MILLTOWN — A pair of Republican newcomers will take the places of two Democrats on the Borough Council in January.
Francis “Buddy” X. Guyette received the highest tally during the Nov. 5 election, with 1,285 votes. Running mate Doriann Kerber came in second with 1,164 votes.
Incumbents George Murray and Richard Ryan fell just short of those tallies, with 1,127 and 1,124 votes, respectively.
Guyette and Kerber thanked the residents of Milltown for their confidence and for giving them the opportunity to serve the community.
“This is not a responsibility that we take lightly, and we will do our best to represent all the residents,” the Republicans said in a joint statement. “We know there is a lot of work to do, with many challenges ahead. We look forward to working together with the current council.”
Guyette and Kerber thanked Ryan and Murray for their service on the council.
“We appreciate their gracious and supportive words on election night,” they said.
The council members-elect said they will focus on issues including utilities, taxes and the redevelopment of Ford Avenue.
They will join an otherwise entirely Democratic governing body that includes council members Randy Farkas, Joseph Pietanza, Patricia Murray and Neil Raciti, and Mayor Eric Steeber.
Ron Dixon, chairman of the Milltown Republican Organization, was elated with the results, saying he knows that both Guyette and Kerber will work hard once on council.
“Since Buddy is retired, he will be able to serve as a full-time councilman available to all residents and businesses day and night,” he said. “Doriann is a young business owner who understands finance and will be the second woman on council — another first for Milltown.”
Gloria Bradford was the first female Republican mayor to be elected in Milltown. After 14 years as mayor, she wrapped up her service to the borough in 2011. Currently, Murray is the lone woman on council.