Meet Wayne Council Candidate Dennis Marnick Jr.

WAYNE, NJ — Two candidates are seeking the Democratic nomination for a seat on the Wayne Council.

Dennis Marnick Jr. is facing off against Jim Freeswick for a chance to be the only Democrat on the Wayne Council.

Subscribe

Patch is putting together a series of candidate Q&As so readers can learn more about who is on their ballot.

See Marnick's responses below:

- Full name: Dennis J. Marnick Jr.
- Age: 47
- Town of residence: Wayne, New Jersey
- Position sought: Wayne Township Council – Ward 5
- Party affiliation: Democrat
- Family: My wife, Cathy, and I are raising our three daughters in Wayne.
- Education: Bachelor of Science - Business Management
Occupation: Head of Real Estate 1-800-Flower.com
Previous or current elected/appointed office (if applicable): N/A

1. Why are you running for this position?
I am running because I believe Wayne is ready for a fresh perspective and practical leadership focused on residents. Over the years, I’ve listened to neighbors express concerns about vacant properties, overdevelopment, traffic, pedestrian safety, and protecting the quality of life. I want to use my professional experience and community involvement to help address these challenges in a thoughtful and responsible way.

2. What do you believe to be the most pressing issue in the community, and what do you intend to do about it if elected?
One of the most pressing issues is balancing redevelopment with preserving the character and quality of life of our neighborhoods. Wayne has too many vacant and underutilized properties, and I believe thoughtful planning can turn them into opportunities that strengthen the community. If elected, I will focus on smart redevelopment, improving pedestrian safety, addressing traffic concerns, and ensuring residents have a stronger voice in local decisions.

3. What qualifications and qualities do you possess that make you best suited for the position?
I bring more than 25 years of experience in real estate planning, development, and operations, where I have managed redevelopment, construction, and long-term planning projects. Professionally, I understand budgeting, negotiations, strategic planning, and how responsible growth impacts communities. Personally, I’m a husband, father, longtime Wayne resident, and someone who believes in listening first, being transparent, and focusing on practical solutions.

4. Municipal tax increases have been a growing concern throughout NJ. How do you intend to address it in your community?
Residents are feeling the pressure of rising costs, and local government must be disciplined and responsible in how it plans. I believe Wayne should strengthen its
commercial base through thoughtful redevelopment, reduce vacancies that limit economic activity, and focus on long-term planning that supports financial stability without sacrificing quality of life. Responsible growth and smart budgeting can help ease the burden on homeowners.

5. In a few words, what is your favorite thing about your community?
Wayne’s strong sense of community, great neighborhoods, and the people who care deeply about making our township a great place to live and raise a family.

_____

The Primary Election is June 2.