The Cinnaminson Township Committee began the new year with a gamut of items at its reorganization meeting earlier this month.
Committee members Ernest T. McGill and Ryan Horner were sworn in to the two, three-year seats they secured in the November election. Committeeman Paul Conda was nominated and elected mayor for 2024 and Committeewoman Stephanie Kravil becomes deputy mayor.
Conda presented McGill with a plaque for his service as mayor in 2023.
“The past year has been a doozy, ” Conda said. “Mayor McGill kept this committee on task and has done it with his trademark sense of humor, (keeping) us laughing throughout the year.”
Committeeman Albert Segrest took time to wish the best to former fire chief William Kramer Jr., who was inspired by his father to join the service when he was 13 and formally joined as a 16-year-old in 1973. He retired in December.
“His commitment from a young age, including volunteer work, reaching (his) position as chief reflect his passion and dedication,” Segrest acknowledged.
Kramer’s fire service was marked by significant achievements, including the establishment and update of equipment with the latest safety and technology.
“He fostered a culture where volunteers and career members consider themselves teammates and not adversaries,” Segrest remarked. “Under his guidance, and help from board of fire commissioners, the department implemented remarkable incentives for members, including multiple health screenings and, in some cases, volunteer stipends.
“These efforts led to an increase in career staff, lessening the burden of volunteers and ensuring dependable services for our community.”
Kramer initiated a 911 ambulance service in 2019 that – despite COVID – had a significant and positive impact on quality of life in the community.
“Chief Kramer’s dedication elevated the department’s ISO rating to class II, placing the department in the top 3 percent nationwide,” Segrest noted. “It’s crucial to recognize the impact of ISO, which I didn’t understand until I spoke to Chief Kramer. A higher ISO score in a community translates to potentially lower insurance premiums for homeowners and business owners.”
Kramer then received a standing ovation at the meeting, where Cinnaminson police promoted three officers and welcomed a new member. William Obuchowski was promoted to captain, Roy Wagner moves to the rank of lieutenant and Kyle Hess was promoted to sergeant. Kai Leibfried was sworn in as an officer.
Conda also named committee liaisons for the year. The mayor will serve as liaison to administration and senior services, Horner to finance and economic development, Segrest to public works, McGill to public safety and Kravil to parks and recreation and veterans affairs.
