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Mayor of Edison, New Jersey facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Edison Township, located in New Jersey, has a rich history of leaders who have helped shape the community. These leaders are called mayors. A mayor is like the main leader of a town or city. They work to make sure the town runs smoothly and that its residents are happy and safe.

What Does a Mayor Do?

A mayor is an important elected official. They are chosen by the people living in the town. Their job is to oversee the town's government. This includes things like managing public services. They also work with the town council to make decisions. These decisions affect everything from schools to parks and roads. The mayor helps make sure the town's budget is used wisely. They also represent the town at different events.

How Edison Township Got Its Name

Before it was called Edison, the township had a different name. It was known as Raritan Township. This name was used for many years. In November 1954, the township decided to change its name. It was renamed Edison Township. This was done to honor the famous inventor, Thomas Edison. He had his main laboratory in Menlo Park, which is part of Edison Township.

Leaders of Edison Township

Here is a list of the people who have served as mayor for Raritan Township and later Edison Township. They each played a part in the town's story.

Mayors of Raritan and Edison Township
Name When They Started When They Finished How Many Terms
Julius C. Engel 1931 1935
Julius C. Engel 1947 1951
James C. Forgione 1951 May 17, 1955 1
Thomas J. Swales Jr. May 17, 1955 January 1, 1958 1
Anthony M. Yelencsics January 1, 1958 January 1, 1970 3
Bernard James Dwyer January 1, 1970 January 1, 1974 1
Thomas H. Paterniti January 1, 1974 January 1, 1978 1
Anthony M. Yelencsics January 1, 1978 April 25, 1989 3
Steven J. Capestro April 25, 1989 January 1, 1990 1
Thomas H. Paterniti January 1, 1990 January 1, 1991 1
Samuel V. Convery Jr. January 1, 1991 January 1, 1994 1
George A. Spadoro January 1, 1994 January 1, 2006 3
Jun Choi January 1, 2006 January 1, 2010 1
Antonia Ricigliano January 1, 2010 January 1, 2014 1
Thomas Lankey January 1, 2014 January 1, 2022 2
Sam Joshi January 1, 2022 Current
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