Archibald Makes His Case To Atlantic Highlands Voters
By Jack Archibald, Atlantic Highlands Councilman and Candidate for the Republican nomination Mayor
Voters will go to the polls next Tuesday to select the Republican candidate for Mayor in November. This primary election is critical; it could decide both the next Mayor and the future of Atlantic Highlands.
I believe it’s important that voters know as much about the candidates as they can before casting their ballots.
I am running for Mayor because I believe my professional experience and public service are greatly aligned to the skills required for the office. As a Senior Director in Public Finance at Fitch Ratings, my 25 plus years of knowledge and experience in public finance is exactly what is needed for important challenges facing Atlantic Highlands today.
As Councilman, I have served on virtually every committee and have been instrumental in many accomplishments for Atlantic Highlands. A few that I am most proud of are: acquiring Lenape Woods and negotiating the settlement that created the Clearwater Fields, both while being fiscally responsible to the taxpayers. When the Regional Sewerage Authority merged with our municipal department, I was a key voice to re-negotiate the agreement with Highlands to save Atlantic Highlands ratepayers over half a million dollars.
After Superstorm Sandy devastated our harbor, borough leadership requested that I chair the Harbor Finance Committee during the $19 million reconstruction due to my extensive background in public finance. I was also instrumental in transitioning the library to become part of the County system, which provides our residents with first-class resources while lowering our costs.
Surely, one of the ways to measure a candidate is to examine the decision making process and the ability to assemble a slate of running mates. One of the best decisions that I have made in the past few months was putting together a strong team. The Republican Party candidates for Council are France Karras and Jim Krauss. The selection of these two was no accident and they demonstrate what Atlantic Highlands can expect from our Republican team.
France is an enthusiastic young resident of our town. Currently a member of our Environmental Commission, France will bring a fresh outlook and a new generation to the Borough Council. My dedication to protecting the taxpayer can be seen with the selection of Jim Krauss. Jim is a graduate of the Wharton School of Business, a Certified Public Accountant, and a semi-retired partner from Anchin, Block & Anchin, one of the largest accounting firms in the country. He would immediately sit on the finance committee with Councilman Peter Doyle, and there wouldn’t be a municipality in our state with a stronger financial team.
Over the past few weeks, I have been speaking with our town’s greatest resource – you, our citizens- and we are fortunate to have so many residents that want to be involved in our future, who are willing to work and to contribute, and are asking for nothing in return. I want you to know that your voices are being heard and we will respond.
As your Mayor, I will cultivate an environment that will help Atlantic Highlands become more attractive to new businesses as well as support our current businesses. I will ensure that there is open communication with our schools, and will continue to support the many organizations that make Atlantic Highlands a great place to live. I will continue to protect our environment while maintaining the small town charm that attracted so many of us to live here.
The Borough has made much progress in the past few years, but we have only begun to unleash its potential. I know that no one alone can accomplish the work that needs to be done to ensure this town’s future prosperity. As your Mayor, I will lead Atlantic Highlands to a brighter future and make sure that your voice is always heard.
Finally, as for me, public service is an honor and the position of Mayor should be earned. Our residents are asking for someone that they can trust; I have always put the interests of Atlantic Highlands first and I will work tirelessly to make our town a better place to live.
It’s easy to talk about me, but this election is really about you. Your vote counts. Your vote for Jack Archibald in the June 2nd primary election is a key step in bettering Atlantic Highlands.