Heather Cooper first served as the township’s deputy mayor in 2019, the first woman of color in the role..
Evesham Township Council held its annual reorganization meeting on Jan. 5, with Mayor Jackie Veasy opening the floor for council members to nominate a deputy mayor.
Councilman Joseph Fisicaro Jr. nominated Councilwoman Heather Cooper, a move supported by Councilwoman Krystal Hunter, Councilman Christian Smith and Veasy. Cooper was then sworn in by the mayor.
Cooper first served as deputy mayor in 2019 – after her election to council in 2018 – becoming the township’s first woman of color in the role. During remarks, she cited a quote from Abraham Lincoln and expressed her gratitude to the rest of council and the community.
“As I sit before you today, sworn in as your deputy mayor, I am reminded of the words from ‘Fragment on Government,'” she said. “‘The legitimate object of government is to do for a community of people whatever they need to have done, but cannot do at all or cannot do for themselves.’ This (quote) captures what the commitment to serve means to a community.
“I’m truly honored to be appointed as deputy mayor,” Cooper added. “This role is a tremendous opportunity to further serve our community and provide continued support to Mayor Veasy. It’s my humble honor to support and dedicate my life to service.
“My passion for my work always comes through, not just in my words, but my actions, and I look forward to continuing to serve alongside each and every one of you as we make a positive impact again this year.”
Council also approved its schedule of meetings for the new year. The next session is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 21. Executive session will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by the regular meeting at 7 p.m.
To see a full recording of the Jan. 5meeting, visit www.evesham-nj.org/councilmtgvideos
