Who's Running For Matawan Town Council In 2022:

MATAWAN, NJ — As there is every year, there will be an election for mayor and town Council in Matawan in 2022.

There are two seats up for election this year on the Matawan Council and two Democrats and two Republicans hope to fill them. Current Matawan Councilman Brett Cannon will not seek re-election.

This week, Matawan Council President Brian Livesay filed his petition for re-election. Newcomer Steven Russell will run for the other seat. Both are Democrats.

Richard Galasso and Florence Hult are the Republicans who filed to run.

The election will be Nov. 8.

Livesey is a 15-year resident of Matawan who lives here with his wife Alexis and their two children. He explained why he is seeking a second term:

"It's been an honor to serve on the Council as a member of the Restore Matawan team, and I'm proud of our accomplishments. We've improved downtown and attracted new businesses. We've fixed up our parks and restored Burrowes mansion. The old gas station is gone, and we are raising Aberdeen Road to stop the flooding. We said we would restore Matawan, and we have."

Russell hopes to be elected to the seat currently held by Cannon. Russell, a 24-year resident, is a retired music teacher and worked as the music director at several local churches. In addition, he's an avid volunteer and a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He lives with his husband Joe and shared his thoughts on why he's running for office:

"I've seen the changes in the last six years, and I'm excited to join the team. I want to help continue the revitalization of the downtown and train station and to continue to further beautify the buildings, lakes, and parks in the Borough. In addition, I want to help keep Matawan the unique small town that makes it such a great place to live."

"It is time I focus on my personal, professional and private life outside of the elected office," said Cannon of why he is not seeking re-election. "Politics is consuming, and I wish nothing but success, progress and peace for anyone willing to serve their community."

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