Politics & Government

New Committeeman Selected To Serve Bernards Township

Republican Gary Baumann was chosen by the Bernards Township Committee to fill Kate Grochela's vacancy.

Gary Baumann took the oath of office with his wife Lisamarie holding the bible. Mayor Andrew McNally administered the oath.
Gary Baumann took the oath of office with his wife Lisamarie holding the bible. Mayor Andrew McNally administered the oath. (Bernards Township Committee Meeting Video)

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Republican Gary Baumann was selected as the newest member of the Bernards Township Committee.

The Township Committee unanimously selected Baumann to fill Kathleen Grochela's vacancy at the April 25 meeting.

Grochela resigned, effective April 3, for "personal reasons." Read More: Kate Grochela Resigns From Bernards Township Committee

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Per New Jersey State Statute 40a:16-11, the Republican party submitted three nominees for the Township Committee to choose from to fill the vacancy from Grochela's vacancy. Those nominees included Baumann, Dr. Shilpa Clott, and Tyler Seville.

Baumann will fill the remainder of Grochela's term which is set to expire at the end of December.

Find out what's happening in Basking Ridgefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"I worked with Gary over the years on the planning board. I know him well and he is a pleasure to work with. Most particularly, I believe his expertise in real estate development will benefit the Township Committee in a myriad of ways," said Mayor Andrew McNally.

Baumann said he got into politics after Grochela rang his doorbell during her campaign several years ago and that conversation inspired him to get involved in the township. He currently serves on the Bernards Township Planning Board and is Chief Executive Officer of ARCTRUST Properties Inc., a real estate investment and advisory firm.

"It has just been an honor and a fulfilling thrill to serve the people of Bernards Township," said Baumann of his experience on the planning board. He added he is excited to now serve on the Township Committee.

"I am looking forward to working with all of you and continuing the outstanding work this board is renowned for and putting forth the effort to keep Bernards Township one of the greatest places to live in New Jersey," said Baumann.

Baumann is also an attorney, admitted to practice in New York and New Jersey and has practiced law at the nationally recognized firm Lowenstein Sandler, P.C. and the international construction law firm of Packar and Abramson, P.C.

Baumann and Tyler Seville announced in February their intentions to run for the full three-year terms on the township committee in this coming November election. Read More: New Republican Candidates Endorsed For Bernards Township Committee

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