Hillsborough Township Committee Candidates: Lipani And Skobo

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Republicans Shawn Lipani and Ron Skono are among the four candidates running for election in the contested Hillsborough Committee election being held on Tuesday, Nov. 6.

There are four candidates vying for two three-year seats on the borough committee with candidates including: Republicans Shawn Lipani and Ron Skono and Democrats Jeffrey A. Wright and Olivia Holmes.

Shawn Lipani

Description:

Shawn Lipani is a lifelong resident who has always been active in the Township. Currently serving on the Township Committee, he previously served as Chairman of the Hillsborough Planning Board. He also served on the Hillsborough Economic and Business Development Commission, Board of Adjustment, Capital Planning Board, Rotary and Youth Services Commission. He helps run Central Jersey Nurseries, a family-owned business that has operated in Hillsborough for decades. Lipani has been married for 24 years and has a daughter.

If you are an incumbent, why do you deserve re-election?

I have lived in Hillsborough my entire life and have dedicated myself time and again to many civic activities and volunteered to serve on numerous Township boards and commissions throughout my adult life. These experiences provide the background and perspective that uniquely qualify me for Township Committee.

Other than taxes, which are a given, what do you believe is the hottest issue you’ll take on once elected?

In a rural community like Hillsborough, there is always a strong desire to stop over-development. As former chair of the Planning Board and now as a Township Committee person, I look to continue an outstanding record of success on open space and farmland preservation.

Ron Skobo

Ron Skobo is a Rutgers graduate, retired law enforcement professional and former local government employee. He has served his community as a member on numerous boards and commissions, such as the Township's Recreation Commission, Cultural and Arts Commission and Planning Board. He also serves as President of Somerset Treatment Services, is a founding member and volunteer of the Somerset County Youth Leadership program and a long time member of the Elks Lodge. Skobo has lived in Hillsborough for more than 40 years with his family.

If you are not an incumbent, why are you the better person for the job?

Over the years, I’ve served on many county and township boards and commissions and, in addition to my law enforcement background, I also had a decade long career with the township. These experiences give me the unique position of understanding the complexities of local government unlike a lot of other people. I understand what constituents view as important because I've been on the front lines hearing it directly from them for years. I will use my knowledge and expertise to continue to move Hillsborough forward and I will bring an unparalleled level of dedication and commitment to serving the community and delivering on what matters to our residents.

Other than taxes, which are a given, what do you believe is the hottest issue you’ll take on once elected?

I look forward to implementing a sustainable plan for maintaining our infrastructure, including completion of the Route 206 bypass. I am also committed to preserving land for open space and enhanced recreation opportunities for our children and senior citizens

— (If you are a candidate and would like to participate in the profile, please email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com)

(Images provided: Shawn Lipani and Ron Skobo)

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