Outgoing Mayor Asdal Says Farewell To Chester Township

CHESTER, NJ — Mayor Marcia Asdal said her final goodbyes at the Chester Township Council meeting on Dec. 20, as it was the final meeting of the year.

Asdal has been the mayor of Chester Township for the past six years and chose not to run for reelection in the Nov. 8 election, instead opting to retire.

"There is a mantra the U.S. Navy uses to describe its priorities: Ship, Shipmate, Self. The mission of the Navy comes first, the needs of the team are next and self is at the bottom of the hierarchy. This was my guiding principle as mayor – the priority was always what was best for Chester Township as a whole," Asdal said in her farewell letter.

During the meeting, other council members chimed in about their time working with Asdal over the last few years, detailing her work ethic and high aspirations for the township.

Michael Inganamort, a sitting council member, will succeed Asdal, who is in his fifth year as President of the Chester Township Council and his fifth year on the council.

Read more: Meet Chester Township's New Mayor Mike Inganamort

When Asdal took office in January 2017, she previously said her main goals were, "happy residents, living in a well-run, highly desirable town."

Asdal completed several accomplishments during her time as township mayor, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, completing several road resurfacing projects and reconstructing several recreation areas around town, among many others.

"There are many accomplishments of which I'm proud, but what brings me the most joy is the number of residents who were inspired by my leadership to volunteer their time and talents to Chester Township. Thank you to everyone who helped me preserve and protect Chester Township and prepare it for the future, one in which future generations will continue to Choose Chester," Asdal said.

Among the challenges for the coming year, new mayor-elect Inganamort says the main focus for the first half of 2023 will be addressing inflation and ensuring the municipal budget does not incur any unnecessary spikes.

"I am confident that Mayor-elect Mike Inganamort will continue the excellent leadership he's shown on the council, and I wish him much success in his new role," Asdal said.