Politics & Government

Catalano Chosen As New Brick Councilman

Freeholder Joe Vicari administers the oath of office

John Catalano is Brick's newest township council member.

Catalano, who earlier this year declared his candidacy for a full term on the council, replaces Anthony Matthews, who last month.

Catalano currently serves as chairman of the township Planning Board, and has also served as a commissioner of the Brick Township Municipal Utilities Authority. The council chose him over two other contenders selected by members of the township's Republican organization: Edward McBride and Dr. Joseph Buttacavoli.

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"They had outstanding resumes, all of them," said Council President Brian DeLuca. "It was a very difficult decision for the committee."

Councilman Dan Toth, who also sits on the Planning Board, was complimentary of Catalano, saying he "runs a very, very good meeting."

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"I look forward to sitting with him," Toth added.

Catalano was sworn into office by Ocean County Freeholder Joseph Vicari. He was joined by his mother, Gert; daughter, Jenna; sister, Carol; and niece, Christine.

"I have a real, vested interest in this community," Catalano said, after taking the oath of office.

Catalano said he has lived in Brick for more than 20 years and has operated Country Store Jewelers in town.

Mayor Stephen C. Acropolis said Catalano is "a natural fit" for the governing body.

Catalano will serve through the end of the year. He'll need to win the general election in November in order to serve a full term on council, which would begin Jan. 1, 2012.


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