Mendham Borough Council Election 2024: Bob Ritger

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 Bob Ritger.

Bob Ritger

• Age: 65
• Town of residence: Mendham Borough
• Education: Bachelor of Architecture, University of Notre Dame
• Occupation: Architect, Construction Administrator, IT Advisor at Studio Hillier in Princeton, New Jersey

What drove you to seek public office?

As an appointed member and former chairman of Mendham Borough's Zoning Board of Adjustment and Joint Land Use Board, I witnessed firsthand the impact my contributions could have on our community. I enjoyed shaping the environment where I live and helping my neighbors and friends achieve their goals. Over the past few years, I became increasingly concerned that town news, events, and vital information weren’t being communicated effectively.

In 2012, I established the About Mendham Facebook group to create a central hub for sharing local news, information, suggestions, recommendations, and questions about life in Mendham. The inquiries and concerns raised by my fellow residents inspired me to pursue an elected position, where I can actively address these issues on their behalf and continue giving back to our community.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

My multi-faceted professional experience distinguishes me from other candidates. As an architect and IT professional with over 40 years of creative problem-solving, I’ve tackled projects of varying complexity—from renovating a historic home in Mendham Township for a lifelong friend to collaborating with one of America's most famous architects, Philip Johnson, on the design of four 35+ story towers in Manhattan's Times Square directly over the subway station that had to stay operational throughout construction. My work with municipalities, public and private schools, small businesses, and multinational corporations has equipped me with the skills to craft effective solutions for complex challenges.

During my 13 years on Mendham's land use boards, I have recommended several local ordinance changes, including outdoor dining permits, establishing prevailing setbacks, excluding generator pads from impermeable coverage, and updating our solar panel regulations. My ability to work within budgets, devise creative solutions, and engage with residents to resolve their challenges truly sets me apart.

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

Change is a significant concern for many residents. While some hope to preserve Mendham's character, change is inevitable. The challenge lies in anticipating and managing that change to foster positive outcomes. We must proactively address potential issues—such as affordable housing, sewer capacity, groundwater runoff, sidewalk maintenance, and intrusive site lighting—rather than reacting only after they escalate into serious problems. Engaging an informed public in decision-making is crucial.

Currently, our mayor and council often keep major issues away from public scrutiny for as long as possible. Council meetings have become a process of rubber-stamping ordinances and resolutions crafted behind closed doors, with meeting minutes and agendas released at the last minute, continuously leaving the community in the dark. This lack of transparency erodes public trust in our elected representatives.

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

I moved to Mendham in 1968 during a significant population surge that doubled our residents in under a decade due to developments like Tempe Wick, Deerfield, Florie Farm, Valley Way, and Kings Ridge. During this period, we adapted by building new schools (Mountain View School and West Morris Mendham High School), moving and expanding our post office, fire and police departments.

The establishment of the Foodtown shopping center (now King's) also contributed to our community's evolution that once included several large farms but is now mostly residential. Yet, Mendham has maintained its small-town charm thanks to dedicated volunteers who serve at all levels of government and in local services. With my architectural background, I can provide unique insights into potential developments, helping to identify issues before they arise and ensuring that our community’s character is preserved amidst growth.

What is your favorite part of living in Mendham?

While I could rave about Mendham's beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and charming streetscapes, the best aspect of living here is the people. I’ve formed lifelong friendships, and serving my community in a volunteer capacity feels like a meaningful way to honor those bonds. Mendham is a special place where generations raise their children, many of whom eventually return to continue the cycle. I grew up here, moved away, and returned to raise my family, and I am committed to ensuring that Mendham remains a cherished home for generations to come.