Tinton Falls Mayor Will Not Run For Re-election This Fall

By Christopher Sheldon

Tinton Falls Mayor Michael Skudera announced on Aug. 6 that he would not be seeking re-election this year.

"After being honored to serve the residents of this great community for the last decade I have decided not to seek another term and I am looking forward to what life brings next," Skudera said in a letter to residents.

Skudera has served as mayor since 2009 and previously served as a member of the Tinton Falls Council.

Skudera said he is proud of what he, the administration and the council have accomplished.

"When I took office as Mayor four years ago, the Borough was experiencing sharp tax increases of over 10% per year and its surplus was depleted," Skudera said. "Now, despite a difficult economic climate, taxes have been contained to about 2% per year and match the rate of inflation. Spending has been significantly reduced; in fact this year’s budget is lower than last year’s budget."

Skudera also said he is supporting Tinton Falls Borough Administrator Gerald Turning Sr. who will now be running for mayor.

"Jerry has served our community as the head of my administration and we have worked very closely together over the years," Skudera said. "My record of accomplishments is also Jerry’s record of accomplishments."

Turning's slate will also include Councilman Scott Larkin and Zoning Board of Adjustment member John Roche. The borough's elections are nonpartisan.

Skudera said he is also proud of the infrastructure improvements and economic upgrades the borough has made during his time as a mayor.

"In the last four years, we have brought one of the Northeast’s largest solar farms to Tinton Falls while also quickly advancing the redevelopment of Fort Monmouth, bringing not only millions in capital investments to Tinton Falls, but also high paying jobs," Skudera said.

"Tinton Falls remains a great place to live and is in the best shape that it has ever been," Skudera continued. "Our community is well positioned for the future."