Politics & Government
Candidate Profile: Debbie Meehan
Debbie Meehan is the owner and publisher of the Colonia Corner and Woodbridge Corner newspapers.
Ward 1, Democrat newcomer Nancy J. Drumm faces Republican newcomer John Vrtaric.
In Ward 2, Republican newcomer Margaret "Peg" LaTorre has challenged incumbent Democrat Richard Dalina.
In Ward 3, Democrat incumbent Michele Charmello has been challenged by Republican newcomer Cathy Andreuzzi-Kovalsky and Independent newcomer Kevin J. Garcia, Sr.
In Ward 4, Democrat incumbent James H. Major has been challenged by Republican newcomer Thomas A. Sobe, Jr. and newcomer Sanjeev Kapoor.
In Ward Five, Democrat newcomer Debbie Meehan runs unopposed.
Patch distributed a list of questions to the candidates to give them a chance to express their positions on local issues. Their responses will be printed as we receive them, up to election day.
Name: Debbie Meehan
Age: 47
1. Please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your background and why you should be elected: I am the Owner/Publisher of The Colonia Corner and Woodbridge Corner Newspapers. I started the Colonia Corner over 11 years ago (Woodbridge Corner, three years ago) during which time I have gotten to know the people of the Colonia (5th Ward) community very well. I have worked with Veterans and the families whose loved ones have, and continue to, serve our county overseas and at home.
Find out what's happening in Woodbridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
I work closely with the Woodbridge Township PTO’s (Parent Teacher Organizations) to assist in providing enhanced educational opportunities and extra-curricular activities for all of our school children. And, I have devoted resources to work with, and assist, members of our Senior community and to families who have a special need of community assistance.
2. What do you think distinguishes you from other candidates? What do you bring to the table? I am running unopposed as the only candidate on the ballot for the Fifth Ward (Colonia) in Woodbridge Township. As a 21-year Colonia resident, and full-time community advocate, I will continue to work to bring additional municipal services, economic and business development, and an even better “Quality-of-Life” for Colonia residents and students.
Find out what's happening in Woodbridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
I have chosen to run to provide fresh, new representation to the people that live in the Colonia community – residents that are my family, my friends, my neighbors, and all of the businesses that keep Colonia thriving. I have served as a voice of the community through the pages of the Colonia Corner newspaper and will be proud to be the “official” voice of Colonia. It is my desires, and promise, to watch over and protect the town that I truly care about.
3. What are the most pressing issues facing the community today? How would you approach and resolve these issues? One of the most important things I can do as the 5th Ward Councilwoman is to strengthen and beautify the community. As a working member of the Colonia Business Community, I will continue to advocate and work to improve the business climate and economic opportunity for the small businesses currently located in Colonia, and for those businesses seeking to locate in our downtown business district on Inman Avenue. I also feel it is important to listen to the needs of the people in the community and to help to provide the absolute best “Quality-of-Life” for all of Colonia.
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