Franklin Township officials and residents gathered Dec. 4 to mark the opening of the township’s updated municipal building, capping the evening with the annual community tree lighting ceremony.
Mayor Sebastian Donaruma led a ceremonial ribbon cutting for the modernized facility, which features updated offices, improved meeting spaces and enhanced accessibility for residents.
Attendees toured the newly constructed building before joining the holiday celebration outside.
Hunterdon County Commissioner Susan J. Soloway, a Franklin Township resident and former mayor, attended the dual celebration.
“The new Municipal Building is a great milestone for Franklin Township,” Soloway said in a written statement. “As both a resident and a former mayor, I know how much thoughtful planning and community input went into making this project a reality. Tonight’s ribbon cutting and tree lighting reflect the strong community spirit that makes Franklin Township such a special place to call home.”
The festivities included a local Girl Scout troop leading attendees in seasonal songs before the tree lighting, followed by light refreshments.
The Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners awarded Franklin Township $47,500 in grant funding to assist with the building’s renovation.
The funding comes from the county’s New Era of Partnership initiative, which aims to strengthen collaboration between the board and Hunterdon’s 26 municipalities.
