Smith, Gotto take seats on Howell council

Freshly elected Howell Township Council members Pauline Smith and William Gotto were sworn in to office on Nov. 24 with the help of a few special guests.

New Jersey Congressman Christopher H. Smith and Lt. Gov.-elect Kim Guadagno welcomed Smith and Gotto to Howell's governing body by administering the oath of office to them prior to the Township Council meeting.

Smith and Gotto, both Republicans, won unexpired one-year council terms in the Nov. 3 election and did not have to wait until January to join the governing body.

Smith, whose congressional district includes Howell, delivered the oath of office to Pauline Smith, while the new councilwoman's 20-year-old nephew, Louie Chicalesey, held the Bible.

"I want to thank everyone for their confidence, and I hope I can fulfill my commitment," Smith said after reciting the oath of office. "I have always been a vocal member of the Howell community, but now you are the public and I am the servant. My only concern is that I can meet your expectations. Rest assured I will always speak for the people."

The congressman commended Smith for her dedication to the township, noting that she has and will continue to be an advocate for the people.

"You don't know how grateful I am that you have come back," he said of Smith, who served a two-year term on the governing body 16 years ago. "You are a woman of empathy and care so much for the people. Howell Township is blessed to have you sit in that seat."

Following the swearing-in of Smith, Guadagno administered the oath of office to Gotto, while his 15-year old daughter, Meaghan, held the Bible.

Guadagno, who was the running mate of Gov.-elect Chris Christie, expressed her faith that Gotto, as well as Smith, will fight for what is beneficial for Howell residents and praised both for already doing just that during their campaign.

"We need people who aren't afraid to stand up for what they believe in," Guadagno said after swearing in Gotto. "We need people who are willing to, as [Christie] says, gather to the middle of the room — to find common ground and figure out what is best for the community."

Gotto echoed Guadagno's ideals, noting that the public well-being is of utmost importance.

"When I look out and see the crowd, it gives me a lot of energy," Gotto said. "I am looking forward to working for the people and working with the current council. I promise to do all I can to earn your trust and do what is best for Howell."

Gotto and Smith, a pair of Republicans, join three council members who were elected as independents — Mayor Robert Walsh, Deputy Mayor Angela Dalton and Councilwoman Susan Schroeder Clark.

"I'm looking forward to working with them. Both Pauline and Bill bring with them a unique perspective and expertise in many areas," Walsh said.

Clark agreed, and expressed her confidence in Smith and Gotto and the positive influence they will bring to the township during a difficult economy.

"It's been a tough year, and I know from what I have seen personally that they certainly have the best interests of the township at heart and are committed to the community," Clark said. "Together, we can agree or disagree, but I know we will always be doing the best for Howell."