Freehold Borough Council Election 2024: Autumn Nonnenmacher

FREEHOLD, NJ — Freehold’s general election on Nov. 5 has four candidates running for two open seats on the Freehold Borough Council.

Candidate Autumn Nonnenmacher is running for one of two seats with Richard “Ricky” Gartz. Opposing candidates include Sharon Shutzer and Annette Jordan.

Are you running for Borough Council in Freehold? Contact Sara Winick at sara.winick@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Freehold Patch.

Autumn Nonnenmacher

Age: 50
Town of residence: Freehold Borough
Education: New Jersey City University, B.A. Education & B.A. History
Occupation: 5th Grade Teacher

What drove you to seek public office?
It’s time for new voices and fresh ideas to move Freehold Borough forward.

Leadership needs to evolve to reflect the changing needs of our community. After more than three decades, it’s clear that we need a shift in perspective to address current issues like financial challenges, infrastructure improvements, and more responsive government.

My candidacy represents the opportunity for responsible change — new energy, practical solutions, and a commitment to transparency and innovation. It’s time for a new generation of leadership to help Freehold thrive.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?
As a Republican candidate for town council, I’m running because, like many of you, I’m an average resident who loves seeing our town thrive in areas like entertainment and social activity.

However, as a teacher and someone actively involved with the county’s Office of Emergency Management, I see firsthand where we need critical improvements. Our infrastructure must be strengthened not just for everyday convenience but to ensure we’re prepared for emergencies and crises. We also need sound financial management to protect taxpayers and invest wisely in our future.

I believe in common-sense, community-focused policies that balance growth, safety, and fiscal responsibility, building a stronger, more resilient town for everyone.

What do you see as the biggest issue facing Freehold Borough, and how will you resolve it?
I see a pressing challenge in our community: the quality of life for our residents. While the tax settlements to Nestlé and Freehold Raceway have drawn attention, leading to their unexpected closures, it’s vital that we focus on the everyday issues that impact our citizens' well-being.

One key area that needs immediate attention is code enforcement throughout the town. Effective enforcement must be consistent and universally applied across all levels. Issues such as garbage collection, sidewalk conditions, and housing overcrowding are not just minor inconveniences; they affect public health and community safety. For instance, overflowing garbage can attract pests and create unsanitary conditions, while poorly maintained sidewalks can pose hazards for pedestrians, particularly children and the elderly.

To address these challenges, we need a comprehensive strategy that ensures our ordinances, as well as state and federal laws, are enforced rigorously. Just as in the classroom, where timely interventions can prevent larger issues, code enforcement must be proactive rather than reactive. This means having a dedicated team that operates around the clock, not limited to typical business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

By prioritizing these efforts, we can create a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant community for everyone. Let's work together to elevate the quality of life for all our residents.

What are past accomplishments or experiences that make you qualified for this position?
Being a teacher and an OEM (Office of Emergency Management) emergency responder can significantly benefit someone serving as a town council member in several ways:

1. Communication Skills: Teachers are trained to communicate effectively with diverse audiences. This skill is crucial for engaging with constituents, presenting ideas clearly, and facilitating discussions during council meetings.
2. Crisis Management: Experience as an OEM emergency responder provides valuable skills in crisis management and decision-making under pressure. This knowledge is essential for addressing emergencies and ensuring the safety of the community.
3. Community Engagement: Teachers often build strong relationships with students and parents, fostering a sense of community. This background can help a council member connect with residents, understand their needs, and promote civic involvement.
4. Problem-Solving: Both teaching and emergency response require strong problem-solving abilities. A council member can leverage these skills to address community issues, develop policies, and implement solutions effectively.
5. Advocacy for Education and Safety: A background in education can inspire a council member to advocate for policies that support local schools and educational programs. Similarly, experience in emergency management can lead to initiatives that enhance community safety and preparedness.
6. Collaboration: Working as part of a team is common in both teaching and emergency response. This collaborative experience can help a council member work effectively with other council members, community organizations, and emergency services.

Overall, the combination of teaching and emergency management experience equips a town council member with a well-rounded perspective and skill set, enabling them to serve their community more effectively.

Name one thing about Freehold Borough that always makes you smile.
The families of Freehold Borough, with their rich diversity of backgrounds, cultures, and religions, are what make this community truly special.

Every day, I’m inspired by the way our town comes together, celebrating both our differences and the common values that unite us — hard work, kindness, and a commitment to making this a great place to live. Whether it’s through the food we share, the traditions we honor, or the festivals that bring us together, our diversity strengthens the fabric of Freehold.

It’s this unique blend of cultures and perspectives that makes me proud to call Freehold home and motivates me to ensure our town continues to thrive for all families, regardless of their backgrounds.

As a council member, I will work to support policies that reflect and respect this diversity, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.