Five Questions With Cedar Grove Incumbent John Zunic

John Zunic has lived in Cedar Grove since 1998, has served on the Cedar Grove Township Council since 2009 and has also served as mayor.

As a self-employed attorney, he has the ability to pay attention to detail, he says, which is an important skill for any councilman.

In addition to serving on township committees, Zunic always attends a variety of community events like the Memorial Day ceremony at the VFW, the parade that follows, the July 4 fireworks show, the 9/11 ceremony, banquets for the Cedar Grove Ambulance and Rescue Squad and Cedar Grove Fire Department, TREP$ and other events at the local schools, he said.

“One of my favorite activities was meeting with second graders at North End School while I was mayor and discussing local government,” he added.

Why do you want to be on the council?
I often get asked why I am running for office. I want to be involved in the future of the town and be part of the decision-making process that will shape that future. I do not plan on leaving the town, and this is the only hometown my children have ever known. I want them to enjoy the town as they grow up and be part of its future.

What makes you qualified for this position?
I think I am qualified to serve on the council because I pay attention to and seek out details. I believe in hearing from all sides on an issue, and then doing some research myself, before drawing any conclusions. I also base my vote in what is in the best interest of the town. I have cast the easy votes, but also the difficult ones.

What issues are important to you as a resident?
Like any resident, low taxes and quality of life are the most important issues. In my opinion, the best thing about Cedar Grove is the quality of life offered to its residents. We have the lowest municipal tax rate in Essex County, an excellent police force, talented and dedicated employees and volunteers, and a new athletic complex on the way. And, the town is less than 30 minutes away from New York City.

What issues do you plan to tackle if re-elected?
The one area of town that I would like to focus on if I am re-elected is our Pompton Avenue district. I would like it to have the "feel" of a downtown. The businesses there do the best they can, but even they are hampered by being on a state highway. 

Parking is minimal or non-existent, crossing the street is like the old Frogger arcade game, and drivers have to decide if it's two lanes of traffic or one wide one. 

I also want to see through the completion of the Panther Park athletic complex, which should be enjoyed by all our residents. 

What have been some of the biggest challenges on the council and how did you resolve them?
The biggest challenge for the council annually is passing a budget with the least impact on residents. This is not an easy task.  

Fortunately, we have determined and conscientious council members, and a town manager in Tom Tucci, that are up to the task.  

We made some very difficult decisions a few years ago during the budget process that actually had me up at night, but it had to be done. Luckily we are in better waters now, as our budget is $400,000 less than last year.