BRICK – Kelly Napolitano was tapped by Mayor John G. Ducey to replace long-time tax collector JoAnne Lambusta, who announced her upcoming retirement in October.
“Kelly has 32 years of experience working for the township, and after three decades, she has the skill set, experience and institutional knowledge to continue the great legacy established by JoAnne Lambusta,” the mayor said at the most recent Township Council meeting.
The governing body unanimously voted in favor of Napolitano’s appointment, who was in attendance at the Zoom meeting.
“I just want to thank you all for your confidence in me, and for giving me this opportunity to continue to serve Brick Township in this new capacity,” Napolitano said.
“I’m definitely excited, even though these are very trying times for this town and for all the employees. I’m going to try and keep up to JoAnne’s legacy the best that I can,” she said. “Thank you.”
Lambusta was also on the Zoom connection. She thanked the mayor and the council members for supporting Napolitano.
In other news, Mayor Ducey said he is always being asked about the two new stores that are coming to town.
Lidl is at the Riverwalk Shopping Center in the space previously occupied by Cost Cutters, located behind the Outback Steakhouse. The Germany-based discount grocery store opened this week, he said. They are awaiting deliveries and stocking their shelves.
“They do have their proper (certificate of occupancy) in order to be able to have their employees inside stocking the shelves,” Mayor Ducey added.
The second store set to open is Corrado’s, which will operate at the site previously occupied by Pathmark at the Laurelton Square Shopping Center between Routes 88 and 70. The chain features imported specialty products, produce, fresh meat, fish, a deli, baked goods and more.
“They have advised us that they are going to be opening at the end of the first quarter of 2021, so it’s likely going to be in March,” the mayor said.
And finally, a list of free virtual emotional support services, education, and community-based resources is available for individuals and families who have been affected by the public health crisis.
“Through a variety of virtual services, this program assists those who have been affected by the pandemic to better adjust to their new reality, mitigate stress, review options, develop coping strategies, and if needed, find linkages to agencies, programs and other resources in their community,” said Councilwoman Andrea Zapcic.
These services are being offered by RWJBarnabas Health Institute for the Prevention and Recovery under NJ Hope and Healing’s Crisis Counseling Program, which is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, she said.
There are particular services focused on healthcare workers, first responders, senior citizens, children and families, and individuals with substance-abuse disorder, Zapcic added.
“So that’s a pretty broad range,” she said. “It touches just about everyone in our community.”
