Norm Shani sworn in as Highland Park acting fire chief; colleagues praise leadership

Norm Shani took the oath of office and was sworn in as Highland Park’s acting fire chief in a ceremonial moment during the borough council meeting.

Police Chief Rick Abrams, who introduced and supported the swearing-in, said he has known Shani for more than two decades and praised his professionalism and commitment to Highland Park. “I have known Norm to be a professional, very capable, and he cares more for this town than just about anybody I’ve ever met in life,” Abrams said.

Shani recited the standard oath to faithfully and impartially perform the duties of the office and to support the constitutions of the United States and the State of New Jersey. After the oath, the council invited members of the fire department and families to the front of the chamber for photographs and a brief reception.

Council members and officials congratulated Shani and expressed confidence that his leadership would support the volunteer fire department alongside the borough’s paid staff. No separate council vote was recorded for the ceremonial swearing-in during the meeting record shown; it was presented and administered as an official appointment and oath.

Officials said the event marked the start of Shani’s tenure as acting fire chief; the council and department did not provide a separate timeline or contract terms in the meeting minutes for when a permanent chief would be appointed.