FREEHOLD – Democrats Michael DiBenedetto and George Schnurr are running unopposed to retain their seats on the Borough Council in Freehold Borough in the November 2020 election.
DiBenedetto is a lifelong borough resident and has served on the council since 1997. He is the owner of Joe’s Barber Shop, South Street.
Schnurr has lived in the borough for 32 years and has served on the council since 2007. He is employed by FedEx as a director of information technology.
The Democrats said they will focus on three issues in their new term: the ongoing construction of a new water plant; road improvements; and the redevelopment of the downtown area after municipal operations move from West Main Street to Mechanic Street.
“We continue to invest in infrastructure improvements,” the candidates said. “After many years of planning to provide the requisite funding, a new water plant (is being constructed) that will meet all federal and state guidelines. This investment will ensure a quality water supply for the future.
“This year we have also increased funding for street, curbing and sidewalk replacement. Maintaining our roads is an important part of our service to residents. To that end, the governing body is aggressively seeking grant and local aid opportunities where they exist.
“The recent paving of Bannard Street and Vine Street are examples of New Jersey Department of Transportation local aid we received. The DOT local aid and capital projects in progress include Berkley Street, Yard Avenue and Frances Drive.
“We were also awarded $173,158 in Community Development Block Grant funding for 2021 to resurface Ford Avenue.
“The governing body will consolidate borough departments in our recently purchased Mechanic Street location. This (move) will open up 51 W. Main St. and surrounding areas for redevelopment as per the master plan for Freehold Borough.
“The plan provides Freehold Borough and property owners an effective tool to support the rehabilitation and development of existing properties. The plan will preserve or enhance historical architectural building elements, improve retail offerings, expand the number of residential units downtown and create new office space,” DiBenedetto and Schnurr said.
