Meet the Candidate: Michael Mignone

On Nov. 3, residents will have the opportunity to go to the polls to vote for four members of Gloucester Township Council.

Gloucester Township Patch will share information and some of the thoughts of the eight candidates seeking four Council seats in a series of profiles.

Each candidate was asked the same questions via email in order to get the most accurate responses in their own words.

The candidates are profiled in alphabetical order, one each day.

Name: Michael D. Mignone

Political Party: Democrat

Years of residency in Gloucester Twp.: 15 years

Job: Medical Imaging Director, Director of Outpatient Scheduling and Verification, Director of Patient Transport Services

Education: Associate of Science from Hahnemann University

Family: Wife: Tara, Son: Luke, Daughter Isabella

Why are you running for Gloucester Township Council? I have always been a believer of getting out of the stands and into the playing field to help make a difference. My family and I plan on being in Gloucester Township a long time. I want to help continue making Gloucester Township a great place to live.

Have you ever held public office? No

Why do you feel you are qualified to serve as a member of the Gloucester Township Council? I am connected to the community. I am an ear for the Township and I possess great leadership qualities. I currently serve as Erial Little League’s VP, and during my time associated with Erial Little League, I have watched our program flourish. I have also managed a State Championship team from Erial Little League, the third one since the 1950’s out of the Gloucester Township area.

In your opinion, what is the biggest issue currently facing Gloucester Township, and how should council deal with the issue? Making the Blackwood-Clementon Road commercial corridor more vibrant and attractive for residents and businesses is an issue for our Township. I also would like to see some lodging come to our area. While we are looking to upgrade our athletic fields, if the Township athletic organizations host tournaments, we need a place where out of towners can stay and use our restaurants.

What do you feel is Gloucester Township’s biggest asset at this time? How would you exploit that asset to the township’s benefit? The Gloucester Premium Outlets has been impactful on our community. I foresee them being a wonderful community partner. Our recreational programs provide our children and families a positive outlet. We should capitalize on both of these assets and provide them with the tools to succeed.

What are some of the things council currently does that you feel could be done differently, and how would you make improvements? I would like for Council to find a way to get more of our residents involved in Township government. Our Township is helped by a network of volunteer boards that tackle everything from recycling to economic development to arts & culture. These are often very important elements of community living that don’t always get the time and attention they need. Don’t think you’re qualified? Your passion for an issue can often offset any direct experience you might not have.

In what ways do you believe council is doing a good job for the residents of Gloucester Township? The current Council is very much part of the community and is always striving to make this community a better place to live, work and play. The Council members are actively involved in many organizations throughout the Township and have their ear to the ground.