Wyckoff Township Committee Election Profile: Lisa Eidel

WYCKOFF, NJ — Lisa Eidel is running for a seat on the Township Committee as a Democrat in Wyckoff in the Nov. 3 General Election.

Eidel, 52, is a former corporate executive at Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals. She and her wife, Kelly, have two sons; Hudson, 9, and Finn, 5.

Eidel is a graduate of Long Island University, where she received a bachelor's degree in political science.

Campaign website

Fischer-EidelforWyckoff.org

Why are you seeking elective office?

Because I believe that there has been an imbalance in Wyckoff’s governing body. A balanced municipal government operates in the best interest of ALL residents, not the self-interest of the few. I think I can make a positive change in our community while helping to bring that balance to Wyckoff.

The single most pressing issue facing our community is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

In short, I’d say Urban Planning. In order for our town to remain the great place it is and desirable for all residents, we need to know what is important to everyone. Urban planning is both the development of open land and the revitalization of existing parts of Wyckoff. It is important to balance economic growth, environmental sensitivity, and aesthetic appeal. The only way to balance these demands is to make sure all residents are involved and represented.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

The fundamental difference is that Beth Fischer and I believe that every resident should be represented and have input into the decisions made by our municipal government. We believe that shared power provides the catalyst to improving our town because both sides can bring ideas to the table where they can be discussed and bi-partisan decisions can be made.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

The current office holder has failed our community by switching political parties mid-term. Elected as a Democrat, it was early into her 2nd year (of a 3 year term) that Melissa Rubenstein became a Republican. Wyckoff Republicans on the Township Committee do not seem content with having a majority. Why else would they feel the need to ask Dems to switch party affiliation?

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

My running mate and I are committed to fiscal conservatism, keeping municipal taxes low, safety for our citizens (which includes pedestrian, clean drinking water and access to health resources). Protecting the environment, maintaining open space and preserving the historic character of our town are also important to us. We believe a two-party government is the best way to ensure that Wyckoff becomes an EVEN better community to live and raise a family.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As a corporate executive I was responsible for managing a budget in excess of $14M. I also have over 20 years’ experience coordinating tasks, handling details and setting realistic deadlines. My organizational skills and financial experience balancing large budgets, will be a huge asset to our municipal government.
Additionally, I have a proven track record of working in a bi-partisan fashion by working with the Township Committee as I lead the initiative to raise the Pride Flag. I offered up bi-partisan solutions that were adopted by our Township Committee

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Always ask for what you want or need, the worst someone can say is, “no”

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

I am an extraordinarily honest person with integrity and I would never change political parties to further my own business interests.