Reed decides not to seek reelection

Princeton Borough Mayor Marvin Reed's decision not to run for reelection Friday has prompted praise of his accomplishments, while at least one candidate has made public his intention to vie for the empty seat.

Reed, a Democrat, said his decision to retire made sense because of the timing of the Borough's projects.

"A lot of those things came to fruition this year so I have the rest of the year to finish them," said Reed, 71.

University Director of Community and State Affairs Pam Hersh praised Reed for his commitment to the job. "It's been a real plus knowing that there's a town official that you could call almost any time and get a very intelligent response," she said.

Hersh said Reed was particularly effective as a leader on the regional level, helping to develop strategies for dealing with traffic and sprawl with other municipalities.

Reed goes about his job by "attacking the issues of the town from a more regional perspective," she said.

The mayor completes his term at the end of the year. Primary elections will be held in June, followed by the general election in November.

Borough council member Joe O'Neill said he intends to seek the Democratic nomination. No other members of the council, filled entirely by Democrats, indicated they would run, the Princeton Packet reported.

Princeton Community Democratic Organization president Andrew Koontz was unavailable for comment last night.

If elected mayor, O'Neill said he would try to further integrate the University into the Borough's planning process.

He would not support the proposed alcohol ordinance, he said. "This is a University problem. I do not see us passing an ordinance," he said.

O'Neill praised Reed's dedication to the community and his work ethic.

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"He works 16 hours a day, but gets paid $12,500 a year," O'Neill said, referring to the position's part-time salary.

Reed's list of achievements includes the new public library, public plaza and residential apartments all currently under construction on Witherspoon Street, O'Neill said.

"This is probably the largest development in the Borough of Princeton since 1936, when Palmer Square was built," he said.

Reed said he was proud of the many low-income housing developments built in the Borough during his time as mayor.

"I'm very pleased that the Borough has continued its commitment to affordable housing. We go out of our way to see that this is a very diverse community," he said.

Reed, who retired early from his job at the New Jersey Education Association in 1985, was appointed mayor in 1990 after the death of former mayor Barbara Sigmund. He has since been reelected three times to the position.

Reed said he plans on auditing a University course after he retires.