Re-Elect Amalia Duarte To Mendham Committee: Letter To The Editor

The following is a letter to the editor from incumbent Mendham Twp. Committee member Amalia Duarte:

MENDHAM TOWNSHIP, NJ — Election Day is around the corner, and I am excited to seek re-election to the Mendham Township Committee to continue solving problems that are important to residents and making a positive difference in our community.

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As a 27-year resident, I am committed to preserving the unique small-town charm that makes Mendham Township such a special place to live and raise a family. I first ran for office after many years volunteering in local youth sports, on town sub-committees, and in the schools.

Since first winning election in 2017, I have been a consistent voice for government transparency, protecting the environment, and pushing back against overdevelopment. And, public service is a role that I take very seriously! I have never missed a Township Committee meeting in nine years as an elected official.

My track record demonstrates a commitment to focusing on local issues that matter to residents. Looking back over my tenure on the Township Committee, I am proud of some key accomplishments:

• Working with my Township Committee colleagues on fiscally responsible budgets to keep taxes down.
• Advocating for a 100% affordable housing project of up to five small, owner-occupied homes at the former Alcott Manor, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity.
• Leading the initiative to transform the old police station into a mini community center for residents to hold meetings, events, or workshops – and as the new home for Mendham TV, the Recreation Director, and the Historic Preservation Committee's archives.
• Earning an endorsement from the NJ League of Conservation Voters and a Municipal Leadership Award from ANJEC for my longtime work to preserve open space, and protect our town's beautiful environment.
• Speaking out against three large development projects proposed in Mendham Borough and joining my colleagues in demanding a review by county and state officials on the impact to our communities.
• Advocating to join the Highlands Council, which happened in 2025, and writing a Dark Sky Ordinance to reduce light pollution.
• Hosting open Office Hours, starting in 2018, to meet with residents and listen to their concerns, and launching the monthly "Mendham Matters" newsletter.
• Proposing the town join an Energy Aggregation program, which has saved residents $500,000+.
• Establishing and leading the Mendhams Stigma-Free Task Force, with a group of volunteers.

During this re-election campaign, I have reached out to residents in neighborhoods, at the Brookside Post Office, and at meet-and-greets to candidly discuss issues.

I would be honored to have residents' support to continue serving as an effective, results-oriented Township Committee member. Thank you!