The Borough of Mountainside celebrated its Centennial with a year-long series of events in 1995 in recognition of its separation from Westfield on October 22, 1895. Water supply, street lights, sewers, and the taxes relating to them were the precipitating concerns that led to the split. The "Freeholders" of that area of Westfield voted affirmatively on September 24, 1895. Following that, an election of Borough officers was held on October 22 at Beaman’s Blacksmith Shop, behind present-day Mountainside Drug. Joseph W. Cory, the first mayor, held that position until 1901. He served again from 1906 to 1909. In addition to a mayor, councilman, clerk, and treasurer, elected officials included a constable, a surveyor of highways, a commissioner of appeal, and an overseer of the poor. After the organization of the government of the borough, departments necessary to conduct the governing functions - such as police, fire, and education and public welfare - were gradually added.