ARTICLE: Garwood Dems Announce 2022 Candidate Slate

As published in the The Union County Hawk, March 10, 2022

 GARWOOD - "As Chair of the Garwood Democratic Committee, I am sorry to report that Mayor Sara Todisco will not be seeking reelection for a second term.  It was a very difficult decision for her, but she will remain open to future opportunities that come her way. On behalf of the Garwood Democratic Committee, I thank Sara for her service as Mayor and as a Councilwoman for 8 years prior.

 The Committee is happy to announce that Council President Jen Blumenstock will be the Democratic candidate for Mayor.  For the past five years, Jen has dedicated herself to the job of Councilwoman, taking on everything from revitalizing Hartman Park to establishing a Green Team to working on the budget to bring flat budgets and low increases. As a mother of two, she went into local government to help make Garwood an even better place to raise a family. As the Council’s liaison to Garwood’s senior citizens, she brings an open ear and advocates for them. As your Mayor, Jen will work to make sure all of our residents have a voice here in Garwood and at all levels of government.

 Councilman Marc Lazarow will seek re-election for a third term on the Council. As Finance Chair, Marc prioritizes fiscal responsibility to make sure Garwood continues to provide quality municipal services and properly funds its departments while keeping taxes in check. He believes strongly in listening to the public and engaging them on important issues.

 Clarissa Nolde will be pursuing a seat on the Garwood Council as well. After running for Council last year, she remains committed to working for Garwood’s residents. Clarissa is a 22-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 13 years. Clarissa holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Northwestern University and a Master’s Degree in Flute Performance from the Juilliard School.

 "This election will determine the future of the town we all love. Jen’s experience means she can hit the ground running as Mayor.  She can bring together the different voices on the Council and create an environment of compromise and professionalism. Marc’s work on Council shows that he understands the needs of the residents and Clarissa’s commitment to public service is clear, whether to her music students or to the people of Garwood. This team will bring the right experience, dedication and energy to lead Garwood into the future," Chair Tarantino said.