A three-way race has shaped up for a two-year unexpired term on the East Windsor Township Council in the Nov. 7 general election.
Township Councilman Johnnie Whittington, a Democrat, who was appointed to fill an unexpired term after the death of Township Councilman Alan Rosenberg, will square off against Republican Party nominee Binah Shah and Roger Power, who was nominated by petition.
Whittington said he is a long-time resident and accepted the appointment to the Township Council to be part of a community in which residents can live, work and raise a family. He is raising a young family.
“All communities depend on an active mayor and Township Council, town employees and supportive residents that volunteer. That’s how I see East Windsor, and I most certainly want to be a part of that – now, and in the future,” he said.
One of the most important issues facing East Windsor Township is its infrastructure, Whittington said, adding “it is difficult to keep up with the demands of aging municipal utilities, roads, curbs, sidewalks and public buildings.”
“Keeping up with those demands is more than one person can handle,” he said. “The mayor and Township Council have received state and county grants and funding for roads, underground infrastructure and maintenance of township-owned buildings.”
Whittington said his experience on the East Windsor Township Planning Board, as well as professional work experience and knowledge, allowed him to “hit the ground running.” He wants to bring the same experience and knowledge to the Township Council.
“In addition to what I can offer the Township Council and residents, I also personify the perspective of many of the young families in our community. As my children have grown, I have volunteered at East Windsor Police Athletic League and Pop Warner (football) as a coach, as well as a Cub Scout leader,” he said.
“I believe in community, public service and being involved for myself, my family and the families and residents of East Windsor. I will serve with integrity, devotion and pride at all times,” Whittington said.
Shah, the Republican Party nominee, has lived in East Windsor Township since 2005.
“I have experienced and witnessed that critical changes need to be done within the township. I learned at a very early age that in order to get the problem solved, I must first get involved,” Shah said.
Among the issues facing the township, Shah pointed to crimes such as home burglaries. They are on the rise and are of great concern, she said.
“As a mayor or member of Township Council, it would be my responsibility to address the public as a public servant. If I am elected, I would always prefer that residents dealing with issues would help us and recommend solutions,” Shah said.
“Let us ask our police officers to do more night-time patrols as well as during the day so that residents feel safe,” she said.
Shah pointed to her proven track record and said she was confident to be able to represent herself on the Township Council. She said she is looking forward to serving the residents.
Power, who is a 19-year-resident of East Windsor Township, said he is running for Township Council because he wants to make sure that the residents know their voices matter.
“I garnered over 100 signatures to get on the ballot and the people have already spoken to me. They want a fresh start,” he said.
Power said he would like to improve upon the services in the township and build a community where all residents can thrive.
“Some of the improvements I would address are infrastructure safety, beautification programs, small business potential, parks and recreation, and community engagement and involvement,” he said.
“Through pedestrian walkways and bike paths, we can engage our entire community – from youths to seniors – in physical activity. I am a strong advocate for physical, mental and spiritual well-being,” he said.
Power said he is skilled at building relationships and working with people. He listens to the needs of others and their concerns, and tries to reach agreement for everyone.