MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Commissioner Deborah Smith joined Mayor James Dodd and state and local representatives in Dover on Saturday for a ceremony dedicating West Chrystal Street in honor of former Mayor Aldo Cicchetti, a lifelong town resident, and devoted public servant.
The new white and green street sign engraved “Mayor Cicchetti Place” was unveiled on the corner of West Chrystal Street and Morris Street, where Cicchetti grew up with his seven siblings, has continued to live for 87 years, and managed a nearby corner market for decades.
“It’s a privilege to honor someone who has given so much to Dover and Morris County. Aldo’s dedication to community service has shaped the township in countless ways,” said Commissioner Smith. “Whether as a family man, a business owner, or as mayor, Aldo has always led with integrity, compassion, and an unmatched commitment to making Dover a better place.”
Commissioner Smith presented a framed resolution of honor on behalf of the Morris County Board of Commissioners to Cicchetti’s family, who attended in his absence. In front of their childhood home, his children—Aldo Jr., Lisa, Christopher, and Julie—spoke of their father’s many accomplishments.
“Aldo’s leadership was defined not by the milestones of projects that marked his time in office but his unwavering commitment to the people of Dover,” said Mayor Dodd. “His passion and ability to unite people made him a true cornerstone of this town.”
Other guests at the ceremony included Assemblyman Christian Barranco, who presented a letter and joint New Jersey Senate and Assembly citation on behalf of his office, State Sen. Anthony Bucco, and Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, all of the 25th Legislative District. Chris Williams, who presented a certificate on behalf of U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, and Randolph Councilmember Lou Nisivoccia joined the event.
Cicchetti entered public service in 1974 when he was elected 3rd Ward Alderman. 1982, he was elected mayor and held that office until 1992, when he became Dover’s third-longest-serving mayor. He then returned as 3rd Ward Alderman to serve 16 years on that board.
At the time, Cicchetti operated the Dover Corner Market, a grocery and butcher shop located for more than 34 years at South Morris Street and East Munson Avenue. It was a place where he often listened to residents’ concerns and engaged directly with the community.
Cicchetti was commonly seen riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle to the town hall, stopping to chat with residents along the way. This further cemented his stature as a tireless advocate for his community’s homeowners and working families.
He has continued encouraging others to serve the community through volunteering, coaching, or public service, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape Dover for generations.
After retiring from public office, he worked as an assistant meat manager at Kings Supermarket for 13 years and has continued to serve the public as a Commissioner for the Dover Water Commission for the past 18 years.
