3 running for 2 Hopatcong council seats

Three candidates are running for two seats on the Hopatcong Borough Council in the Nov. 4 election.

Anthony Bongiovanni and Jonathan Taylor are Republicans, and Heather “Fiore” Stumph is running as an independent.

Bongiovanni was appointed to a vacant council seat in January.

Councilwoman Christine Smith did not seek re-election.

ANTHONY BONGIOVANNI

Why are you running for the Borough Council?

I have called Lake Hopatcong home for nearly 15 years, most of that time right here in Hopatcong. What drew me in - and keeps me here - is the peaceful beauty of the lake and the close-knit, welcoming nature of our town.

Previously serving on the Hopatcong Land Use Board has shown me how much a dedicated team can accomplish when they care deeply about their community.

I believe Hopatcong has the potential to be even more vibrant and dynamic. My vision is to help Hopatcong grow into an even more inviting, thriving and family-friendly town that celebrates its natural beauty and small-town spirit.

What are the top three things you aim to accomplish if elected?

As a candidate for council, I am committed to promoting fiscal responsibility and appropriately balancing taxes while improving Hopatcong’s infrastructure, including roadways and recreational facilities. This means ensuring that our town’s budget is managed wisely, prioritizing essential services and avoiding unnecessary expenditures. By doing so, we can maintain a stable financial foundation and provide better services to our residents.

I believe in making the lake enjoyable for all residents, whether they live on or off the lake. This includes improving access to the lake, preserving its cleanliness and enhancing recreation centers that bring people together. By enhancing the lake’s appeal, we can create a welcoming environment for all residents. I also see the lake as a valuable asset that can help build a thriving community. By utilizing the lake for recreational activities, tourism and local businesses, we can attract visitors and boost our local economy. This will not only benefit our town but also make it a place that Hopatcong residents and visitors can enjoy.

Lastly, I would work to build a shared vision with the mayor, council and community that reflects Hopatcong’s values, priorities and potential. We will deliver results through execution by fostering teamwork and collaboration among mayor, council, borough staff and most importantly our residents to ensure we’re aligned and moving forward together.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

I bring a combination of professional leadership experience and a genuine passion for our town.

My time on the Hopatcong Land Use Board has given me firsthand insight into how our local government works and how thoughtful planning can shape a better future.

I am not running for personal recognition or politics. I am running because I care deeply about Hopatcong and believe I can help move us forward.

I listen, I collaborate and I follow through. I’m committed to building trust, fostering teamwork and delivering results that matter to our residents.

Background and qualifications:

Professionally, I’ve spent over 40 years leading teams and managing complex projects, which has taught me how to bring people together, solve problems and get things done.

I am a business owner, so I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and economic development.

I believe my blend of experience, dedication and care for Hopatcong makes me well-equipped to serve on the Borough Council.

HEATHER ‘FIORE’ STUMPH

Why are you running for the Borough Council?

I decided to run for council on a direct petition as a registered Republican to give residents another choice.

Having been active in town politics for years, I initially gave the new council and mayor space to act.

However, when Councilman Anthony Bongiovanni, the appointed council member, actively slowed processes down after candidate petitions were due, I stepped up, securing signatures for the direct petition in under 48 hours.

My opponents claim to preserve open space but have sat on the Land Use Board, approving countless variances for oversized homes on small lots.

They also tout affordability, yet supported an 8.5 percent tax increase in 2025 while infrastructure updates and additional projects will burden taxpayers further.

They declined a “Meet the Candidates” event where all could have engaged with the community in an open forum and show no public engagement on social media platforms, limiting residents’ access to their voices.

Candidates must stop running on platforms that instill false hope. Two people cannot promise anything on a board of six votes - honesty is essential, and all voices and opinions should be heard.

What are the top three things you aim to accomplish if elected?

1) Transparency: Open, honest communication no matter the issue.

2) Resident-focused governance: Prioritize daily needs over events like parades.

3) Fiscal responsibility: Tackle the town’s long-building financial issues to avoid a crisis.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

I’m committed to working hands-on with town employees and residents, leading by example as I have in my successful management career.

My financial expertise and innovative cost-saving approaches, developed over a decade, will deliver efficient results.

I will work collaboratively with the existing council, following processes and avoiding roadblocks. I’ve rolled up my sleeves before and am ready to do it again.

I will engage with all residents, not just a select group, to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

JONATHAN TAYLOR

Why are you running for the Borough Council?

I am looking to bring experience and thoughtful leadership to Hopatcong. I have experience in the business world and in local governance.

I am a semi-retired general contractor running my own business.

I have served on the Hopatcong Land Use Board, the Environmental Commission and the Open Space Committee.

What are the top three things you aim to accomplish if elected?

1) Affordability. As a parent and business owner, I know there is an affordability crisis in Hopatcong and throughout the state. Increasing property taxes and energy rates are causing many to worry how they will make ends meet. I will fight to bring down the cost of living, reduce the financial burden on our retirees and make Hopatcong more attractive for new families.

2) Putting Hopatcong first. I am committed to putting Hopatcong first. This means defending our beautiful open spaces from unnecessary development, expanding access to Lake Hopatcong for all residents, supporting local education and being a trusted voice for all residents. This also means a focus on infrastructure. Maintaining our field and parks in the borough is important for all of those in our community who use our wonderful facilities. We also must continue to improve our roads and bridges in Hopatcong to make sure that all our residents are safe. And, of course, I want to expand the access to senior services to Hopatcong.

3) Investment in public safety. I will work hard to make sure that Hopatcong’s first-responders have access to any equipment and training necessary to perform their duties. Our first-responders are a vital part of our community and deserve to have every asset available to them.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Experience in local government is crucial to being an effective member of a Borough Council. In a council made up of three first-time office holders, experience is important to help guide the council to make decisions. I have been involved with local government for many years.

I also plan to bring my business experience to Hopatcong. As a business owner, I have faced firsthand the struggles that many of our businesses in Hopatcong face. With this experience, I plan to bring my business knowledge to town hall to bring back a sense of fiscal responsibility in Hopatcong. Affordability is my first priority, making sure that my constituents are able to live and thrive in our beloved Hopatcong.

Background and qualifications:

I have been a small-town business owner for more than 20 years. I excel at discovering innovative solutions, building professional relationships and leading a team to success.

Now that I am semi-retired, I dedicate my time to helping out in the community.