Changes Coming to Mendham Township Committee

Mendham Township Committee member and current deputy mayor Rick Merkt enjoyed his stint finishing Jack Schrier’s term so much, he has filed to run for a three-year term of his own. Merkt is joined by Chris Baumann, president of the Brookrace Homeowners Association. 

“It has been an honor for me to represent the people of Mendham Township this past year,” said Merkt, who was elected last November to fill the vacancy on the Township Committee. “I look forward to running for a full term with Chris, so we can continue the progress on improved budgeting, planning, and open government that has been made since 2011.”

Current Mendham Township Mayor Sam Tolley said he was happy to see Merkt running for a full term.
“I am delighted that Rick is running for a full term,” Tolley said. “His experience and manner have been a great addition to the committee.” 

Baumann hopes to take the seat of departing committee member Frank Cioppettini, who chose not to seek a third term.

"You always know exactly where you stand with Frank.  He is open and forthright about his views on public issues,” Merkt said. “He has played an important role in putting Mendham Township's finances on a stronger footing for the future. “
 
 According to Merkt, Baumann is the right person to take Cioppettini’s place.
“Chris is part of a new generation that will provide leadership on the Township Committee going forward,” said Merkt.“While head of Brookrace Homeowners Association, he led his board to reduce annual dues by 40 percent, improve common areas and facilities, and create an open communications system for residents. Chris will not only help assure that Mendham Township’s improved budget-making and open government practices continue, but will also provide a new perspective on key issues, including the future direction of our public schools.”

For his part, Tolley also expressed support for Baumann.

“Rick has an excellent running mate in Chris Baumann.  I have found Chris to be thougthful, earnest and energetic,” Tolley said. “He will be a great addition to the committee.”

Baumann was quick to praise Merkt on his experience as a legislator. 

“Thanks to his experience in government, Rick quickly became an effective member of our Township Committee and has now taken on leadership roles as deputy mayor and chairman of the finance committee,” Baumann said. “Our ticket offers the residents of our hometown a balanced team that will work cohesively with the rest of the Township Committee.”

Baumann/Merkt Ticket Bios    

Baumann, 47, is a graduate of the University of Delaware, runs his own business, and has been a Mendham Little League coach since 2007.  His wife Mary grew up and attended public schools in Mendham Township.  They have three sons, all of whom attend school in the Township and participate actively in Township recreation programs.

Merkt, 62, is general counsel for an electronic design and manufacturing firm headquartered in Morris County.  He is also a certified public manager.  He and his wife Suzanne have lived in the Brookside section of Mendham Township for more than two decades. They have three daughters, one granddaughter and one grandson.