Former Democratic Councilman Strauss Endorses DePaola for Mayor

The following information was provided by the Scotch Plains Republican Committee.

Jeffrey Strauss, who served on the Scotch Plains Township Council from 2007 to 2010 has endorsed the reelection of Republican Mayoral candidate Mary DePaola.  

Strauss, a Democrat, was elected in 2006 on a ticket with Kevin Glover, DePaola’s opponent in this year’s mayoral election.

Strauss stated, “While I have been a Democrat and will continue as a Democrat, I have always felt that party affiliation is not as important at the local level of government.  What is important is competent leadership and doing what is right on behalf of the community and its residents.  I have served on the Scotch Plains Township Council with both mayoral candidates and have seen them both in action.  I give my strongest endorsement to Mary DePaola.”

He continued, “During my 4 years on the Township Council I always attempted to put politics aside and work with the Municipal Manager and my Republican colleagues on the Council to provide good government for our citizens.  In my final two years on the Council I was able to work with Mary DePaola during challenging times and now work with her on the Scotch Plains Planning Board.  I admire her leadership and communication skills, and respect the fact that she also can work with both Republicans and Democrats for the best interests of the community we love.”

Mayor DePaola responded. “It is truly an honor to have such a respected member of the community support my candidacy for mayor.   It was a pleasure serving with Jeff for those two years. When I joined the Council, I was able to look to Councilman Strauss as a role model as I learned the ropes of local government.  Scotch Plains was truly fortunate to have him on the governing body and when he left the Township Council, I heartily endorsed his appointment to our Planning Board where we now serve together.  It is my hope that Jeffrey Strauss stays involved in our municipal government. He is an asset for Scotch Plains.”

Strauss concluded by saying, “Challenging times still exist in municipal government.  We are constantly being asked to do more with fewer resources.  Particular to Scotch Plains, our Township Council is now grappling with issues such as hiring and working with a new Municipal Manager, potentially consolidating police departments with Fanwood, and maintaining the services our residents expect and deserve at a reasonable cost.  I am confident that Mary DePaola is the right choice to be our mayor, and I call on my friends, neighbors, and those that bestowed their confidence in me to support Mayor DePaola.”