Morristown Primaries: Meet Michael Elms

The June 4 Primary Election day is this week. Incumbents Michelle Dupree Harris, council president, Toshiba Foster and Michael Elms are being challenged by fellow Dems Michael Pooler, a planning board member, Jessica Williamson, a member of the environmental commission, and Tom Alexander, a former housing inspector. 

No Republicans filed to run for office. Independent candidates have until primary day to file to make the November ballot. 

Last week, We Are United and Organized (UNO), a group of Morristown residents started a grassroots effort aimed at solving problems affecting local communities, free of politics, announced the endorsement of a slate of Democratic Candidates for Morristown Council in the June 4 Primary Election.

Patch asked candidates a set of questions. Here's a look at Elms' answers:

Elms, 38, has lived in Morristown for 11 years. 

Current and past occupations that are relevant doing this job if elected

• Residential and Commercial Realtor, RE/MAX Properties Unlimited
• Vice-chair, Morristown Parking Authority
• Morristown Board of Adjustment (Zoning Board)

Why are you running?

I am running for the Town Council because Morristown has become an integral and cherished part of my life. I reside happily in town, I am raising my three children here with plans to utilize the public school system and I work in town. I have witnessed some Morristown highs and lows. I believe the town is on the right track and that things are "good" but I want to help in making Morristown the BEST it can be.  I believe in giving back to the community and serving on Town Council is one of the best ways to do this. I look forward to working with (and sometimes against) the administration to do what is right for the residents of town, addressing all issues and concerns and to, again, make Morristown the BEST it can be.

What are the top three issues facing Morristown and how would you address it, if elected?

The top 3 issues facing the town of Morristown and her residents are the following: 

1. Will diligently work to reduce and further stabilize municipal taxes within town. This will be accomplished with prudent fiscal management of budgets and available resources which leads to tax stability without loss of critical services. We need to continue balancing our expenses with a steady hand on expenses and obligations. This gives our residents and businesses the ability to thrive within town and keep their hard-earned money.
The administration and council has and will continue to work together to reduce spending while maintaining a high level of services throughout town. Another avenue that we have just begin to tap into is the creative use of state and federal grant money. Grant money is readily available for those who know how to pursue it. This money can be wisely used to purchase green-space, open parks and playgrounds or upgrade town buildings and facilities to be more sustainable using renewable energy technology.

2  The "smart-growth" of Morristown is essential to making Morristown one of the most desirable towns to live in all of New Jersey while intelligently pursuing development and developers that show care and consideration of our great neighborhoods and wonderful history. A delicate balance MUST be struck to increase ratables while putting great emphasis on relieving traffic congestion, making the town pedestrian friendly and insisting upon the creation of affordable housing in-town. Any development must not be allowed to overwhelm the charm and character that is Morristown.
             
3. The success and growth of Morristown in the last 3-5 years has led to an increase in pedestrian activity throughout the town. We need to make a concerted effort to improve quality of life issues like public safety and appearance.  Our town will continue to grow and prosper if all residents and visitors feel the town is clean, safe and welcoming. This must be a priority for the downtown and central business district in attracting consumers and new businesses.

Patch is waiting for return answers from the other candidates