Meet Rich Conklin: Montville Committee Candidate

• Conklin is a lifelong Towaco resident.
• Party Line: Republican
• Age: 64
• Family: Married 37 years to my wife Rose, with two adult children, Sarah and Richard Jr.
• Education background? Degree in Business, and a Certificate in Construction Management. I regularly attend continuing education and recertification seminars. I have worked in the construction industry for over forty years, the last 23 with a prominent international construction management firm.
• Why do you think you are qualified for this position? I have a lifetime of knowledge of the Township and over forty years of community service on various Boards, Commissions, and organizations. I have gained many skill sets in my carrier of managing multi million dollar construction projects, including cost control, scheduling, value engineering, and quality control.
• Why are you running for this elected office? As a life long resident, I have a deep love for our community, and a deep respect for the character and heritage that make Montville special. I am concerned that we may be slowly loosing some of the afford ability, charm and appeal which we all enjoy. My decision to run for Township Committee is based on my genuine connection to Montville, and pride and concern for our home. Regardless of political affiliations, we all face the same issues. We don't need descending voices just to support  political points of view. That process does not seem to be working in Washington and I don't believe it has a place in Montville. I believe we need a fresh perspective in preserving and making Montville better, and I will always put fact based problem solving ahead of politics, 
• What are the three issues that most concern you? Taxes and afford ability for current and future residents. (My adult children would like to make Montville their home also). Insure future development and redevelopment is controlled to preserve Montville's heritage and character. Stimulate public interest, involvement, and input on critical issues.  
• Explain your proposed approach to managing these issues: A good leader needs to gain the trust and respect of their peers and constituents. You need to be proactive rather than reactive, and have a clear understand of "Needs vs. Wants" with regard to cost control. We have many resources in Montville and we need to listen to the people and seek their opinions, and expand shared services with the Board of Ed, County, and neighboring municipalities where possible. ALL decisions should be accompanied with the facts and thoughts from which they were made. 
• Have you held elected office before? Please provide details of what position and for how long. Yes. (The positions were all non partisan) I was elected to the Montville Charter Study Commission in 2005 and served for the one year of its existence. I have been elected four times as a Fire Commissioner for Fire District # 2. Terms are for three years.
• What organizations do you belong to? Saint Pius X Church,  National Society& NJ Society "Son's of the American Revolution" (My forefather served in the continental army and was a delegate to the continental congress, from NJ), Towaco Civic Association,  Montville and Morris County Historical Societies, Republican Club, various professional organizations. (This does not include public boards and commissions)
• Campaign Website:  www.prideinmontville.com

For township council, there are four candidates running for two committee seats with 3-year terms.

• Richard D. Conklin (R)
• Scott Gallopo (R) (incumbent)
• Daniel Grant (D)
• Truscha Quatrone (D)

For the school board, there are four candidates running for three seats with 3-year terms.

• Diane M. Bordonaro
• John Morella (incumbent)
• Carmela Novi (incumbent)
• Michael F. O’Brien

For the unexpired 2-year term available on the board, David Modrak is running unchallenged.