Verona is facing big decisions about taxes, development, infrastructure and major public projects. I've spent nearly two decades in Essex County government working with public budgets, facilities and capital projects. I'm running for Township Council because I believe that experience can help Verona make smarter decisions and get things done.— Kate Hartwyk
Kate Hartwyk
Experienced Leadership. Practical Solutions.
FOR VERONA


mEET KATHERINE "kATE" HARTWYK
Verona has been home to my family for more than a decade. My husband and I have raised our three sons here, and some of my favorite memories are some of the same ones so many Verona families share - our schools, weekends on the ballfields, and friendships built along the way.
Professionally, I've spent nearly two decades serving Essex County residents. Today, as Deputy Director of the Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, my work includes managing public budgets, facilities, and major capital projects. I know firsthand what it takes to move public projects from planning through construction, manage costs, and make sure public investments continue working long after the ribbon is cut.
I'm running for council because Verona is facing some important decisions, and I believe my combination of professional experience and connection to this community can make a difference.
EXPERIENCE THAT MATTERS NOW
Nearly 20 Years
Serving Essex County residents
County Government
Deputy Director, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs
Public Projects
Experience from planning through construction
Public Dollars
Budgeting, procurement and fiscal accountability
GET INVOLVED
Fill out the form below and let us know how you'd like to help.
ISSUES AND VISION
Keeping Verona Affordable
Better planning. Smarter spending. More value for taxpayers.
Verona families are feeling the pressure of rising costs. I believe we need to look beyond a single budget year, ask tough questions before committing taxpayer dollars and make sure residents are getting real value for what they pay.
That means looking at the entire Verona taxpayer and working collaboratively with our Board of Education when municipal decisions affect our schools.
Investing Wisely in Verona
Infrastructure. Facilities. Emergency Services.
I know firsthand what it takes to move public projects from concept to completion - setting clear priorities, managing costs and avoiding expensive delays.
Verona has major investments ahead, from our Emergency Services facilities to roads, stormwater and other public infrastructure. These projects need clear goals and experience oversight from the beginning.
Building a Stronger Town Center
Supporting Businesses. Creating Housing. Strengthening Downtown.
Thoughtful development can bring more people to our Town Center, cupport local businesses, create more housing choices, and help Verona meet its affordable housing obligations.
I want development decisions to strengthen Bloomfield Avenue while considering traffic, parking, and the character that makes Verona a desirable place to live.

