Julie Schreck wins Bradley Beachs mayoral race by 30-vote margin
By JOANNE L. PAPAIANNI
Julie Schreck was elected mayor of Bradley Beach this week and will become the first woman to hold that post in the borough.
The swearing in will take place in July.
Schreck garnered 425 votes to Councilman Gary Engelstads 395 and former Councilman Benjamin Waters 71.
Mayor Steve Schueler, who has held the post for 16 years, did not seek re-election.
Speaking of her new position Schreck said she is absolutely ready to take the helm.
But its not really about me, she said at her victory party. Were putting together a transition team. Were going to do everything right.
Schreck was sworn into her first term as a Borough Councilwoman less than a year ago, but began working for change immediately. She helped adopt an ordinance mandating that agendas be published 96 hours in advance.
At her party at Coal Brick Oven, Schreck thanked her many supporters.
I feel honored, I couldnt have won this election without the people in this room, she said.
Lou Coccaro, who said he ran Schrecks campaign, toasted the newly elected mayor.
Shes going to give us a government that we never had before, he said as those in the room loudly chanted, Julie! Julie! Julie!
Coccaro added, Im very proud of her, she worked very hard for this and she will continue to work hard for the town.
Supporters later handed Schreck a large Shrek doll to commemorate her victory.
As Schrecks supporters celebrated her victory, Engelstad stopped by to congratulate her as those in the room gave him a round of applause.
Other town officials who stopped by to congratulate the new mayor included Councilwoman Lori Marchak-Ortiz, Public Works Supervisor Richard Bianchi and Police Chief Leonard Guida.
Resident Ed Chicci, who has been critical of borough council in recent months, addressed the crowd.
She will be a real voice of the people in this town, Chicci said.
Coccaro also thanked Neil Zarella, owner of Coal Brick Oven for donating the use of his restaurant.
He donated money, helped us out with his restaurant tonight and made contacts we never had.
Joseph West, Schrecks husband joked later, about his wifes new role.
Im the first husband…..but she should always remember that the mayors husband needs his supper, he said.
David Berkowitz, president of the Chamber of Commerce, also attended the party he said, To congratulate her on behalf of the business community.
West complimented all the candidates in the election saying discussions were held in a civil manner.
Which some didnt like, but thousands of soldiers die face down all over world so we could have these discussions and enjoy the benefits from this, he said.
Contact Joanne Papaianni at joanne@thecoaster.net.
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