Bridgewater Township Council General Election 2025: Ridwana Isla

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Bridgewater's general election on Nov. 4 has six candidates running for seats on the Township Council.

Democrat Ridwana Isla is running for one of three, three-year open seats on the Township Council, along with Andrew Bucko and Joan Geiger.

Incumbents Allen Kurdyla and Filipe Pedroso, along with newcomer Meghan Moench are running on the Republican ticket.

Are you running for office in Bridgewater? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at alexis.tarrazi@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Bridgewater Patch.

Ridwana Isla

Age: 44

Town of residence: Bridgewater, New Jersey

Position sought: Township Council

Party affiliation: Democratic

Family: I live with my husband and son

Education: University of Toronto, Molecular Biology

Occupation: Director, Global Regulatory Strategy Lead

Previous or current elected appointed office: N/A

Campaign website: bigforbridgewater.com

Why are you seeking election as a Councilmember in Bridgewater?

I’m running for Bridgewater Township Council because I believe our community deserves transparent leadership, responsible budgeting, and development that reflects the values of our residents. As a longtime advocate for public health and policy, I’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful governance can uplift communities. Bridgewater is a vibrant township with incredible potential, but we need leaders who will prioritize residents over insiders and ensure that every decision made is in service of the public good. I’m committed to restoring trust, fighting rising taxes, and building a township that works for everyone.

The Council recently approved its fourth-round affordable housing plan that includes 421 housing units. What do you think of this plan?

Bridgewater’s ability to reduce its affordable housing obligation from 474 to 421 units is commendable. The plan balances state mandates with local preservation, ensuring that we meet our obligations without overburdening our infrastructure or compromising our community’s character. However, we must remain vigilant. Affordable housing should be integrated thoughtfully, with transparency and public input. I support housing that serves seniors, working families, and vulnerable populations, and I will advocate for smart development that enhances—not disrupts—our neighborhoods.

The Council approved a budget in June with a 1.077 percent increase over last year. How do you feel about the Township's handling of the budget?

Residents are still feeling the pressure of rising property taxes — up 22% over the past four years. The current administration doesn’t reflect on the broader impact of reassessments and long-term tax burdens. I believe we need a more proactive approach to fiscal responsibility, including better long-term planning, more public engagement in budget decisions, and a commitment to keeping essential services strong without unnecessary spending. Bridgewater deserves a budget that reflects both prudence and compassion.

The Camp Cromwell property has been a topic of discussion for years. How do you feel about the Council's handling and plan for the property?

Camp Cromwell is a gem with enormous potential for recreation, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. The recent investments — nearly $1 million in improvements and a proposed $1.267 million bond are steps in the right direction, but the process has lacked transparency and public involvement. Residents have voiced concerns about unclear financing and limited input. As a council member, I will ensure that future decisions about Camp Cromwell are made with full community participation, clear budgeting, and a vision that reflects what residents truly want: safe, inclusive, and accessible public spaces.

What other issues do you feel need to be tackled in the Township?

Beyond development and budgeting, Bridgewater must address:

• Traffic and infrastructure: We need smarter traffic planning and road maintenance that keeps pace with growth
• Environmental sustainability: Protecting open spaces and investing in green initiatives should be a priority
• Youth and senior services: Expanding programs that support our youngest and oldest residents strengthens our community
• Transparency and accountability: Residents deserve to know how decisions are made and have a voice in shaping them

What sets you apart from the challenging candidates?

I bring a unique blend of public health expertise, strategic leadership, and a deep commitment to community advocacy. I’m not a career politician—I’m a problem solver who listens, collaborates, and acts with integrity. My campaign, alongside Andrew Bucko and Joan Geiger, is focused on breaking up the insiders club and restoring fiscal responsibility. We’re here to serve—not to self-serve. I will bring fresh energy, data-driven decision-making, and a relentless focus on what matters most to Bridgewater families.

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself or your campaign?

I’m proud to be part of the B.I.G. team—Bucko, Isla, and Geiger—running to build a Bridgewater that works for everyone. Our campaign is grassroots, inclusive, and driven by the belief that local government should be accessible and accountable. I invite residents to visit bigforbridgewater.com to learn more, volunteer, and get involved. Together, we can bring real change to Bridgewater—change that reflects our values, protects our future, and puts people first.