Meet New Summit Council President Claire Toth

SUMMIT, NJ — The city has a new leader of Common Council, and if you don't know what the "Summit Trifecta" is, you may be missing out on what President Claire Toth says is a tried and true way to enjoy her beloved home.

"Drinks at the Elks Club, dinner at Pastaria, ice cream at Magic Fountain. We don't eat again for a week!" Toth said.

She, her husband David, and her two adult children have called Summit home for 30 years and have been lucky enough to enjoy plenty of what the City has to offer.

Toth assumed her role as Council President on Jan. 7, taking over for outgoing councilmember Mike McTernan, for whom she says she has great respect and admiration.

"I'm lucky enough to have known Mike McTernan for many years before serving on Council with him. I appreciated how generous he always was with his time and wisdom, and can only hope to mirror that," she added.

Whether it's the Tatlock Field lights project or the sale of the old Summit firehouse, Toth was there for it all as a councilmember in 2025. As for her goals moving forward, climate resiliency and affordability are at the forefront of the plans.

"We need to manage rising costs and keep property taxes in line, while still supporting our talented and hardworking city employees," said Toth.

She brings with her a long background in finance, including time as the Treasurer of Summit Downtown. The division works to improve business throughout the City through marketing and retention efforts that support community revitalization.

As far as the aesthetics tied to monetary value on a wider scale, her love of finance and desire to always work for the all-inclusive greater community are on full display.

After the United States stopped minting the penny in late 2025, Toth said she'd like to see them take it a step further and shake up the look of currency.

"Harriet Tubman...get a different face in there," added Toth.

During her service to Summit, Toth has also served on organizations that focus on education, family homelessness, eldercare, and business development.

"Serving on City Council allows me to roll all that up," she said. "I learn something new every day."

Toth hosts open office hours for residents from 3 to 5 p.m. every Monday (excluding holidays and other days when City Hall is closed to the public) in the Council Conference Room on the first floor of City Hall at 512 Springfield Ave.

All ideas and issues are welcome, and no appointment is necessary.

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