Democrat Kristine Morieko won the 2019 mayoral election, defeating Republican candidate Sanjiv Ohri by approximately 150 votes. Incumbent Bruce Packer did not seek reelection. 

Over 3,700 residents rushed to their designated polling place to vote on Nov. 5. While this number was slightly higher than the 2015 Glen Rock mayoral election, it was markedly less than the approximately 6,000 votes in the 2016 election.

“It was an off-year election, so voter turnout was less than stellar,” Morieko said, “which surprised me because Glen Rock is usually so engaged.”

Morieko will take office on Jan. 2 for a four year term. She will begin with a reorganization meeting. Her first goal is to build relationships with the town’s residents.

“I really want to break down the barriers between the public and the mayor council so that people know exactly what we do and what we could do for you,” Morieko said. 

Morieko graduated from Glen Rock schools, and feels a personal connection to the town.

“I take so much pride in our town and the fact that I was voted to be our next mayor just means the world to me,” Morieko said.

Morieko will use the theme “Ever Forward” for 2020. The message of the theme is, according to Morieko, “Today is a new day and things are good. We can accomplish great things by focusing on the future.”

Ohri did not respond for comment.