WEST ORANGE, NJ — A longtime West Orange resident, attorney, social worker and community advocate is running for a spot on the township council in 2026: Micaela Bennett.
Bennett – who is also known as the founder of the local Facebook group, West Orange Matters – announced her candidacy on Thursday. Learn more about her campaign platform and background here.
According to Bennett, her campaign is focused on “transparency, fiscal responsibility, environmental stewardship, stronger schools, and protecting the quality of life for all West Orange residents.”
A resident of West Orange for more than 20 years, Bennett said her decision to run comes from years of community involvement and listening to residents who feel increasingly frustrated by rising taxes, affordability challenges and a lack of accountability in local government.
“West Orange is an incredible community with tremendous potential, but residents deserve leadership that puts them first,” Bennett said.
“Families and seniors are being squeezed by rising costs while too many decisions continue to benefit political insiders over taxpayers,” she said. “I’m running because I believe we need practical leadership grounded in transparency, accountability, and real solutions that protect our quality of life.”
Bennett has served on the Citizen’s Budget Advisory Board and has advocated for “smarter spending,” responsible development, environmental protections and stronger collaboration between the township and schools.
Bennett said she believes the township needs to take a long-term approach to fiscal planning – while continuing to invest in public safety, infrastructure, sustainability and community services.
Her campaign is also emphasizing “thoughtful redevelopment,” including a vision for the Edison Complex that supports arts, culture, innovation and economic opportunity, while celebrating the diversity that defines West Orange.
“We can build a future that is fiscally responsible, environmentally sustainable, and inclusive for everyone who calls West Orange home,” Bennett said. “This campaign is about bringing people together, listening to residents, and making sure our township works for the entire community, not just a select few.”
>> Are you a local candidate running for office in West Orange? Send campaign updates and news releases to eric.kiefer@patch.com
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