Gentek's Council Replacement Likely Seated in February

Gloucester Township Democrats have officially begun their search for Michelle Gentek's replacement on Township Council.

Mayor David Mayer—the de facto leader of the Democratic Party in the township—announced Tuesday the party is interested in hearing from residents wishing to complete Gentek's term, which is to expire Dec. 31, 2013.

"We have many talented individuals in our township who are qualified to serve on Township Council,” Mayer said. “Therefore we are seeking someone who wants to serve our community and help us continue to make Gloucester Township a better place to live, work and start a business."

Interested individuals can submit their resumes by email at getinvolvedingt@gmail.com. The Democrats' selection committee will contact those it wishes to interview for the Council vacancy.

Township Solicitor David Carlamere, an active Democrat, indicated following Monday's Council work session that the position will likely be filled in February.

The Democrats have 15 days from Gentek's Jan. 4 oath of office to submit a list of up to three candidates to Council, which then has 15 days to make a decision on whether to accept one of the committee's selections, Carlamere said.

Council's first public-action meeting in February will be held Monday, Feb. 11. It's likely Gentek's replacement will be officially seated during that session.

Gentek was sworn in as the newest member of the Camden County Board of Chosen Freeholders last Friday, in Camden. Her last meeting as Gloucester Township councilwoman was Dec. 27.

"I personally believe giving back to society is a cornerstone of our great democracy, especially in Gloucester Township,” Mayer said at the end of Tuesday's statement announcing the search's commencement.