Wildwood Team Seeks County, State Dialogue

WILDWOOD ─ “Positive dialogue,” the phrase employed by newly-elected Commissioner Peter Byron, described the hopes of the BLT team that once again took the helm of Wildwood Jan. 5.
Openly sharing personal feelings and challenges from the past four years, Mayor Ernie Troiano and commissioners sent a clear message during the reorganization meeting.
According to Byron, “Confidence” in Wildwood is growing confidence in the city’s future. “Four years ago,” Byron said, “I gave a forecast for Wildwood: partly cloudy but sunny.” Byron went on to say that he sees the future as bright.
As pale sunlight filtered through the windows, the meeting came to order as family, friends, and residents gathered. City Clerk Christopher Wood read the Nov. 3 election results. Troiano received 656 votes while Commissioner Anthony Leonetti, in second place, received 610; Byron received 608. Wood then announced the “administration of individual oaths of office.”
Senator President Steven Sweeney (D-3rd) administered the oath to Byron, who was joined by his wife. Sweeney, described as the next potential governor candidate, instructed Byron to “faithfully, justly, and impartially” carry out his duty as a commissioner.
Municipal Judge Dorothy Incarvito-Garrabrant administered the oath of office to Leonetti, who was also joined by family members. Leonetti promised to carry out his duties and to uphold the laws of the state.
Former Sen. James Cafiero, affectionately referred to by commissioners as “Jimmy,” administered the oath to Troiano. “This is my second BLT sandwich,” said Cafiero.
Cafiero continued to explain his connection to Troiano and his family throughout the years. “He (Troiano) attended 11 of my retirement dinners,” Cafiero added.
After a round of applause, the mayor and commissioners took seats and passed a series of resolutions.
Byron was appointed to serve as vice president of the Board of Commissioners (deputy mayor) and “shall be the commissioner of the Department of Revenue and Finance.”
Byron’s duties include tax assessment, relocation assistance, economic development, and beach services.
Leonetti will serve as “Commissioner of the Department of Public Affairs and Public Safety.” Housing inspections, beach patrol, fire prevention codes, and police and fire departments compose several of Leonetti’s duties.
Troiano will serve as mayor for another four-year term.
Troiano asked Rev. Joseph Wallace of the Notre Dame de la Mer Parish to “Say a few words.”
Wallace commended the board for “generosity” during his prayer and asked for leadership amid “changing times.”
Wallace also prayed for “economic growth” and a “decrease in poverty” in the city. Wallace concluded by saying “God bless the City of Wildwood.”
Before public comment, Troiano asked if the commissioners wished to speak.
Byron thanked all who attended and spoke of the “growing confidence” expressed by many for Wildwood’s future.
“I see all of these dignitaries here today,” Byron said, thanking Sweeney for attending despite his busy schedule.
Byron later commented that he hoped more “positive dialogue” will develop on the county and even the state level. Byron said his wishes for “better” relations between the city administration and county officials and for “opening eyes.” 
Leonetti remarked, “I think the city has moved forward as it never has before.” He also commented on various city departments “pulling together.” Leonetti thanked those who attended and his wife whom “I could not thank enough.”
“I look around and I see so many friends,” Troiano began. “We have our problems,” Troiano confessed, yet he urged supporters and opposition to lay aside negativity.
Troiano went on to ask those who did not support the BLT team “not to look at us as the enemy.” “Our doors are open 24-7,” Troiano said.
Although future policies and decisions may not please every individual, Troiano urged residents “Come, sit down, and talk.” “I offer this in peace,” said Troiano, concluding his statements by focusing on Wildwood’s “positive direction.”
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.