Ocean County Commissioners Election 2021: Catherine Paura

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — The 2021 election campaign culminates when voters go to the polls Nov. 2. Among their decisions will be choosing members of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.

There are two seats up for election and seven candidates seeking for those positions, which are three-year terms.

Patch asked each candidate to answer questions to give voters information about who they are and their stances on various issues. We are printing their responses in full, unedited except for spelling or punctuation.

Here are the answers from Catherine Paura.

Age: 71

Town of residence: Seaside Park

Position sought: County Commissioner

Party affiliation: Democrat

Family: Single but very close to my sister, cousins, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Education: M.A. Humanities with a Concentration in History

Occupation: Executive/Life Coach/Adjunct Professor

Previous elective office, if any: None

Do you or anyone in your family work for the state, county or local governments?

No

Why are you seeking office?

To serve all the citizens of Ocean County regardless of party in order to provide a smart, efficient and transparent county government. I am passionate about veterans affairs, seniors, and the environment.

What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing the community, and what do you want to do about it?

One of the most pressing issues is overdevelopment. Development has to become responsive to the residents of the county who are now challenged by an increase in traffic, pollution, crowding and the negative consequences of overdevelopment.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking to serve?

I approach the issues with a fresh point of view. The other candidates have had the opportunity to create a smart, efficient and transparent government and to prevent irresponsible overdevelopment. My vision and passion is to make sure county leadership is responsive to county citizens.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I am passionate about veterans, seniors and the disenfranchised and want to represent well all the citizens of Ocean County.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you will be effective in office?

I have been a successful global entrepreneur, a movie producer, a member of the Motion Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences. I have been a member of the Board of Advisors for the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. I have advocated for the rights of rape victims by serving on the Board of Advisors for the Rape Foundation as a member and as a president of the board. I am a passionate advocate for veterans and seniors. I get things done.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

My positions are concerned with the greater good. I want to work for all to insure that the County is a user-friendly place for all.