On April 26, 2023, Glen Rock made herstory by having the first full female Mayor/council formed and active in NJ, the Borough of Glen Rock, and is also the only active full female mayor and council in the United States. In addition to that, the Boroughs’ Clerk, Attorney, and Administrator are also female.
This herstoric event happened due to former councilman Jon Cole having to step down for personal issues.
When Jon submitted his resignation, effective April 26, 2023, the Glen Rock Democrats submitted 3 nominees to the mayor and council to fill the vacant seat. The names that were given were:
Regina Viadro
Thomas Kreibich
Laura Occupinti
Officially, during the special public meeting, all the councilwomen voted yes for Regina to become the newest member of the Glen Rock Mayor and Council. During the voting, Councilwoman Amy Martin stated, “Yes, With the biggest heart, absolutely yes”.
Before swearing in Regina, Assemblywoman Lisa Swain expressed her excitement about helping them make herstory and make Glen Rocks Council a full female mayor and council. The first in the state of NJ. She then presented her with a proclamation honoring her as a new councilwoman. When sworn in, Regina was surrounded by the full council, Regina’s daughter holding the constitution, and her family.
In addition to Swains’ presence, Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Zu and Assemblyman P. Christopher Tully were there to support and witness this herstoric event.
Commissioner Zu stepped up to say a few words quoting Ruth Bader Ginsburg, “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made” She also went on to say that it is historic when a borough is represented by a female Administrator, Clerk, Attorney, and a full female mayor and council.
Councilwoman and President Mary Barchetto stated “While this is an historic event, and one to be celebrated, I look forward to a time when the election of an all female governing body is a non-event. All of us on the Council are working toward that future. I can’t wait to work with Regina. She will be a huge asset to our team and to Glen Rock.”
Regina moved to Glen Rock in 2018 with her family. Since moving into Glen Rock, she has been involved in many town organizations and was named as one of Congressman Josh Gottheimers’ hometown heroes in 2022 for organizing an “Art for Peace” silent auction to support the people of Ukraine, raising $20,000 for the Lelaka Foundation to send critically needed medical supplies to Ukraine.
When asked about her feelings of what happened today Regina stated: “
The fact that with my addition to the council, Glen Rock made history as the only “All female Mayor and Council” in the United States and first ever in the state of NJ, is incredibly exciting.” We look forward to seeing what you bring to the town.
