Retiring Aberdeen Mayor Tagliarini Will Be Honored Thursday Night

MATAWAN, NJ — Aberdeen Mayor Fred Tagliarini announced in February he will be stepping down this year, and he will be honored Thursday evening by the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce, in a celebratory dinner at MJ’s Buttonwood.

Current Aberdeen Councilman Gregory Cannon, a Democrat, is running this November to replace him, as is Mark Bishop, the Republican candidate.

"Mayor Fred Tagliarini, a devoted resident of Aberdeen since 1987, announced he will be stepping down at the end of this year, concluding a distinguished 16-year tenure as mayor," said the chamber in a statement Thursday. "His leadership and commitment to the community have left an indelible mark on the Township and the greater Monmouth County region."

A lifelong volunteer and community advocate, Tagliarini first got involved in Aberdeen youth sports and civic organizations, serving as director of the Matawan-Aberdeen Babe Ruth baseball League. He also coached basketball and soccer, and volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America and the American Heart Association. In recognition of his selfless contributions, he was named Aberdeen Citizen of the Year in 2000.

Tagliarini, a Democrat, was elected mayor in 2010 and "quickly established himself as a collaborative leader," said the Chamber.

He served on the Aberdeen Planning Board, was elected to the Board of Directors of the NJ Conference of Mayors, acted as Treasurer of the Bayshore Mayors and was appointed to "Monmouth Grows" by the Monmouth County Freeholders.

Throughout his tenure, Tagliarini was known for his deep connection to the community, practical leadership and a sincere passion for public service, said the Chamber of Commerce.

“It has been an honor to serve Aberdeen alongside a fantastic Council,” said Tagliarini. “We’ve accomplished so much together, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved.”

Thursday dinner will feature the presentation of several community and business awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the region. The Chamber will also formally install its incoming Board of Directors and Executive Board, who will help lead the organization into the coming year.

For more information on the event or to purchase a ticket, please contact the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce at macocnj.com or info@macocnj.com.

Aberdeen Mayor Fred Tagliarini Will Step Down This Year (Feb. 5)

Tagliarini and his wife, Donna, raised three children in Aberdeen and are now the proud grandparents of seven.