Race for council seats heads into final week
BY CLARE MARIE CELANO
Staff Writer

FREEHOLD - Three residents are running for two three-year terms on the Borough Council in the Nov. 7 election.

Republican Joseph C. Liguori is challenging Democratic incumbents Sharon Shutzer and Marc Le Vine for a seat on the governing body.

Democratic Councilman Jaye Sims is running uncontested for a one-year unexpired term.

Le Vine said Freehold is facing many important challenges that will require someone with previous council experience, an understanding of the issues, creativity, persistence, integrity, accessibility and high energy.

"Being hands-on as well and being an independent thinker with good judgment also comes in handy," Le Vine said. "I believe these are all attributes that I have to offer."

When asked why he chose to run for the council, Liguori said he wants to be "a true representative of the residents of Freehold Borough."

He said he feels confident he will be able to take some initiative to alleviate the problems that are the result of illegal immigration such as overcrowded housing and schools, and the loitering on Throckmorton Street.

"My obligation as a representative of the town is to be responsive to residents and accessible to them," Liguori said.

Shutzer is completing her fifth term on the council. Quality of life issues top her list of items to address if re-elected. Her concerns include the illegal immigration in Freehold, which she said has "profoundly affected the financial infrastructure of the town."

"We've done so much and come so far, and we will continue to keep up the pace on this issue," Shutzer said. "I will do whatever I think is in the best interest, in my opinion and in my heart, for the people of the borough."

Sims said serving on the council has been a great learning experience

"It has been everything I expected and more in a very positive way. I've learned a great deal," he said, adding that he is looking forward to learning more about the operation of the town's government during his next year of service.

The councilman said he would like to see the efforts of the code enforcement department's rental inspection plan continue. He said the program is successful and is going well.

Polls will be open between on 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 7.