Point Pleasant Beach Council Election 2024: George 'Andy' Cortes

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 George “Andy” Cortes.

Name: George “Andy” Cortes

Age: 66

Family: My partner, Colleen, three daughters, one stepdaughter, one stepson, nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren

Education: Attended Antrim Elementary School, graduated from Point Pleasant Beach High School class of 1976, attended Boston University

Occupation: 35 years with Comcast Cable (1977-2012), Construction Supervisor for Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex and Mercer Counties (2004-2012)

Any previous elected office or appointments in local government? Councilman 2013-2021

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? To pick up where I left off, doing what’s right for my hometown, after being “methodically sidelined” 2021-2024. To bring my previous hands-on problem-solving experience back. To thoroughly read, understand and discuss agenda items and ordinances and to ask questions.

What do you see as the biggest issue facing Point Pleasant Beach right now and how would you address it? My number one issue corrected itself with the resignations of the building inspector and the in-house engineer. Now I can focus on frivolous spending and nepotism to ensure tax dollars are spent wisely and the most qualified people are hired.

Name one thing about Point Pleasant Beach that always makes you smile.

It’s hard to name one thing but as a 57-year resident if I have to say, it’s the sound of the ocean and the smell of salt air.