Election 2021: Chester Township Council Candidate Tim Drag

NEW JERSEY - In a few short weeks the first wave in election season 2021 reaches the Garden State and Patch has asked local candidates to share their thoughts before the June 8 primary election.

Editor's Note: Patch sent out emails to all candidates to the email addresses listed for their campaign provided to the office of the clerk. The responses received will be published between now and the primary election. Candidates who would like to participate but did not receive one (for whatever reason) can contact Russ.Crespolini@patch.com.

• Name: Tim Drag
• Age: 41
• Town of residence: Chester Township
• Position sought: Councilman (running for re-election)
• Party affiliation: Republican
• Family: Married with 3 sons (8,10,12 year olds)
• Education: Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Management from Siena College
• Occupation: Insurance
• Previous or current elected appointed office: I am currently a Councilman in Chester Township

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am seeking re-election because i'd like to continue the progress we've made over the last 3 years. For the last two years, we have delivered a 0% increase to the municipal tax levy while delivering the same quality and quantity of services our residents need. We are in the process of renovating Black River Fields which helps fulfill my promise of delivering safe places for our children to play. I want to continue to protect and preserve our cherished open space.

The single most pressing issue facing us is recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. What do you intend to do about it?

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am running with John Butkus and we share a joint vision of Chester Township. We are not running a race comparing ourselves to the other candidate. Our vision is a positive one. We are looking to move Chester into the future, while respecting and preserving all that makes Chester so special.

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

1: 0% municipal budget increases over the last 2 years
2: Secured $425,000 in County Open Space grant money towards the purchase of Black River Fields, which is the cornerstone of our youth recreation programs
3: We eliminated lifetime benefits for new employees ending an unsustainable practice to save future generations of Chester residents significant cost.
4: Moved our Police toward Green Vehicle Technology. Chester Township will be one of the few townships in Morris County using hybrid pursuit rated police vehicles
5: Organized the Tree Giveaway in the Township where we provide residents free tree saplings. This has now become an annual event.
6: Reorganized the Township's Insurance program which has produced significant savings as well has enhanced coverage to better protect the township from loss.
7: Negotiated a new long term labor contract with our DPW employees which both values our employees and provides adequate service to our residents at a reasonable cost.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

The best advice ever shared with me was simply to do your best. I was elected by the residents to do the best I can on their behalf. I make all decisions with my neighbors and friends in mind. I feel strongly that I have done my best serving the residents of Chester Township and I look forward to serving them for the next 3 years.

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