Two Ocean County Races Most Watched This Election Day

Today is Tuesday, November 8th, 2011. It's the 312th day of the year. Election Day has arrived again. Hard to believe that's the case considering it felt like yesterday that New Jersey was out at the polls for the 2010 elections.

Voter turnout is expected to be an all time low this time around. However, many people don't realize how pivotal and important this particular election really is.

In addition to redrawn legislative districts, there will be Freeholder Races, Mayoral Seats, Council Spots and more up for grabs in both Ocean and Monmouth Counties. Two of the most contentious races this Election Day can be found right in Downtown Toms River.

Recently, the candidates for Ocean County Freeholder came to our studios for a debate. Incumbent Republican Freeholder Director Joe Vicari is vying for another term. Democrat Michele Rosen is running against him. What began as a pleasant exchange of ideas rapidly changed to a war of words, raised voices, personal attacks and downright rudeness.

Vicari began the debate by talking about a long list of services the County provides to its residents and Government transparency. However, Rosen counters the claim alleging the deliberate, systematic, concealing of information. She also suggested that Ocean County Residents are paying "Rolls Royce" prices for their "Cadillac" services.

Moving on to Toms River now. Easing the burden on property taxpayers appears to me the main theme of this year's Mayoral race in the township.

Republican Incumbent Tom Kelaher is challenged by former Mayor Paul Brush and independent candidate Donald Flett. Each had plenty to say during their debate. All three seem to feel the fiscal house of Toms River needs adjustments although Kelaher says he's pleased with the work of the council from the last four years of his term.

Brush had served as Mayor during the switch from Dover Township to Toms River Township. He was also in place when the community changed from the Township Committee system to a direct election. Kelaher can't understand why he's running again. Brush says although he vowed never to return to the seat, the economic crisis and what he calls "outrageous spending" is beckoning him back to Town Hall.

Flett, who is a newcomer, feels the two party system has had enough time to try and make a difference but as he calls it, "they've all loused it up. It's time for a positive change once and for all."

Both debates are available on our web site, wobm.com.

The polls will stay open today until 8 p.m. WOBM News and the Townsquare News Network will provide live coverage beginning at 7 p.m. I will be at the anchor desk at our Bayville Studios providing updates with News Director Tom Mongelli.

On a personal note, it's going to be my fifth election night since starting at the station. We will have all of our reporters in the field as well. Listen to it live on the radio at 92.7-WOBM-FM, 1160 & 1310-WOBM-AM, online at wobm.com and wobmam.com and on your smart device with the RadioPup Application.