TOMS RIVER – Voters will choose half of the elected officials representing them in township government on November 4.
There are four wards in Toms River. Based on where you live, you will be voting in one of the ward races. Each ward has a Township Council member who serves four-year terms.
The current make-up of the Township Council is all Republican, but there are two different groups of Republicans.
Mayor Daniel Rodrick leads the current administration and his four allies have a majority on the council right now. However, the primary election in June took out two council members that side with him on most if not all issues. His only ally in this race is the Ward 3 candidate Harry Aber, running under the banner of the Official Republican Team.
The America First Republicans for Toms River have a candidate in each ward, although one is a write-in candidate for Ward 3, James Quinlisk. They are hoping to win a majority on the council.
The Democrats, meanwhile, only have candidates in three of the four wards, so there’s no way they could achieve a majority on the council.
All the candidates were given the same questions about what problems the town faces and what new things they’d like to start. Their answers are being presented in the order that they were sent back. There are slight edits to such things as grammar and punctuation, as well as larger edits to remove direct attacks on the local opposition (state and federal are fair game, though).
Ward One
Ward One will see a competition between Democrat Anthony Colucci and Republican Robert Bianchini.
Anthony Colucci said that after 40 years working in finance and accounting, he retired to Ortley Beach in 2005. His primary responsibilities during his career included 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,” he said. “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.”
“In 2017, I ran for the Ward One Council seat. Many of the issues we faced in 2017 are the same issues today,” he said. “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.”
“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,” he said.
“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,” he said. “We have to promote and support local business in Ward One on both sides of the Bay.”
“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.
“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,” he said. “I will serve Ward One not One Party.”
Robert Bianchini said “The main challenges facing our town are overdevelopment, reduced essential services such as EMT, police, and animal control, and actions by the Administration that unjustly deprive citizens of their rights. We have the power and responsibility to address these issues and create a better town for residents to raise their children, work, and enjoy retirement.
“I have been a business owner for 25 years and possess nearly two decades of government experience, including my roles as the Director of Capital Projects and as the Director of Public Works and Public Facilities in Asbury Park. My duties included managing the day-to-day planning, organizing, and scheduling of Public Works activities, which encompassed the supervision of road improvements, buildings and grounds, parks, and the installation of sanitary and water utility infrastructure. I also had the opportunity to oversee the reconstruction of the boardwalk in Asbury Park. My experience will be an asset to the town in improving infrastructure, parks, and government efficiency.
“I will work to ensure our residents have the essential services they need by properly staffing the police department, which is currently down nearly 30 officers due to retirements and officers on leave. Officers are further taken out of service in town to transport lost animals to out-of-town, county-run shelters. Rather than having boots on the ground and ensuring the security of our town, the current administration is hampering our officers with unreasonable and ridiculous protocols. I will ensure our police department is properly staffed and supported for the safety of our community. Increasing EMT coverage and response time is needed by working with local non-profit EMT services. This will help improve coverage not only in Toms River on the mainland but also in Ortley Beach,” Bianchini added.
“The closure of the animal shelter and the failure of animal control present a public health concern due to the absence of procedures related to lost pets, managing the cat population and kitten care, and pet care services that were previously available to residents. Dog licensing continues to generate revenue to fund the shelter and address these concerns,” he added.
“The lack of effective code enforcement continues to pose a serious threat to our community. It results in unsafe rental properties, illegal multi-family units, and homes that fall into disrepair – issues that significantly diminish the property values of our residents,” he said.
“The administration is enabling slumlords and LLCs to turn single-family homes into illegal multi-family dwellings, directly undermining the family-oriented character of our neighborhoods and adding further burdens to our infrastructure and schools. We deserve leadership that prioritizes community safety and preserves the integrity of our homes. Our neighborhoods are the very foundation of our town. I will work to restore code enforcement for the safety of our neighborhoods and to protect property values,” the candidate added.
Another significant issue was the former plan to take a church by eminent domain.
“I strongly oppose the eminent domain of a church and support property rights. I will work to support our community’s needs, including helping fund youth sports and senior services, rather than attacking churches. I will advocate to fight Murphy’s Democratic school funding formula that is crippling our schools and causing sky-high tax increases on our local residents.”
“Town meetings have become less transparent due to last-minute agendas, the limited time for public comment, and 4 p.m. meetings that exclude many residents. We need to restore transparency by scheduling more predictable agendas, extending public comment periods, and holding in-person meetings that allow all residents to participate effectively. I look forward to serving our community to restore a standard of excellence to our town,” he said.
“My team and I are not politicians, and we never want to be. Our priorities would be to attract smart growth that generates commercial tax revenue and reduces the burden on homeowners; protect open space and work to enhance our township’s quality of life; take on the Trenton Democrats, get our fair share of school aid, and reverse the drastic cuts to both educational quality and extracurricular activities in our schools. School tax increases are the biggest challenge for many towns. While the Town Council does not control school taxes, we can work together to support our schools and advocate for our fair share of funding.
“Our slate will restore transparency and increase resident and community participation by scheduling council meetings at times accessible to the public, establishing town subcommittees to collaboratively tackle the difficult challenges faced by our growing town – such as overdevelopment, funding for open space, housing insecurity, animal control issues, and initiatives to improve quality of life in Toms River.
He added. “I am committed to ensuring Toms River’s safety and quality of life by investing in police and first responders, responsibly supporting small businesses, and improving our beaches and waterfront amenities, while maintaining our neighborhood’s friendly, family-oriented vibe. I will oppose liberal democrat politicians in Trenton who undermine our schools and lifestyle. Above all, I am dedicated to keeping taxes manageable so Toms River stays affordable for all.”
Ward Two
Democrat Susan Payne Gato and Republican Clinton Bradley are competing to represent Ward Two.
Susan Payne Gato outlined five of the biggest issues facing Toms River today.
“One – A police and EMS force adequately maintained for a town this size. Staff in these professions have been negatively affected by elected officials who lack the knowledge to provide safety to the Ocean County seat, Toms River. I will support and encourage the police officials to carry out their obligations to provide the safest town possible.
“Two – The need for safe completed sidewalks throughout all four wards. Sidewalk safety is a must in our town of close to 100,000 residents and many summer visitors. Sidewalks also increase property value! Currently, veterans and others in electric wheelchairs are rolling in the streets. Moms with small children and baby carriages are walking in the busy streets in too many areas in Toms River. With the absence of sidewalks, in many areas, we are sharing the same space with electric bikes, motorcycles and fast cars. I will show the need and duty of elected officials to provide safe pedestrian and vehicle pathways.
“Three – Affordable Housing – the need for affordable housing for our young people completing their studies, returning to their home communities and searching for living wage jobs and affordable housing. The Jersey Shore is a very desirable place to live and raise a family. They deserve the opportunity. I will lobby for fulfilling Toms River requirements for affordable housing.
“Four – Healthy Electric Transportation – User friendly, inclusive, healthy electric and frequent transportation is desperately needed for all in Toms River. Traffic and residents have increased and we need to meet that demand in a healthy progressive plan. I will lobby for improved, safe, healthy transportation.
“Five – A Town Council meeting that is safe and inclusive, accessible and to be held during a time when the most residents can attend or listen and with a Council President who can professionally carry out that position (we don’t have that currently). I was physically ejected from a council meeting by a command from Council President (Justin) Lamb, to a present police officer, to remove me for going over my three-minute time allotted,” she said.
“I will call for a return of respectful, well run Council meetings which was the norm in the past. I will push for a return of five-minute time to speak at the Public Session. I will listen to my constituents and provide ongoing information to my Ward 2 residents.”
As for new proposals, Gato wrote about informing residents.
“Improvement and updating of the Toms River Township website is sorely needed. Currently it is not user friendly, does not provide timely information about what council member is responsible for what areas and concerns in our town. Police and fire service, and hiring needs to be available. It is difficult to find established times for council meetings. Health and safety concerns are not forthcoming. A list of services in Toms River for residents in need is missing. Updated Board of Elections information is needed. The Ocean County Board of Commissioners, Toms River meetings need to be easier to locate as do all township meetings such as Planning Board, Board of Education, County Environment, air, water and soil safety is not addressed.
“Transportation, affordable housing, addiction and homelessness assistance needs to be communicated to the residents. The Mayor’s Committee on Americans with Disabilities is all but silent and needs to communicate their yearly accomplishments that they have provided to our 20+% community of residents with disabilities. Animal shelter update info is missing and needed. This current website does not represent all township residents and their needs. I will request a general and specific update to this website so that it serves all of Toms River’s residents needs for information,” she added.
“I will call for better televised township meetings, accessible to all through several live camera views and closed captioned, through cable contracts and a means to call in (phone on speaker) with a comment or statement during these meetings which has long been in effect in other towns.”
Clinton Bradley said “The town is currently grappling with several significant problems: an absence of standards of excellence, insufficient code enforcement, unchecked overdevelopment, the conversion of single-family homes into multi-family residences, and a critical lack of transparency. I will work to protect our residential communities, improve essential services to our residents, and restore a standard of excellence to protect property values.
“No Standard of Excellence: Our town used to be the gold standard of a small town. People moved here for our schools and small-town feel. Our town now has sold out to special interests and those who do not care how the town looks or feels. We need to go back to enforcing the township ordinances on our books and hold everyone accountable to the same standards.
“Lack of Code Enforcement: As you drive around Toms River, you will see properties in every ward that are in disrepair. This ranges from an uncut lawn to broken windows or structural damage. This not only affects the appearance of the town but the neighbors who live next door to these slum-style homes. Nobody wants to live next door to a place where the grass is 10 feet high, trash is all over the place and the house is falling apart. Imagine trying to sell your home and that type of house is next door, it wouldn’t go well. We need to bring back code enforcement that will hold all residents accountable. All residents deserve to live in a neighborhood where the properties are maintained properly. Safety is the mindset of code enforcement.
“Overdevelopment: We are losing our small-town identity to developers who care nothing about the town, only how much land can be purchased and built on. My goal is to ensure the residential neighborhood character of our town, not fostering a downtown city as the opposition may falsely claim. This overdevelopment is placing a huge strain on the municipal utilities, our roads and infrastructure,” he noted
“Multi-Non-Related Families in Single Homes: Toms River is currently facing an issue of multi-unrelated families in a single-family home. Rooms are converted without permits and some are unsafe i.e.: basement rooms with one egress. This places a burden on the municipal infrastructure and places an undue tax burden on everyone. The lack of an enforced rental certificate of occupancy addressing safety and residential standards makes this possible.”
“Lack of Transparency: The administration has hidden information from taxpayers with vague last-minute agendas and has failed to explain the details behind ordinances and resolutions. Lack of transparency has eroded public trust. Residents are derided at council meetings for asking questions. The taxpayers of Toms River deserve leaders who are transparent and genuinely committed to serving them,” he said.
When asked about new ideas for the town, Bradley spoke about transparency.
“Bring back two town meetings a month to ensure our community stays informed and engaged. Let’s restore a decorum of respect and transparency at these meetings, creating a space where residents feel heard and valued. Listen attentively to residents’ concerns and provide clear, honest answers to their questions. Allow residents to speak for five minutes, with the possibility of extra time if needed, so everyone has a fair chance to share their voice. Reschedule meeting times to 6 p.m. to make it easier for more residents to attend and participate.”
“Be there for Toms River – show up, listen, and act in the best interest of our entire town. Make decisions that benefit the whole community, not just a small, privileged few. Together, we can build a stronger, more united Toms River,” he said.
Ward Three
In Ward Three, Harry Aber is the only candidate on the ballot. The Democrats failed to field a candidate. However, current council member James Quinlisk is mounting a write-in campaign.
Jim Quinlisk said that the North Dover section of town is facing increased apartment projects, and might see more in the future.
“North Dover is quickly becoming like a small city. Land is being cleared by the 10s of acres,” he said. There is no current action to curb overdevelopment along the Route 9 corridor.”
“Our town is increasingly plagued by heavy traffic, overcrowded residential neighborhoods, strained public services, and crumbling infrastructure. To address these issues, I will work collaboratively with the county and state to increase protected open spaces and advocate for a reduction in mandated affordable housing numbers, thereby preventing unnecessary and harmful overbuilding,” he added.
“Additionally, I will prioritize enhancing our community by upgrading local parks and youth sports fields, creating a more enjoyable and accessible environment for all residents. The absence of strong code enforcement…poses a serious threat to the safety and character of our community. Without it, unsafe rental properties, illegal multi-family units, and deteriorating homes become common, driving down property values and diminishing residents’ quality of life,” he said.
“Sadly, the Administration appears to be turning a blind eye, allowing slumlords and LLCs to add illegal units to single-family homes – jeopardizing the family-friendly neighborhoods that are the foundation of Toms River. I am dedicated to restoring comprehensive code enforcement to protect our neighborhoods, preserve property values, and ensure our community remains a safe, welcoming place for all,” he noted.
“Toms River is facing a critical decline in essential services that threaten the well-being of our community. Despite our population growing over the past twenty years, our police force has shrunk,” he said. The administration is responsible for failing to hire officers to replace those who are retiring, shutting down Silverton EMS, and closing the animal shelter.
“We have no in-town animal control, with the animal shelter closed and no current enforcement of animal-related issues. This is unacceptable. Proper animal control can be restored easily through animal control officers funded by dog licensing fees, and together with the county, we are committed to expediting the reopening of our animal shelter. Our community deserves better – it’s time for action and accountability to ensure safety and compassion for all residents and animals alike,” he remarked.
“Our town is faced with unprecedented violent crimes to include a fatal stabbing on Fischer Boulevard, drive-by shooting in North Dover with children in the home, and the murder of a homeowner whose residence was later utilized to hide a murder suspect. The suspect committed suicide following a police standoff in East Dover. Since 2024, at least 15 officers have left, not including over a dozen more on leave. Officers are assuming the role of animal control and driving out of town to the county animal facilities. Rather than having boots on the ground and ensuring the security of our town, the current administration is hampering our officers with unreasonable directives. Instead of directly addressing our town’s security needs, the administration burdens our police with impractical protocols. I will ensure that our police department receives the necessary staffing and support to effectively safeguard our community.”
“We have seen an unprecedented level of government encroachment on citizens’ rights, from violations of the Open Public Meetings Act to government overreach. The Administration sought to seize an active church by eminent domain. Imagine the government trying to seize your property without notice.
“Town meetings have become less transparent due to last-minute agendas, the severely limited time for public comment, and 4 p.m. meetings that exclude many residents. We need to restore transparency by timely agendas, extending public comment periods, and holding in-person meetings that allow all residents to participate effectively. I look forward to serving our community to restore a standard of excellence to our town. I humbly ask Ward 3 residents to write in JAMES QUINLISK to continue to dedicate my service to our community. Let’s reinstate a standard of excellence across our neighborhoods, schools, and local government by supporting my candidacy,” he said.
“I would work to restore our infrastructure and amenities in the North Dover section of our town. The needs of Ward 3 are being ignored…creating infrastructure hazards and increased traffic and accidents, negatively impacting the safety of residents. The rural nature of North Dover drew many families to the area. During the first two years of my term, I worked to preserve nearly 60 acres of open space. The preservation of open space has ground to a halt under the administration,” he said. The talk of 10-story skyscrapers “is clearly a dead issue for the town. I will work to increase open space and restore parks for our residents to enjoy. Let’s look to the future of our community.”
Harry Aber said “I believe Toms River is headed in the right direction. The new administration stopped the 10-story towers, repealed Mo Hill’s downtown redevelopment plan that called for a small city of high-rise apartments projects up to 150 feet tall in our downtown area, and the mayor stabilized municipal property taxes too. I’m running to do what I can to support our new mayor in the fight against overdevelopment and to work with him to keep municipal taxes low and stable.”
“The biggest threat facing our township is the return of the Mo Hill Gang and their developer friends. We’ve seen them make a comeback and pick up some seats during the primary, which is very concerning to myself and my neighbors. As we’ve seen, the Mo Hill Gang cannot accept the will of the electorate,” he said. “We need to continue moving the township in the right direction.”
“I’m happy about all of the plans for new parks, playgrounds, sprinkler parks, and the fishing pier. I’d like to continue working with the administration to ensure that Toms River has the best parks in the State of New Jersey. In addition, I’d also like to see a continuation of the new paving program. In the last two years, the administration has paved 159 new roads,” Aber said.
“Our infrastructure was crumbling and it’s nice to see things are changing for the better. I look forward to working with the administration on their efforts to repair our crumbling infrastructure and parks,” he added.
Ward Four
Democrat Justin Moran is running against Councilman David Ciccozzi for Ward Four. Additionally, Paul Williams is mounting a write-in challenge.
Justin Moran said that “The biggest challenge facing Toms River is keeping it affordable and livable for the residents. The fear of overdevelopment driving costs up is front and center for many of our retirees who already feel the strain. For younger demographics, the high cost of living combined with the lack of native industries or viable career opportunities that pay enough to afford this area, there’s little reason for people to return or stay after they’ve finished school.
“I will address these problems by starting with smart growth, which brings in more ratables (businesses that strengthen our tax base without overcrowding our schools and streets) to ease the burden on homeowners. I’ll implement a storefront revitalization program that waives permit fees for businesses opening in vacant storefronts. Reducing start-up costs will result in more businesses opening in Toms River,” the candidate said.
Moran noted, “Boosting our businesses and revitalizing our downtown and waterfront spaces will go a long way in attracting business from neighboring areas, such as Monmouth County. Giving families a place to mingle and spend money boosts our local economy.”
“That vision also guides what I’d like to see us do next,” he said. “With the billion-dollar industry that Netflix has brought to our doorstep by turning Fort Monmouth into one of the largest production hubs in modern history, there will be amazing new opportunities for local workers. When a movie or TV show is made, roughly 80% of the budget goes to the below-the-line jobs. These are local, union jobs that are secure and pay well, including construction, contracting, electric and wiring, masonry, personal training, lighting, and many more.”
“We should position Toms River to take advantage of this by attracting supporting industries, training programs, and small businesses that can benefit from the production boom. This will also provide direction for many young people who don’t know where to look for well-paying, upwardly mobile jobs in our area,” the candidate said.
Moran added, “If we get this right, we can protect what makes Toms River special while creating new opportunities that let families live, work, and thrive right here at home.”
David Ciccozzi said “The town faces serious challenges, including overdevelopment, the reduction of vital services such as EMT, police, and animal control, and government actions that unjustly deprive citizens of their rights.
“Toms River is facing a devastating reduction in essential services due to the shrinking police force and diminished local EMT services. Our population has increased substantially over the last two decades, yet there are nearly 30 fewer police officers on staff due to the failure to hire replacements for retiring officers and failing to take into account officers on leave,” he said.
“I will work to ensure that our police department gets the staffing and support it needs to effectively protect us. I will also work to expand coverage for EMT services available to our residents by creating more opportunities for local EMT squads to assist our community and safeguard residents’ health,” he added.
Ciccozzi said, “our residents are put at a disservice with the closure of the Toms River Animal Shelter and the elimination of animal control officers. The outsourcing of animal control is a complete failure. Public health concerns like the growing cat population, limited help for lost pets, and the cessation of vaccine services for pets negatively impact our community. Animal control would be properly addressed with town-sourced animal control officers, which can be easily funded with dog licensing fees. We would work with the county to expedite the opening of the animal shelter.”
“Neglected and unsafe properties pose risks and can decrease the value of neighboring properties. Properly enforcing codes is essential to ensure that properties and rentals meet the requirements of our local ordinances. Without proper enforcement, our community faces serious dangers, such as unsafe rental properties, illegal multi-family units, and homes that deteriorate. These issues can lower property values and harm residents’ quality of life. The Administration allows slumlords and LLCs to add illegal multi-family units to single-family homes, threatening our family-friendly neighborhoods. I am dedicated to restoring strong code enforcement to keep our neighborhoods safe and maintain the value of our homes,” he added.
“Our town has observed an unprecedented degree of government encroachment on the rights of our citizens, ranging from breaches of the Open Public Meetings Act to government overreach. Imagine the government seizing your property without any notice – a frightening prospect,” he said. “The Christ Episcopal Church on Washington Street has been an active and vital part of our community since 1865. I strongly opposed the use of eminent domain by the administration to seize this active church and support property rights.
“Town meetings have lost transparency with last-minute agendas, 4 p.m. once-a-month council meetings, a one-hour limit of public comment (per meeting), and not to mention a Zoom meeting to keep the public out. I will restore transparency to our local government and encourage resident input through meetings held at a reasonable time and with a fair opportunity for public comment,” he added.
“Recently, not one acre of open space has been preserved,” he said. “During the first two years of my term, I secured 60 acres of open space and helped our local schools in the process. I have delivered a flat municipal tax since 2021- no tax increase at the town level. I am eager to serve our community and continue to work to reinstate a standard of excellence.
“As a family man first and successful business owner at the Jersey Shore second, I am not running for Council to chase a career in politics. Frankly, I don’t want one!”
The candidate added, “What truly matters to me is keeping Toms River safe by investing in our police and first responders; responsibly revitalizing our downtown to support small businesses and enhance our waterfront amenities, while preserving the friendly, family-oriented atmosphere of our neighborhoods. I will also stand up against liberal politicians in Trenton who attack our schools and our way of life. Most importantly, I’m committed to fighting to keep taxes manageable so that Toms River remains affordable for everyone.”
Paul Williams is running a write-in campaign for council. He said the biggest issues in town are the administration’s actions “that have undermined the stability of our local government and the quality of essential services and also threatens the public safety and quality of life throughout our community. Since taking office in January of 2024, they have attacked our Police Department, Animal Shelter, Code Enforcement, and the Silverton First Aid Squad to mention a few – with misleading and unjustified reasoning – and disregarded the realistic and detrimental implications of their actions for the immediate and long-term future.
“My plan to address this issue is to use my stature as a councilperson to raise public awareness, promote understanding of local issues, and encourage greater public participation. This is also something new that I want to do for our community that is not currently being done,” he said.
“If elected, I will promote and host regular, informal, town hall-style meetings with any and all interested and concerned members of the community. Unlike any council member ever before, I would actively encourage engagement with the public. I firmly believe that council members will benefit from encouraging and hosting townhall-style meetings with members of the community. These meetings will promote transparency, accountability, and civic unity. Key benefits include:
1. Improved Communication: Direct dialogue fosters mutual understanding and informed decision-making.
2. Community Input: Residents can voice concerns and influence policies that reflect real needs.
3. Increased Trust: Regular interaction shows officials are accessible and responsive.
4. Collaborative Problem-Solving: Collective brainstorming produces better solutions.
5. Civic Engagement: Public involvement cultivates shared responsibility and pride in our community.”
“Overall, town hall-style meetings have the very real potential to strengthen democracy by creating a more informed, engaged, and connected community. They also have the very real potential of revealing the true character and intent of people who purport to serve the people of this town versus serving the special interests of those with power, influence, and money,” he added.
“I want people to see that my goal is to truly serve the people and not partisan political party bosses – while also motivating my council colleagues to be more transparent and responsible to the public. Only through genuine dialogue can we move beyond empty political rhetoric and the divisiveness that paralyzes progress,” he noted.
Williams added, “Throughout the past two township administrations, I have noticed that the governing bodies do not truly listen to their constituents and, in the past year, have also noticed what appears to be an increase in efforts to limit, if not completely suppress, communication between the public and the elected and appointed officials,” he said. “Rightfully, this has increased frustration and distrust from members of the public. On more than one occasion, I have addressed my concern about this to the Council; reminding them of a very poignant quote by the late Martin Luther King, Jr: ‘A riot is the voice of the unheard.’”
