.
In response, the council president defended the inclusion of the mayor's name, stating that it is a common practice for sitting mayors to be recognized in such events. He argued that the presence of the mayor's name does not constitute a political statement unless it explicitly calls for re-election. The council president emphasized that this practice falls within the norms of municipal operations.
Additionally, the council member sought an update on the Department of Transportation's (DOT) actions regarding intersections that have seen multiple fatalities over the past year. The council president confirmed that the DOT is actively working on these intersections, indicating ongoing efforts to address safety concerns in the area.