This article was originally published on July 19th on The Patch.

As Chair of the Garwood Democratic Committee, I am pleased to share this important announcement. After much thought and deliberation, incumbent Councilmen Michael Ince and Sean Benoit have decided to not seek re-election to the Council. On behalf of Michael and Sean, we thank the Democratic voters for their support this past June Primary.

I am excited to announce that newcomers Clarissa Nolde and Jeff Jotz are stepping in to pursue seats on the Garwood Council. Clarissa is a 21-year Garwood resident who raised three children in town alongside her husband, Gonzalo. She has been a music teacher in the New Brunswick Public Schools for the past 12 years. Clarissa holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Northwestern University and a Master’s Degree in Flute Performance from the Juilliard School. Jeff Jotz has over 25 years of experience working for state, county and local government and is the former President of the Rahway River Watershed Association. Currently, he serves as the City Clerk for Rahway. He has a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Notre Dame and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Rutgers University. Jeff has lived in Garwood for the past 4 years and has been a resident of Union County for over 40 years.

Both Clarissa Nolde and Jeff Jotz are eager to get started with the campaign and to hear from you about the issues facing Garwood. Clarissa as a teacher and Jeff as a City Clerk have chosen public service for their careers and hope to expand such service by representing their fellow Garwood residents on the Borough Council.

Ann Tarantino
Garwood Democratic Chair