Abbott Running for Reelection in Chatham Township as a Democrat

Chatham Township, NJ – I, Kathy Abbott, am pleased to announce my candidacy for Chatham Township Committee. Having served on the Township Committee 7 years ago, I understand how important it is for elected leaders to have a strong vision for the future of our municipality. This time, I am running as a member of the Democratic Party, the party which currently best gives voice to my core values.

Like many of us, I came to Chatham Township when my family was very young because of the attractive neighborhoods, great public schools, public open spaces, and lower tax rates compared to other NYC commuter towns. Once here, I found a community of very impressive volunteers--in the schools, in the houses of worship, and on the dedicated municipal boards and committees that make up the foundation of our Township government.

My own volunteering started in the early 2000s when I joined the Great Swamp Watershed Association and the Township Environmental Commission. Over the coming years I founded the Southern Boulevard School Environmental Awareness Committee and the Safe Routes to School Committee, became a Chatham Girl Scout leader (and still am), taught religious education at St. Patrick Church, and more. I am so grateful to have become friends with insightful volunteers who fulfill many needs and collaborate to improve our town and overall quality of life.

From 2012-2014, I served as a member of the Township Committee and am proud of the many things we accomplished. I am particularly proud of supporting the Recreation Program, increasing Colony Pool programs, starting the joint Community Garden of the Chathams, renovating the skatepark, working on grants for over $900,000 in upcoming new sidewalks, and investing in open space. To me, these actions support what makes Chatham Township such a great place to live.

After leaving Township government, I was appointed to the Board of the League of Women Voters of NJ, which advocates for a transparent democracy and social justice. I stepped back into Township government in 2020 as a Planning Board member, answering the call to help update the Master Plan. Though I have a full-time job, I see the need for hard work in planning to preserve our town while we undergo the biggest increase in housing construction and population density in the 26 years I have lived here.

I believe the Township Committee needs to continue all of its recently revitalized efforts to plan for the future. We should work on a robust land use plan, a capital plan, a fiscally responsible budget that leverages shared services and grants, a proactive response to state-mandated affordable housing, and systems for active feedback from the community, including truly listening to its citizen advisory committees and boards.

The Township Committee faces decisions that will shape our community for years to come. We need leaders who do their homework, are collaborative, and reflect the will of the people. I am a centrist who cares deeply about the Township. I ask for your support in the Democratic Primary election on June 8th!