Flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Chiarello

Gov. Phil Murphy has ordered New Jersey’s flags to be flown at half-staff on Monday in tribute to longtime Buena Vista Mayor Chuck Chiarello, who died in office on December 4.

“Chuck Chiarello was a mayor’s mayor and a model for what good municipal leadership could do for residents. He loved serving Buena Vista, he loved doing good things for Buena Vista, and he loved making sure we all knew to pronounce it ‘byoo-na.’,” Murphy said. “He was a respected leader among his fellow mayors, being one of only a handful to lead both the League of Municipalities and the Conference of Mayors.

Murphy said that Chiarello was one of his earliest supporters and became his “steadfast friend.”

“I will miss his subtle wit and his great warmth,” Murphy said.  “And, so will all of South Jersey and his colleagues from across the state.”

Chiarello, who has served in local office since 1992, was known statewide as the former Atlantic County Democratic Chairman and as a past president of the New Jersey League of Municipalities.

He was serving his 22nd year as mayor.