Election 2022: Ronald Rubino For Chatham Township Committee

CHATHAM, NJ — Four candidates are running for two open seats on the Chatham Township Committee this November.

Democratic incumbent Stacey Ewald is running alongside Mike Choi and will face Republican challengers Ron Rubino and Dawn Flynn for their seats on the governing body in November.

Patch sent out emails to all candidates to the email addresses listed for their campaign provided to the office of the clerk. (All of the candidates were given the same questions).

The responses received will get published between now and Election Day.

Here are candidate Ronald Rubino's answers below:

• Name: Ronald Rubino
• Age: Retirement
• Town of residence: Chatham Township
• Position sought: Township Committee
• Party affiliation: Republican
• Family: Married with 2 adult children
• Education: City University of New York, Certified Lean Six Sigma & Leadership through Quality
• Occupation: Retired Business Executive
• Previous or current elected appointed office: Alderman in the Town of Boonton - 6 years - 3 consecutive terms. Served as Police Commissioner in Boonton, NJ. Currently serving on the Chatham Township Open Space Committee.

Why are you seeking elective office?

Chatham Township is an exceptional place to live with outstanding people. Recently retired, I once again, want to volunteer my time and energy to the town. I consider this as part of a lifetime of public service which is in many ways built upon my military service in the National Guard. My past experience in municipal government proved to be rewarding, enjoyable and productive.

If elected, what do you hope to accomplish while serving on the council?

Our Township will face many challenges in the years ahead, my goal is to face those challenges with determination, skill and creative thinking. I want to maintain our quality of life and especially the character and reputation of Chatham Township. In order to achieve this goaI we must address the rising crime and auto thefts, ensure fiscal discipline and prevent over development. I have specific experience as a past Police Commissioner in tackling public safety issues. All three main objectives must be accomplished to ensure that our Township continues to thrive and to maintain the charm of Chatham. A complete platform is outlined at https://RubinoFlynn.com

What do you think is the most pressing issue facing residents right now and what do you intend to do about it?

As I campaign in the township and speak to the residents, I have noticed a wide variety of issues that have been discussed. The most discussed issue is the recent issue of car thefts and the ancillary associated crimes, which I address in the next question. Taxes and over development are issues next in line.

Chatham has seen an increase in car thefts over the past year or so. Do you think the town is doing enough to combat this issue? If not, what needs to be done to better prevent these crimes?

As past Police Commissioner in Boonton, NJ I have experience dealing with a variety of public safety issues. Tackling this issue must be a multi-prong approach. Educating residents on common sense approaches to hamper these thefts and regular reporting of activity is paramount. The installation of certain technology and tools, which have already begun, but needs to be fully funded and implemented. We must also petition our lawmakers in Trenton to change the laws. We cannot close the loop unless the criminal justice “reforms” in the last two years are revisited. Unfortunately, new regulations are hampering police, dangerous and aggressive criminals cannot be held and the consequences for committing these crimes are not strong enough. This leads to repeat offenses and policies which are frustrating our police. This must change and the Township Committee can lead this effort, to be the voice of local residents.

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

I have more experience in New Jersey municipal government than any other candidate. My skills and results are more applicable than either of my opponents in relation to the issues we currently face. Ignoring my professional and personal accomplishments, just as a member of the governing body in Boonton:

• Mediated potential grievances with the local PBA, fostering better communication between the PBA and management.
• Worked with the PBA to increase DWI arrests and reduce criminal activity in the town.
• Negotiated a 3-year contract in 30 days with the Boonton Police Department that was fair and equitable for both sides. It was approved by a 9-0 vote.
• I designed and opened a new user friendly municipal recycling center that was recognized by the Morris County Utilities Authority. This was achieved without cost to municipal taxpayers using solely grant money. It increased the items being recycled which reduced the trash intake thus saving tax dollars.
• Created and instituted a streamlined trash pickup program which limited the amount per pickup thus increasing our recycling rate and lowering our trash tipping costs.
• I removed the meters on Main Street and implemented long term parking strategies in Boonton to improve commerce for businesses.
• I implemented an alternate side of the street parking program to institute street cleaning on a regular basis and facilitate efficient snow removal during storms.
• Negotiated a RCA agreement with the town of Elizabeth to satisfy the town’s affordable housing requirement.
• Pressed the DEP to implement successful remediation of a superfund site located in the town. The property was then sold and a valuable ratable was constructed.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am a 25-year resident of Chatham and a husband and father of 2 children, who both went through and graduated from the Chatham school system. It is certainly an honor and privilege to be one of the two Republican candidates running for the Chatham Township Committee. A responsibility I take very seriously.

As with many before me, who have had the privilege to wear the uniform of the United States military, have been inspired to a lifetime of service. I am no different.
Service to others has defined my entire life. I have dedicated many years in Chatham coaching and training our young people in multiple sports. They are our country’s greatest resource and treasure. I have served as an Alderman in the Town of Boonton for 6 years (equivalent to a committee member position) I enjoyed every minute of service in municipal government and I am so proud of the accomplishments that were achieved in that time. As a business professional, I have prided myself on a customer first policy which led to my success. My last position by far was the most rewarding which was helping individuals with disabilities achieve meaningful employment.

The town will always face challenges that require the total focus of the governing body. Out of the box problem solving and critical thinking techniques are what is required to face these challenges.
I value a traditional Republican approach. What could be more traditional than safety in our town, being fiscally conservative with tax dollars and protecting the charm of our township for future generations?

I am asking for your vote on November 8th so I can bring my experience and energy to the Chatham Township Committee.