New Faces Enter The Primary Race In The Chathams

CHATHAM, NJ - When 2020 rolls around there will be some new faces on the governing body in both Chatham Township and Chatham Borough as some incumbents decided not to run for re-election, clearing the field for new blood.

In Chatham Township, last year's mayor, Republican Curt Ritter, has opted not seek a third term. Current mayor, incumbent Tayfun Selen is seeking another round on the dais and is joined by Rez Estevez and Mark F. Hamilton in seeking their party's nomination for the primary. All three filed by Monday's 4 p.m. deadline.

"It’s been an honor to serve the residents of Chatham Township these past five years - two as Deputy Mayor and three as Mayor. I am proud of what we have accomplished, from increasing awareness of public health issues, promoting public safety, advancing resident communications, expanding our open space portfolio, revitalizing The Colony Pool Club, and importantly keeping taxes at historically low levels," Ritter said in an email to Patch. "I think after six years it’s a good time to turn over the reins to others so that I can focus on supporting my alma mater Delbarton, and further growing the Out of the Darkness Walk and The Chatham Turkey Trot. I look forward to campaigning and encouraging others to support Rez Estevez and Mark Hamilton in the June primary and general election this fall. They embody what all residents, regardless of party affiliation, should look for in their candidates - honesty, integrity, and a selfless commitment to ensuring that Chatham Township remains a great place to live, raise a family, and retire."

Democrat Stacey Ewald will have an easier time of it, as she is the only petitioner who filed for the Democrats by deadline for 4 p.m. Monday and looks like a lock to secure her party's nomination.

Over in Chatham Borough, Republican Mayor Bruce Harris is not seeking a third term. Neither is Councilwoman Victoria Fife.

Incumbent Republican Council President James Collander is seeking his fifth term alongside Stacey McEvoy. They seek their party's nomination in the primary and with Fife not filing, they are running unopposed.

Also unopposed in the primary is Republican Councilman Robert A. Weber who has filed to replace Harris as mayor. Democratic Councilman Thaddeus Kobylarz is also running unopposed to to replace Harris in primary and the two seem set to win their party's nomination and face off in the general election in November.

For the Democrats, candidates are Irene Treloar and Karen Koronkiewicz are looking to secure their party's nomination for the two open council seats.

The primary for this election cycle in June 4 and the general election takes place Nov. 5.

All petitions are pending certification by the County Clerk's Office.

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