Stephen Reid endorses John Catalano for Assembly

Point Pleasant Beach mayor Stephen Reid has announced his bid for re-election to a second term, and endorsed John Catalano for the Republican nomination for State Assembly in the 10th district.

“I am confident I would have made an excellent legislator for the residents of the 10th district, however I respect the Ocean County GOP screening process results and intend to work very hard to elect John to the State Assembly,” Reid said.

Now Reid, a former aide to Gov. Christine Todd Whitman, says he will focus on keeping his job as mayor.

“Point Pleasant Beach is the town I grew up in and the place I will always call home,” Reid said.

Reid is now expected to face a primary challenge from councilman Paul Kanitra.

“These last four years as Mayor have been an incredible experience and I am excited to announce my re-election campaign,” said Reid.  “Point Pleasant Beach has given so much to my family and I want to continue to build on the success of my first term to continue giving back to this amazing community.”

Reid sough the seat being vacated by Assemblyman David Wolfe (R-Brick), who announced last month that he was retiring after 28 years in Trenton.

The Ocean County Republican screening committee voted on Saturday to recommend Catalano, the Brick council president.

Touting the lowest tax rate of any Ocean County municipality with a K-12 school system and a vibrant downtown business district, Reid will run for mayor of a ticket with council president Tom Vogel and councilman Tom Toohey.

He also has the support of Councilmen Bob Santanello, Andy Cortes and Tom Migut.

“I have proudly worked with our Council to improve the lives of every resident and look forward to our continued work of making Point Pleasant Beach the best shore community in New Jersey,” he said.  “The Reid team is the only team that will be able to run on an actual record of accomplishment and we look forward to a spirited campaign engaging the voters as we continue to move Point Pleasant in a positive and forward direction.”