Mendham Borough Council Election 2024: Alexandra Henry Traut

MENDHAM, NJ — Election Day is nearing, and Mendham voters will soon head to the polls to cast their votes for the open seats on the borough council.

Patch sent questionnaires to all candidates, seeking their responses. Here is the response from candidate Alexandra Henry Traut.

Alexandra Henry Traut

• Age: 36
• Town of residence: Mendham Borough
• Education: BA in English from University of South Carolina
• Occupation: Marketing Manager

What drove you to seek public office?

I am running for Borough Council because, as a third-generation “Mendhamite,” I am deeply committed to preserving the values and benefits that have drawn generations to our community. My goal is to ensure that future residents experience the same sense of belonging and opportunity that has defined Mendham Borough for decades.

Public service runs in my family. My grandfather, Neil Henry Sr., was an active member of the West Morris Regional School Board and played a key role in developing the town’s youth sports programs, including co-founding Mendham Patriots Football (now Twin Boro Bears). My father, Neil Henry Jr., dedicated 18 years to serving on the Mendham Borough Council and as Mayor.

Their commitment ignited my interest in local public service from a young age. Now, as I prepare to start and raise my own family, I feel it is my duty to uphold the values that have shaped Mendham Borough while embracing innovative solutions to meet the needs of our evolving community.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

What sets me apart from other candidates is my unwavering commitment to serving the diverse needs of our residents without a personal agenda. My vision for Mendham Borough is inclusive, representing a broad cross-section of constituents. With three generations of my family living in town, and plans to raise a family of my own here, I have a unique perspective on the concerns and aspirations of all age groups. I am dedicated to addressing the needs of our senior citizens, ensuring a bright future for our children, and supporting everyone in between.

What do you see as the biggest issue facing Mendham Borough?

The biggest issue facing Mendham Borough is the state-mandated legislation for Affordable Housing. While housing affordability is a nationwide concern, smaller municipalities often struggle with obligations that favor high-density developments and the interests of developers, sometimes at the expense of local character.

As we enter the fourth round of obligations, it is crucial for the Mayor and Council to collaborate closely with the Borough Administrator, Municipal Attorney, Joint Land Use Board, Historic Preservation Commission, Environmental Committee, and the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Together, we can develop a responsible plan that delivers the benefits of Affordable Housing without drastically altering the fabric of Mendham Borough. It is vital to keep our residents informed about these obligations and the potential stakes involved.

How do you keep the small-town feel of Mendham Borough amidst the modern pressures of growth and development?

To retain the small-town feel of Mendham Borough, it is essential to foster the growth of new and existing small businesses. High business turnover has long been an issue for economic development. I aim to revitalize the Mayor’s Local Economic Development Committee, which is dedicated to keeping our business districts vibrant. By identifying the root causes of turnover and implementing actionable steps and resources, we can support our local business owners and attract new ones.

What is your favorite part of living in Mendham?

Mendham Borough is one of New Jersey’s most notable municipalities, offering many wonderful aspects of life here. However, if I had to choose one thing that makes Mendham Borough special, it would be our sense of community. The dedicated residents who selflessly volunteer their time to maintain our services, clubs, and organizations are the heart of what allows Mendham Borough thrive. It truly is something special to be a part of this community.