From the Desk of the Town Manager:
As we continue to mourn the loss of our colleague and friend, Mike Monaco, I want to ensure that everyone who wishes to attend his services has the opportunity to do so.
Therefore, I will be closing the Municipal Building to the public at 3:00pm on both Wednesday, February 18th and Thursday, February 19th. Staff will be paid for full days on both dates. Attendance at services or the celebration of life are optional and entirely up to staff members.
Any night meetings will still occur as regularly scheduled.
Visitation: Wednesday, February 18th from 3:00pm to 7:00pm, Smith-McCracken Funeral Home, Newton, NJ
Committal Service: Thursday, February 19th at 1:30pm, Newton Cemetery
Celebration of Life: Thursday, February 19th at 2:30pm, Newton VFW
Mike was more than a public servant. He was a steady presence, a protector, a mentor, and a man of quiet strength. He served Newton with courage and integrity for decades, and even when faced with unimaginable personal hardship, he continued to show up for this community with dignity and purpose. That kind of perseverance speaks to the core of who he was.
Those who worked alongside Mike know that beyond the titles and assignments, he possessed something even more meaningful — kindness. He made people feel seen. He made them feel valued. Whether you were a fellow officer, a Town Hall employee, or a resident in need, he treated you with respect. He carried himself with humility, strength, and grace, even in the darkest of days.
As a Newton family, we stand together — in good times and in sorrow. We support one another. We show up for one another. That is how we honor Mike’s legacy. May we remember Mike not only for how he served, but for how he lived — with courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
I understand this is a very difficult time for many of us. If you need additional support, please do not hesitate to reach out to me or Jennifer Dodd in Human Resources.
As most of you know, I am a spiritual person. I close with this. Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the depth of love we give and the courage with which we face our days. Death does not erase a life well-lived; it transforms it. The body rests, but the influence of a good soul continues — in the people shaped, the values taught, the kindness shown, and the strength modeled. Those who live with integrity never truly leave us. They become part of the moral fabric of the community they helped build. And in every act of compassion and service that follows, their spirit quietly endures. May Mike’s spirit carry with all of you as you continue to serve Newton, your families, and others. Rest in peace dear friend.
Thomas S. Russo, Jr., Town Manager
Newton, NJ