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Long Hill Township Committee

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  • Candidate picture

    Mansi Patel
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Victor T. Verlezza
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

What do you consider the most important challenge(s) facing your town and how do you plan to address it/them?

What in your personal and/or professional experience prepares you for this office?

What will you do to support a vibrant economy in our community?

How has federal immigration policy affected your town and how would you address it?

How would you protect/improve your town's environmental quality while providing adequate transportation infrastructure and development in your town?

One of the biggest challenges facing our town is managing growth while preserving our character and affordability. Families come here for our schools, open spaces, and small-town feel, but rising property taxes and limited housing options make it harder for young families and seniors to stay. Another challenge is infrastructure. Our roads, stormwater systems, and recreational spaces require investment, but improvements must be made responsibly, without overburdening taxpayers. Civic engagement is also critical. Too often, residents feel decisions are made without their input. Increasing transparency, communication, and opportunities for participation will strengthen trust in local government. To address these, I will advocate for responsible budgeting that balances investment with fiscal discipline; support long-term, sustainable infrastructure planning; and champion greater community engagement through outreach, open forums, and inclusive decision-making. Our town is strongest when it works together, and I’m committed to building that sense of collaboration.
In both my personal and professional life, I’ve been deeply committed to bringing people together to solve problems. Professionally, I’ve led complex initiatives in healthcare that required balancing budgets, coordinating across diverse teams, and ensuring accountability—all skills that directly translate to local government. In my community, I’ve stepped up to serve by restoring and chairing the Long Hill Democratic Committee, recruiting new members, and creating opportunities for residents to get involved. I also volunteer with the Long Hill Recreation Committee, which keeps me connected to the everyday needs of families in town. Together, these experiences have prepared me to listen carefully, build consensus, and make thoughtful, practical decisions. I believe local government works best when it is transparent, inclusive, and rooted in the lived experiences of its residents—and that’s the approach I will bring to this office.
A vibrant local economy depends on supporting both our small businesses and residents. Our shops and restaurants are Long Hill’s backbone, thriving when people can live, work, and spend here. I will strengthen partnerships with local businesses, promote smart development that preserves our town’s character, and invest in infrastructure and public spaces that attract families and businesses. I’ll also encourage community events and local tourism to bring more people into our downtown and commercial areas. By creating a welcoming environment and high quality of life, we lay the foundation for lasting economic growth.
Federal immigration policy affects who can live and work here, impacting many of our neighbors and rippling into our schools, businesses, and public health. While I can’t set federal policy, I can ensure Long Hill is welcoming and supportive. That means promoting inclusivity, partnering with schools and community groups to connect families with resources, and ensuring town services are accessible to all. When every resident feels secure and valued, they are more likely to put down roots, open businesses, and give back—strengthening Long Hill for everyone.
Protecting Long Hill’s natural beauty while planning for growth is essential. Our open spaces and clean water make our town special, and we must safeguard them as we plan for the future. I will support smart development that fits our character, protect sensitive areas, and strengthen stormwater and flood management. As an NYC commuter myself, I know how vital safe, reliable public transit is, and I’ll promote greener transportation—walkable neighborhoods, bike routes, and strong commuter access—while investing in sustainable infrastructure. Preserving open space and parks will ensure families continue to enjoy recreation and nature close to home. With thoughtful planning, we can sustain Long Hill’s character for generations.
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