WEST MILFORD — Councilwoman Michele Dale announced last week she will run a primary after the Republican Municipal County Committee did not choose her to run for reelection. This week, Dale has announced her running mate, political newcomer James Ronayne.
In a statement, Dale said she made the decision to run with Ronayne after "carefully considering multiple options" for her slate.
"I ultimately chose a running mate who loves West Milford, has a comprehensive and diversified resume and, like me, simply wants to do what is best for our beloved town," said Dale. "This team will not engage in politics, will work with Mayor Bettina Bieri and continue efforts to thwart the detrimental political entanglements that have obstructed the progress of West Milford for years."
Dale, a bank vice president, is currently council liaison to the Community Against Substance Abuse (CASA) Committee, the Autumn Lights Festival Committee, Fire Prevention Bureau and the MUA.
Dale and Ronayne are calling their slate the "Just West Milford team: Republicans Without Political Agendas."
Dale, the current council president, is part of an all-Republican council that is divided. She is also the vice chairperson for the Republican Municipal County Committee. However, that didn't matter when the county committee passed her over and selected Councilman Lou Signorino and Peter McGuinness, who was nominated from the floor, to run for the two available seats on the council in 2016.
Dale criticized local party leadership last week saying they did not give her the nod because she refused to agree to negative campaigning and would not "vote their dictates."
The Republican primary will be held on June 7.
Dale and Ronayne are in the process of setting up a website and facebook page. They plan to campaign in neighborhoods throughout the township.
Dale said she is hoping to bring together West Milford residents regardless of party affiliation to support her slate.
"Our team will accomplish great things for West Milford residents, taxpayers and future generations," she said in her statement. "This team is committed to working hard from the onset. Together, we will join the all-Republican council with a passion and devotion to our local issues."
What are your thoughts on this team? Go to westmilfordmessenger.com and get in on the conversation.