Hillsborough Primary Election 2023: James 'Jim' Ruh

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough's primary election on June 6 has four candidates running for two open seats on the Township Committee.

Incumbent James "Jim" Ruh is one of two Republican candidates running in the uncontested primary. The other candidate is Catherine Payne.

Additionally, there are two Democratic candidates Ron Yoder and Samantha Hand also running in the uncontested primary.

All of the candidates are running for the two, three-year seats on the township committee.

Are you running for office in Hillsborough? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at alexis.tarrazi@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Hillsborough Patch.

James "Jim" Ruh

Age: 49

Town of residence: Hillsborough

Position sought: Township Committee

Party affiliation: Republican

Family: Married Wife Cybil, Daughter Isabella Sons James and Greyson

Education: Bachelors Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison NJ

Occupation: Vice President Sales

Previous or current elected appointed office: Hillsborough Township committee (current), Hillsborough Board of Education

Campaign website: hillsboroughnjgop.com

Why are you seeking election to the Township Committee?

I have called Hillsborough home for close to 35 years, and Hillsborough is the only town my children have ever called home. I have a deep appreciation and sense of being here. Having the opportunity to serve the people of Hillsborough, and maintain our status as one of the best places to live in America plays a major role in my desire to serve of the Township Committee.

Balancing the township budget becomes more difficult each year with inflation and the loss of revenue since COVID. How do you plan to address this?

Managing the budget is one of the most important roles for the Township Committee. As displayed in 2023, we take a very strong position in being both fiscally responsible and responsive to our township needs. Even with high inflation, and continued cost pressures, we are working to deliver a budget that does not increase the tax burden on our residents while providing the services they expect and deserve.

Overdevelopment and warehouse applications have become an issue in the township. How would you address this?

Unfortunately, many of the issues we face are a result of State (and in some instances Federal) mandates. Municipalities are forced to work within State guidelines that are not always clear and often times incomplete. The continued approach of leveraging open space and farmland preservations will lessen the impact of the affordable housing mandates. The lack of approval on the Inland Flood Protection Rule specifically affects Hillsborough. The Murphy Administration has repeatedly failed to approve this legislation. This legislation would provide the tools to protect residents from the unnecessary loss of lives and property that we saw with Ida. To be blunt, these rules would stop the unnecessary development in Hillsborough and beyond.

Having trust and transparency in the township government is important to residents. How has the township improved on this or how would you improve this?

That's one of the best parts of Hillsborough, access to public officials. Our Township Committee and Mayor are always around, participating in many events throughout town and are always open to discuss topics. Our meetings are streamed and stored in the cloud for reference and continuity. We have digital newsletters, and are expanding more into the social media platforms as well.

What other issues do you feel need to be tackled in the township?

Focusing on the health and well being of our Senior population is very important, as is respecting our top notch law enforcement department. There is an inherent need to support active lifestyles and independence for Seniors. I will ensure these needs are at the forefront, and the Senior voice is heard. Simultaneously, our Police department is made up of some of the bravest men and women I know. It takes a special person to wake up each day to serve and protect. Ensuring the continued development and improvement of our Police department will be a driving factor for me.

What sets you apart from the challenging candidates?

I take a great deal of pride in being from and representing Hillsborough. Whether it's a youth or a senior citizen, I want to provide the best options and outcomes. I believe actions speak louder than words. I have demonstrated a long history of volunteering, coaching, fundraising and awarding academic scholarships and research grants through these fundraising efforts that spans over the last 20+ years. I will work tirelessly in tackling any challenges and ensuring we remain One of the Best Places to Live.

What else would you like to share about yourself or your campaign?

Being in this town for decades, I have the benefit of connecting with and engaging with many people. Upon being appointed to the Township Committee last year, many people reached out and were comforted that I would represent them and that through me they would have a voice in whats happening in our town. I was also happy to learn Catherine Payne would be running for the other seat on the Township Committee. We share a common objective, a strong work ethic, and even stronger desire to serve the people of Hillsborough.