Khizar Sheikh, Mayor of the Borough, gave this address at the January 2024 Council Reorganization Meeting
Ladies and Gentlemen, Fellow Residents and Neighbors of Mountain Lakes, Distinguished Guests,
As we gather today at the threshold of a new year, I stand before you filled with a deep sense of pride and responsibility. Mountain Lakes is more than just a place on the map; it is a vibrant community, rich in natural beauty and historic significance, bound together by an extraordinary spirit of volunteerism and camaraderie.
This town, our home, is blessed with abundant natural resources. Our woodlands and lakes are not just scenic vistas but are the heartbeats of Mountain Lakes. They remind us of our duty, not just as residents but as stewards of the environment. This year, we will continue to prioritize the preservation of these natural wonders ensuring that the beauty of Mountain Lakes is preserved for future generations.
Our town is also a living museum, boasting unique historical designations that we are immensely proud of. These landmarks are not just relics of the past; they are beacons guiding us into the future. In the coming year, we will explore new ways to celebrate our history, with educational programs and preservation efforts that honor our past while inspiring our future.
At the heart of Mountain Lakes is its people — you, the community. Your volunteer spirit is the lifeblood of our town. The countless hours dedicated to community service and local initiatives have not gone unnoticed.
As we look ahead, we see a horizon filled with opportunities and challenges. Our vision for Mountain Lakes balances growth with the preservation of our town’s unique charm. This year, we will be continuing projects that reflect this vision, focusing on sustainable development and community well-being to keep Mountain Lakes the best place to call home.
However, the path forward is not one I or the Council can walk alone. Effective governance is a collaborative effort. I invite each of you to join me in this journey — attend town meetings, voice your opinions, and participate in local initiatives. Your insights and feedback are invaluable in shaping the today and future of Mountain Lakes.
And we cannot shirk from our challenges that threaten our way of life as a small community. Two such challenges are the rising cost of goods and services and ensuring public safety. As we face these challenges ahead, let us remember that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and improvement. Together, we will explore solutions and strategies to overcome hurdles, ensuring that Mountain Lakes continues to thrive. For example, the Police Department is planning on hosting a town forum on public safety, and we will continue to make this conversation a priority in 2024.
Before we close, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the trust you have placed in us on Council. Together, let us make Mountain Lakes not just a place to live, but a place to love, a community that we can all be proud to call home.
Thank you, and let’s look forward to a fantastic year ahead!