MANCHESTER – Election Day on the municipal level of the township was pretty tame this year but that doesn’t mean that the two elected officials aren’t ready for active new terms.
The ballot offered up one-year unexpired terms for mayor and the Township Council that were both uncontested.
Mayor Joseph Hankins sought election to the remainder of the term of Robert Arace who resigned last year to become a member of the Board of Ocean County Commissioners. Hankins was appointed early this year and he received 13,548 votes in the general election.
He told The Manchester Times, “I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust the residents of Manchester Township have once again placed in me to serve as your mayor. I want to sincerely thank everyone who supported me and took the time to vote in this election. Your confidence in my leadership means a great deal, and I remain fully committed to working each day on behalf of all who call Manchester home.”
The mayor added, “as we look ahead to 2026, my focus will remain on strengthening the qualities that make Manchester Township such a special place to reside. I am dedicated to keeping taxes low and ensuring that our residents continue to receive the essential services they rely upon. Fiscal responsibility and quality of life must go hand in hand, and I will continue to make decisions that reflect both our community’s needs and long-term sustainability.”
“Preserving open space remains one of my highest priorities. Protecting the character and natural beauty of Manchester is vital to our township’s future, and I will continue to advocate for thoughtful planning that balances growth with preservation. This year’s successful energy aggregation bid was a meaningful step forward in reducing costs for our residents,” the mayor said.
He pledged to “continue to work closely with local, county, and state officials to explore additional ways to make utility bills more affordable for households throughout our community. Looking ahead, one of my key goals is to encourage responsible economic development in existing structures throughout the township.”
Mayor Hankins also said that by attracting new businesses and supporting local investment, “we can create jobs, strengthen our local economy, and enhance the quality of life for all Manchester residents. I thank you for your confidence and continued support. It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your mayor, and I look forward to working together to make Manchester Township an even greater place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Sandy Drake filled his vacant council seat earlier this year. She received 12,156 votes on Election Day. She told The Manchester Times that she was “deeply honored to have been elected to continue serving the residents of Manchester Township. Whether you voted for me or not, please know that I am here for every member of our community. This town means so much to me – it’s where I grew up, where I served proudly on the Manchester Township Police force, and where I continue to volunteer and give back whenever I can.”
“As we look ahead to 2026, I am committed to working closely with our council and mayor to keep Manchester Township safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for all. I also hope to encourage more residents to get involved with our Environmental Committee and other community initiatives that strengthen our town,” she added.
Drake promised to “listen with open ears, work hard every day, and do everything I can to keep Manchester Township moving in the right direction. Thank you for your trust and support.”
