In the heart of Morris County, Montville Township has long been a bastion of Republican politics, a place where the GOP has held firm despite Democratic encroachment in neighboring towns along the old Route 24 corridor. But as the township gears up for its upcoming GOP primary, this year’s contest is shaping up to be more intriguing than usual. With a mix of veteran political figures and fresh faces, the race is about more than just party loyalty—it’s about the future of Montville itself.
The township’s political landscape has remained resolutely Republican, even as neighboring municipalities have shown signs of Democratic gains. While Democrats have made some notable inroads in towns like Chatham, Mendham, and beyond, Montville stands as a reminder that, in some parts of Morris County, the Republican stronghold is still very much alive. But even in this traditionally conservative enclave, change is in the air as candidates with varying perspectives vie for control.
In this article, we dive into the dynamics of Montville’s 2025 GOP primary, a battle between experienced political hands and ambitious newcomers, set against the backdrop of a township undergoing subtle shifts. From generational divides to recent controversies, the race is anything but typical. Let’s explore what’s at stake in this pivotal election and why Montville’s political future may be more in flux than it appears.
The Contenders: Veterans vs. Newcomers in Montville Politics
This year’s GOP primary in Montville Township is shaping up to be a clash of generations and perspectives, with the Republican Committee backing the newcomers, and two seasoned municipal figures stepping forward as their opponents.
The Veterans: Jim Sandham and Tom Mazzaccaro
On one side, you have Jim Sandham, a former committee member who served the township for 12 years, and Tom Mazzaccaro, a veteran of municipal service, who, at the age of 80-something, has a long track record in local government. Mazzaccaro, in particular, is a familiar name in Montville—he chaired the Planning Board for 15 years, overseeing the development of what was once a rural community into a more suburbanized township.
In a recent interview at the local VFW hall, Mazzaccaro described himself as a “policeman” of sorts, someone who has seen the township’s growth up close and can spot what’s wrong from miles away. His leadership in Montville’s Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA), which oversees the critical services of water and sewage, has also been an understated but significant part of his public service resume.
“I feel like I have more to offer than my opponents,” Mazzaccaro stated, drawing on his extensive experience and deep understanding of Montville’s infrastructure and planning challenges. His candidacy presents a stark contrast to the fresh faces of the Republican ticket, tapping into a wealth of institutional knowledge about the township’s inner workings.
On the other hand, Sandham takes credit for several key accomplishments during his tenure, including cutting township debt, saving the old town hall by repurposing it as Board of Education offices, and eliminating health benefits for committee members. His focus on fiscal responsibility and improving the township’s financial health resonates with voters who appreciate his pragmatic approach to governance.
The Newcomers: Daria Senaldi and Chris Fano
On the other side of the coin, the Republican Committee has thrown its support behind Daria Senaldi and Chris Fano, a pair of newcomers who represent a fresh, forward-looking approach to local leadership. Despite their relative inexperience, the pair’s endorsements signal that Montville’s political future might rest in the hands of a younger, more dynamic group of leaders.
Christine Fano, the chair of the Montville Republican Committee, praised Senaldi and Fano’s leadership potential, saying, “We are excited to back Daria and Chris as they represent the strong leadership, dedication, and values that Montville residents expect and deserve.”
Their campaign, she added, focuses on continuity and the promise of progress, making them appealing to voters looking for fresh ideas while maintaining the conservative values that have long defined Montville’s political culture. While neither candidate was available for comment, their campaign has clearly resonated with the Republican base, and they are seen as the future of Montville’s governance.
An Intriguing Primary: Personality, Alliances, and Controversies
In any primary election, the issues can sometimes be elusive, often overshadowed by personal dynamics and political alliances. The Montville GOP primary is no exception, with much of the race driven by personality and who aligns with whom.
One notable element that may shape the race is a township committee lawsuit filed against its own Board of Adjustment over the approval of a development project. The lawsuit has been widely seen as a bizarre situation, as the committee itself appoints the board members, making it a rare case where a municipality is effectively suing itself. This issue has lingered for over a year, and it seems likely that either Sandham or Mazzaccaro will raise it during the campaign as a point of contention. Whether this becomes a defining issue in the primary remains to be seen, but it’s certainly one that could sway some voters.
A Generational Choice: The Future of Montville Politics
One of the most fascinating aspects of this year’s primary is the generational divide that’s emerged between the candidates. Mazzaccaro, at the age of 80, represents an older school of governance—focused on experience, institutional knowledge, and steady progress. Meanwhile, the newcomers, Senaldi and Fano, are seen as the fresh blood Montville needs to keep pace with the demands of a growing township, especially as it faces challenges such as zoning, infrastructure, and affordable housing.
In many ways, the outcome of this race may determine the direction Montville takes in the coming years. Do residents prefer the experience and familiarity of the old guard, or do they see the future in a new generation of leaders?
The November Election: Who Will Prevail?
Though the June 10 primary is the immediate focus, the winners of this GOP contest are all but assured a victory in the November general election, given the township’s deeply rooted Republican loyalty. That means the stakes are high, not just for Montville’s future, but for the party itself, as the race offers a stark contrast in leadership styles.
Regardless of who emerges victorious, one thing is clear: this year’s primary offers a rare glimpse into the shifting political winds of Morris County’s more conservative strongholds. With two veteran candidates and two political newcomers, the race is both a reflection of Montville’s political past and a look ahead to what the future holds.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for Montville?
As the June primary draws nearer, Montville Township residents will need to decide which vision for the future best represents their values and priorities. Whether it’s the experience and steady hand of Mazzaccaro and Sandham or the fresh ideas and ambitious outlook of Senaldi and Fano, Montville’s political landscape is poised for change—no matter who wins.
As always, the future of Montville, like the rest of Morris County, will hinge on its ability to navigate the evolving political climate while staying true to the principles that have shaped its community for generations.
