Kearny Council Reorganization Marked by Unexpected Resignation

As first reported by The Observer, during Kearny’s annual municipal reorganization meeting on January 6, Second Ward Councilman Richard Konopka, a Democrat, announced his resignation without prior notice. The unexpected departure marked the end of his 11-year tenure on the Kearny Municipal Council.

The Democratic County Committee has until January 21 to appoint a replacement for Konopka’s seat. If the committee fails to choose, the decision will be left to Mayor Carol Jean Doyle. Alternatively, the seat may remain vacant until a special election is held in November.

The Observer first reported that during Kearny’s annual municipal reorganization meeting on January 6th, an unexpected resignation took place. At the start of the meeting, Second Ward Councilman Richard Konopka, a Democrat, announced his resignation without prior notice.

Konopka’s departure comes after serving on the Kearny Municipal Council for 11 years.

Under state law, the Democratic Party’s County Committee has until January 21st to appoint a replacement for Konopka’s seat. If the committee fails to reach a consensus, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle would likely step in to name a Second Ward Democrat to fill the position. Alternatively, the seat may remain vacant until a special election is held in November.