Former Congressman Named Bridgewater's New Administrator

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Former Congressman Michael J. Pappas was named as as Bridgewater Township's new Administrator by mayor-elect Matthew C. Moench. His term would begin on Jan. 1.

Councilman Howard Norgalis will also take the reigns as Council President and co-chairman of Moench's transition team.

"Bridgewater Township has nearly 45,000 residents and spans over 30 square miles. Our town is at the crossroads of Central Jersey and faces a broad spectrum of challenges and opportunities. Our Township Administrator must have a wealth of experience managing government organizations, be a proven problem-solver, and be able to provide our residents with a responsive, user-friendly government," said Moench. "In Mike Pappas, we have checked every one of those boxes and have found an individual who will be ready to start delivering for Bridgewater residents on his very first day."

Pappas was elected in 1996 to serve as Congressman for New Jersey's 12th District. He served also as Regional Administrator and Associate Administrator of Field Operations for the U.S. Small Business Administration from 2001 until 2009. And currently serves on the Somerset County Board of Taxation and volunteers his time with the Somerset County 4-H.

Pappas' experience also includes serving as Borough Administrator since 2016 for High Bridge in Hunterdon County, former mayor of Franklin Township, and a Somerset County Freeholder.

"I am excited to take on the challenge of helping to govern this great community. I represented Bridgewater on the Freeholder Board and am well-aware of this town's rich history. This is a town with a great sense of community and a bright, dynamic future. I share Mayor-elect Moench's vision of a responsive, common-sense government and am honored to be joining his team in this leadership role," said Pappas. "Howard and I are already working with residents and stakeholders so this new administration will be prepared to get to work for Bridgewater's taxpayers on its first day in office."

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