Meet Wayne Council Candidate Dylan Orren-King

WAYNE, NJ — With Election Day approaching, Patch is putting together a series of candidate profiles so readers can learn more about who’s on their ballot.

Dylan Orren-King is a Montclair State University student who is seeking a seat on Wayne's Council-At-Large.

Wayne Patch asked candidates to share some information about themselves, and asked identical questions to all candidates.

See Orren-King's responses below:

● Full name: Dylan Orren-King
● Age: 24 years old
● Town of residence: Wayne, NJ
● Position sought: Council-at-Large
● Party affiliation: Democratic Party
● Family: The proud son of Shelley Orren-King and Evan Kraft
● Education: Currently pursuing a degree in political science at Montclair State University
● Occupation: Full-time student, summer camp supervisor
● Previous or current elected/appointed office (if applicable): N/A

1. Why are you running for this position?

I’m running for this position because I believe that Wayne faces significant problems when
looking at the town’s future. I don’t believe in the leadership shown by the current administration and I’m willing to step up to represent a younger generation in the town I love.

2. What do you believe to be the most pressing issue in the community, and what do you intend to do about it if elected?

Many of the issues in Wayne stem from a lack of responsible planning. We are facing an overdevelopment crisis that has bogged down public utilities, put a strain on our education system, and will inevitably harm the taxpayer.

If elected, we must take steps to ensure transparency, work for the taxpayers of Wayne, and ensure the sustainability of our great town. I’ll also advocate for the creation of a town center and environmental protections to require more from developers to give back to our town.

3. What qualifications and qualities do you possess that make you best suited for the position?

I can understand the residents of Wayne who may be averse to my lack of political experience. I
would argue, however, that this allows me to focus solely on the issues affecting Wayne. I grew
up here, graduated from Wayne Hills, and plan to remain here as long as I can. But I understand
the residents who say that they want to leave when our taxes are rising, our utilities are lacking,
and the administration caters more towards favoring larger political machines than focusing on
the needs of the people.

4. Overdevelopment has been a growing concern throughout NJ. How do you intend to address it in your community?

The 5-1 ratio utilized by Mayor Vergano is unsustainable. We are developing around 3,000 units
total with a current projection of a larger demand coming in round four of the Mt. Laurel doctrine.
We as Wayne residents must advocate for responsible alternatives such as mixed use development, redevelopment, and developing near public transit areas instead of the local roads used by current residents.

5. If you are running against an incumbent, where do you believe they’re lacking in serving the community? If you are an incumbent, what areas, if any, do you think you could improve upon in terms of public service?

I am not running against an incumbent this year, nor am I an incumbent.

6. In a few words, what is your favorite thing about your community?

Over the course of this campaign, I’ve been able to talk with residents of all races, creeds, cultures, and everyone in between, all with different opinions on the direction of this town. The stories they carry with them of the experiences they’ve had with friends and family have reshaped the campaign trail for me in a way I wasn’t expecting. Their stories embolden me to continue my efforts here and cultivate a township culture of community and shared respect.

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Election Day is Nov. 4

If you are running in Wayne’s council-at-large race and did not receive a candidate profile request email, please reach out to jack.slocum@patch.com.