Meet The Candidate: Charlie Carley For South Brunswick Mayor

PRINCETON, NJ — Incumbent Charlie Carley is seeking another term as Mayor of South Brunswick.

Carley points out that his administration has kept municipal taxes stable over the past few years and are looking at developing derelict properties along Route 1. Development and transportation infrastructure are some of the biggest challenges facing the community, according to Carley, and he has a plan to tackle over-development.

Below is Carley’s candidate profile.

(All candidates were given the same questions. Answers are candidates' own.)

Editor's Note: Patch sent out the questionnaire to each candidate's email address provided by the County clerk's office. All responses received will be published between now and Nov. 8 general election. Local candidates who did not receive the questionnaire from Patch can contact sarah.salvadore@patch.com.

Name: Charlie Carley

Age: 55

Town of residence: South Brunswick

Position sought: Mayor

Family: Wife, Christine; children, Katie and Patrick

Education: AAS, Middlesex College; BA, Rutgers University; BS, NJ Institute of Technology

Occupation: Civil Engineer

Party affiliation: Democrat

Previous or current elected appointed office: Mayor

Campaign website: southbrunswickdemocrats.com

What makes you the best person for this position?

I have participated in South Brunswick civic affairs for many years. That experience has earned an understanding of municipal government's compact with the citizenry. I understand that municipal government must deliver essential services - public safety (police, first aid, fire), good roads, social services (such as the library and the senior center), and public sanitation - in an effective manner. I think that we meet that task in Town Hall.

Property taxes are always a big election-year topic in South Brunswick. What’s your plan to keep taxes low for residents?

The municipal portion of the overall property tax has been stable over many years. To reduce it, our administration has been pursuing the redevelopment of derelict properties — particularly along our Route 1 corridor.

Development is also a big talking point in town. How would you address it?

And it always has been and always will be. We live in a nation of laws that protect property rights and a State that puts controls on the use of land. There is a line to walk. Our administration hears from residents who are concerned about development - we share their concerns. At the same time, we are dealing with the prospect of overdevelopment due to mandates imposed by the courts. South Brunswick municipal government has been fighting that fight on behalf of our residents.

What according to you is the best part about living in South Brunswick?

The people of our town.

What are the major challenges facing the community and how would you address them?

Development and transportation infrastructure. Over many years, municipal government has made significant investments toward road repairs and has worked with NJDOT to improve the flow of traffic on Route 1 and Route 130. At the same time, we are fighting through the courts (and sometimes against the courts) against what we consider to be inappropriate development.

What sets you apart from other candidates?

I have served our town - as a volunteer, on boards & commission, and in elected office - for the better part of three decades. That's a piece of work over a period of time. In that time, the town has grown modestly and municipal government has consistently improved. I think that I have a good track record that is plain for people to see.

What else would you like to share about yourself or your campaign?

My Township Council colleagues and I care deeply for this town and our neighbors. We understand that we are blessed to live in a high-education and prosperous town, populated by people of goodwill. So, we proceed accordingly.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com