Ian Nadel: Howell GOP Candidate Would Maintain 'Quality Of Life'

HOWELL, N.J.— Ian Nadel, a GOP candidate for the Township Council, said that as a father of two young children, he wants to be an advocate for children and preserve the rural and suburban aspects of the township.

Nadel is running in the June 7 primary on the regular Republican slate, along with Fred Gasior and Susan Fischer, for one of three four-year terms on the Township Council. Michael Bernstein is running as the Howell First candidate in the GOP primary.

There is no primary among Democrats for the council.

Nadel responded to a Patch questionnaire about his positions on the issues.

• Name: Ian Nadel.
• Campaign website: https://howellnjgop.com/howell.
• Town of residence: Howell.
• Office sought: Howell Township Council.
• Party affiliation: Republican.
• Education: College graduate, pre-law.
• Occupation: Retired New York Police Department lieutenant.
• Family: Wife, Jessica, and two sons, 5 and 6.
• Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? N/A
• Age: 39.
• Previous public office, appointive or elective: No.

The following candidate responses were edited for style, brevity and clarity.

Why Are You Seeking This Office?

I want to maintain and improve our quality of life for all residents of Howell, prevent overdevelopment of our town and preserve our rural and suburban town structure.

What Is The Most Pressing Issue Facing Constituents, And What Will You Do About It?

Overdevelopment, and I will uphold all existing town ordinances and create new ordinances if
necessary that prevent this type of building in Howell.

What Are The Major Differences Between You And The Other Candidates Seeking This Post?

I am a lifelong Republican and firmly believe in conservative values, individual liberties and allowing our residents to live their lives freely as Americans.

If You Are Challenging An Incumbent, How Has The Current Officeholder Failed The Community?

There is a primary challenger who only recently changed his status to a Republican. I have always been a Republican and have conservative values. Our challenger has also taken to social media with divisive and antisemitic rhetoric, which will only cause friction within our town.

[Editor's note: The Howell Township County Republican Committee characterized candidate Bernstein's posts about the Hasidic community in Lakewood as "antisemitic," the Asbury Park Press reported. Bernstein, who is Jewish, said his comments were taken out of context from a longer discussion thread on development.]

What Other Issues Do You Intend To Address During Your Campaign?

As a father of young children, I will strongly advocate for the children in our town. From youth sports and recreation to what is happening in the schools, with the Democratic policies from Trenton. I will always be a strong voice for all of the children within our town.

What Accomplishments In Your Past Would You Cite As Evidence You Can Handle This Job?

I worked as a police officer in a multitude of locations and assignments within New York City. Police officers are problem-solvers on every job that we are called out to. I will apply the same principles I've learned and used throughout my career to to do what is right for our residents and town.

What Is The Best Advice Anyone Ever Gave You?

Sometimes the best solution is the simplest, and there are oftentimes when overthinking can cause more trouble than a simple resolution.

Is There Anything Else You Would Like Voters To Know About Yourself And Your Positions?

I'm not a politician. I'm a father, husband, Howell resident, homeowner and American. I will always be honest about what I can or cannot do, given any situation, and will fight for everyone whose voices aren't being heard.