Point Pleasant Beach Council Election 2024: Cathy Sogorka

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ — Patch is again publishing profiles of local candidates in the 2024 election, set for Tuesday, Nov. 5.

In Point Pleasant Beach, there are two full terms and an unfinished term on the Borough Council up for election.

Republicans Michael M. Ramos and George “Andy” Cortes are being challenged by Democrats Ernest “EJ” Geiger and Margaret “Maggie” Doucette. Ramos serves on the council currently; Cortes is seeking to get re-elected to the council after he was defeated in the 2021 election. Geiger has run previously. Doucette is a newcomer to the council elections.

For the one-year unexpired term, Democrat Catherine "Cathy" Sogorka and Republican David Betten are seeking election.

The candidates received the same questions. Here is the response from Cathy Sogorka.

Name: Cathy Sogorka

Age: 76

Family: Parents James and Mary Sogorka, Point Pleasant Beach summer homeowners from 1949-1975. James was a full-time resident from 1975-1998, and Mary was a full-time resident from 1975-2016. Cathy is the second oldest of seven children.

Education: Bachelor of Arts: Physical Education, Health, Recreation from Paterson State College – June 1969; Master of Arts: Student Personnel Services from Monmouth College – July 1981; State of New Jersey Principal/Supervisor Certification – August 1988

Occupation: Retired Middletown Township teacher (September 1969 - June 2003)

Any previous elected office or appointments in local government? Point Pleasant Beach Environmental Commissioner (2007-2021)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you're running for. No.

Why are you running for office?

I am running for a seat on the council because I believe there is a need for balance on the Point Pleasant Beach dais to meet the needs of all our residents. Since 1949, my summers have been spent here, and I’ve been a full-time resident since 1975 and a homeowner since 1980. My education, career choices, and volunteer history have taught me how to stay organized and manage multiple priorities with a positive attitude. I believe that to be an effective leader, you need to work as a team player to establish a shared vision, identify goals, and create plans to achieve those goals. Holding public office is an act of service to the community – service to all residents, not just those who share your views or voted for you.

What do you see as the biggest issue facing Point Pleasant Beach right now and how would you address it? A need for transparency.

Name one thing about the Point Pleasant School District that always makes you smile.

The ocean!