The Alternative Press

LIVINGSTON, NJ – The Camuso Collection Preservation Committee and the Knights of Pythias were recognized during last night’s town council meeting for their community services.

Mayor Rudy Fernandez stated that members of the Camuso Committee are “very hardworking” and work tirelessly throughout the year to be able to display the donated holiday decorations in the 9/11 Memorial Park.

“This is really a 12 month endeavor and everybody here works 12 months out of the year to put everything up,” Fernandez said. “We want to recognize everybody and all of the amazing work and time they give.”

Members of the committee explained that the goal for this year’s holiday display will be to renovate the Christmas tree.

As a continued tradition of collecting money for the Saint Barnabas Burn Unit, the committee also presented a check for $1,800 to Beverly Foster and Lou LaSalle, representing St. Barnabas.

In honor of Pythian Awareness Week which was from February 17-23, the Knights of Pythias were gifted with a plaque of gratitude presented by Fernandez.

“The Knights of Pythias have been very active in our community for a long time and do a lot of wonderful things,” Fernandez said.

Member Joel Fierst gave a brief explanation of the group and said its foundation is volunteerism and community service.

In other news, proposed ordinances such as a bond ordinance for back up wells and an ordinance to move the existing bus stops on W. Mt. Pleasant Ave. due to safety reasons were introduced and will be voted on during the March 11 meeting.

According to Councilwoman Debbie Shapiro, the reason to use backup wells is to “move towards independency.”

“We would like to be able to pump our own water which is our goal down the line and with this ordinance, we would be able to pump thousands of gallons a day,” Shapiro explained.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, former Republican council candidate Alan Feid expressed his dislike of the Primetime Shuttle due to its “minimal ridership” and cost to residents.

“I don’t appreciate the fact that we use public money to help bring people to work,” Feid said.

He identified the shuttle as a “public interest group” since according to him, less than 50 people ride it daily.

Fernandez explained that after the 6 month trial period is over, the council will discuss the status of the shuttle and decide whether to keep it running or not. He also said that the shuttle provides a “common good for the town” and advertisers will allow for potential revenue.