Politics & Government
Nishith Patel Elected Edison Council President, Harris Reelected Vice President
The Council President provided the community with a sneak peek into what the Council hopes to achieve in 2024.

EDISON, NJ – During last week’s Council Reorganization Meeting, Nishith Patel was elected Council President and Margot Harris reelected Council Vice President.
The meeting also saw newly elected Councilman Ashaf Shmuel and incumbent Councilmen Richard Brescher, Joe Coyle and Ajay Patil take their oath of office.
During his remarks, Patel said he was humbled to be elected as the new Council President.
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“I’m filled with a sense of profound responsibility and optimism for the future of our town,” Patel said.
This year, the Council will focus on getting the Master Plan completed, Patel told the community.
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“Advancing our Municipal broadband is another crucial goal, effectively making broadband wires a town-owned infrastructure,” Patel said. “Controlling these wires will allow us to steer our digital destiny, offering residents more affordable rates, superior services and increased market competition, breaking us free from the existing monopoly.”
Patel said Edison will also focus on creating a more pedestrian and bike-friendly township “to nurture a sense of belonging” for children and to lay the groundwork for a more healthy and cohesive community.
The Council will also work on updating codes, providing a clearer direction to the Planning and Zoning Board.
“This step is crucial in guiding thoughtful and sustainable growth and addressing the concerns of overdevelopment,” Patel said.
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