Ocean County Commissioners Election 2021: Barbara 'Bobbi' Jo Crea

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 Barbara "Bobbi" Jo Crea.

Age: 73

Town of residence: Little Egg Harbor Township

Position sought: Ocean County Board of Commissioners

Party affiliation: Republican

Family: Widowed, stepmother of two, six grandchildren

Education: Graduate of Hamilton High School West, Mercer County Community College coursework, Graduate of Certified Public Managers Program

Occupation: Retired Bureau Chief, New Jersey Division of Taxation

Previous elective office, if any: Little Egg Harbor Township Committee 2002-2007, 2017-present, Little Egg Harbor Township Mayor 2006-2007, 2019-2020

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

No

Why are you seeking office?

As a past mayor and current committeewoman of Little Egg Harbor, I have gained many life experiences as a public servant and I will make an excellent addition to the Board of County Commissioners. I take pride in my dedication to helping the people of Little Egg Harbor to provide a better quality of life and I will use that same dedication and knowledge to the entire County as well.

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

At this current time, COVID-19 still remains a pressing issue for the community. COVID has caused many issues to arise for many of our Ocean County towns. Ocean County has many tourist communities and our small businesses depend on the tourist season. Many businesses are understaffed and owners are having a hard time rebuilding their businesses completely or to full capacity as this is a major impact on our county.

COVID has raised other issues such as mandating the vaccine. I am not in favor of a vaccine mandate. Everyone should make their own choices but at the same time, I am for being vaccinated and feel that everyone should protect themselves.

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners have done a great job over the last 18 months with the many changing issues that COVID has presented this county and I will work alongside with this Board of Commissioners to ensure we eliminate the issues COVID presents with an accountable plan.

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

I have served as mayor and committeewoman in Little Egg Harbor for many years. I am aware of the everyday needs of the residents and that has allowed me to make a positive impact on their lives. I feel the main difference between my opponents and myself is the real experience of being a public servant and making real decisions for the taxpayers.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

The Ocean County taxpayers will be able to count on me to fight for them against Phil Murphy's radical policies that hurt Ocean County. I will continue to support this Board of Commissioners and fight hard for the services and improvements that are needed for all the residents in every town.

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

I have many years as a dedicated and active public servant but my contributions to my community go beyond elected office. One program I am proud to have successfully spearheaded in Little Egg Harbor was Interfaith Health and Support Services of Southern Ocean County. This organization helps homebound and elderly who may be unable to drive to their medical appointments or get to a grocery store. Their volunteers provide many more services as well for seniors. I am also proud to be a member and liaison to the Little Egg Harbor Township's Senior Advisory Board, a member of the Board of Directors for the Ocean County Health Department, a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Post 493 and a trustee to the Great Bay Regional Volunteer EMS.

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

I am a stepmother of two and a grandmother of six. I will fight for the future of America because it matters to me. I will make sure that the leadership of Ocean County remains a model for how we go forward and other counties to emulate. I am proud to call Ocean County my home. I will fight hard as a commissioner to keep Ocean County the greatest place to work, retire and live in.