Election 2024: Patricia Germain For South Brunswick Town Council

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — Patricia Germain is running for council for the first time. She will be on the Democratic ticket along with incumbent Jo Hochman and Ann Grover.

In a Q&A with Patch, Germain talks about why she is seeking public office and what sets her apart from other candidates.

The general election is on Tuesday, Nov. 5

Patch has sent out a questionnaire to all candidates. They will be published as we receive them. If you are a candidate and haven’t heard from us, please contact Sarah Salvadore at sarah.salvadore@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements.

Name: Patricia (Patty) Germain

Age: 64

Town of residence: South Brunswick

Occupation: tax accountant business owner

Party: Democrat

1. What drove you to seek public office?

At this stage of my life, I felt I have the time to be more involved in our local government. With Mr. Camarota stepping down, our current Mayor and council members are doing a great job, and I would never want to take their place.

2. What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I have lived in South Brunswick for 40 years, and raised my son and a grandson here. I have watched our town grow. With that growth come more children, schools. I’ve been active in the schools, at my church and with my local government throughout my residency. I embrace our town and its diversity and will continue to make sure that every voice in town is heard.

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

Growth and open space

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?

I don't wholly agree with the term 'overspending.' State law prohibits overspending. Our 2023 budget, which was approved by the NJ Department of Community Affairs, was balanced: appropriations + surplus-set-aside = projected revenue. At the time of reporting last year, actual revenue was lagging projections. This imbalance was resolved at the end of the fiscal year in December and in this year's budget. This year's budget proposes no new hires or increases beyond increased costs for materials or to meet the municipality's collective bargaining agreement responsibilities.

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

Redevelopment projects have been focused on disused properties or properties we'd like to see repurposed. Using state redevelopment law as a guide, and under the review of DCA, the town has 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, the cost of living continues to be a nationwide problem. What are your plans to keep South Brunswick affordable for young families and seniors?

Town hall works hard to provide a platform for good quality of life in South Brunswick. Our parks and recreational programs are some of the finest around, our senior center provides an array of services, we also provide municipal social services to help families in need.

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

My favorite part about living here is the people. I have been overwhelmed by the support I’ve received just from this campaign, but while I haven’t been the world traveler, I can say that for such a large township, South Brunswick has the warmth and comfort of a small family hometown.

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

Any of our many parks.

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