Election 2024: Jo Hochman For South Brunswick Town Council

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — Incumbent Jo Hochman is seeking reelection to the South Brunswick Town Council.

After being on council for 12 years, Hichman says her experience and knowledge will help the township thrive.

Read about her platform in a Q&A with Patch.

Election is on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

• Name: Jo Hochman
• Town of residence: South Brunswick
• Party: Democrat
• Education: Rutgers University with a BA in Psychology
• Occupation: Trainer of Trainers for Preventing Child Abuse. Training parents, social workers and professionals in the National EPIC Program out of Buffalo, NY

1. What drove you to seek public office?

I was involved in the school community. PTA President six years, then School Site Council in High School. I served on the Municipal Alliance for six years and was president for two years. I applied to be on the Zoning Board and served four years and then moved to the Planning Board where I was president for five years. An opening became available as a Council member and I ran in the primary and was elected. My belief is that you give back to your community any way you can. Public Office as Councilwoman has a great responsibility in meeting the needs of the residents.

2. What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I have been a Councilwoman for 12 years, and as such I have gained knowledge and experience. I have many ideas on how to continue to make South Brunswick a thriving community. I worked very closely with the enlargement of the Library.

3. What, according to you, is the biggest issue facing the township right now?

Our biggest concern was the court decision on affordable housing. The court ruled that we needed to increase the number of affordable units to 9000, which would have overcrowded the schools and the town in general. I am happy to say that we have accepted the third and fourth decisions and will only need to increase the number of affordable units by 1500 over the next 10 years.

4. The township had to increase taxes due to $1.8 million overspending in the past. What are your plans to ensure no overspending occurs in the future?

There is an error in the question. State law prohibits overspending, lagging projections. This imbalance was resolved at the end of the fiscal year in December.

5. Several redeveloped projects are taking place in town. What’s your take on this?

Redevelopment projects have been focused on projects that need to be repurposed. Using state redevelopment law as a guide, and under the review of DCA, we've successfully redeveloped a Superfund site (JIS Landfill) and given redevelopment status to a derelict property (commonly known as the Boy Scouts building) and one of the existing Route 1 hotels/motels. We are looking to use this tool to enhance the Route 1 corridor's economic vitality and to reduce community nuisances.

6. Even as recession fears fade, cost of living continues to be a nationwide problem. What are your plans to keep South Brunswick affordable for young families and seniors?

The Mayor and Council work hard to provide a good quality of life in South Brunswick. We have many parks and recreational programs that are some of the finest around, our senior center provides an array of services, and we also provide municipal social services to help families in need.

7. What is your favorite part about living in South Brunswick?

I have been a resident here for almost 50 years. I feel that the diversity of the town is what makes it such a wonderful place to live. I have raised my two children here and I am glad they got to experience all of the different cultures that make up SB.

8. Favorite place to visit with family in South Brunswick?

The Library. The Library has become more than a place to pick up the latest books. At any point in time, there is so much going on there. There are activities for teens, toddlers, and adults. There have been wine and beer-making classes and movies. It offers a place for different groups to hold meetings and socialize. It is currently under construction which will provide an auditorium for cultural and other events.