The Five Biggest Stories in Chatham in 2011

Sometimes people wonder how a small town can provide enough news for its own Patch site. Chatham did not have that problem in 2011. There was more than enough news to keep the town engaged this year. Remember ? How about when within days of each other?

So as we wind down 2011, here are some of the top stories you signed on to read about:

5. A New Mayor for Chatham Borough. for the borough on the Nov. 8 elections this year. One day later, from his term almost two months before the expiration date. The resignation led to the to choose an Acting Mayor for the first time in the borough's history. , but this story rocked the town in 2011. (Note: When Harris is sworn in, .)

4. Tropical Storm Irene Batters Down. Though was downgrated to a tropical storm by the time it hit New Jersey, . Several neighborhoods were without power for days, and borough residents saw their water supply endangered after near collapsed. Officials expedited the contract to repair the bridge before the start of school, and until every resident had power once again.

3. Township Considers Farming Ordinance. One of the most controversial topics in town this year, the question of within Chatham Township is . Residents have passionate opinions on both sides of the question, and with a decision still weeks away, this is likely to be a hot topic in 2012, too.

2. Late October Snow Storm Darkens the Town. Snow doesn't usually bring the Chathams to a halt, but when it came in October, almost all of town was still. Though officials were grateful that there was little property damage or injuries in town, the on . Only a small pocket of Chatham Borough kept their power; Chatham Township was completely dark. , causing the Board of Education to open schools on previously-designated holidays. from throughout the eastern U.S. to restore power to town fully, and the storm affected town budgets and services for weeks after the snow had melted away.

1. Guilty Verdict for Church Custodian. Over two years after in the rectory at , a jury returned a guilty verdict only days before Christmas. This story touched numerous residents who knew who worked at the parish for 18 years before . The verdict, and after Feliciano said he was forced into a sexual relationship.  Sentencing is scheduled in February, and will bring an end to this story that has overshadowed Chatham for two years.