Meet Monroe Township's newest council member

MONROE – The Township Council has filled the 1st Ward seat vacated after Elizabeth “Betty” Schneider died last month.

Michael A. Markel, chairman of the Monroe Township Democratic Organization, was unanimously appointed to fill Schneider's unexpired term through the end of the year.

“I’ve always been someone who is eager to contribute to my community,” Markel said. “Unfortunately, when Betty passed away, there was an opening on the governing body. I submitted my resume for consideration as I believe there are many ways I can give back to Monroe and help my fellow residents.”

Markel served on the Planning Board and will step down to fill the Township Council obligation. He’s retired after 35 years of owning a retail business.

Monroe Township Councilman Michael A. Markel was sworn in Monday.
Monroe Township Councilman Michael A. Markel was sworn in Monday.

Markel said he will focus his efforts on preserving open space and further enhancing public safety in Monroe, making sure the police have the equipment and training they need to ensure the township remains one of the safest communities in the state.

Markel said he’s closely followed the ongoing truck traffic study in southern Middlesex County. He said many residents in Rossmoor, as well as surrounding communities, have continually expressed concern about the volume of truck traffic that traverses through Monroe.

Markel and his wife, Barbara, moved to the Rossmoor adult living community after raising a family in Port Chester, New York. Their daughter and grandchildren live in Metuchen,

“What people really care about is their families and knowing they are living in safe, strong communities,” Markel said. "Family is what attracted us to Monroe and why I have chosen to serve. Enhancing the quality of life for all Monroe families is why I am here.”

Email: sloyer@gannettnj.com

Susan Loyer covers Middlesex County and more for MyCentralJersey.com. To get unlimited access to her work, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Monroe NJ Township Council fills vacancy