Meet Mendham Borough Council Candidate Dan Schreibman

MENDHAM BOROUGH, NJ — With Election Day approaching, Patch is putting together a series of candidate profiles so readers can learn more about who is on their ballot.

Dan Schreibman is a business owner and Mendham Library trustee who is throwing his hat in the ring for one of two available seats on the Mendham Borough Council.

Patch asked candidates to share some information about themselves and asked identical questions to all candidates.

See Schreibman's responses below:

Basic Information

• Full name: Dan Schreibman
• Age: 62
• Town of residence: Mendham
• Position sought: Borough Council
• Party affiliation: Democrat
• Family: Wife - Katie Jones; Daughters - Jane Schreibman and Clara Schreibman
• Education: BA Dartmouth College; MS Albert Einstein College of Medicine; MBA New York University Stern School of Business
• Occupation: Business owner (previously Management Consultant)
• Previous or current elected/appointed office (if applicable): Board of Trustees Mendham Borough Library

Questions

1. Why are you running for this position?

I don't believe partisan politics belong in local government. At this level, it should be about listening to constituents, asking the right questions, working collaboratively, and getting things done. I'm also running because I'm deeply concerned about the direction of development in Mendham and what it could mean for the character of our town.

2. What do you believe to be the most pressing issue in the community, and what do you intend to do about it if elected?

Mendham Borough's biggest issue is uncontrolled residential development. There are currently plans that could add more than 300 housing units to a very small community - and even with that development, we still face significant additional affordable-housing obligations. I support meeting our affordable-housing responsibilities. But I also believe we have an obligation to do so thoughtfully, with careful consideration for our infrastructure, environment, schools, traffic, and the character of Mendham itself.

One of my first priorities will be to get a clear understanding of how these decisions were made, what commitments have already been made, and what options are still available to us - and communicate that information openly to our residents. I also believe we need to be much more proactive. Rather than simply reacting to proposals that come before us, we should have a thoughtful, defensible affordable-housing development plan, one that satisfies our obligations while protecting the things that make Mendham a special place to live. I would work hard to help create that plan and work just as hard to make sure future development is consistent with it.

3. What qualifications and qualities do you possess that make you best suited for the position?

Throughout my career, I've approached challenges by asking the right questions, gathering the relevant facts, and developing practical, well-reasoned solutions. I also recognize that the best solutions often emerge from listening to different perspectives and working collaboratively towards a common goal. Just as importantly, I have extensive experience turning those solutions into action and achieving results. I believe a combination of analytical thinking, sound judgment, and the ability to get things done should serve Mendham Borough well.

4. The establishment of data centers in municipalities is a contentious point of discussion among New Jerseyans. What is your stance on these controversial buildings, and how would you feel about one being built in your community?

I am totally opposed to the development of a data center in my community.

5. In a few words, what is your favorite thing about your community?

The wonderful friendships we've built over our 26 years here, and the extraordinary natural beauty of Mendham, with its abundant forests, trails, and preserved open spaces.

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Election Day is Nov. 3.