Phillipsburg Councilman Lee Clark is officially running for reelection this year, joining forces once again with fellow Councilman Keith Kennedy. The two Democratic incumbents are campaigning alongside Bernie Fey and Joshua Wanisko, presenting a united ticket they believe reflects the priorities of Phillipsburg residents. Clark, who has served on council since 2022, continues to emphasize community investment, local development, and responsive government as the foundation of his campaign.
Speaking with voters and community leaders, Clark outlined both the challenges and opportunities ahead for Phillipsburg. The town, situated on the Delaware River at the border with Pennsylvania, has faced its share of economic shifts over the years, but recent initiatives have sparked cautious optimism. Redevelopment of underutilized sites, expansion of small business support, and ongoing infrastructure projects are all issues Clark highlights as central to his reelection message.
Partnering with Councilman Kennedy is nothing new. The two incumbents have worked side by side on multiple measures designed to balance fiscal responsibility with investment in services. Their approach has focused on improving quality of life while keeping a close watch on municipal spending, something that resonates with local taxpayers. By running together again, Clark and Kennedy are betting that voters will reward continuity and teamwork.
Joining them on the Democratic ticket are Bernie Fey and Joshua Wanisko, who bring additional experience and perspectives to the slate. Fey, active in local civic efforts, has been an advocate for recreational programs and neighborhood development. Wanisko, meanwhile, has worked in community outreach and is seen as a strong voice for transparency in government. Together, the four candidates are positioning themselves as a team committed to stability and growth.
The timing of Clark’s campaign rollout coincided with a visit to Phillipsburg by Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, who represents New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. Her appearance underscored the importance of local elections in shaping broader state and national discussions. Sherrill’s visit also provided a platform for Democratic leaders to rally support and stress the connection between local governance and state-level priorities.
For Clark, the path forward is about maintaining progress while addressing long-standing challenges. Public safety remains a top concern, particularly ensuring that police and emergency services have the resources they need. Downtown revitalization and riverfront redevelopment are also key agenda items, as Phillipsburg looks to attract new businesses and visitors. Clark has spoken frequently about the need to create an environment where small businesses can thrive, seeing them as the backbone of the local economy.
Education and youth engagement also feature heavily in his vision for the town. Supporting local schools, creating after-school programs, and offering recreational opportunities for young people are themes Clark often brings up on the campaign trail. By investing in the next generation, he argues, Phillipsburg strengthens its long-term future.
While local elections can sometimes fly under the radar, they remain the level of government closest to residents. Decisions made in Phillipsburg’s council chambers directly affect daily life—from how streets are paved, to how budgets are spent, to how neighborhoods evolve. With incumbents like Clark and Kennedy on the ballot alongside Fey and Wanisko, voters will have the chance to weigh in on the direction of their community this fall.
As campaign season unfolds, the ticket is expected to continue focusing on accessibility, regularly engaging with constituents through community events and public forums. For those interested in following the latest developments in local and state races, the Explore New Jersey politics section provides in-depth coverage and updates throughout the campaign season.
As Phillipsburg heads into another election season, two familiar names are back on the ballot. Councilmen Lee Clark and Keith Kennedy, both Democratic incumbents, are seeking reelection with a shared vision for steady leadership, community progress, and fiscal responsibility. Running alongside Bernie Fey and Joshua Wanisko, the pair is asking voters to once again trust their experience and collaborative approach to governing.
Lee Clark: A Steady Advocate for Phillipsburg
Councilman Lee Clark has established himself as a voice for revitalization, transparency, and community engagement. Since joining the council in 2022, Clark has been focused on issues that directly impact residents’ quality of life—downtown redevelopment, economic growth, and public safety.
Clark emphasizes that municipal government must be accountable and responsive. He has worked to strengthen communication between the council and residents, ensuring community concerns are not only heard but addressed with practical solutions. From backing initiatives to improve road maintenance to supporting Phillipsburg’s first responders, Clark’s tenure has been marked by a balance of fiscal caution and targeted investment.
One of his central priorities has been attracting businesses and encouraging redevelopment in underutilized parts of town. Clark believes that creating a stronger commercial base will ease the tax burden on residents while making Phillipsburg a more vibrant place to live and work. He has also been vocal about creating opportunities for young people, advocating for recreation programs, school partnerships, and after-school activities that keep the next generation engaged in their community.
Keith Kennedy: A Commitment to Service and Stability
Councilman Keith Kennedy, also a Democratic incumbent, has earned a reputation for his practical approach to governance and focus on neighborhood needs. Kennedy has been a steady presence on the council, emphasizing collaboration across departments and with community organizations.
His priorities often center on the basics that matter most to residents: reliable infrastructure, public safety, and effective budget management. Kennedy has supported initiatives that upgrade Phillipsburg’s streets and utilities while pushing for fiscal prudence in the budgeting process. He is seen as someone who brings stability to the council, listening carefully to community concerns before acting.
Kennedy also places value on inclusivity, making sure the council works for all parts of Phillipsburg, not just its business districts. He has supported efforts to make government more accessible and transparent, believing that residents should have clear insight into how their tax dollars are spent.
Shared Vision and Running Mate Partnership
Together, Clark and Kennedy form the backbone of the Democratic ticket in Phillipsburg. They complement each other’s strengths—Clark bringing energy to redevelopment and outreach, Kennedy offering measured decision-making and a steady hand in fiscal matters. Their partnership has been marked by teamwork on council initiatives, presenting a united front on issues such as infrastructure investment, community safety, and downtown revitalization.
Their decision to run alongside Bernie Fey and Joshua Wanisko reflects their belief in building a broader coalition of voices. Fey brings a record of involvement in local recreation and cultural programs, while Wanisko has been active in community engagement and promoting transparency. The four-candidate slate seeks to represent a balance of experience, new energy, and community-centered leadership.
Looking Ahead in Phillipsburg
As the campaign unfolds, Clark and Kennedy will be making their case directly to voters at community events, public forums, and neighborhood meetings. They argue that their proven record and collaborative style make them best positioned to guide Phillipsburg through the next several years of growth and change.
Issues like redevelopment of the riverfront, downtown vibrancy, and support for local businesses remain front and center. At the same time, they stress the importance of keeping Phillipsburg affordable for families and seniors, maintaining strong public services, and continuing to invest in youth opportunities.
In a political climate where local issues often feel overshadowed by national debates, Clark and Kennedy’s campaign reminds residents that municipal leadership has a direct and immediate impact on their daily lives. With their experience, commitment, and record of service, both candidates are asking Phillipsburg voters for another term to continue the work they’ve started.
For readers who want more coverage of local leadership, elections, and statewide issues, Explore New Jersey’s politics section offers in-depth reporting on the stories shaping communities across the Garden State.
