TOMS RIVER – The Primary Election will be held on June 10. Candidates were asked questions sent to them by The Toms River Times. Their answers are below with minimal editing.
Toms River is divided into four wards geographically. You can find out what ward you are in by visiting tomsrivertownship.com/382/Ward-Maps. Each of these wards has one member of council representing them. The four ward seats are on the ballot this year.
A primary election is when members of a political party decide who they want to represent them on the ballot in the general election in November.
Ward 1
In Ward 1, Republican incumbent Justin Lamb (Official Republican Team), who currently serves as the council president, is being challenged by Robert Bianchini (America First Republicans for Toms River).
The Democrat choice, Anthony Colucci, is not being challenged in the primary, so his bio will wait until the fall election.
Robert Bianchini: “In my professional life, I have been a business owner for 25 years, worked for T & M as a Principal Inspector, and possess nearly two decades of government experience, including my roles as the Director of Capital Projects and as the Director of Public Works and Public Facilities in Asbury Park. My duties included managing the day-to-day planning, organizing, and scheduling of Public Works activities, which encompassed the supervision of road improvements, buildings and grounds, parks, and the installation of sanitary and water utility infrastructure. I also had the opportunity to oversee the reconstruction of the boardwalk in Asbury Park. I retired in 2024 and look forward to using my experience to serve Toms River.”
“I proudly served our country in the United States Army from 1977 to 1980. I also volunteered on the Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment,” he said. “I am a proud member of the American Legion and the Italian American Club. I am also active with the Wesley Lake and Sunset Lake Commissions as well as Master Mason 32nd Degree.”
Bianchini and his running mates chose to answer certain questions as a team, and they are presented here:
“The biggest issues in town are overdevelopment, reduction of essential services – EMT, police, and animal control – and abusive governmental deprivation of rights against our citizens,” they said.
Robert Bianchini
“Since the Rodrick Administration has taken office, not one acre of open space has been preserved. During the first 2 years of Quinlisk’s and Ciccozzi’s term, about 60 acres were preserved. The North Dover Section faces increased apartment projects,” they said. “The current administration has not taken action to curb overdevelopment on the Route 9 corridor. Our town continues to face increased traffic, overcrowding in residential areas, strain on services, and infrastructure issues. We would work with the County and State to increase open space and reduce the mandated affordable housing numbers to reduce unnecessary building.
“Toms River is facing a devastating reduction in essential services due to the shrinking police force, diminished local EMT services, absence of in-town animal control, closure of the animal shelter, and lack of code enforcement. Our population has increased over the last two decades, yet there are fewer officers on the road due to the Mayor’s failure to hire replacements for retiring officers. Our town is faced with unprecedented violent crimes to include a fatal stabbing on Fischer Blvd, drive-by shooting in North Dover with children in the home, and the murder of a homeowner whose residence was utilized to hide a murder suspect, who later committed suicide following a police standoff in East Dover. Since 2024, at least 10 officers have left, not including those on leave. More officers are likely to leave and be recruited by more favorable working environments in nearby towns. Officers are assuming the role of animal control and driving out of town to the County animal facilities. We would ensure the TRPD is properly staffed to ensure the safety and stability of our town. Regarding the EMT shortage, we would work with local volunteer services to shore up service to our community.
“Code Blue was shut down, putting our residents who have found themselves homeless in further difficulty. We would work with the county and responsible non-profits to form a long-term plan to assist homeless individuals and protect the safety of all residents. Animal control would be properly addressed with town-sourced officers, which can be easily funded with dog licensing fees. We would work with the County to expedite the opening of the animal shelter. Neglected and unsafe properties pose risks and can diminish the value of neighboring properties. Proper code enforcement is needed to ensure properties and rentals are meeting the requirements of our local ordinance.
“We have observed an unprecedented degree of government encroachment on the rights of our citizens, ranging from breaches of the Open Public Meetings Act to government overreach. Imagine the government trying to seize your property with no notice. This is what is happening in Toms River. The Christ Episcopal Church on Washington Street is an active church that has been part of our community since 1865. We stand firmly opposed to actions to seize an active church by eminent domain. Town meetings have lost transparency with last-minute agendas, 4 p.m. once-a-month council meetings, a one-hour limit of public comment for all residents, and not to mention a Zoom meeting to keep the public out. We would restore transparency to our local government and encourage the input of our residents.”
“Our priorities would be to attract smart growth that generates commercial tax revenue and reduces the burden on homeowners; protect open space and work to enhance our township’s high quality of life; take on the Trenton Democrats, get our fair share of school aid, and reverse the drastic cuts to both educational quality and extracurricular activities in our schools. School tax increases are the biggest challenge for many towns. While the town council does not control school taxes, we can work to support our schools to fight for our fair share of funding.
“We are not politicians and never want to be, but we do believe we need more people in government with private sector experience and a willingness to work towards a common goal. We would increase resident and community involvement by establishing town subcommittees to find cooperative paths forward to address difficult issues that our growing town is facing- overdevelopment, funding open space, housing insecurity, animal control issues – investigate funding for a trap and release program to reduce the overpopulation of stray cats, and measures to support our quality of life in Toms River,” they said.
Justin Lamb is a police sergeant in Lavalette and a local attorney. He is currently serving as a Ward 1 Councilman and Council President. He is also a volunteer fireman.
“As Toms River Council President, I am excited to announce my re-election campaign and reflect on the significant strides we’ve made in addressing the pressing issues facing our community. Under the previous administration led by Mayor Mo Hill, Toms River grappled with the threat of overdevelopment, particularly downtown, where proposals for high-rise apartments loomed large. When the developer missed all of their deadlines for the second year in a row, we pulled out of that terrible deal. Recognizing the potential negative impact a city of high-rise apartments would on our community, under Mayor Rodrick’s leadership, my council colleagues and I took decisive action. We repealed the zoning that allowed construction of buildings up to 150 feet, effectively protecting the character of our township. I am proud to stand alongside Mayor Rodrick & my council majority in this fight against overdevelopment. We are committed to preserving our neighborhoods. Additionally, we made significant financial progress by reducing unnecessary spending.
Justin Lamb
“For the second consecutive year, Toms River residents will see no increase in municipal taxes. This was achieved by drastically eliminating unnecessary spending that reduced our budget from $146 million to just $135 million. This was also accomplished by eliminating unnecessary positions, resulting in a payroll cut of $5.5 million. Our efforts have also led to substantial insurance savings, as we’ve actively sought better health insurance options for the first time in nearly three decades, saving the township millions of dollars each year.”
“Delivering on my campaign promise, we successfully eliminated the burdensome Mo Hill Certificate of Occupancy ordinance, which previously hindered residents from selling or buying homes due to construction permit requirements. It was taking residents months to buy or sell a home, and I’m proud we eliminated that onerous ordinance. We have also simplified other
permit processes, such as now requiring only a Google Maps image for shed installations instead of costly engineering plans. As I move forward in this campaign, my commitment to reducing bureaucracy and eliminating unnecessary spending remains steadfast. Together with Mayor Rodrick and our council, we will continue to protect our community from overdevelopment while making life easier for residents. I am proud of our accomplishments so far, and I am eager to keep pushing for a brighter future for Toms River.”
Ward 2
In Ward 2, Republican incumbent Robert Byrne (Official Republican Team) is being challenged by Clinton Bradley (America First Republicans for Toms River).
The Democrat choice, Susan Payne Gato, is not being challenged in the primary, so her bio will wait until the fall election.
Clinton Bradley: I am a Cybersecurity Systems Analyst (Consultant level) for Coalfire Systems, Inc. and I am a Major in the New Jersey Army National Guard assigned as a Field Artillery Officer.”
“While I haven’t held a public office, I have served my country with honor for 15 years in the New Jersey Army National Guard, including two deployments to Egypt and Iraq,” he said.
Clinton Bradley
“I’m proud to be a member of the American Legion Post 351 in Seaside Heights. I also enjoy being a life member of the United States Field Artillery Association (Ft. Sill, OK),112th Field Artillery Officers Association, and the 112th Field Artillery Association. I am also a life member with the National Guard Association of the United States and New Jersey. Between 2008 and 2020, I had the rewarding experience of serving as an Assistant Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troops 114 in Beachwood, and 21 in Seaside Heights.”
He and his running mates chose to answer certain questions as a team, and those answers were under the Bianchini interview earlier in this article.
Bill Byrne is a retired Teamster Truck Driver and Lead Drive Instructor for the Northeast. He joined the council this year, representing Ward 2. He is the “former President and Board Member of Holiday City.”
“Toms River grappled with the threat of overdevelopment, particularly downtown, where proposals for high-rise apartments loomed large. When the developer missed all of their deadlines for the second year in a row, we pulled out of that terrible deal. I would like to highlight the critical importance of preserving the character of our township while maintaining fiscal responsibility for residents, especially our senior citizens on fixed incomes. Under the strong leadership of Mayor Rodrick and Council President Justin Lamb, my fellow council members and I recognized the potential negative impact that allowing high-rise apartments could have on Toms River. In a decisive move, we took action to repeal zoning laws permitting the construction of buildings up to 150 feet tall. This was not merely a policy change; it was a commitment to safeguarding the neighborhoods that so many residents cherish. I am proud to stand alongside Mayor Rodrick and my council majority in this ongoing fight against overdevelopment and our dedication to preserving the unique character of our community.”
William Byrne
“In addition to our focus on development, we have made significant strides in reducing unnecessary spending within the township. For the second consecutive year, I am pleased to announce that Toms River residents will see *no increase in municipal taxes*. This remarkable achievement is a direct result of our hard work to cut unnecessary expenditures, slashing our budget from $146 million to $135 million. By eliminating redundant positions, we achieved a payroll cut of $5.5 million, and for the first time in nearly three decades, we actively sought better health insurance options, saving the township millions annually. As a senior citizen I know firsthand how crucial it is to keep taxes down. Many seniors rely solely on Social Security, some earning less than $1,000 a month. For them, a few hundred dollars increase in taxes may not seem significant to someone currently in the workforce, but it can be devastating for those on fixed incomes. I am proud of my role in ensuring that taxes remain steady, and I will continue to advocate for tax stability moving forward.”
“Reflecting on past tax increases, I cannot forget the large tax hikes that occurred under the previous administration during the tax reevaluation process led by Mo Hill. It created financial hardship for many, particularly our senior residents, who struggled to make ends meet. I remain committed to working with our administration and council to ensure that Toms River remains an affordable place for all residents, especially our seniors. Together, we will continue to prioritize fiscal responsibility and community preservation, allowing all our residents to enjoy a thriving and stable environment.”
Ward 3
In Ward 3, Republican incumbent Jim Quinlisk (America First Republicans for Toms River) is being challenged by Harry Aber (Official Republican Team).
No Democrats filed to run in Ward 3.
Jim Quinlisk: “I run a family-owned small business in Toms River, which services, installs, and sells home access products such as wheelchair lifts, stairlifts, and modular wheelchair ramps for people with mobility issues, as well as home elevators.”
“I am honored to serve as the Councilman representing Ward 3. I previously served as Fire Commissioner for Toms River,” he said. “I have been a volunteer firefighter with the Pleasant Plains Volunteer Fire Department since 2007, serving as vice president and president. Additionally, I participated actively in the recovery efforts during Hurricane Sandy.”
James Quinlisk
He and his running mates chose to answer certain questions as a team, and those answers were under the Bianchini interview earlier in this article.
Harry Aber is a Veolia Water Field Technician. He is the Secretary for Local 503.
“In response to the recent inquiry regarding my candidacy for Toms River Council, I would like to express my deep concern about the direction the township was headed in under the previous administration led by Mayor Mo Hill. During his tenure, the town witnessed an alarming trend of development favoring construction projects that prioritized developers over community needs, culminating in the approval of zoning laws permitting high-rises up to 150 feet tall. This shift posed a significant threat to the character of our beloved town, and it is this very issue that inspired me to step up and run for council. Joining forces with the Rodrick team represents not just a commitment to halt overdevelopment but a dedication to preserving the integrity of Toms River. I am heartened by the new administration’s decisive action to repeal those radical zoning plans, which would have left irreversible marks on our town’s landscape.
Harry Aber
“Additionally, I have pressing concerns regarding proposals…for establishing a homeless shelter and detox center on Route 9. While the intent to help those in need is commendable, converting this area into a ‘campus for the homeless’ and dormitories for individuals from across the state raises substantial public safety issues. I firmly believe that Toms River should not be burdened with becoming a dumping ground for the state’s homeless population. In summary, I am optimistic about the new direction our township is headed under the current administration. I am eager to collaborate with the mayor and council to further combat overdevelopment, reduce bureaucratic obstacles, and keep our property taxes flat and manageable. Together, we can ensure that Toms River remains a safe, vibrant, and community-oriented place to live.”
Ward 4
In Ward 4, Republican incumbent David Ciccozzi (America First Republicans for Toms River) is being challenged by Anthony Matarazzo (Official Republican Team) and Anthony Ricotta (Endorsed Ocean County Regular Republican Organization).
On the Democrat side, Justin Moran (Ocean County Democrats 2025) is competing with Paul Williams (Be The Change You Want To See).
David Ciccozzi: “I am a self-employed business owner, focused on property management. I raised my three wonderful children after the devastating loss of my wife. I am running for re-election because of my love for Toms River.”
“I currently have the honor of serving as the Toms River Ward 4 Councilman. I previously served on the Toms River Planning Board,” he said. “I am the past director and player for the Seaside Heights Men’s Recreational Basketball, and a past coach of Toms River Boys Basketball.”
David Ciccozzi
He and his running mates chose to answer certain questions as a team, and those answers were under the Bianchini interview earlier in this article.
Anthony Matarazzo is a small business owner (painter). He is a member of the Elks.
“I decided to run for Toms River Ward 4 Councilman to address critical issues facing our community, particularly the troubling rise in homelessness attributed to outside so-called ‘nonprofit’ organizations. These groups have been transporting homeless individuals from different parts of the county and dropping them off in our community, notably at the library. This influx creates significant public safety concerns, as our police department is frequently called to manage situations that arise from this disruption. Toms River should not be seen as a dumping ground for the homeless; we must take a united stand alongside Mayor Rodrick against this challenge. The establishment of a homeless shelter in Toms River is not a solution we can support. We need to protect our residents and prioritize their safety. Rather than adopting policies that enable the problem, we must focus on collaborative strategies that address homelessness at a broader level, ensuring our community is not targeted unfairly.”
Anthony Matarazzo
“Additionally, I am committed to combating overdevelopment in Toms River. Many residents choose to live here to escape the hustle and congestion of city life, and it is vital we maintain that distinction. I am grateful for the recent administration’s decision to repeal plans for high-rise apartments in downtown, opting instead for a focus on creating recreational spaces that families can enjoy. I envision a downtown that attracts visitors and fosters community engagement, rather than one overwhelmed by urban sprawl. In my role as councilman, I will also prioritize fiscal responsibility. The recent stabilization of taxes for the second consecutive year demonstrates the effectiveness of reducing wasteful spending and unnecessary positions within our local government. As a father of two, I deeply understand the financial pressures families face, from rising college costs to everyday expenses. It’s imperative that we continue to work with the mayor and council to keep municipal taxes flat, ensuring our residents can thrive in Toms River. Together, we can safeguard our community’s future and enhance its quality of life.”
Anthony Ricotta: “I am a Senior Account Executive at a leading software company that specializes in generative AI-powered solutions for market intelligence. Our clients include Fortune 500 companies, global consulting firms, and major financial institutions. In my role, I support high-stakes business functions such as mergers and acquisitions, corporate strategy, market assessments, and new product development. My day-to-day work involves navigating complex challenges, managing large contracts, and delivering results in fast-paced environments – skills that directly translate to effective public service.”
“This is my first campaign for public office. I’m not a career politician – I’m a professional and a neighbor who wants to serve. My background in the private sector has prepared me to tackle complex issues, manage significant budgets, and lead with accountability. I’ve spent years making tough decisions in roles that demand strategic thinking, collaboration, and results. That experience will be invaluable on the Town Council. Outside of work, I’ve volunteered my time through mentoring programs and local initiatives because I believe in building stronger communities through service and compassion,” he said.
“I’ve always been passionate about helping others and my commitment to community service is something that was instilled in me at an early age. I’ve mentored young men for many years through Big Brothers Big Sisters, striving to be a positive influence on their lives. I’ve been active in my local church, serving in leadership roles at the Church of Grace and Peace, and volunteering in church-run food pantries and outreach programs. These experiences have given me a deep connection with the needs of the community, reinforcing my dedication to public service.”
Anthony Ricotta
“During my time knocking on doors in Ward 4, I’ve heard the same concerns from residents again and again: taxes are rising, there is a lack of transparency in Town Hall, overdevelopment is still an issue, and homelessness is growing within our community,” he said.
“Overdevelopment is changing the character of our neighborhoods, straining infrastructure, and diminishing our quality of life. I will lead with responsible planning that prioritizes the needs of current residents over political favors or outside developers.
“The rise in homelessness has been met with short-sighted, reactionary policies rather than thoughtful, long-term solutions. What we need is real collaboration between the Township and County to address the root causes and ensure support for those in need, while protecting the safety and character of our neighborhoods. I strongly oppose the approval of any homeless shelters in Ward 4. Instead, I support increasing police presence in Toms River, including more patrol officers walking the downtown area to keep our community safe.”
“Lastly, the lack of transparency and accountability in how our tax dollars are spent is unacceptable. As a taxpayer myself, I understand the frustration of watching budgets grow without seeing results. We need financial discipline and a commitment to open, honest governance,” he said. “As the Ward 4 Toms River councilman, I will bring a practical, business-minded approach to town government, focused on listening, transparency, and results.”
“One of the biggest missing pieces in Toms River government is open communication with residents. Too often, decisions are made behind closed doors, and residents find out after the fact – if at all. That’s not good government. As councilman, I will prioritize transparency, accessibility, and respectful dialogue. I believe residents deserve to be informed, involved, and heard—especially when their tax dollars are being spent,” he said.
“I also want to change the tone at Town Hall. Politics has become too toxic, and it’s driving good people away from participating. I plan to bring professionalism and civility back to the dais. It’s time we focus on solving problems, not scoring political points,” he said. “By implementing open forums, regular newsletters, and stronger communication tools, we can rebuild trust and give residents a real voice in the decisions that affect their lives. My commitment is to serve and that starts with being present, engaged, and honest with the people I represent.”
Ward 4 Democrats
Ward 4 is the only ward where there is a Democrat primary challenge. Justin Moran is with the Ocean County Democrats. Paul Williams is running independently, with the slogan Be The Change You Want To See.
Justin Moran: “I am the Product Director for a real estate software company, where I oversee the development and implementation of technology that supports real estate professionals across New York City. Outside of technology, I’ve built a successful career in entertainment, writing musicals currently playing in NYC and selling television shows in Hollywood. These aren’t typical political careers; they’re fields that require creative problem-solving, strategic planning, and the ability to bring complex projects to completion. My experience is rooted in setting tangible goals, driving community-focused initiatives, and turning ideas into reality,” he said.
“I served on the Island Heights Recreation Committee, where I helped plan and organize community events for residents of all ages. This experience taught me the importance of community engagement, local support, and effective planning to bring people together.”
“The biggest issue facing Toms River is division, not just politically, but socially. We’ve grown accustomed to seeing those who disagree with us as enemies, which makes community-building nearly impossible. This division keeps us from working together toward common goals and instead breeds hostility and gridlock.
“I believe that community isn’t built online, it’s built face-to-face, through real-world engagement. To bring our town back together, I want to focus on revitalizing our downtown and waterfront areas, creating spaces where people can gather, shop, dine, and enjoy community events. By investing in these shared spaces, we can encourage real human connection, support small businesses, and make Toms River a destination for families and visitors alike.
“Additionally, we need to prioritize safe streets and public safety, ensuring our community feels secure while traveling and spending time around town. Lastly, we should capitalize on new opportunities, like the Netflix studio project, to bring local jobs and economic growth to Toms River. Together, we can restore a sense of pride and unity in Toms River, not through political theater, but through real progress that benefits everyone.
“One of my primary goals is to build a stronger local identity for Toms River, something we can all be proud of. Right now, there’s no clear vision for what our community represents. I want to change that by focusing on three key areas:
Downtown Revitalization – We have beautiful spaces that are currently underutilized. By investing in local businesses, arts venues, and community events, we can create a vibrant downtown that attracts residents and visitors alike.
Third Places for Community Gathering – We need more community spaces where people of all ages can come together, such as parks, waterfront areas, and pedestrian-friendly downtown streets. Places our kids can gather without needing to spend money. Building these “third places” strengthens community ties and fosters real-world connections.
Support for Local Youth Programs – Our youth programs, like Little League, suffer from underfunding and a lack of attention. Investing in these programs not only benefits our kids but also strengthens community pride and involvement.
“Building a stronger identity means creating spaces that bring people together, supporting local businesses, and prioritizing community over division. I believe that with the right focus, we can make Toms River a model for community growth and unity.”
Paul Williams: “Primarily, I am a photographer/videographer with pcwImages, a Toms River based company, that I own and operate. I also am a paralegal, having taken and passed my first paralegal exam about 38 years ago, and assist various lawyers and law firms throughout New Jersey on a freelance basis; performing legal research, analysis, writing and strategic planning on civil rights and criminal law matters.”
“I have never occupied any position in public office, except that I am a publicly elected member of the Ocean County Democratic County Committee; currently in the seventh year of serving my second term,” he said.
“I incorporated Project HEURISTIC, a NJ nonprofit, in May of 2012, to assist formerly incarcerated men and women, along with their families and loved ones, to successfully transition to the community; providing information, referrals, and non-attorney advocacy (if necessary) for housing, food, clothing, medical, transportation, employment, and much more that are fundamentally essential needs of an extremely vulnerable and potentially volatile portion of our population; protecting and preserving public safety by reducing recidivism and crime generally.
“In addition to what I do through Project HEURISTIC, I have participated, in various capacities and degrees within the past decade, with an innumerable amount of other organizations; assisting them in their respective focus’ which include, but is not limited to, domestic violence victims and survivors, homelessness, food insecurity, and addiction and mental health. For nearly 10 years now, I have provided my photography services to assist in the promotion of the annual Halloween Parade by our volunteer fire company. For nearly 5 years, I also have provided both my photography and DJ music services to assist and promote our downtown business improvement district (“BID”) events.”
“Through the perspectives of both micro and macro lens, I see many significant issues facing our town. Specifically and not in any particular order of priority, there are the ever-increasing issues with development and also school funding and the concomitant consequences they both bring as strains on the resources of Toms River and the inevitable increases in property taxes.
“Secondly, there is also the at least several decades-old issue of homelessness in Ocean County and that has more recently appeared to be made to be the dilemma of Toms River residents and our municipal government.
“Thirdly, there are also issues with morale within our police department and other areas, availability of adequate emergency medical services, and the lack of adequate code enforcement officials … all of which adversely impacts the quality of life within Toms River.
“Finally, there is also the issue of the Council reducing its ability to provide adequate checks and balances on the Mayor.
“As for my ‘plan’ to address these issues, I must begin by saying that I suffer no delusions and sell no lies or manipulation about what any one councilperson can actually do to not merely address issues but also to resolve them. After all and if I am fortunate to win the Democratic primary and then the November general election, I will still be in the minority on the Council and cooperation from the majority will be necessary to effect change.
“With that being said, my ‘plan,’ so to speak, is to use my stature as a Councilperson to more effectively raise public awareness and understanding of any and all issues and also to encourage much more public interest and participation in our local government. By doing so, I hope to inspire the public to actually know and understand what is really going on, that I am truly interested in serving and representing the people, and to encourage my council member counterparts to be much more transparent and accountable to the public as well; leading to progress in actually resolving issues rather than the usual political rhetoric that we are all too accustomed to and does more to merely perpetuate divisiveness than moving the needle toward.
“Throughout the past two township administrations, I have noticed that the governing bodies do not truly listen to their constituents and, in the past year, have also noticed what appears to be an increase in efforts to limit, if not completely suppress, communication between the public and the elected and appointed officials. Rightfully, this has increased frustration and distrust from members of the public. On more than one occasion, I have addressed my concern about this to the Council during its public meeting; reminding them of a very poignant quote by the late Martin Luther King, Jr: “A riot is the voice of the unheard.”
“As a Council member, I fully intend to promote and host regular, informal, town hall style meetings with any and all interested and concerned members of the community. Perhaps unlike any Council member ever before, I would actively encourage engagement with the public. I firmly believe that elected Council members benefit greatly from encouraging and hosting town hall-style meetings with community members. Such meetings would tend to foster transparency, accountability, and civic engagement. I believe that key benefits would include:
1. Improved Communication: Town halls provide a direct line of communication between officials and residents, allowing for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas.
2. Community Input: Residents can voice concerns, share feedback, and suggest solutions; ensuring policies reflect the needs and priorities of the community.
3. Increased Trust: Regular interaction builds trust and demonstrates that elected officials are accessible and responsive to their constituents.
4. Collaborative Problem-Solving: Town halls encourage collective brainstorming and problem-solving; leading to more effective and inclusive decision-making.
5. Civic Engagement: These meetings empower residents to participate in local governance; fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for their community.
“Overall, town hall style meetings have the very real potential to strengthen democracy by creating a more informed, engaged, and connected community. They also have the very real potential of revealing the true character and intent of people who purport to want to serve the people of this town versus serve the special interests of those with power, influence, and money.”
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