Harris Lauer sworn in as Springfield Township mayor; committee leadership named

Harris Lauer was sworn in as mayor of Springfield Township on Jan. 1, 2026, taking the oath administered at the organizational meeting and promising to work “tirelessly” for residents.

Claraara Herelic, chair of the Union County Board of Elections and a former mayor, presented certificates of election to Lauer and Richard Huber before oaths were administered. Lauer then repeated the oath and received applause as Senate President Nicholas Qatari and other officials looked on.

"I stand before you today with a deep sense of gratitude and humility," Mayor Harris Lauer said in his remarks, thanking residents, family and colleagues and promising to prioritize public safety and municipal services.

The committee immediately set leadership for 2026: Lauer announced the working committees and named Alexander Kaiser as vice chair. Committee assignments included Alex Kaiser as chair of Revenue and Finance with Lauer as vice chair, public safety chaired by Lauer with Chris Weber as vice chair, and Rich Huber serving as chair of Public Works.

The meeting also included ceremonial recognition of local and county officials and brief remarks from Senate President Nicholas Qatari, who praised Lauer’s public service and referenced a legislative amendment associated with Lauer’s eligibility to serve as mayor.

The mayor closed by thanking municipal staff and volunteers and calling for cooperation across town departments as the committee begins its year of work. The committee adjourned after completing its organizational business.