Toms River Township Council Ward 1 Election: Robert Bianchini

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 Robert Bianchini.

Name: Robert Bianchini

Age: 66

Family: Married to my wonderful wife Nancy.

Education: Certified Public Works Manager Certification, Rutgers University, NJ; Certified Municipal Engineering Inspector Level I & II, Rutgers University, NJ; United States Military Army Administration Specialist.

Occupation: I have been a business owner for 25 years and possess nearly two decades of government experience, including my roles as the Director of Capital Projects and as the Director of Public Works and Public Facilities in Asbury Park. My duties included managing the day-to-day planning, organizing, and scheduling of Public Works activities, which encompassed the supervision of road improvements, buildings and grounds, parks, and the installation of sanitary and water utility infrastructure. I also had the opportunity to oversee the reconstruction of the boardwalk in Asbury Park. My experience will be an asset to the town in stopping overdevelopment as well as improving infrastructure, parks and beaches, our quality of life, and government efficiency.

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?

I would utilize my experience to assist in negotiations regarding the required units to a reasonable figure and fight overburdening demands by the state. I would also investigate increasing credits by addressing the housing needs of vulnerable groups, such as our seniors and veterans.

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?

Homeless shelters in our residential neighborhoods are not the answer. I envision our town working with the County to assist those with housing insecurity. I would work with the county to investigate projects such as the Tunnel to Towers Veterans Village within our County at an appropriate spot. This project caps rent at 30% of a veteran's income and offers comprehensive support services, including job training, legal aid, and mental health counseling.

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

The most pressing issue is the destruction of our wonderful residential neighborhoods due to failures of the current administration in protecting property values and safeguarding our quality of life. The lack of effective code enforcement poses a serious threat to our community. It results in unsafe rental properties, illegal multi-family units, and homes that fall into disrepair — issues that significantly diminish the property values of our residents. Rodrick's administration is enabling slumlords and LLCs to turn single-family homes into illegal multi-family dwellings, directly undermining the family-oriented character of our neighborhoods and adding further burdens to our infrastructure and schools. We deserve leadership that prioritizes community safety and preserves the integrity of our homes. Our neighborhoods are the very foundation of our town. I will work to restore code enforcement for the safety of our neighborhoods and to protect property values.

I am committed to ensuring Toms River's safety and quality of life by investing in police and first responders, effective code enforcement, responsibly supporting small businesses, and improving our parks, beaches, and waterfront amenities, while maintaining our neighborhood's friendly, family-oriented vibe. I will oppose liberal democrat politicians in Trenton who undermine our schools and lifestyle. Above all, I am dedicated to keeping taxes manageable so Toms River is more affordable for all.