Election Profile: Arlene Sullivan For Wayne Mayor

WAYNE, NJ — Arlene Sullivan is the lone Democrat running for mayor in Wayne Township, with incumbent Christopher Vergano seeking re-election as a Republican.

Sullivan, a visual and graphic arts teacher at Morris Catholic High School in Denville, is a graduate of William Paterson University.

As Mayor, Sullivan said she hopes to bring change to a township that's had too much input from the same few people for the last 20 years. In this Patch Q&A, she laid out the pillars of her campaign, and what she hopes to achieve if elected.

Why are you seeking office in this election?

The manner in which this current administration has handled the ongoing housing issue has been recognized as an unmitigated disaster. In addition, the manner in which the handling of town business development and retention, has also been recognized as an unmitigated disaster. The same few people have been running this town for the last 20 years. It is time for a change.

What is the single most important issue you’d like to tackle in this role, and what is your plan to address it?

The public deserves to know what is going on. For far too long, a small group of people have been making decisions on issues that the people of this town didn’t even know existed – all decisions made behind closed doors without any public input whatsoever. I intend to run an open, transparent administration.

The coronavirus pandemic had a major impact on many aspects of life, and local governments were largely no exception. What are your plans for the future when it comes to offering assistance to those impacted by the pandemic, and where do you think is the best place to start?

I will work as a lobbyist and chief with Governor Murphy, to pursue as much financial assistance as possible, PPP and NJEDA funding, for the residents and businesses of Wayne.

Marijuana has been legalized in New Jersey, and municipalities now have a little time to decide whether they’ll allow businesses in their communities. Where do you stand on the issue, and why do you think it’s right for your community?

An example of another decision made without public input. When it comes to sick and disabled people living in pain, who are working with their doctors, why would you disallow availability to pain relief?

As for recreational use, put it on the ballot and let the people decide.

What are some other pillars of your campaign platform?

I want to hear what the people of Wayne have to say. There needs to be transparency on all the issues. It is about time that more than the same 20 people are the only ones who have a say.
The town of Wayne has the most educated and vibrant people in our surrounding area – let’s unleash their power.

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

As a teacher, I deal with the future, my students. My greatest gifts are creativity and flexibility. As past president of the Board of Education in Montville, I brought a unique perspective to the table. School systems need to be fiscally responsible but they are not suited to be run as a business, there are many factors that must all come together to not only be successful but become the best. I look to do the same for Wayne.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

My father always said to go slow and steady, and to be observant of things around you. You can always shift into high gear if need be.

“Whatever you do for the least of these, you do for me.” Matthew 25:40-45

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

The best is yet to come.

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