I want to take this opportunity to address the rumors circulating about my candidacy for the upcoming mayoral election. After much deliberation and consultation with my family and community leaders, I have decided not to seek the Democratic nomination for mayor of Cherry Hill.
The past 3-plus years have been incredibly challenging, leading our community through an unprecedented pandemic. The pace has been grueling and unrelenting, and I believe it is time to catch my breath after my term ends. However, I want to assure you that this is not the end of my journey. I will complete my term as mayor and I will continue to serve with passion and enthusiasm.
I am grateful to the residents of Cherry Hill for their dedication and commitment to our community. Together, we have faced the pandemic head on and we are emerging stronger than ever. I am proud that we have held the line on expenses and avoided any tax increases, as reflected in Moody’s Rating agency assigning its highest AAA rating to the township. I am also excited about the potential revenue opportunities – including from cannabis businesses – that can fund key initiatives, including safety, health, sustainability and education.
Cherry Hill is exceptional for its inclusiveness, tolerance, and sense of community. I will continue to stand arm in arm with those advocating social justice and demanding change. I am proud of the students and young adults, and those underrepresented and underestimated who are leading these calls to action.
We have made great strides in beautifying our parks, preserving open space and encouraging smart growth. This has been especially important given the influx of new families to Cherry Hill over the past few years, making us the largest township in Camden County. Our community is thriving, and I will actively continue to promote our dynamic and diverse global landscape.
Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of supporting the entire Democratic ticket in November, including our state legislative leaders, Sen. Jim Beach, Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald and Assemblywoman Pam Lampitt. Without their strong, unified leadership, South Jersey will struggle to receive its equitable share from the state. That would be a terrible outcome for Cherry Hill and the region.
Thank you for your support and understanding. I am proud to serve as your mayor and look forward to the months ahead working to move Cherry Hill forward.
