SOMEA President Rocio Lopez told board that she hopes they can work together come to an contract agreement to get teachers “the pay we deserve.”

The Township Committee’s reorganization meeting also featured performances and the involvement of residents, celebrating the Township’s 2024 accomplishments while looking ahead to the coming year.

The mayor provided extensive updates on everything from the new stormwater utility tax to the potential redevelopment of the Maplewood movie theater at the Township Committee’s annual reorganization meeting.

“It’s up to us to ensure that our roads are safe for kids walking to and from school, to be fiscally responsible with your taxpayer dollars, and to ensure that we maintain the best quality of life possible FOR all residents of Maplewood. We can do this. We are a strong community that agrees more than we disagree. Let’s focus on the big things and let go of the little things.”

“We’re shining light on injustices, for countless others beyond ourselves,” wrote a complainant who says he was abused at the age of 12. An accused former scoutmaster denies the allegations and vows to prove his innocence.

Retiring to spend more time with family and travel with daughter and renowned R&B singer SZA, Rowe says she’ll stay connected to CCR. “I could never retire with a big R. I’ll still be involved in some way, shape or form. But this gives me the opportunity to step back and be more intentional with my time.”