The Johnston Town Council’s 2025 calendar year began with pomp and circumstance before a standing room only audience on January 13.

After being sworn-in by the mayor and re-elected as council president by his colleagues, Robert Russo took a moment to congratulate his fellow members and to recognize the work required to serve.

“With this job sometimes, we deal with keyboard warriors all the time…looking to bang us all the time as much as can. But they don’t realize the work and sacrifice that goes into being in public office,” said Russo. “We wouldn’t be here is we didn’t want to work hard, and it pays off. The results that you can see in this town, look at any neighborhood, we’re making inroads with infrastructure, we’ve got some great worldwide businesses that have come to town, FM Global, Amazon, Citizens Bank…that’s why they come here, they see the confidence in the community, and they want to make Johnston their home.”

Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr., who administered oaths of office to the officials present during the inauguration event, expressed his gratitude to those in attendance at the meeting. He acknowledged several key individuals for their presence, and thanked Nisa Pistaccio, representing Senator Whitehouse; Chris Albert, representing Senator Reed; and Julio Paz, representing Congressman Magaziner. He also recognized Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien for making the trip, Randy Rossi from the League of Cities and Towns, and the local delegation of elected officials, including Senators Tikoian, Ciccone, and Dimitri, along with Representatives Fellela, Costantino, and Fascia. The mayor also took a moment to thank the three school committee members currently serving in the middle of their terms.

Polisena then administered the oath of office to the council members, including District 1 Councilwoman Linda Folcarelli, District 2 Councilwoman Lauren Garzone, District 3 Councilman Alfred Carnevale, District 4 Councilman Robert Russo, and District 5 Councilman Robert Civetti.

Russo was nominated for reappointment as council president by Councilwoman Garzone. All members voted in favor, with Russo abstaining. Councilwoman Lauren Garzone was nominated for council vice president by Councilman Carnevale, receiving unanimous approval, with Garzone abstaining.

A significant change to the school committee’s structure, approved by voters in November’s election, was also implemented. A referendum allowed the town to add four new members to the committee—two appointed by the mayor and two by the town council.

Councilwoman Garzone nominated Zachary Gordon, a certified public accountant, to fill one of the council-appointed seats. She highlighted his educational credentials, which include bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Rhode Island. His nomination was unanimously approved by the council.

Councilman Carnevale nominated Carolyn Thornton Iannuccilli for the second council-appointed seat, emphasizing her achievements as valedictorian of her high school class and a graduate of Brown University. Her nomination was also unanimously approved.

Polisena appointed Gregory Russo and Phanida Phivialy to the two mayoral seats.

Also inaugurated during the meeting were Municipal Court Judge David aRusso and Auxiliary Municipal Court Judge Frank Manni, who will also serve as Interim Probate Court Judge.