Lone candidate seeks Spotswood council seat

SPOTSWOOD — Charlie Spicuzzo, appointed to fill an unexpired term on the Borough Council in July, is running unopposed Nov. 4 for a two-year term.

The 32-year-old son of Middlesex County Sheriff Joseph Spicuzzo, he has a wife, Denise, and two children, Joseph, 4, and Dominick, 2. He has lived in Spotswood for 30 years.

Spicuzzo is a graduate of Spotswood High School and the electrical apprenticeship program at East Brunswick Vocational and Technical School. He is a member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers No. 456 in New Brunswick. As councilman, he serves as liaison to the fire and police departments, the Board of Education and the Department of Insurance.

He took part in a brief Q&A with the Sentinel:

Why did you decide to serve the community as a councilman?

Being raised in a political family, I knew at a young age that politics was something I wanted to get involved in. When the council position opened up, I spoke with my wife and family and we agreed that this would be the right time. I want to give something back to the great community of Spotswood for making my life so enjoyable while growing up. Serving the residents and town is a great opportunity for me to do this.

What goals would you like to accomplish as a member of the governing body during the next couple of years?

One of my goals is to begin the process of restoring the town’s lake, because it is such a big part of the town’s history. I would also like to see Main Street increase its curb- side appeal, so that when residents drive through it they will feel at home, and nonresidents will view our town with respect. I intend to be a strong leader for the town and its citizens. I plan to be available to the residents anytime they need to ask a question or discuss a problem.

What improvements could be made to services, infrastructure or the overall quality of life in Spotswood, and how would you go about achieving such goals?

I believe the services in town are outstanding. However, I would like to get our residents more involved. It is important that more people attend the council meetings and ask questions. This would lead to less hostility when certain issues come up, because the public would be more educated about why things have to happen. Televised meetings could be an answer, but the cost is high, and in a small town, every penny counts. A Web page for residents to ask questions and post ideas is an option I would like to explore.

What are Spotswood’s best qualities, and what are its weaknesses?

Traffic is a major problem in our town. Something has to be done to minimize the traffic on Main Street so it is easier for the residents to get around. When looking for a town to start and raise a family, Spotswood is second to none. Our school system is wonderful. Our children receive a quality education and also have many extracurricular activities to choose from. Also, our emergency services are always prompt and dependable when families need them most. They make our residents feel safe.