PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., presented a “Certificate of Appreciation” to outgoing Business Administrator Ellen Sandman at the council meeting of Tuesday, November 20. Also present was Council Vice President Janice McCarthy, Councilwoman Emily Peterson, Ellen Sandman, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani and Councilman Michael dePierro.
Ellen Sandman officially retired as of December 1, 2018.
Sandman was appointed by Former Mayor James Barberio to serve as Parsippany’s Business Administrator on June 16, 2014. Prior to joining Parsippany she was employed at Mendham Borough, where she held the same title for the previous six years, and in Denville for 22 years before that; she also served for five years as Assistant Business Administrator in Jersey City. She served the public for a total of 44 1/2 years.
“As I said to Mayor Soriano, ‘You know, I’m been a Business Administrator for 44 1/2 years. Every morning when I wake up, I wake up with a sense of urgency and a sense of a dedication to what we do. It’s not always easy, but that’s the right thing to do,’” she continued.
“My association with Ellen Sandman dates back to the nineteen eighties when I was President of the Morris County League of Municipalities and Ellen was First Vice President. We enjoyed working together to increase networking and information sharing with leaders of all 39 Municipalities in Morris County. We interfaced with the NJ State League of Municipalities and our State Legislators, supporting legislation that benefited Morris County and opposing legislation that did not. We interfaced often over the years that she served as Administrator and Public Safety Director in Denville. Ellen never ran out of ideas to accomplish her objectives, or to work with others to find a compromise. I have often heard Ellen State that ‘Her life’s work was not just a vocation because she loved what she was doing’. Ellen and I have had a friendship and a mutual respect for each other that spans the 35 years that we have known each other. I will be losing an outstanding Township employee, but I will still have a great friend. I wish Ellen the very best in her retirement,” said Councilman Michael dePierro.
Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani said “As a council member these past three years I have witnessed Ellen’s vast knowledge and experience as Parsippany’s Business Administrator. Her dedication and professionalism throughout her career not only in Parsippany but in other municipalities is an indication of the respect she has among her peers. My husband Adam and I wish her happiness in her retirement. Ellen, May the wind always be at your back, and may the sun shine upon your face.”
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., stated “It has been a pleasure working with Ellen. I wish her well in her retirement and future endeavors.”
Township Clerk Khaled Madin said “It has been a pleasure working with Ms. Sandman. Ms. Sandman’s knowledge has made her a real asset to this town and her passion for her work and helping people is contagious and refreshing. She will be missed.”
“I’ve known Ellen for twenty years and was thrilled and honored when she contacted me to work with her at the Township of Parsippany four years ago. Her knowledge of all aspects of Municipal Government and sensitivity towards the needs all people is priceless. Not only has she been a mentor to me but a great friend. And believe me she may be retiring from Municipal Government but her endless energy will go towards making a difference in other ways,” said CFO Ann Cucci.
