New Planning Board Member Familiar with Borough Meetings

Michael Kopas was officially sworn in Tuesday night as the newest member of the Planning Board, taking over the spot held by long-time member Judy Mullins.

Kopas, a Madison resident and the director of special projects for Drew University, will serve the majority of a three-year term as a Class IV member. Mullins had been re-appointed at the year's first meeting for three more years. She stepped down to retire officially on May 25. Mullins had served on the board for 17 years.

Kopas fills the spot almost two months later with his unique experiences, some professionally and others as a volunteer in the borough.

"I've been in facilities for almost my entire career, so I think it's something I can share, my experiences," Kopas said.

His volunteer experience makes him well suited for attending meetings at Bayley-Ellard. He is a member of the Downtown Development Commission, which meets in the same room (320) as the Planning Board. He also is a member of the Shade Tree Management Board, which meets in room 314.

Members of the board joked after Kopas was sworn in, wondering who would be giving Drew's presentations to the board. Kopas has numerous times done so on behalf of his employer.

Kopas' first meeting will not be followed by a second for some time. The board voted to cancel both August meetings, and the next one won't be held until Sept. 7.