Berkeley Heights Council Primary Candidate: Manny Couto

BERKELEY HEIGHTS, NJ — Manny Couto is one of four Republicans running for Township Council in the contested Berkeley Heights primary election being held on Tuesday, June 4.

Couto is running along with Republicans Gentiana Brahimaj, Edmund Tom Maciejewski, and George de Luna. Democrats Julie A. Figlar and Rina Franchino are also running on the Democratic ticket.

All six candidates are vying for their party's nomination on June 4 and then will move on to the general election on Nov. 5.

Manny Couto

Description:

My name is Manny Couto and I am seeking re-election to the Berkeley Heights Township Council.

As a councilman, my motto is 'just get the job done.' We all need to roll up our sleeves, listen to others, and stop the partisan bickering. As your councilman I am proud to:

• Always put Berkeley Heights first
• Routinely reach across the political aisle
• Effectively manage your tax dollars
• Work with you to improve our community

This philosophy has worked. I am not just present at our parades and grand openings. I am present and active at events and meetings that affect all our lives. Our downtown is thriving because of contributions I made— from Berkeley Heights Restaurant Week to Berkeley Heights Winter Walk, I am committed to supporting and fighting for our small business community.

What experience do you have that would help you serve?

I am a Realtor, small business owner and your councilman. I am active in both my community and in my professional field – I have contributed to the Downtown Beautification Committee, Peppertown Park Renewal Committee and the Veterans Memorial Park Committee. I helped ensure Berkeley Heights is protected against state mandated affordable housing for the next 10 years. Additionally, I have served in leadership roles with the NJ Association of Realtors. My wife and I have lived in town for more than 23 years and raised our three children here. We moved here from Newark’s Ironbound section and proudly found a great and promising community to raise our children. I truly love Berkeley Heights.

Why should voters vote for you?

We all know how special of a place Berkeley Heights is. That’s is why I am involved in our community and why I first ran for office. My running mate, Gentiana Brahimaj, and I ask for your support. Together, we will keep Berkeley Heights first.

— (If you are a candidate and would like to participate in the profile, email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com)

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