Councilwoman Stefanie Gara's message from The 2010 Annual Reorganization Meeting

I would like to sincerely thank my family, friends and supporters in my election. My husband Mark, my son Jake and my daughter Madison your support and patients over the last 2 years has been amazing. All the long nights, frustrated days and bag stuffing has paid off and I love all of you very much, Thank you. I would especially like to thank my running mate Greg Lobell. When I asked Greg to run with me I knew that he would be a great candidate. I know he will be a great councilman. I would also like to thank Patty and Nicole Lobell for there many sacrifices. You gave me your husband and father for the last 2 years and helped my husband keep his sanity with 2 small children during the long campaign seasons. 2010 is a new year full of new challenges as well as new goals. I am very excited to work with the Mayor and Council on several of the items which Councilmen Lobell and I campaigned on for the last 2 years. I believe that instituting change in several of our current policies is long over due, though uncomfortable, change is inevitable and growth is optional. Forming a Grants committee is a facet that our Government has been missing. Greg and I are very excited to get a grants committee together involving residents from all over the Borough. Every dollar obtained from grants is a dollar that doesn’t have to come out of the taxpayer’s pocket. I am looking forward to my appointments with the police as well as budget and finance. I am eager to work with Councilwomen Carra on these assignments and believe that together we can take a bi-partisan approach towards accountable within our government. Together we can make sure we are maximizing use of every tax dollar. I will make decisions that will be good for our entire community and not focus or promote any political agenda. Raritan like every community faces numerous challenges; I believe I’m ready to face those challenges for the good of all. Again, I would like to thank you for the confidence you have placed in me. I will make every effort to keep the promises I made during the campaign and I will always be willing to listen to your concerns and suggestions. I hope everyone has a safe, healthy and happy New Year. Stefanie Gara