Toms River Township Council Ward 1 Election: Anthony Colucci

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Patch is publishing profiles of local candidates in the 2025 election, set for Tuesday, Nov. 4.

In Toms River, voters will be casting ballots in four wards for seats on the Township Council. The council seats are four-year terms.

In Ward 1, Republican Robert Bianchini is facing Democrat Anthony Colucci. In Ward 2, Republican Clinton Bradley is facing Democrat Susan Payne Gato. In Ward 3, Republican Harry Aber is alone on the ballot as there is no Democratic nominee. Republican Jim Quinlisk, the incumbent, is running a write-in campaign. In Ward 4, Republican David Ciccozzi is facing Democrat Justin Moran. Democrat Paul Williams is running a write-in campaign.

The candidates were sent the same set of questions in mid-October. Here are the answers from Anthony Colucci.

Name: Anthony L. Colucci

Age: 74

Family: Sharon, my wife, and Alex, my son. Also, two dogs, Zelly and Astra.

Education: Northeastern University.

Occupation: Retired. President, Ortley Beach Voters and Taxpayers; Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment. Over 40 years in finance/accounting/budget control in various senior positions. Ocean County Tourism and Business Advisory Council. Toms River Environmental Commission.

Overdevelopment has been the hot-button discussion for years. In August, the Fair Share Housing Center filed an objection to Toms River’s announced plan to meet affordable housing numbers for the fourth round. How do you suggest Toms River respond?

Overdevelopment has been a major concern for years, and it’s important that we push back
against mandates or plans that would strain our community’s infrastructure and character. At
the same time, we should look for alternative ways to meet housing needs such as through
responsible redevelopment, mixed-use projects, or partnerships that add homes without
overbuilding. This approach allows us to protect our community while still addressing real
housing needs.

The issue of homelessness in Ocean County is not going away. Rising rent costs
combined with scarce availability have pushed even moderate-income residents to the
brink and in some cases left them homeless. What role should Toms River have in
assisting those in need?

Rising housing costs and limited availability have left many struggling to find stable housing.
Local governments should collaborate with county and state agencies, as well as nonprofit
partners, to create long-term solutions including more rental options and pathways to
homeownership.

What is the issue facing Toms River that you believe is the most pressing and
how would you approach solving it?

The school budget is over 50% of our total tax bill. We must work with the school
administration to find ways to reduce the burden on the taxpayers.