BODY POLITIC

MAYOR ED McKENNA, A LEGEND LEAVES THE GAME

Once again, a Monmouth County political legend has decided to bow out of the limelight. This time, the bombshell lands within the Democrat party rather than the Republicans. Red Bank Mayor Ed McKenna’s decision not to seek another term after sixteen years robs the county of yet another notable public servant.

The Mayor’s decision to leave office was just as significant as the earlier retirements of Republican Freeholders Harry Larrison, Tom Powers and Ted Narozanick. McKenna is one of the most colorful figures around and his impact on Red Bank is far reaching. Under his leadership, Red Bank has enjoyed a renaissance and become a prime destination for New Jersey residents.

If you remember Red Bank before Mayor Ed, it was losing the battle to the Monmouth Mall and other towns. The community is now home to dozens of trendy restaurants, upscale boutiques and financial service firms. It says a lot about the state of the town when the hottest issue now is finding more parking for visitors.

Republicans can count their blessings that the Mayor never sought a higher office. McKenna is probably the only Democrat that could have broken the Republicans hold on county offices. His pro- business approach and everyman style appeals to both sides of the aisle, and Ed always let the public know what was on his mind.

His departure may create a vacuum in Red Bank politics. Republicans have made some inroads in recent years, and now the top of the local ticket is wide open. Two of his former running mates will be squaring off for the Mayors job, and you can bet that Mayor Ed will be backing his Democrat mate. Like the current Republican freeholders, whoever replaces Mayor McKenna will have big shoes to fill. Ed McKenna’s legacy in Red Bank is secure and Monmouth County residents watch one of the most colorful and significant politicians walk away from the game.