Former Brick Rec Director Sworn In to Fill Ducey's Council Seat

Andrea Zapcic is Brick Township's newest council member, picked to fill the seat vacated by Mayor John G. Ducey. 

She was sworn in at the Jan. 28 Brick Council meeting. Zapcic was the choice picked by the local Democratic committee, after the vacancy created by Ducey's election to mayor. The mayor's council seat became open, and the unexpired term will last through Dec. 31.

There will be a special election for the remainder of the term of the seat this November which expires on December 31, 2015.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Brick Township and give back to the community I love so much,” said Zapcic. “I would like to thank the Township Council and Mayor Ducey and I am looking forward to working with them to make Brick Township a better place.”

Zapcic has over 15 years of experience in municipal government, including nearly 11 years with the Township of Brick.  She served as the Brick Township Superintendent of Recreation from August 2004 through April 2009.  Prior to that, she served as the Coordinator for the Brick Municipal Alliance Committee, commonly known as B-MAC, from August 1998 through August 2004.  She currently serves as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Rahway, a position she has held since May 2009.  She is a Certified Recreation Administrator.

“Andrea Zapcic possesses all of the qualities that the Council was looking for in candidates to fill the vacancy.  She is knowledgeable about municipal government, she has an exemplary record of service and most of all, she loves Brick Township and wants to make it better,” said Council President Susan Lydecker.  “I am looking forward to working with her.”

Zapcic said her experience serving in the recreation department will prove useful in her service as a council member.

“I am proud of what we accomplished during my tenure with the Recreation Department in Brick Township.  I plan to make it a priority to help improve the quality of life for all of our residents through increased access to recreation and leisure activities",” said Zapcic.  “My experiences in both Brick Township and Rahway will help me accomplish that.”

Councilwoman Marianna Pontoriero was the council person serving as chairperson of the Brick Recreation Committee, but announced she will step down so that Zapcic can serve in that assignment instead.

“As Chairperson of the Brick Recreation Committee, I am thrilled to have Ms. Zapcic join our Council.  Ms. Zapcic has five years experience as the Superintendent of Brick Recreation – you simply cannot buy that type of knowledge. In light of her expertise, I will step down as Chairperson of Recreation to enable Andrea to lead this committee and utilize her talents. I look forward to working with her and learning from her,” said Councilwoman Marianna Pontoriero.

In addition, Ms. Zapcic has an extensive background in the performing arts.  She received her Bachelor of Arts from Monmouth College (now University) where she studied speech, communication and theatre.  She served as the Executive Director at the Strand Theatre.  She was a co-founder and managing director of RTG Productions in Red Bank and was active in the Pine Tree Players in Spring Lake as a member, producer and served on their Board of Directors.

“I commend the Township Council on this excellent choice.  Andrea Zapcic has a proven track record as a dedicated public servant and her extensive and well-rounded background will be an asset for the Council and the people of Brick Township,” said Ducey.

Zapcic is a Certified Personal Trainer and recreational runner who has completed four marathons and eight half-marathons.

Zapcic has lived in Brick Township for over 25 years.  She and her husband Bill raised their two children, Erin and Ian, here.  They are parishioners of St. Anselm’s Church in Wayside where Bill is a Deacon.