Meet Chester Borough Council Candidate Michael Dominianni

CHESTER BOROUGH, NJ — With Election Day approaching, Patch is putting together a series of candidate profiles so readers can learn more about who is on their ballot.

Michael John Dominianni is a home inspector, firefighter, and councilman who is looking to keep one of three available seats on the Chester Borough Council.

Patch asked candidates to share some information about themselves and asked identical questions to all candidates.

See Dominianni's responses below:

Basic Information

• Full name: Michael John Dominianni
• Age: 41
• Town of residence: Chester Borough
• Position sought: Council Member
• Party affiliation: Republican
• Family: Wife, Kat (41); daughters, Morgan (8) and Millie (4)
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Science
• Occupation: Self-employed home inspector; Chief Pilot and Firefighter for the Newark Fire Division
• Previous or current elected/appointed office: Currently serves as a Chester Borough Council Member

Questions

1. Why are you running for this position?

I am running for re-election because I care about Chester Borough and want to preserve the character and sense of community that brought all of us here. I want to do my best to keep taxes low while maintaining the services our residents rely on. The recent increase in school taxes has made living in Chester harder to afford, and I understand the strain that puts on families. I will continue advocating for responsible spending and fair shared-service agreements. We need to keep Chester a place we are proud to call home and can afford to stay.

2. What do you believe to be the most pressing issue in the community, and what do you intend to do about it if elected?

The growing property-tax burden and its effect on residents' ability to afford living in Chester. I am concerned that other towns have not kept their assessments current, leaving Chester Borough residents paying more than their fair share of shared costs. We recently stopped Borough reassessments to help prevent the unfair increases and burden on our residents. If reelected, I will continue pushing for towns that share services with us to properly value their properties so costs are distributed fairly. I will also continue advocating for responsible spending to keep taxes as low as possible while continuing to maintain our town's character.

3. What qualifications and qualities do you possess that make you best suited for the position?

As a self-employed business owner, I understand budgeting, controlling costs, and being accountable. As Chief Pilot of the Newark Fire Division, I have to identify a need, develop a practical plan, and carry it through. I bring that same initiative to Borough Council.

Being prepared to serve requires showing up, listening, and understanding the issues facing us. As of the drafting of this, my opponents have not attended a single Borough Council meeting since being nominated. I make it a point to attend these meetings, and when unable to physically attend, I call in to participate in discussions and decisions.

4. The establishment of data centers in municipalities is a contentious point of discussion among New Jerseyans. What is your stance on these controversial buildings, and how would you feel about one being built in your community?

I do not believe Chester Borough is an appropriate location for these controversial buildings, and I would oppose any of them being built here. Our small community has limited space and infrastructure. These facilities would be inconsistent with the character we want to preserve. I would also oppose these buildings being developed in surrounding towns that threaten the area around Chester. Our residents should be protected from these facilities being built.

5. In a few words, what is your favorite thing about your community?

I love Chester Borough. Our small-town character and sense of community are why I live here and have called it home since 2011. The walkable community is something many towns have lost, and my daughters play at Grove Street Park daily. I have spent years volunteering, which includes serving as First Assistant Chief of the Chester Volunteer Fire Company. My family roots are here, and I want to preserve the qualities that make us love calling Chester home.

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Election Day is Nov. 3