PARSIPPANY – Morris County’s seven commissioners happily gathered around the podium Wednesday night.
They were there to support the reelection of Mayor Jamie Barberio, who officially announced plans to run again.
“We need a unified Parsippany in June to win Parsippany in November,” proclaimed Tayfun Selen, the board director.
LD-26 Assemblymen Brian Bergen and Jay Webber, who represent the county’s largest town, were there.
Webber gushed over Barberio, who has been mayor for 12 of the last 16 years, saying, “He’s better now than he’s ever been.”
The ballroom at the Knoll Country Club East was SRO; some attendees parked down the road and walked to the venue on a chilly night. This was not a fundraiser; admission was free. Food was served and there was a cash bar.
Over the top rhetoric and large crowds are not uncommon for such things.
But this one was a bit unusual. It wasn’t all that long ago that Barberio and county Republicans were on the outs.
Or as the mayor said in reference to county chair Laura Ali, “We were at odds.”
No more.
Barberio said Ali understood that “to move forward … we all had to come together.”
In backing a unity push, Republicans point out that last fall Kamala Harris, Andy Kim and Rep. Mikie Sherrill all carried Parsippany. In other words, a Republican win in this year’s mayoral race is no guarantee.
One exception to the unity front was state Sen. Joseph Pennacchio, who was not in attendance.
Barberio said that when he arrived in township hall after winning the 2009 election, the town was a mess after the financial crisis of 2008.
But now things are solid. He said there are surpluses in all areas and the township’s bond rating is good.
Barberio was out of office for four years after losing the 2017 election to Democrat Mike Soriano. He said Soriano was incompetent and that he had to right the ship when he returned to office after beating Soriano in 2021.
He urged voters not to make another mistake and elect an inexperienced mayor.
Barberio’s immediate competitor in the June primary is Councilman Justin Musellla.
Musella, who launched his candidacy last June, had an event himself Wednesday night – a fundraiser at the Social Hub a few miles away from the mayor’s affair. He said about 150 people attended.
A Democratic mayoral candidate has not been publicly announced yet.
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Barberio Launches Campaign for Reelection as Mayor – Insider NJ
Mayor Michael Barberio of Parsippany, New Jersey has officially launched his campaign for reelection, seeking another term in office to continue serving the residents of the township. Barberio, who has been mayor since 2010, is running on a platform of continued economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and community development.
During his tenure as mayor, Barberio has overseen several major projects that have helped to improve the quality of life for residents in Parsippany. These include the revitalization of downtown areas, the expansion of recreational facilities, and the implementation of programs to support local businesses. Under his leadership, the township has also seen a decrease in crime rates and an increase in property values.
Barberio’s campaign will focus on his record of accomplishments and his vision for the future of Parsippany. He plans to continue investing in infrastructure improvements, promoting economic development, and enhancing public safety measures. Additionally, he aims to strengthen partnerships with local schools and community organizations to ensure that all residents have access to quality education and services.
In a statement announcing his reelection campaign, Barberio expressed his gratitude for the support of the community and his commitment to serving as mayor. He emphasized the importance of working together to address the challenges facing Parsippany and to build a brighter future for all residents.
As the campaign heats up, Barberio will be facing off against several challengers who are vying for the mayor’s seat. However, with his track record of success and strong support from the community, Barberio is confident that he will be able to secure another term in office and continue leading Parsippany towards a prosperous future.
Residents of Parsippany can expect to see Barberio out in the community, meeting with voters, and sharing his vision for the township in the coming months leading up to the election. With his experience, dedication, and proven leadership skills, Barberio is poised to continue making a positive impact on Parsippany as mayor.
