Blog

Oct 26, 2023

Morristown Primary Election 2023: Steve Pylypchuk

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown's primary election on June 6 has six candidates

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown's primary election on June 6 has six candidates running for the open Morristown Town Council Ward seats.

In anticipation of the election, Patch sent questionnaires to each of the candidates vying for the open seats, asking them to share facts about themselves and why voters should choose them to represent the community.

Here are candidate Steve Pylypchuk's answers below:

Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking this office because I am deeply committed to serving and making a positive impact on our community. Throughout my years of involvement in various volunteer efforts, such as the Alexander Hamilton Mask Makers, Morristown Environmental Commission, and as Chair of the Zoning Board, I have witnessed the challenges and opportunities that our community faces. I believe that by serving in this office, I can effectively address these issues and work towards creating a better future for our residents.

As a civil engineer, I bring a unique perspective to the table, enabling me to approach problems with a practical and innovative mindset. I am passionate about finding sustainable solutions and ensuring responsible development that aligns with our community's values and preserves our historic charm.

I am driven by a genuine desire to enhance our neighborhoods, create vibrant community spaces, address traffic challenges, and advocate for responsible fiscal management. Additionally, I am dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.

Ultimately, I seek this office to be a voice for our community, to amplify the concerns and aspirations of our residents, and to work tirelessly towards building a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous community for all. I am committed to listening to our community members, collaborating with stakeholders, and making informed decisions that prioritize the best interests of our residents.

I am excited about the opportunity to serve and I am confident that my experience, dedication, and passion will enable me to effectively represent our community and make a meaningful difference.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is the lack of transparency and civil involvement in local government, and this is what I intend to do about it.

To address this critical issue, I am fully committed to implementing initiatives that promote transparency and engage citizens in the decision-making process. One of my primary efforts will be working with the administration to develop of a new, comprehensive town website that serves as a centralized hub for accessing information about the workings of local government.

This website will provide residents with easy access to key documents, such as meeting agendas and minutes, budget reports, and proposed policies. By utilizing user-friendly interfaces and intuitive navigation, we can ensure that citizens have the necessary tools to stay informed and participate actively in local governance.

Additionally, I will establish a Ward 3 newsletter to enhance communication between constituents and myself. This newsletter will provide regular updates on local developments, upcoming events, and opportunities for community involvement. By keeping residents informed about important matters, we can encourage a more engaged and connected community.

By leveraging technology and implementing innovative communication channels, we can empower residents with the information they need to actively participate in local decision-making.

My goal is to create a transparent and accessible government that values citizen input and fosters a sense of ownership among residents. Together, we can build a stronger and more inclusive community.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

One of the major differences between myself and the other candidate seeking this post is my extensive involvement in various volunteer activities that directly impact the daily lives of our residents.

From my dedicated efforts with the Alexander Hamilton Mask Makers, where I actively participated in the production and distribution of over 5,000 masks to protect our community during the pandemic, to my active participation in other community initiatives, such as serving on the Morristown Environmental Commission from 2015 to 2020 and as a member of the Zoning Board since 2019, where I have proudly served as Chair since 2021, I have demonstrated a genuine care for the people and the betterment of our community.

Another significant difference is my focus on delivering tangible results while working towards the bigger picture items. While my opponent has admirable goals, I am dedicated to taking practical actions that bring about real, meaningful change in the lives of our residents. I believe in implementing initiatives that have a direct and positive impact on the daily experiences of our community members, while also working towards the larger goals that will shape the future of Morristown.

In summary, my active participation in initiatives such as the Alexander Hamilton Mask Makers, along with my commitment to delivering tangible results, distinguishes me from the other candidate. Additionally, my experience as Chair of the Zoning Board since 2021, combined with my membership since 2019, provides me with a deep understanding of our community's development and issues.

I will continue to prioritize initiatives that improve the lives of our residents and look forward to collaborating with Mr. Bell to achieve our shared vision for the future of Morristown. Together, we can work towards creating a better future for our community.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this post?

As I reflect on my past accomplishments, there are several instances that demonstrate my ability to effectively handle this post and make a positive impact on our community. Here are a few notable achievements:

1. Leadership in Community Initiatives: Over the years, I have actively participated in various community initiatives, such as the Alexander Hamilton Mask Makers, the Morristown Environmental Commission, and the Zoning Board. These experiences have not only allowed me to contribute to the betterment of our community but have also honed my skills in understanding highly technical issues and communicating them in a way that anyone can understand.

Additionally, my professional background as a civil engineer and project manager has equipped me with the ability to take a simple idea from a person and map out how to implement it while achieving other goals.

2. Project Management Skills: As a civil engineer and project manager, I have successfully overseen and managed complex infrastructure projects. Through my work, I have developed strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to effectively communicate and coordinate with stakeholders. These skills are crucial in managing the responsibilities associated with this post and ensuring the smooth execution of initiatives.

3. Track Record of Community Engagement: Throughout my involvement in volunteer activities, I have consistently demonstrated a genuine commitment to serving our community. Whether it was clean-up initiatives, organizing neighborhood events, or actively engaging with residents to address their concerns, I have shown a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of our constituents.

4. Results-Oriented Approach: I have a proven track record of delivering tangible results. Whether it is advocating for improved infrastructure, addressing traffic congestion, or promoting transparency in local government, I consistently strive to achieve practical outcomes that positively impact the lives of our residents. My focus on results ensures that I am driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference rather than empty promises.

These accomplishments, coupled with my passion for our community and my professional expertise as a civil engineer and project manager, equip me with the necessary skills and experience to handle this post effectively. I am confident that I can continue to serve our constituents with dedication, integrity, and a commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive community for all.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Absolutely. I want to emphasize my deep love and commitment to this town. I consider it an absolute privilege to raise my two daughters here in town and in the Morris School District, and I can't imagine calling any other place home. This genuine affection for our community fuels my determination to serve as your representative and work tirelessly to make a positive impact.

I am honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of our town. As a resident and parent, I have a personal stake in ensuring that our community thrives and remains a wonderful place to live, work, and play for all residents. This commitment is deeply rooted in my dedication to creating a safe, prosperous, and welcoming environment for all residents.

Furthermore, my experiences as a civil engineer and project manager have allowed me to gain a comprehensive understanding of the infrastructure challenges our town faces. I am well-equipped to address issues such as traffic congestion, parking limitations, and other vital infrastructure concerns. With my professional expertise, I can bring a pragmatic approach to problem-solving and implement effective solutions that enhance our daily lives.

Lastly, I want to emphasize that I am here to listen. Your voices, concerns, and ideas are of utmost importance to me. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where residents feel heard, valued, and actively involved in shaping the future of our community. Together, we can work towards a shared vision of a thriving, inclusive, and vibrant town that we can all be proud of.

In summary, my love for this town, combined with my professional experience and dedication to transparency and community engagement, makes me an ideal candidate to serve as your representative. I am committed to working diligently on your behalf, ensuring that our town continues to flourish and that the interests and well-being of all residents are prioritized.