JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ – The two GOP candidates running for the Ocean County Board of Commissioners spoke to Jackson residents during an open forum at the Jackson VFW, shedding light on their visions and commitments. Manchester Mayor Robert Arace, alongside his running mate Jennifer Bacchione, the Ocean County GOP executive director, presented their campaign promises and plans to address local issues.
Mayor Robert Arace emphasized the shared challenges between Manchester and Jackson, particularly highlighting the rapid growth both communities are experiencing. Arace is committed to ensuring that the need for improved roads, sidewalks, and enhanced emergency services does not go unaddressed. He pointed out the significant presence of large senior communities in both towns, underscoring the urgent need for more emergency medical services and investment in local first aid services.
Jennifer Bacchione, bringing her experience as the Executive Director of the Ocean County GOP and her tenure as President of the Berkeley Board of Education, spoke on the reduction of state aid and the search for new funding avenues for local schools. Bacchione, acknowledging the large senior populations in Berkeley, expressed her eagerness to collaborate with Mayor Arace in addressing these issues.
Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore criticized the lack of representation for northern and western Ocean County, asserting that past issues in Jackson and Manchester were neglected until they escalated into problems. He assured full support for the Arace-Bacchione ticket from the Ocean County GOP. Jackson Councilman Mordechai Burnstein, alongside Mayor Michael Reina, endorsed the candidates, praising their youthful energy and commitment to addressing long-ignored infrastructure needs.
Council President Jennifer Kuhn emphasized the importance of unity among Jackson’s leadership for the township’s betterment, reflecting a collective dedication to serving the community. Mayor Reina, endorsing Arace and Bacchione, highlighted their potential to collaborate effectively with Commissioner Frank Sadeghi in tackling the pressing issues of roads and infrastructure that have been overlooked for too long.