By Charles W. Kim, Managing Editor
After being honored for his service on the Township Council, Republican John O’Sullivan told fellow party members that he would run for mayor in 2014.
”I’m throwing my hat in the ring for mayor in 2014,” Mr. O’Sullivan said as he concluded his remarks during the annual Lincoln Dinner Dance Saturday night at Pierre’s in Monmouth Junction. “I’ll be out there, keeping an eye on (the Democrats) to make a better South Brunswick.”
Mr. O’Sullivan was honored by the local party for his service on the Township Council during the last four years.
He became the first GOP councilman in 10 years by beating out Democrat Mac Shah in 2008.
Mr. O’Sullivan lost his bid for re-election to that seat in November as Democratic challenger Jo Hochman, incumbents Charley Carley and Joe Camarota were easily swept into office.
Even after losing the election, Mr. O’Sullivan used his remaining time on the council to bring up issues such as freezing property taxes for deployed military personnel and starting a voluntary gun surrender program with the police department.
Democratic Mayor Frank Gambatese, now in the second half of his third, four-year term, said that he has not considered seeking a fourth term as of yet, but wished Mr. O’Sullivan well.
”I wish him good luck,” Mayor Gambatese said Tuesday. “John has always had the best interest of the township at heart.”
Mr. O’Sullivan thanked the around 50 people attending the event and said that it will take a good effort of getting out around the township to win seats back.
Mr. O’Sullivan received a plaque from Chairman Linda Woods-Cleary and former assembly candidate John Saccenti, Sr.
After posing with his plaque for photos, Mr. O’Sullivan then gave his wife Jacqueline a dozen roses to thank her for her support during his campaigns and while serving on the governing body.
Using a moment from the “Meet the Parents” comedy starring Robert DeNero and Ben Stiller, Mr. O’Sullivan put his fingers to his eyes and said he “would be watching” the Democrats before the 2014 election and would continue to try and make the town better.
Local municipal elections are held every other year with the mayor and one council seat available in 2014. The remaining three council seats will be up again in 2016.

