Fanwood Mayor Endorses Mitchell, Kranz for Council

This letter to the editor was submitted by Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr.

Letter to the editor:

They say all politics is local and that it matters who you vote for.  Both of those sayings hold particularly true as we head to the polls on November 5th to vote for two Fanwood council members.  I have served as Fanwood Mayor for the last 10 years and I know that the successes, improvements and opportunities that mark Fanwood’s renaissance are directly tied to who you elect to the Fanwood council.  I enthusiastically endorse Kathy Mitchell and Tom Kranz this year and ask that give them serious consideration for your vote. 

Many of you know Councilwoman Kathy Mitchell; a lifelong resident, retired nurse and long-time councilwoman, Kathy has the kind of institutional experience that is a terrific value when tackling the daily work of the council. Her vision and support has help to transform of our downtown to a model that has been hailed as a rebirth for Fanwood. She understands the importance of protecting our valuable natural resources, and  was a founder of our Recycling Center.  Her vision helped ensure that we have one of the highest recycling rates in NJ. She has long experience with our Environmental and Shade Tree Commissions as well.   And if you enjoy The Nature Center, you should know that Kathy supported protecting that property from development.  Kathy not only brings a lifetime of experience, but as a member and liaison for the Fanwood Seniors, she ensures that the needs of our senior citizens are always addressed. 

Captain Tom Kranz of the Fanwood Rescue Squad is running for office for the first time. But he is no stranger to volunteering. For 15 years he has been an integral part of our all-volunteer Rescue Squad and has served in leadership positions throughout.  As a member of our Office of Emergency Management, Tom led the communications efforts during Hurricane Sandy. He has a journalism and web-development background, works as Communications Director at the Chelsea in Fanwood and most recently applied his skills to a  revamp of our town website, featuring highly informative weekly e-blasts.  Tom and I work side by side to ensure that residents have the most up to date information.  Tom is interested to serve on the Council for a variety of reasons, ,keeping the budget in check and ensuring that quality of life here in Fanwood only improves.  Tom’s pursuit of One Seat Ride for Fanwood will not only shorten the commute to New York, but increase our property values by 30 percent.

So you see why I want Kathy and Tom to be a part of my team.  All politics are indeed local and it does matter who you vote for.  When you head out to vote Tuesday November 5th I hope you will join me in supporting Kathy Mitchell and Tom Kranz.  Together, we will continue our work to improve life here in Fanwood.

Colleen Mahr
Mayor, Borough of Fanwood