We Proudly Introduce The Democratic Candidates for Matawan Council

We Proudly Introduce The Democratic Candidates for Matawan Council

When the town is a financial mess, what is the best course of action? Look to the governing body for a solution. Their response will speak volumes about the direction they would like Matawan to take.


The Matawan Democrats would like to address the financial problems by electing councilmen with track records of success. They have nominated candidates with experience and solid financial backgrounds.

The incumbent, Joseph “Bud” Mullaney, is a local business owner who with his wife, Mary, raised their three children on Edgemere Drive. He worked hard to put all three through college and his two sons continue to work in Matawan. Joe, Jr. has an MBA and manages the family business and Michael a Doctor of Physical Therapy has opened a practice on Main Street with his wife. His daughter was a councilperson in Matawan before moving to Aberdeen. He and Mary have four grandchildren. Bud has served his first three year term and is looking forward to another three years with the experience he has gained from his first term.

Continuity has been a problem for Matawan’s politicians in past elections. The phrase, “one and done” has applied to “terms served” too often in Matawan. The experience gained from serving a term in office is invaluable when budgeting and capital projects are prepared annually. Currently, only Mayor Buccellato and Councilman Cannon have served more than one term. Unfortunately, Councilman Cannon is not seeking re-election. His knowledge and input on all aspects of the council, especially the finance committee will be sorely missed. Matawan has been well served by Michael Cannon, a politician who always put Matawan before partisanship. He has been an independent voice for the improvement of Matawan and his seat will be hard to fill. We wish him well in all future endeavors.

The Matawan Democrats have done their best to select an outstanding candidate for the open position. They have nominated Richard Paolini to run for the seat to be vacated by Councilman Cannon. Richard is an Attorney who works as a Vice President for JP Morgan Chase. He and his wife, Beth, live on Wyckoff Street and they are expecting their first child in March. He is confident that he has much to offer Matawan given his extensive financial and legal background.

Mullaney and Paolini offer voters a chance to rescue Matawan from the financial hardships facing taxpayers. They are proud of where they live and would like to restore Matawan’s reputation as a desirable place to raise a family, locate a business and enjoy the many resources Matawan has to offer.