Mr. Carson bested Democrat Sal Schiano for a seat on the committee after Committeeman Karl Feltes, a Republican, opted not to run for reelection for a three-year term earlier this year, acco
by James McEvoy, Managing Editor
BORDENTOWN TOWNSHIP — Residents cast their votes Tuesday night and chose to send Republican Richard Carson to represent them as the newest member of the Township Committee.
Mr. Carson bested Democrat Sal Schiano for a seat on the committee after Committeeman Karl Feltes, a Republican, opted not to run for reelection for a three-year term earlier this year, according to township officials.
The race was decided by a little over 100 votes as Mr. Carson garnered 1,531 votes to Mr. Schiano’s tally of 1,407, according to unofficial results released by the Burlington County Clerk’s Office.
Residents were likely familiar with both candidates, as Mr. Schiano ran unsuccessfully for committee in 2011 as an independent candidate, while Mr. Carson previously served on the Township Committee in the ‘80s and ‘90s, including two stints as mayor.
Mr. Carson said he was “excited” about his election and appreciates the support of residents.
He said he looks forward to working with the Township Committee to improve the quality of life for township residents.
On his campaign page, Mr. Schiano thanked Bordentown residents who supported his candidacy.
”I want to thank everyone who voted and supported me,” he said. “I will forever be grateful for your vote and the help you gave.”
He also wished his opponent well and said while he wasn’t precisely sure what the future holds for him, he intends to remain active in Bordentown.
During the campaign both candidates sought to serve the community to improve the quality of life for residents.
Mr. Carson, who retired as superintendent for North Hanover in 2011, specifically said he wanted to support responsible development in Bordentown.
”The economic development of the township is important, that we try to work closely with the other governing bodies in the area that will allow for clean growth ratables,” he said last, adding that any future development should be analyzed to ensure the school system is not overburdened.
Apart from his previous stints as committeeman and mayor, Mr. Carson served on the Planning Board and has been involved with the veterans board and economic development in Bordentown.
He has resided in Bordentown for approximately 40 years and is married with two children and three grandchildren.
In the race for three terms to the Bordentown Regional School District incumbent board members Kimberly Zablow and Mark Drew along with Stephen Heberling got the nod from voters with 1,268, 1,174 and 1,092 votes, respectively.
Michael Dauber, former committeeman and mayor in Bordentown, received 808 votes.