SOUTHERN OCEAN COUNTY – From Lacey Township south through the mainland communities and onto Long Beach Island, municipal governments across Southern Ocean County rang in 2026 with reorganization meetings that reflected both continuity and change.
Each of the municipalities holding reorganization meetings in this stretch of the county is governed by Republican-controlled governing bodies, a political alignment that shaped both the tone and leadership selections as officials set their agendas for the year ahead. While the specific structures vary from township committees to council-led governments, the meetings shared common themes: fiscal restraint, operational stability, and a renewed focus on local priorities.
With many meetings held on the same dates, it was impossible to attend each in person. Taken together, however, the reorganizations offered a snapshot of how leadership is taking shape across the southern end of Ocean County for 2026.
Barnegat
Barnegat Township marked one of the more notable changes in Southern Ocean County, as Fred Rubenstein was sworn in to fill the seat long held by Albert “Al” Bille, who retired. Rubenstein was selected afterward as deputy mayor, while Pasquale “Pat” Pippi was chosen to serve as mayor at the January 1 reorganization meeting.
Before taking his seat on the dais, Rubenstein moved through the room greeting residents and officials, including several from Plumsted Township, where he previously served as business administrator. The interaction set the tone for a speech that blended gratitude, civic pride, and a call for collaboration.
Visibly energized, Rubenstein spoke about the value of respectful disagreement in local government. “Nobody has a monopoly on ideas,” he said, adding that differing viewpoints, when handled constructively, strengthen decision-making rather than weaken it.
Rubenstein also referenced faith, national unity, and service, stressing that respect for others, including those with differing beliefs, is foundational to public life. “I respect everybody’s faith, and if they don’t believe, I respect their right, because I’m an American,” he told the audience. “And I’m proud to be an American.”
The new deputy mayor closed by thanking those who supported his campaign and the colleagues he now serves alongside, declaring, “We are Barnegat. Get in our way and we’ll steamroll because we are Barnegat, and we are Americans. God bless America. God bless Barnegat.”
Lacey
In Lacey Township, the reorganization meeting reflected continuity following the November election. Steve Kennis, who secured reelection, was selected as mayor during the January 1 meeting. Peter Curatolo, last year’s mayor, also won reelection to the Township Committee, while Robert Laureigh was chosen to serve as deputy mayor for 2026.
Much of the meeting focused on formal appointments and routine resolutions, underscoring an emphasis on efficient operations and preparedness. Officials reaffirmed departmental assignments and professional appointments, signaling a steady course as the township begins the new year.
Little Egg Harbor
Little Egg Harbor Township entered 2026 amid a leadership transition following Raymond Gormley’s departure from the Township Committee. At the January 1 reorganization meeting, Kenneth Laney Jr. was selected as mayor, with Dan Maxwell named deputy mayor.
Gormley’s departure (to become an Ocean County Commissioner) leaves an open committee seat, which will be filled in accordance with state law. Township officials indicated that continuity in governance remains a priority as the process moves forward.
Waretown
Ocean Township (Waretown) continued its longstanding practice of rotating leadership among the same three committee members. At the January 2 reorganization meeting, Ben LoParo, who served as mayor in 2025, was sworn in for another term as committeeman. Kenneth Baulderstone was selected as mayor for 2026, with Lydia Dodd named deputy mayor.
All three elected members of the governing body emphasized maintaining essential services while remaining mindful of the financial pressures facing municipalities. Budget discipline, collaboration and appreciation for first responders featured prominently in committee remarks. “I think that as a team, we have achieved a stable government, working for the best interest of the citizens, while making changes that make the township an even better place to live,” said Baulderstone. “In 2025, the township was challenged by the devastating Jones Road fire when, due to the dedicated efforts of the many firefighters, not one home was lost or was burned and not one life was lost. We appreciate the efforts of the local first responders, and the support of the other first responders throughout the state who came here to help.”
