BRICK TOWNSHIP, NJ – In a landmark event for Brick Township, Lisa Crate was sworn in as the first female mayor in the municipality’s nearly 174-year history. The annual Reorganization Meeting of the Brick Township Council marked this historic occasion. Alongside Mayor Crate, Councilman Derrick Ambrosino, Councilman Steve Feinman, Councilman Vince Minichino, and Councilwoman Melissa Travers were also sworn in to serve four-year terms on the governing body.
Municipal Clerk Lynnette Iannarone administered the oath of office to Mayor Crate, who was elected in November to complete the term of former Mayor John Ducey.
Crate’s political journey in Brick Township began with her service on the Township Council starting in 2015, leading up to her appointment as Mayor in January 2023. During her address, Mayor Crate outlined her administration’s goals, emphasizing her commitment to unifying and enhancing the community’s safety and well-being.
The Council appointed Vince Minichino as Council President and Derrick Ambrosino as Vice-President for 2024. Council President Minichino, Council Vice-President Ambrosino, Councilman Feinman, and Councilwoman Travers collectively expressed their dedication to serving Brick Township’s best interests and collaborating effectively with Mayor Crate and their colleagues. Their diverse experiences and expertise are geared toward addressing the community’s needs.
In a special tribute, Councilwoman Heather deJong was recognized for her outstanding leadership as Council President in 2023. A plaque was presented by Council President Minichino, honoring deJong’s leadership and service to the community.
In neighboring Toms River, Councilwoman Lynn O’Toole was sworn in and named vice president of the Toms River Township Council on the previously all-male seven-member board. In Jackson Township, Councilwoman Jennifer Kuhn became the first female council president in the township in 15 years.