Layton cited for service and character

The Mantua Township Committee honored former committeeman Shawn Layton during its Feb. 10 meeting by presenting him with a township proclamation.

A lifelong resident of Mantua, Layton was on the committee from 2017 to 2024 but chose not to run for reelection in November. He was presented with a plaque that had the township proclamation on it.

“The township of Mantua proudly pays tribute to Shawn Layton for his seven years of dedicated service to the township committee,” Mayor Robert Zimmerman read from the plaque. “Shawn’s unwavering commitment to the Mantua Township community in Gloucester County has left an enduring legacy of positivity and impact.”

Layton also served on the township’s recreation committee and is currently a volunteer in the Mantua fire department and a chief county fire marshal for the county. He spoke briefly of his time as committeeman and offered insight on his future plans.

“It was a great seven years of my life,” he noted. “I spent a lot of time dedicated to this town. I’m still around, still involved with the fire department, so I’m not going anywhere. It was a journey, but it was something I had to do in deciding not to run, that thing has passed.

“Thank you all.”

Zimmerman – who campaigned for committee seats with Layton – took a moment to talk about Layton and his character.

“It’s been a pleasure serving with you for seven years,” Zimmerman offered. “You were not only a good friend, but you were a good running mate, a great member on the township committee. I don’t know of anybody that puts more heart and soul and compassion into serving the residents here, and now in your other capacity throughout the county.

“You’ve been involved in everything.”

Layton’s place on the committee was taken by Jason Snyder, who won the seat in the November election. He was sworn in during the committee’s Jan. 5 reorganization meeting.

The next committee meeting will take place at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 10.