Election 2023: Justin Strickland For Chatham Borough Council

CHATHAM, NJ — Election Day is nearing, and Chatham voters will soon head to the polls to cast their votes for three seats on the local borough council.

Patch sent questionnaires to all candidates, seeking their responses. Here is the response from candidate Justin Strickland.

Editor's Note: Patch emailed all candidates at the email addresses listed for their campaigns in the clerk's office. The responses will be revealed between now and the general election on Nov. 7. These comments will be published with just minor stylistic changes. Candidates who wish to participate but did not receive an invitation should email [email protected].

Name: Justin Strickland

Town of residence: Chatham Borough

Party affiliation: Democratic

Family: N/A

Education: Bachelor's in Political Science and an MBA

Occupation: Management Professional

Previous or current elected appointed office: N/A

Why are you seeking elective office?

I’m running for Borough Council because I have a passion for public service and for honoring the Americans who contributed to advancing the ideals and values of our great country. I believe it’s important to remember those who fought for our nation’s independence, preserved our Union, saved the world during World War II, and stood for equality during the Civil Rights and Women’s movements. I can honor all those amazing folks by doing my part in serving our community.

If elected, what do you hope to accomplish while serving on the council?

I will work to preserve Chatham’s storied history, its stellar reputation as a family focused community, and preserve the pride we all feel for the place we call home. I’ll contribute to preserving the character of our town, all while meeting the needs of the community. I want to ensure residents feel heard and represented. I’ll work to bring folks together and be focused on what is in the best interests of Chatham residents.

What do you think is the most pressing issue facing residents right now and what do you intend to do about it?

I’ve been doing a lot of listening and learning throughout 2023 by attending every Borough Council meeting and talking with residents throughout our community. I intend to be actively involved in finding solutions to all the issues that face Chatham residents and not just the most pressing issues.

Residents have expressed increased worries about overdevelopment in the borough in recent years; how would you solve this?

I’m sensitive to the increased worries about overdevelopment that have been expressed by residents. I’m committed to working diligently to deliver the best solution that is consistent with the character of Chatham Borough.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence that you can handle this job?

I’m an Iraq War combat veteran. As a member of the United States Army, I served as a Platoon leader and Iraqi Army advisor, earning a Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medals. I worked on a Federal Government Task Force responsible for economic development in Afghanistan and earned the Office of the Secretary of Defense Outstanding Achievement Award. I’m a management professional and leader that has worked for multiple Fortune 500 companies.