Morris Township reorganizes leadership, approves organizational resolutions

Morris Township held its 2026 reorganization meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at the municipal building, where the township committee swore in its newly elected committee member, selected its leadership for the year and approved a slate of organizational resolutions.

The clerk read a certified statement of determination from the Morris County board of canvassers confirming the election of Jeff Grisell to a three-year term; township attorney Jared Kanter administered the oath of office. The committee then nominated and, by roll call, approved Donna Grigley as mayor and Steven Gianotta as deputy mayor. After receiving their oaths, the mayor delivered a ceremonial address highlighting the year’s priorities.

Grigley used her address to congratulate colleagues and to urge resident engagement. She highlighted several local priorities for 2026, including ongoing work on affordable housing (referencing the municipality’s efforts during the fourth round of affordable housing), the reopening of the Collinsville playground, development plans for a community center, a senior bus launch expected in spring, and local economic-development work such as a small-business directory. She also referenced the presence of a Red Bulls training facility and noted the town’s connection to FIFA World Cup activity. “As we embark on the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, it is more important than ever to remember what makes up America,” Grigley said.

Committee members acknowledged continuing budget pressures, citing sharply rising health insurance premiums for municipal and school employees (remarks in the meeting referenced increases in the mid-teens to high teens percent range) and said the budget committee will work to keep the township’s tax rate steady while supporting staff. One committee member also said the township will pursue a “film ready” ordinance to encourage local filming that uses area businesses.

Votes at a glance

- Resolutions O1-26 through O3-26 and O5-26 through O14-26 (appointments to standing committees and statutory positions, professional appointments, temporary operating budget, cash-management plan, qualified purchasing agent authority, EEO compliance certification, and related organizational items): approved as a block by unanimous roll-call vote.

- Resolution O4-26 (appointing volunteer officers of the fire department for 01/01/2026–12/31/2026): read separately and approved by unanimous roll-call vote.

All votes taken at the meeting were recorded by roll call and passed unanimously by the committee members present.

The mayor closed by inviting residents to engage with township activities — including a “coffee with the mayor” scheduled for Feb. 28 — and thanked staff and volunteers. The meeting adjourned at 7:51 p.m.; the next committee meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, at 7 p.m., with a closed session at 5:30 p.m.