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October 13, 2009                                                         Maribeth Thomas

(Word format)                                                             P.O. Box 158

                                                                                    Brookside, NJ 07926

                                                                                    maribeth_thomas@yahoo.com

                                                                                     (973) 525-9171

SAM TOLLEY TARGETS SCHRIER IN RACE FOR MENDHAM TWP COMMITTEE

Mendham Township, NJ - Sam Tolley announced his write-in candidacy for Township Committee at the October 13 meeting of the Mendham Township Committee. Explaining the reasons for his candidacy, Tolley says "I will open the doors both to new initiatives, and to a new working relationship with the people of Mendham. Count on me to be a listener and problem solver for Mendham Township…and only for Mendham Township. Our residents have a right to expect a committee open to public debate, and accountable for its actions. There will be no more decision making behind closed doors, and no more using public meetings merely to announce what had already been decided."

Tolley's objective, if elected, is to chart a new direction of openness in government. "We are lucky to have a resource of talented people in Mendham Township. The Committee should listen to them. Five people, however bright, do not have all the answers, especially in these severe economic times. The citizens want to understand the issues, express their opinions and feel confident that the Committee has considered their points before actions are taken."

Tolley vs. Schrier

Tolley will face two rivals in the November election, both of whom are current Township Committee members: Frank Cioppettini, the current mayor, and Jack Schrier, a long-time member of the Township Committee, who doubles as a Morris County Freeholder. Tolley's effort is directed at unseating Schrier.

"Mayor Cioppettini is well liked, and appears devoted to open, public discussion and strict accountability in government - the very objectives we intend to pursue," explains Tolley. "Jack Schrier has been a member of the Committee for almost two decades, and seems to be out of touch. He has forgotten that he is a representative of all the people of Mendham Township and not a chosen few. He is at times a "no show" and is distracted by his duties as a Freeholder and as a member of the Highlands Council."

A History of Community Service

Tolley is not new to the Mendham Township government scene. Between 1983 and 1991 he was a member of the Township Committee and served as Mayor. During this time he was instrumental in preserving the character of Washington Valley by successfully opposing the County Freeholders' plans to construct a prison in one of the more scenic parts of the valley. He worked with Ernie Maw to establish the Washington Valley Historic District, beginning the process that resulted in the registration with state and national agencies of five additional historic districts - a program instrumental in helping us preserve our town's rural and historic character.

In addition, Tolley as Mayor became a member of the Township's Planning Board, and remains a member and Vice Chairman 18 years later. He also chairs the Township's Master Plan Committee. He was part of the group that set up the current Open Space Committee. In all of these positions, he has been instrumental in preserving the township's enviable character. Tolley is also a member of the Brookside Fire Department, and a past Fire Chief.

Of Tolley's five children, three graduated from Mendham public schools, and two more, Brooke and Elizabeth, are currently enrolled in the Township Middle School.

A Tough, Up-Hill Battle

Living in the Brookside section of Mendham Township since 1961, Sam and his wife, Diane, have raised their family here. Tolley expects to have the support of a majority of township residents. Still he anticipates a close, tough election. "Being a write-in candidate is an obstacle we'll overcome," says Tolley. "Few of us have ever cast a write-in vote, and we may not be comfortable with the procedure." As an important part of his campaign, Tolley is preparing "how to" instructions for entering a write-in a candidate's name and casting a vote. "Still, if there are any questions," Tolley explains, "ask the attendant at the polling station about casting a write-in vote. He'll show you how."

Each vote for Sam Tolley will be a vote against the status quo on the Township Committee. As Tolley says, "anyone can pull a lever, but those residents committed to a better Mendham Township will take the time to write-in SAM TOLLEY."