Jamesburg Council

Brian M. Grimes (D) Grimes, 26, has a wife, Michelle, and a baby due Nov. 24. A high school history teacher, Grimes has a bachelor's degree in history with a music minor from Rutgers College, Rutgers University class of 2002. He has lived in Jamesburg one year and three months. He is a member of the Jamesburg Civic Association, the Jamesburg Democratic Club and the Jamesburg Revitalization Coalition.

At stake: Two three-year terms on the Borough Council

Given the recent discussions about revitalizing the borough's business district, what do you believe can be improved in Jamesburg and how can that be achieved?

Brian M. Grimes

Jamesburg is a historic community, and the exterior appearances of the businesses and residences should reflect this. Also, vacant properties in the town center need to be developed into businesses that will give back to the community. More community events need to take place, such as seasonal festivals, parades and utilization of Thompson Park for summer movie nights or plays. It is important to remember that the revitalization of Jamesburg can only be achieved through the collaborative work of the borough's residents, businesses and governing bodies. Each person who lives or works here is vital to the future of Jamesburg.

Joseph A. Jennings* (D) Jennings, 60, has a wife, Deborah, and four grown children, Jennifer, 37, Jacqueline, 37, Joseph, 32, and Michael, 32. His grandchildren are Alexis, 15, Stephanie, 13, and Riley, 2. A business representative with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 456, Jennings is a graduate of Madison Township High School, Rutgers Union Leadership Academy, IBEW Organizing School and IBEW Business Managers School. He attends National Labor College, scheduled to graduate in June 2007 with a degree in labor studies. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1965 to 1969, was attached to the U.S. Marine Corps 1966-68, and served in Vietnam in 1967-68. A Jamesburg resident for nine years, Jennings has served on the Borough Council since 2000, and is currently its president, police commissioner and on the public works and holiday events committees.

Joseph A. Jennings

With the revitalization being discussed in the community, I believe we are on the right track to continue the improvement of our community. Through the use of grants, we can continue to improve our streets and sidewalks throughout the community. By getting our community involved in the revitalization process, we can make improvements that reflect the visions our residents have for the borough.

What are your thoughts on the work of the current governing body? Please make note of any specific achievements or failures.

Brian M. Grimes

Jamesburg's council and mayor have done a great job with keeping property taxes stable for the past five out of six years. The council has looked into and begun shared services with Jamesburg's surrounding communities to help keep down yearly budget increases. The council also has done a good job pressuring the state for our community's share of state aid to help stem more property tax increases.

Joseph A. Jennings

The current governing body has worked diligently to control the property taxes in the borough. We have established a sound plan to keep the borough running efficiently, while exploring and utilizing every possible way to improve services and quality of life for our residents. We have effectively obtained available grants and have actively pursued avenues of shared services that are a benefit to both communities.

What qualities or skills will you bring to the Borough Council?

Brian M. Grimes

As a teacher, I have to think outside the box to make history come alive for my students. I constantly try new ways to bring the classroom to life through different instructional methods. If elected, I plan on putting this "outside the box" mentality to use in a different setting. As a community leader, you come across situations which might seem impossible to overcome. It is at these times where a community leader must find alternative solutions in order to come through for the people who are counting on you.

Joseph A. Jennings

The qualities that I will bring to the council are years of experience in managing trust funds, problem resolution and handling personnel issues.