Tony Perry to continue as Middletown Mayor in 2021

Middletown Mayor Tony Perry is expected to be selected to serve a third consecutive year as the leader of the Township when the governing body reorganizes in a virtual meeting on Sunday, January 3 at 10 a.m.

In Middletown’s form of municipal government, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor are selected annually by the five person Township Committee. Not since 1972, ’73 and ’74 when Thomas Lynch was mayor has the same committee member served for three consecutive years, according to an announcement from the Township.

“It has been an incredible honor to serve as Mayor over the last two years and I look forward to continuing the important work that is ongoing in 2021,” said Mayor Perry.

“Despite COVID-19, this Township Committee did not slow down on any of the initiatives and projects we started in 2019 and early 2020, and as we begin to emerge from this pandemic, it is imperative that we continue to provide our residents with innovative solutions which will keep Middletown a great place to live and raise a family,” continued Mayor Perry. He added, “I am extremely grateful to my colleagues on the Committee for their leadership and trust to once again serve as your Mayor.”

Rick Hibell, a Township Committee Member since 2018, will be chosen to serve his first term and Deputy Mayor. A former Fire Chief and Planning Board member, Hibell is the owner of a thriving marine construction company based in Belford and has played a key role in ensuring the Township’s fiscal responsibility due to his business expertise.

“I’m honored to have the support of my colleagues to serve as Deputy Mayor in 2021,” said Committeeman Hibell. “I look forward to working alongside Mayor Perry and the Township Committee to continue providing sound fiscal policies as well as initiatives that will contribute to the betterment of our community.”

Current Deputy Mayor Tony Fiore, who is leaving the Township Committee after 12 years of service, said the Township is in very good hands with Perry and Hibell’s leadership.

“Mayor Perry has done a remarkable job over the last two years. I am confident that the accomplishments and progress we as a committee have made during my tenure of service will continue and improve under Tony’s leadership, ” Fiore said.

“Rick Hibell has been an excellent addition to the Township Committee. As he did in the Fire Department, he selflessly contributes his talent and leadership to the people of Middletown.”