Spaulding backs out of mayoral race
Republicans still seeking
a candidate for the race
By jennifer kohlhepp
Staff Writer

David Spaulding

North Brunswick Mayor David Spaulding said in a press release Tuesday that being mayor has been an "honor and a privilege," but he will not seek a second term.

"This has not been an easy decision," Spaulding said. "After a great deal of reflection and thought, as well as discussions with my wife and associates, I have decided not to run for re-election," he said.

Spaulding beat out Democratic challenger George Shamy for the seat in 1999. He was first elected to the council in 1997.

"I entered local politics to help the community that my family and I have come to love. I think that I’ve contributed in numerous ways to bring about positive change," Spaulding said.

Spaulding, a Republican, has served as mayor of an otherwise all-Democratic council since the swearing-in of Democrats Bob Corbin and Bob Davis in January.

"I’m glad to have had the chance to work with Dave for the three years that I’ve been on the council," council President Francis "Mac" Womack said. Womack is a Democratic candidate for mayor. "He has shown a good ability to find a third way, a more nonpartisan way for all of us to work together," he said.

Womack and Shamy announced recently that they each will seek the office. Former GOP Councilman Paul Pappas is also seeking the office, running as an independent. Republicans are currently taking applications for candidates to run for mayor and one council seat this November.

In the release, Spaulding lauded Womack and Council Vice President Carlo Socio, stating, "They have shown that just because you’re from different political parties doesn’t mean you can’t work together to make your community better."

Spaulding also attributed much of the current council’s success to the senior management team and to "our wonderful and dedicated township employees."

Under his administration, Spaulding said he had the opportunity to introduce many new programs for young people, seniors and individuals of all ages.

Other accomplishments he noted included keeping the tax rate stable and achieving diversity in the township’s police department and court.

During his term, the council also implemented televising of council meetings and increased the information available on the township Web site. They also introduced the Employee of the Month Award and the annual Slye/Chandlee Award.

"We have significantly increased the number of proclamations we’ve given out to acknowledge individuals, groups and events," Spaulding said. "Such recognition is very important and appreciated," he said.

For the remainder of his term Spaulding said he will work on placing a 9/11 memorial in the township and planning the 2004 budget.

"With this good period of non-partisan cooperation, we have a real opportunity to look at ways to tackle important issues, to think outside of the box," Womack said.

"I’m hoping that we will not see a tax increase," Spaulding said.