My Background & Experience
After over 40 successful years working in finance/accounting, we retired to Ortley Beach in 2005. Budget control being my primary responsibility under various positions including Director of Finance, Corporate Controller and Vice President of Finance.
I am currently on the Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment. I serve as President of the Ortley Beach Voters and Taxpayers Association and have been doing so for the past nine years. I am also a member of the Ocean County Business and Tourism Commission, Toms River Environmental Commission and a Rutgers Coastal Steward Alumni. I support and contribute my time to Re-Clam The Bay projects.
Why I'm Running Again
In 2017 I ran for Ward One Council seat. Many of the issues we faced in 2017 are the same issues today.
Ward One needs fresh leadership and a community first approach to Toms River Township. I am committed to bringing that fresh leadership and community first approach to the Toms River Township Council.
Environmental Protection & Economic Development
We all love the Shore and the Bay. We know they need to be protected. Yet now, we must also factor in the cutbacks in funding the Federal Government has recently implemented. I will be the voice advocating for Ward One with the State Government. We must secure the funds and plans that we need to guard our homes and businesses. The livelihood of many businesses and billions of dollars in revenue is at stake. Billions more in shore community property values and Municipal tax revenue may also be lost.
We have to promote and support local business in Ward One on both sides of the Bay.
Transparent Government & Fiscal Responsibility
I will insist on a transparent government. Not only by increasing accessibility to Council meetings, but I will ensure that the public portion allows enough time to hear Toms River Township residents speak. All major projects must be discussed openly and described clearly to residents. Very often residents feel their voices have not been counted before decisions are made which affect them.
A background in finance has shown me how important it is to control budgets and the revenue that support the services of our town. I will work to ensure that Toms River Township's budget and taxes reflect the views of the residents.
Community Development & Public Safety
Outside of Ward One, we should look to develop Downtown Toms River as a community and business friendly environment that will attract people from all of Toms River Township. We cannot afford to return to the stagnant policies of past administrations. No large buildings that would overwhelm the town. I will look into LLC purchases that are turned into summer rentals. These rentals cause a variety of problems, such as late night noise and overburdened parking on our streets. Open space to walk and play is essential to developing and maintaining our community.
I will support our police department as an independent force. We need to reconnect and recognize the community relations and open discussion we enjoyed with our Police Department in the past.
My Commitment to You
As a full time Councilman, I will be responsive to all of the concerns Ward One Residents have. Not only will I attend community, committee and Council meetings regularly, I will maintain an open door to every Ward One resident.
I will serve Ward One, not One Party.