JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Eric Wilsusen announced that he is seeking re-election for another four-year term as Mayor of Jefferson Township, citing his continued passion for public service and commitment to the community he has called home his entire life.
“It is hard to believe it has been seven years since I first became an elected official,” said Wilsusen. “As a lifelong resident of Jefferson Township, public service has been a part of my entire adult life.”
Wilsusen began serving the community at age 18 as a Fire Company No. 2 firefighter, became Fire Chief at 25, and joined the Jefferson Township Police Department at age 22. He served for 31 years, retiring as Deputy Chief of Police. In addition to his civic service, he remains actively involved in his church and local volunteer efforts.
“I love this community, and I treasure the opportunity to serve it,” Wilsusen said. “I still feel a strong passion for public service, and I hope I have served our residents well, proven worthy, and earned the opportunity to continue serving as Mayor.”
Wilsusen expressed gratitude to his family for their continued support, as well as to township employees, volunteers, and his administration. “You are only as effective as the people you surround yourself with, and I am proud to work alongside an exceptional team that serves our community every day.”
During his tenure, Wilsusen said his administration has focused on transparency, accessibility, and communication, emphasizing responsiveness and visibility at all levels of the community. He highlighted efficiencies implemented in local government, including consolidating the Planning Board and Board of Adjustment into a single Land Use Board, combining municipal positions to reduce costs, and fostering a customer-service approach to municipal operations.
The mayor also reflected on the significant challenges faced during his two terms, including the harmful algal bloom on Lake Hopatcong, the COVID-19 pandemic, and multiple emergency events. He pointed to long-standing fiscal pressures caused by the Highlands Act, state-mandated revenue losses, and the Newark Watershed tax appeal, describing them as ongoing obstacles to municipal budgeting.
“Non-discretionary spending and uncontrollable costs increase by approximately $1.2 million annually before any department adds a dollar to the operating budget,” Wilsusen said. “Over the last seven years, we have cut roughly $6 million from the municipal budget to lessen the impact on taxpayers. We are now seeing the unintended consequences of these policies, including impacts on our schools.”
Among the administration’s accomplishments, Wilsusen cited the creation of Jefferson Township’s first long-term 10-year strategic capital plan, completion of roadway improvements in nearly 70 percent of the community since 2019, construction of a long-planned police department addition completed on time and under budget, ongoing water infrastructure upgrades, replacement of outdated fire and emergency medical equipment, and improvements to recreational facilities including Lakeside Field.
Additional initiatives include the formation of an Economic Development Committee to support local businesses and eco-tourism, and a Trails Committee advancing projects funded by private donations and grants totaling more than $1 million.
Wilsusen announced he will again run alongside Councilwoman Melissa Senatore and newcomer Tom Galfo, a local business owner, lifelong resident, and current Land Use Board member. Councilman Josh Kalish, who is not seeking re-election, has endorsed the ticket.
“We are fiscal conservatives committed to responsible financial management,” Wilsusen said. “If re-elected, my priorities remain the same: transparency and communication, economic development, and a more efficient local government.”
Wilsusen concluded by asking residents for their support in the June 2 primary election.
“I will continue to work every day to make Jefferson Township the best place possible to live and raise a family,” he said.
