Four candidates are vying for two Mantua Township Committee seats in the Nov. 4 election. The winners will serve three-year terms.
Incumbents Jack Steen and Eileen Lukens will face Sean Sepsey and Kristin Goschler.
Each candidate was sent a questionnaire in advance. At press time, Lukens and Goschler had not responded. Answers are lightly edited for space.
Democrat Incumbent
Name: Jack Steen
Age: 43
How many years have you lived in Mantua? 16
Family: Wife, Nicole, two sons.
School and degree: Saint Joe’s University, bachelor of science in psychology, MBA from Rutgers University.
Profession: Software engineer
Is this the first time you’ve run for a committee seat? No
What is your involvement in the community?
I am the president of Mantua Little League and have been involved for eight years and 16 seasons.
Why are you running for reelection?
I want to give back and help move our community forward. As a committeeman, I’ll keep residents informed, engaged and connected to the issues that matter most.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if reelected?
Building a safe and healthy community where every resident has the opportunity to thrive. I’ll support our police, seniors and youth programs, strengthen community outreach, maintain stable taxes and invest in education and health, helping every resident live their best life.
Republican Challenger
Name: Sean Sepsey
Age: 31
How many years have you lived in Mantua? 29
School and degree: BS in Business Management, Rowan University
Profession: Director of economic development, Salem County
Is this the first time’ve have run for a committee seat? No; ran in 2020 and 2022
What is your involvement in the community?
School board member, Clearview Regional School District. Board of directors, South Jersey Economic Development District. Advisor, NJ Delaware Bayshore Council.
Why are you running for an elected seat?
I love the community in this town. Over my lifetime, I have moved four times. Each time I intentionally chose to stay in Mantua because this is a town that I care for and wish to stay involved in. I am running for committee because I care deeply about serving our community and building a stronger future. I will work closely with our other government and private partners to find smart, cost-effective solutions that benefit residents. With proven experience in the various positions I hold, I am committed to bringing that same dedication and problem-solving ability to Mantua.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if elected?
I am running for office with a clear focus on economic development and expanding our services we offer our seniors. Earlier this year, the mayor expressed a need to focus on economic development. My professional experience positions me to play a key role in this effort. I also believe in strengthening senior services and enhancing our parks, without increasing local taxes. I successfully wrote and secured a $400,000 grant to expand county bus services for seniors and have also applied for and received grant funding to improve parks. I will bring this same commitment and expertise to serving Mantua.
