JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ – Jackson Township Councilwoman Jennifer Kuhn has been appointed to serve as the next president of the township council for the 2024 fiscal year. Kuhn, a successful business owner elected to office in 2022 along with Mayor Michael Reina and Councilman Scott Sargent, is the first woman to hold the office in 15 years.
The last time a woman was named council President was former Councilwoman Anne Updegrave in 2008.
Sargent was made Council Vice President.
Dignitaries across Ocean County, including Senator Owen Henry and legislators Rob Clifton and Alex Sauickie, attended. Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi and Virginia Haines joined them. Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy was also in the audience to support Councilwoman Kuhn.
Mayor Michael Reina congratulated Kuhn on her appointment and thanked the local officials for showing up to support the township.
Councilman Mordechai Burnstein said of Kuhn, “She’s one of the hardest-working people I’ve met working in local government. The township is in good hands and I continue to look forward to seeing great things happening here in Jackson.”
Council President Kuhn gave the following statement upon taking office:
With the support of the administration and Mayor Rena, we are dedicated to safeguarding and advancing our beloved town. I am particularly enthusiastic about the newly-formed and rejuvenated community committees. Key areas like Economic Development, Open Space, and Public Safety exemplify our commitment to uniting more Jackson residents, fostering innovative ideas to enhance the synergy between the Council’s work and our community.
The collaboration between the Council and residents is crucial. As Council President, I pledge to ensure regular meetings of these boards, aiming to engage with as many residents as possible. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has volunteered to serve. The upcoming year holds both opportunities and challenges. I want to assure Jackson’s residents that we will exert every effort to maintain Jackson as an affordable, safe, and welcoming place for living, business, family-raising, and retirement.
In 2024, this board is committed to preserving more open space, maintaining Jackson’s unique character, optimizing the use of your tax dollars to enhance services without significantly increasing the budget, supporting local law enforcement in collaboration for community safety, and enhancing our partnership with the county for better road conditions.
I believe in the power of personal interaction. As a small business owner, I understand the value of face-to-face communication. My decision to run for Council was driven by my love for this town and a desire to contribute positively. I am eager to connect with our community members, from board meetings to senior groups, local events, and visiting businesses. I look forward to meeting and listening to as many of you as possible.”