In the days leading up to the most recent winter storm I was able to do many of the things that I enjoy most as Mayor; set goals, encourage and support staff to rise to a challenge, work with my colleagues at all levels of government, and co- ordinate with my team to execute on our plan to effectively respond to the storm. Working as a team and responding to the needs of our community has always been the most difficult and rewarding part of being Mayor. And serving as the Mayor of the Borough of Merchantville has been at times both a very humbling experience
and one of the great honors of my life. But it is time for the next generation of leadership to step up and lead the Borough through the challenges our community, residents and nation face. As such, I am officially announcing that I am not running for re-election as Mayor of the Borough of Merchantville and I will be stepping down at the conclusion of my term in January 2027.
This decision doesn't come lightly and although there is much we have yet to accomplish, the time to step back is right because it is a personal decision grounded in dedicating more time to being with my family. They have tirelessly supported me for the last 18 years as I served in public office and my children do not know a life without me serving the Borough. I could never have done any of this without the sacrifice, love and support of my wife, Kate, and I am forever grateful that she allowed me to pursue my passion for public service and Merchantville.
While I will be spending more time with my family in January 2027 and beyond, I will continue to work tirelessly for the residents of the Borough over the next 10 months, identifying solutions to the problems facing our residents and bringing the community together to remind you why you chose Merchantville as your home. I also look forward to working with our next generation of leadership during 2026 and beyond and I am proud to endorse Ray Woods for Mayor and Ruby Delarosa and Sean Fitzgerald for Borough Council. I am confident the Woods, Delarosa and Fitzgerald team will continue to meet the needs of our res- idents first while bringing the approach of a new generation to address the local issues most critical to you.
I appreciate all of your for your trust and support over these last 18 years - it has truly been an honor! - Ted Brennan