Mayor of Red Bank, New Jersey facts for kids

Red Bank, New Jersey, is a town that uses a special way of governing itself called the borough form of government. This is a common system in New Jersey. It helps the town run smoothly and make decisions for its residents.

The people who lead Red Bank are a mayor and a borough council. The council has six members. Both the mayor and the council members are chosen by the voters in an election. These elections happen in November.

How Red Bank's Government Works

Red Bank's government is set up so that the mayor and the council work together. This system is sometimes called a "weak mayor / strong council" government. This means the council has a lot of power in making laws.

The Mayor's Role

The mayor is chosen by the voters for a four-year term. The mayor leads the council meetings. They only vote if there is a tie among the council members. The mayor can also say "no" to new rules or laws, which is called a veto. However, the council can still pass the rule if two-thirds of them vote for it. The mayor also helps assign council members to different groups and tasks.

The Borough Council's Role

The borough council has six members. Each member serves for three years. Their terms are "staggered," which means not all council members are up for election at the same time. Every year, two council seats are open for election. The council members are the main group that creates and passes new laws for Red Bank.

Mayors of Red Bank

Red Bank has had many mayors over the years. Each mayor helps guide the town and make important decisions. Here are some of the people who have served as mayor:

• Billy Portman (D) has been the mayor since 2023. His term will end in 2027.
• Pasquale Menna (D) served as mayor from 2006 to 2022.
• Edward J. McKenna, Jr. (D) was mayor from 1991 to 2006.
• Michael Arnone (R) served from 1979 to 1990.
• Daniel Joseph O'Hern (D) was mayor from 1969 to 1978. He later became a judge on the New Jersey Supreme Court. He served there until he retired.
• John P. Arnone (R) was mayor from 1967 to 1968.
• Benedict R. Nicosia (D) served from 1961 to 1966.
• George A. Gray (R) was mayor from 1957 to 1960.
• Katharine Elkus White (D) served as mayor from 1951 to 1956. She was a very important person in politics. She even became the United States Ambassador to Denmark from 1964 to 1968.
• Charles R. English was mayor from 1931 to 1950.
• O. E. Davis served around 1903.