Clark Announces Resignation From Council

Councilwoman Susan Schroeder Clark announced on Monday that she had resigned from the Township Council effective immediately. 

Clark, who would have been up for election in 2012 said she decided to make the move in order to spend more time with her family. "It was a very positive, enjoyable experience," she said. "I just did not want to miss another bed time, another soccer practice or anything else for my children. That really is what comes first for me."

Clark said she had been considering the move for "a little while," and said she had considered serving out the remainder of her term but decided this was the best move for her and the council. "My desire to want to fill out my term was a significant issue, but balancing that against my strong desire to be there for my children was an easier decision for me," she said. 

Over the course of her three years, Clark said she has seen the town go through some hard times especially economically. But, she has been proud of the fact that the council has looked for solutions to those problems. "I think all in all we really have come together to come up with solutions to difficult problems," she said. "I feel really really good about the direction the town is headed in. I've enjoyed the fellow council people and believe they have a genuine desire to do the right thing." She also gave credit to the other employees of the township who she called "good, hard working people."

One of her biggest projects recently has been working with the strategic planning committee. She said she hopes to continue to help with that even though she is no longer on the council. "I plan to try and be involved with the implementation," she said. "As a councilperson you're putting out fires and reacting to immediate problems. This I think was a real positive way to look at the community and come up with long term solutions."

With two children, now ages five and six, Clark said she could see returning to public service in the future. For now, she said her focus will be on her family and balancing that with her busy Freehold law firm.

Clark said the other members of the council are aware of her decision and that the process of finding a replacement will begin though she was unsure of exactly what that process entails. 

This is a breaking news story. Stay with Howell Patch as more information becomes available.