Carmine Mattia Throws Hat Into Ring: Belleville Council Election – Belleville, NJ Patch

BELLEVILLE, NJ — A lifelong Silver Lake resident has officially thrown his hat into the ring for a seat on the Belleville Township Council in 2020.

Last week, Carmine Mattia Jr. formally declared his candidacy for First Ward Council in the non-partisan May 2020 municipal election.

Standing before a crowded room at Belleville’s Nanina’s in the Park, Mattia said he plans to do his part for Silver Lake and the rest of Belleville’s First Ward.

Mattia, 59, has held multiple positions with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 827. He serves on the union’s executive board and as its business agent to Essex County.

“As a kid I sat on my parents’ stoop in Silver Lake, and I’m now a proud homeowner in this wonderful community,” Mattia said. “I still fondly recall playing at the Friendly House, and I think it’s a shame what happened to that building. From the deterioration of the original building, to the construction of a new, substandard Friendly House, to the lack of programs available for the children. We must do better, and I believe we can do much more.”

Mattia said he wants to focus his efforts in improving the quality of the municipal drinking water, introducing and enhancing recreational opportunities and expanding residential parking wherever possible.

Mattia also said he plans to work with the owners of a new mixed-use development in Silver Lake to create solutions that address the lack of current parking options.

“I plan on being well informed, making educated decisions and working with the business community for a better Belleville,” the council candidate added. “We must evolve and not be afraid of change. Belleville has become more diverse in the past decade; we are a wonderful, welcoming melting pot of backgrounds and cultures.”

“As your councilman, I will work hard to represent all ethnicities and foster stronger ties between the school district and the municipal government,” Mattia said.

Mattia’s supporters include Mayor Michael Melham.

“Carmine’s commitment to his neighborhood and the First Ward, coupled with his professional experience, will make him a tremendously valued asset on the Township Council,” Melham said. “He has my total support and the support of our team. I appreciate Carmine taking this important step forward to serve his hometown.”

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