Three candidates, two of them incumbents, are running for two seats on the Harrison Township Committee in the Nov. 4 election. The winners will serve three-year terms
Incumbents Jeff Jacques and Michelle Powell will take on Matthew Brown.
Each candidate was sent a questionnaire; at press time, Jacques and Brown had not responded. Answers are lightly edited.
Uncontested elections are also taking place for the Harrison Township and Clearview Regional BOEs. The former has three candidates running for three seats, each equal to three-year term. The candidates running are Jennifer Bowen, Tim Bast and Walter Bright.
For Clearview, one candidate, Joseph Schwab, is running for a three-year seat while another, John Williams, is running for a two-year seat.
Republican Challenger

Name: Michelle Powell
Age: 58
How many years have you lived in Mullica Hill? 20
Family: Son and daughter
School and degree: West Chester University, bachelor’s in business, Rowan University, bachelor’s in English.
Profession: Magazine publisher
Is this the first time you’ve run for a committee seat? No
If not, how many years/terms have you served on the committee? Committeewoman for 2022, 2023 and 2024
What is your involvement in the community?
I currently serve on the Harrison Township Joint Land Use Board and I’m a member of the Capital Campaign Committee for the township historical society. I also was a member of the Rotary Club of Mullica Hill and have volunteered for the Harrison Township Recreation Committee, Mullica Hill Business Association, Your Place at the Table food pantry and the veterans of township American Legion Post 452.
Why are you running for for reelection?
I’m seeking a second term to continue serving the residents of Harrison Township, where I’ve lived for 20 years. My goal is to preserve the character of our town while ensuring it remains a welcoming, thriving community for current and future generations.
What is one area you would like to concentrate on if elected?
I would like to focus on responsible economic development that balances growth with preserving the small-town charm that makes Harrison Township special. My priority is ensuring new opportunities enhance our community while protecting the character and quality of life our residents value.